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Alcalá Adventures: 5 Days of Spanish Fun

Discover the charm of Spain's literary city without breaking the bank in Alcalá de Henares.

21 June 2023

For a budget-friendly trip to Alcalá de Henares, Spain, one can explore the city's rich history by visiting the birthplace of renowned writer Miguel de Cervantes or admiring the beautiful architecture of the Catedral de los Santos Niños Justo y Pastor. Visitors can also enjoy delicious Spanish cuisine at affordable prices in local tapas bars and restaurants. Accommodation options range from inexpensive hostels to affordable hotels in central locations.

Travel plan

• Start the day with a delicious breakfast at La Tertulia, a charming cafe with outdoor seating.
• Take a stroll through the historic center of Alcalá, admiring the stunning architecture and quaint cobbled streets.
• Visit the impressive Cervantes Birthplace Museum, the birthplace of the famous author of Don Quixote.
• Head to the Plaza de Cervantes for lunch, where you can enjoy traditional Spanish tapas at Mesón Cervantes.
• Take a siesta in the afternoon, then head out for some lively nightlife at bars such as El Garito or Café Pub Black Moon.
• Hotel recommendation: Hostal Miguel de Cervantes, a cozy but comfortable hotel in the heart of the city, with rooms starting at just €40 a night.

• Take a short train ride to Madrid and start the day with a visit to the world-renowned Prado Museum.
• Stroll through the beautiful Buen Retiro Park, and enjoy a picnic lunch in the shade of the trees.
• Visit the grand Royal Palace and explore the stunning gardens surrounding it.
• Grab a bite at one of the city's multitude of tapas bars, such as El Sur or Casa González.
• End the day with some nightlife in Madrid's vibrant downtown, featuring plenty of bars and clubs.

• Take a Spanish language course at Instituto Franklin, gaining fluency in the language through immersive education.
• Enjoy a relaxed lunch at La Taberna de Rusty, where you can savor traditional Spanish dishes like cocido madrileño.
• After class, take a guided tour of the city to learn about its history and culture, hosted by Alcalá Tourism.
• Take a leisurely stroll along the Henares River, marveling at the picturesque scenery.
• Finish the day with a delicious dinner at El Senador, one of the city's best seafood restaurants.

• Take a day trip to the stunning Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, hiking through the beautiful countryside.
• Have a picnic lunch in the hills, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
• Head back into town and explore the local markets, picking up fresh produce and tasty snacks.
• Visit the fascinating University of Alcalá, a UNESCO World Heritage site and important center of learning.
• Enjoy a drink or two at Malavida, a trendy cocktail bar with a hip vibe.

• Learn to cook authentic Spanish paella in a hands-on cooking class at Casa de la Tía Amparo.
• Enjoy the fruits of your labor and eat your delicious paella for lunch.
• Spend the afternoon wandering around the beautiful grounds of the Palace of Aranjuez, located just a short train ride away.
• Head back to Alcalá for dinner at Restaurante Las Cancelas, a traditional Spanish eatery with an extensive wine list.
• End the night with a fruity sangria and some live music at La Cárcel Jazz Club.