It only takes half an hour's drive to stop being a Madrileño and become a traveller, a traveller who looks with the eyes of a tourist even though he has not even left his own community. Located to the northeast, Alcalá de Henares is home to the University, declared a World Heritage Site, the famous birthplace of Cervantes and other buildings and monuments whose historical value will make your visit to our city an unforgettable experience.
And a cultural plan is not possible without enjoying gastronomy. That's why we bring you a guide on what to see in Alcalá de Henares in one day. Read on to discover the city's most emblematic culinary must-sees.
Alcalá de Henares Route
Our city has a wide variety of tourist attractions that will transport you to another era, as well as a rich gastronomy that will make your senses enjoy to the fullest. Here are some of the most outstanding places you cannot miss in Alcalá de Henares:
Guide to visit Alcalá de Henares in one day
- San Diego Square
- University of Alcalá
- Chapel of the Oidor
- Cervantes Square
- Corral de Comedias
- Main Street
- Cervantes' Birthplace
- Eat at Casino Alcalá
- Regional Archaeological Museum of the Community of Madrid
- Archbishop's Palace
- Holy Children's Square
- Magistral House
- Former Hospital of Santa María la Rica
- Extras: Complete your visit in Alcalá de Henares
San Diego Square
The ideal starting point to begin your visit. This square is steeped in history; it was the site of the Trilingual School and is dominated by the majestic façade of the University.
- AddressPl. de San Diego, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid
- Entrance: Free of charge
University of Alcalá
Founded in the 16th century, the University of Alcalá is one of the most emblematic places in the city. Its impressive Renaissance cloister and library are two of its main attractions.
- AddressPl. de San Diego s/n, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid
- EntranceAlthough it is a public university, we advise you to book a guided tour. You can do this Here.
Chapel of the Oidor
Continuing along your route in Alcalá de Henares you will come to ehis small chapel, located in the Calle Mayor, is an example of Spanish Baroque architecture. Inside you can find some works of art of great historical and artistic value.
- AddressPl. Rodríguez Marín, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid
- Entrance: Free of charge
- TimetableMonday to Friday: 10:00-14:00 /16:00-19:00. Saturdays from 10:00 to 19:00 Sundays 10:00-14:00/16:00-19:00h.
Cervantes Square
It is the heart of Alcalá, one of the most emblematic places you need to see in Alcalá de Henares on your day trip. Here you can find the bronze statue of the writer Miguel de Cervantes, as well as some of the most important historical buildings in the city, such as the Corral de Comedias.
- AddressPl. de Cervantes, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid
- Entrance: Free of charge
Corral de Comedias
This theatre, located in Calle de San Juan, is one of the oldest in Spain. Here you can enjoy a wide variety of plays and shows.
- AddressPl. de Cervantes, 15, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid
- EntranceGuided Tour 3€ per person, we also encourage you to keep an eye out for the theatres on the bill.
- Visiting hours: You can consult them Here.
Main Street
The Calle Mayor in Alcalá de Henares is one of the liveliest and busiest streets in the city. Here you will find a large number of shops and restaurants, as well as some of the most important historic buildings.
- AddressCalle Mayor, 28801, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid.
Cervantes' Birthplace
Our city is known for being the birthplace of the famous writer Miguel de Cervantes, so if you want to see Alcalá de Henares in one day you can't miss the place where he grew up. In his birthplace, located in Calle Mayor, you can learn more about the life and work of this illustrious writer.
- AddressC. Mayor, 48, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid
- EntranceYou can make reservations for groups or access to temporary exhibitions. You have all the information in its official website.
- Visiting hoursGroup visits: Tuesday to Thursday from 10:00 to 17:30. Free individual visits: Wednesday from 12:00 to 13:30 and Friday at 12:00, 13:30 and 16:30. You can consult them Here.
Make a stop for lunch at Casino Alcalá
If you want to enjoy a delicious meal in an elegant and cosy atmosphere, you can't miss out on a visit to the Restaurant Casino Alcalá, located right in the centre of the city: in the Plaza de Cervantes.
Our Restaurant Casino Alcalá offers you a unique gastronomic experience, with a wide variety of dishes that combine traditional Spanish cuisine with a touch of modernity. Its specialities include dishes such as croquettes, torreznos, foie gras shavings, rice dishes and quality meat and fish dishes, as well as a wide selection of wines from different regions of Spain to complete the culinary experience. You can enjoy our menu of the day between daily or the exquisite dishes of our charter.
In addition, its terrace is a perfect place to enjoy an outdoor lunch or dinner during the warmer months. Dining in our restaurant with terrace in Alcalá de Henares is an opportunity to enjoy our gastronomy while contemplating the Convento Agonizantes (Town Hall building), the Capilla del Oidor, and the impressive illumination of the Colegio de Málaga. All this at the foot of the Tower of the old church of Santa María, an emblem of our city.
- AddressPl. de Cervantes, 9, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid
Regional Archaeological Museum of the Community of Madrid
In this museum you can learn more about the history of the region of Madrid, from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages.- AddressPl. de las Bernardas, s/n, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid
- EntranceYou can visit the museum or see its exhibitions. You have all the information on the official website.
- Timetable: Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 to 19:00. Sunday from 11:00 to 15:00
Archbishop's Palace
This impressive building is an example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. It is currently the seat of the Diocese of Alcalá de Henares.- AddressPl. Palacio, s/n, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid
- EntranceYou can book a guided tour at official website.
Holy Children's Square
In this square you will find the Catedral de los Santos Niños Justo y Pastor, another of the city's great examples of Spanish Gothic architecture.- AddressPl. Santos Niños, s/n, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid
Magistral Cathedral
This cathedral, located in the historic centre of the city, is an impressive example of Spanish Gothic architecture. Its name refers to the numerous masters who have passed through it throughout history.- AddressPl. Santos Niños, 328, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid
- TimetableMonday to Saturday 10:00-13:30 / 16:00 to 18:45. Sunday 17:00 to 18:45
- Entrance: Building open to Worship. Guided tour 3€. Non-guided visit Cathedral-Cloister-Museum 2€. Further information.
Former Hospital of Santa María la Rica
This building, located in Calle del Cardenal Sandoval y Rojas, is an example of Spanish Gothic architecture. It currently houses the Municipal Public Library.- AddressC. Sta. María la Rica, 3, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid
- TimetableTuesday to Saturday 11:00-14:00 / 17:00-20:00. Sunday 11:00- 14:00
- Entrance: Free of charge
Extras: Complete your visit in Alcalá de Henares
The following places are a bit far from the city centre, but if you have time or if you extend your visit we recommend you to complete your visit to Alcalá de Henares by looking at the following places:- Huerta del ObispoThis garden is an oasis of tranquillity in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city. Here you can enjoy a pleasant stroll surrounded by nature.
- Hippolytus House MuseumThis house-museum, located on the outskirts of the city, is an example of Roman architecture from the time of the Empire. Inside you will find numerous objects and utensils that will allow you to learn more about life in Roman times. Admission is free and it is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 17:00. In summer it is only open in the afternoon from 17:00 to 20:00.
- Roman BridgeThis bridge, located over the river Henares, is one of the most emblematic places in the city. Its origins date back to Roman times, and it is an example of the architecture and engineering of the period.
Alcalá de Henares calendar of festivals
Some of the main festivals celebrated in Alcalá de Henares are the following:
January
- Christmas and Three Wise Men Parade (until January 6th)During Christmas in Alcalá de Henares, an exciting parade with floats, characters and live music takes place along the main streets of the city.
February
- Carnival (varies according to the year)Carnival in Alcalá de Henares is a colourful and fun celebration with costumes, parades and music that attracts people of all ages.
March/April
- Easter Week in Alcalá de Henares (March/April)One of the most important religious festivities in Spain, which is celebrated in the city with various processions and liturgical events. Particularly noteworthy are the Palm Sunday and Maundy Thursday processions.
- Cervantes Literature Awards (23 April)A prestigious literary award that is presented every year in the city of Alcalá de Henares. The award recognises the literary career of Spanish-language authors and is held on 23 April, coinciding with Book Day.
- Roman Market (28th April to 2nd May)A historical recreation of the atmosphere and daily life of Roman times, which is celebrated in the streets of the centre with a procession, mass and various religious events.
August
- Festivities of Alcalá (end of August)The Feria de Alcalá is an annual event that celebrates the city with attractions, shows and activities for the whole family.
October
- Medieval fair (6 to 12 October)A festival that recreates the atmosphere and daily life of the Middle Ages, with parades of knights, tournaments, exhibitions of craftsmen, theatre and music performances, and typical food of the period. It is held in the historic centre of the city and attracts many visitors.
- Cervantes Week (9 October)A celebration dedicated to the figure of the famous Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes, which includes various cultural activities such as theatrical performances, exhibitions, concerts and guided tours of the most emblematic places in the city.
November
- Don Juan Itinerant (31 October - 1 November)A theatrical performance that recreates the legend of the famous Spanish seducer, Don Juan Tenorio. The play takes place in various historical locations in the city, making it a unique theatrical experience.
Why visit Alcalá de Henares?
Alcalá de Henares is an attractive destination for lovers of history, literature, architecture, gastronomy and culture. With its cultural richness, historical heritage and charming atmosphere, it offers a unique experience for visitors who wish to immerse themselves in the history and culture of Spain.
Its cobbled streets, picturesque squares and historic buildings make it a pleasant place to stroll around and enjoy its historic atmosphere. Our city also has parks, gardens and green spaces where you can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
How to get to Alcalá de Henares?
To get to Alcalá de Henares there are different transport options. Below you will find details on how to get there by bus, train or car:
- If you are one of those who prefer bus, Alsa offers several daily services from Madrid to Alcalá de Henares, with an approximate journey time of 40 minutes. There are also intercity bus services connecting the city with other towns in the Community of Madrid.
- If you prefer to go by train, Alcalá has a suburban train station, Estación de Alcalá de Henares, which is located in the city centre. From Madrid, you can take a suburban train on the C-2 line which connects to Alcalá de Henares in about 35 minutes. There are also long-distance train services that connect with other major cities in Spain.
- And if you move in car, The most common way to get to Alcalá de Henares by car is via the A-2 motorway, which connects Madrid with Zaragoza. Travel time will depend on traffic, but in normal conditions you can get there in about 30-40 minutes from Madrid.
What to see in Alcalá de Henares for free?
Of all the sites listed above, there are some that require an entrance fee to enter, but you can always enjoy the free sites. These are the following:
- San Diego Square
- Chapel of the Oidor
- Cervantes Square
- Main Street
- Holy Children's Square
- Magistral Cathedral (open for worship)
- Former Hospital of Santa María la Rica
- Huerta del Obispo
- Hippolytus House Museum
- Roman Bridge
What to see in Alcalá de Henares with children?
Alcalá de Henares is an ideal destination to visit with children. During the cervantine week and the medieval market, The city comes alive with exciting activities and events for the whole family.
The little ones will enjoy immersing themselves in the time of Cervantes, with actors and historical re-enactments that bring history to life. It is also a perfect opportunity to visit the Cervantes' Birthplace and learn about the author of «Don Quixote».
The dramatised visits are another attraction that will captivate children, allowing them to discover the city and its cultural heritage in a fun and entertaining way. Without a doubt, Alcalá de Henares offers an enriching and entertaining experience for the whole family.
What to see around Alcalá de Henares?
If you would like to extend your visit a little further and would like to visit the area around Alcalá de Henares, we suggest you make a note of the following stops:
- Europa ParkLocated in Torrejón de Ardoz, it is a theme park with replicas of the most emblematic monuments in Europe.
- Goyeneche Palace in Nuevo BaztanThis 18th century palace is an architectural and cultural jewel. Strolling through its gardens and discovering its history can be a fascinating experience for the whole family.
- GuadalajaraOnly a few kilometres from Alcalá de Henares, Guadalajara offers several attractions, such as the Cathedral, the Palacio del Infantado and the Parque de la Concordia, ideal for a day trip.
- Nearby villagesOlmeda de las Fuentes, Ambite, Villar del Olmo, Pezuela de las Torres and Anchuelo are charming villages nearby that offer a rural and peaceful atmosphere.
Frequently asked questions before visiting Alcalá
Do you recommend visiting Alcalá de Henares?
Yes, we recommend visiting Alcalá de Henares. This charming city has a rich history, the birthplace of Cervantes and a diverse cultural offer. Ideal for families, it offers educational and entertaining experiences for all tastes.
Can you see Alcalá de Henares in one day?
Yes, it is possible to see Alcalá de Henares in one day and enjoy its main attractions. We recommend focusing on the Alcalá de Henares route detailed above, especially the highlights such as Cervantes' Birthplace, Cervantes Square, the University and a stroll through the old town.
If you have more time, exploring the surrounding area and nearby villages may be an additional option.
Is Alcalá a safe city to visit?
Alcalá de Henares is considered a safe city to visit. As in any destination, it is always important to take normal safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings.
Overall, Alcalá de Henares is a welcoming and friendly place, and you are likely to have a pleasant and safe experience during your visit.
Visiting Alcalá de Henares is a must on your agenda. We hope that this guide of places to see in Alcalá de Henares We look forward to seeing you there!