Discover Alcalá de Henares: A Perfect Day Trip!

Discover the charming history and culture of Alcalá de Henares without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Alcalá de Henares is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a lot of history and culture without breaking the bank. On a limited budget, visitors can explore the city's many churches and museums, including the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes. Don't forget to enjoy the local cuisine, such as tapas and bocadillos, at the numerous bars and restaurants.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Exploring Alcalá de Henares

  • Start off with a coffee and tostada at the quaint Café de Ronda.
  • Take a stroll through the historic old town, checking out buildings like Casa Natal de Cervantes and the Cathedral of Saint Justus and Saint Pastor.
  • Visit the University of Alcalá, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in the stunning architecture and views of the city.
  • Have a budget-friendly lunch at the local favorite, El Corte Inglés Gourmet Experience.
  • Spend the afternoon at the Paseo del Val or the Parque O’Donnell, two peaceful green spaces perfect for a picnic or a leisurely walk.
  • End the day with tapas and a glass of wine at El Albéitar, a cozy restaurant with delicious food and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Alcalá de Henares may be a small city, but it packs a lot of charm and history into its narrow streets. With this itinerary, you’ll experience some of the best sights, bites, and moments that this city has to offer.

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.

More travel plans

Romantic Long Weekend in Alcalá de Henares

Alcalá de Henares is the perfect destination for a romantic trip to Spain. Nestled in the heart of the country, it boasts a rich history and stunning architecture, including the birthplace of famed writer Miguel de Cervantes. Visitors can explore the picturesque cobblestone streets, indulge in delicious cuisine, and soak up the vibrant culture of this romantic city.

Fall in Love with Alcalá de Henares

A trip to Alcalá de Henares, Spain for a romantic getaway offers a delightful combination of history, culture and leisure. You and your loved one can stroll through the charming old town, visit the birthplace of the famous writer Cervantes, and enjoy the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants. The city also has an abundance of parks and gardens where you can relax and spend quality time together.

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A trip to Alcalá de Henares on a limited budget can be a fantastic experience. There are many affordable accommodations available, such as hostels and budget-friendly hotels. While in Alcalá de Henares, one can explore the city’s rich history and culture by visiting the many museums and landmarks, such as the Cervantes Birthplace Museum and the beautiful Plaza de Cervantes.

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.