Discover the Magic of Alcalá De Henares

Discover the birthplace of Cervantes and immerse yourself in Spanish history in Alcalá de Henares.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, a trip to Alcalá de Henares offers the opportunity to explore the historic birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote. Visitors can stroll through the charming old town, filled with medieval architecture and winding cobblestone streets, and marvel at the stunning Cathedral of Santos Niños. Additionally, the city boasts numerous museums and cultural events, including the prestigious Cervantes Prize ceremony.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the historic streets

  • Begin your day with a traditional breakfast of churros and chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés.
  • Stroll through the charming historic center of Alcalá de Henares, where you'll find well-preserved buildings from the city's golden age as a center of learning.
  • Don't miss the birthplace of acclaimed writer Miguel de Cervantes, an atmospheric museum that brings his works to life.
  • Browse the bustling outdoor market in Plaza de Cervantes, where you'll find everything from fresh produce to artisan crafts.
  • Refuel with a hearty lunch at Restaurante El Callejón, where the seasonal menu highlights the best of Castilian cuisine.
  • End your day with a sunset stroll along the banks of the Henares River, soaking in the serene beauty of this hidden gem.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Alcalá de Henares by plane is to fly into Madrid-Barajas Airport and then take the Cercanías Line C-1 train to Alcalá de Henares station.

Car

If you are planning on driving to Alcalá de Henares, the best way is to take the A-2 highway from Madrid.

Train

If you're traveling within Spain, the best way to reach Alcalá de Henares by train is to take the Cercanías Line C-2 from Madrid's Atocha Station to Alcalá de Henares station.

Boat

Unfortunately, there are no direct boat routes to Alcalá de Henares as it is a landlocked city.

Bus

A popular option to reach Alcalá de Henares by bus is to take the ALSA bus from Madrid's Estación Sur de Autobuses to Alcalá de Henares bus station.

Destination

Alcalá de Henares

Welcome to a place where long ago, a famous writer’s quill touched paper and brought us tales of chivalry and adventure. And now, the same town is known for its delicious tapas and bustling nightlife.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

5-Day Romantic Getaway to Alcalá De Henares, Spain

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Alcalá de Henares Adventure: 3 Days on a Budget

Discover the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, the famous author of Don Quixote, by taking a budget-friendly day trip to Alcalá de Henares from Madrid. Explore the charming old town which is filled with historic university buildings, churches, and beautiful plazas. You can enjoy budget-friendly tapas, drinks, and shopping around the city's market streets for a complete cultural experience without having to break the bank.

Alcalá Unleashed: A 3-Day Family Fiesta on a Budget!

Alcalá de Henares is a charming city just outside of Madrid, that offers a perfect family-friendly getaway. Known as the birthplace of famous writer Miguel de Cervantes, visitors can explore his childhood home-turned-museum and learn about his life through interactive exhibits. The city also boasts beautiful parks, such as the Parque de la Juventud, where kids can play and adults can relax, making Alcalá de Henares an ideal destination for a family vacation.

Alcalá Adventures: 5 Days of Spanish Fun

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.