A Day of Literary Magic: Exploring Alcalá de Henares

Discover the rich history and joyful charm of Alcalá de Henares - a family adventure like no other!

19 July 2023

Alcalá de Henares is a charming city located just outside of Madrid, Spain, and is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. Known as the birthplace of renowned writer Miguel de Cervantes, families can explore the historic sites, such as the Cervantes Birthplace Museum, where kids can learn about the author's life and works. Additionally, the city offers beautiful plazas, parks, and playgrounds, making it an enjoyable destination for children of all ages.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Alcalá de Henares: Birthplace of Cervantes

  • Kickstart your day with a visit to the Cervantes Birthplace Museum, where you'll dive into the world of Don Quixote and explore the author's life.
  • Wander through the charming historic center, admiring the stunning architecture and colorful streets that inspired some of Cervantes' stories.
  • Visit the University of Alcalá, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where famous figures like Lope de Vega and Ignatius of Loyola once studied. Don't forget your graduation cap!
  • Take a break at Plaza de Cervantes, a lively square where you can relax on a bench surrounded by beautiful gardens and watch the world go by.
  • Fuel up with delicious tapas at Mercado de la Tapas, a vibrant food market offering a variety of mouthwatering bites for the whole family to enjoy.
  • End your day with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque banks of the Henares River, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and reflecting on the literary magic of Alcalá de Henares.

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.

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