The Alcázar has existed since at least the 12th century and is one of the most renowned medieval castles globally and one of the most visited landmarks in Spain. It has been the backdrop for significant historical events and has been home to twenty-two kings, along with notable historical figures. The Alcázar served both as a royal palace and a fortress for the Castilian monarchs, and its architecture reflects the grandeur and is a notable example of “power architecture”: the impenetrable walls, the deep moat, its impressive towers
Today, it is used as a museum and a military archive building since its declaration as a National Archive by a Royal Decree in 1998. It has also worked at times as a state prison, a Royal Artillery College, and a military academy.
The fortress is imposing but as you approach it you can also see it has a fairytale castle air to it. We spent quite some time outside just taking photographs of the building from several angles. The Alcazar of Segovia has made its mark on cinema and popular culture. It was used by Orson Welles in the film “Chimes at Midnight” and served as inspiration for Cinderella Castle in the Walt Disney movie.
Our tour of the Alcázar started in the State rooms which is where the members of the Royal family called home when they were in residence. It was also within these rooms that several historic events unfolded. The signing of the Concord of Segovia, which laid the groundwork for the formation of the Spanish nation, took place here. The funds were stored here to finance Christopher Columbus’s first voyage. It was also the site of the last meeting between Christopher Columbus and King Ferdinand the Catholic before the explorer’s death.
The tours of the State rooms take you on a journey through several of the main rooms of the Alcázar.
Sala del Palacio Viejo
The first room we entered was the Sala del Palacio Viejo (Old Palace Room), also called Sala de Ajimeces because of the Romanesque mullioned windows that used to let in light to the original palace before the Sala de la Galera (Galley Room) was later added.
Sala de la Chimenea
The next room is called the Sala de la Chimenea (Fireplace Room) and is part of the restructuring of the Alcazar in the times of Philip II. The room is furnished with 16th-century furniture. On the walls are portraits of Philip II and Philip III, together with a 16th-century Flemish tapestry depicting “Our Lady’s betrothal.”
Sala del Solio (Throne Room)
The third room on this part of the tour is called the Sala del Solio (Throne Room), which was built during the reign of the Trastamara Dynasty, The room houses the throne commissioned for the visit of Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenia on the occasion of the centenary of May 2nd, 1808. On the walls of this room are several portraits of kings and queens of Spain, which are part of the collection commissioned by Queen Isabella II of Spain.
Sala de la Galera (Galley Room)
The next space was our favourite in the Alcazar, the Sala de la Galera (Galley Room) which gets its name from its coffered ceiling which somewhat resembles the hull of an upside-down ship. Queen Catherine of Lancaster had this room built in 1412, while her son Juan II was still a child. In the room are two amazing stained-glass windows: One portrays Henry III of Castile and his family, and the second portrays King Henry II of Castile and scenes of the death of Peter I and John II.
Sala de las Piñas (Pinecone Room)
The Sala de las Piñas (Pinecone Room) is named after the peculiar 392 pinecone carvings on its moulded ceiling. This room also has a stained-glass window, this one portraying King Alfonso VII with his daughter, Queen Berengaria of Castile.
Cámara Regia (Royal Bedroom), and Sala de Reyes (Monarch’s Room)
After the Sala de las Piñas is the modest Cámara Regia (Royal Bedroom), which then leads to the Sala de Reyes (Monarch’s Room). This room is decorated with a frieze depicting the monarchs of Asturias, Castile and León. King Alfonso X commissioned the room, but it was King Henry IV who was most influential in its final design, including the frieze of the seated monarchs of Spain. The room also has elements that were later added under the instruction of King Philip II.
Sala del Cordón (Belt Room)
From there, we moved to another smaller room the Sala del Cordón (Belt Room) which got its name from the long golden lace attached to the walls surrounding the room.
The Chapel
Next up was the Chapel, which was used for the marriage of Philip II and Anna of Austria, which strengthened the bond between the House of Habsburg and the Hispanic Monarchy. Inside the Chapel is a painting called “The Epiphany” by Bartolomé Carducho.
The Armoury
The final room on this part of the tour was the Sala de Armas (Armoury) which is located under the keep and holds a collection of weapons dating from different periods.
The Tower
.For now, we were done with the insides of the Alcazar. The ticket we had included a visit to the castle’s tower. This required climbing up to the second level and then ascending a narrow, spiral staircase to the roof of the building. The views from here were amazing. You can see the city of Segovia laid out before you as well as the surrounding countryside.
Royal Artillery School Museum
After descending from the tower, we had one more place in the castle to check out, the Royal Artillery School Museum. In the 18th century, the Alcázar was used as the headquarters of the Royal College of Artillery. The work done here was very interesting and extended beyond work on the development of artillery. The first military flight for military purposes was carried out, marking the beginning of military aviation, and the chemist Louis Proust, a professor at the Royal College, formulated the Law of Definite Proportions, a fundamental advance in modern chemistry.
It had been a fabulous visit, but we were now in need of some refreshments. Next to the Alcázar is another beautiful building that was built during the time of the Royal College of Artillery but is now the ticket office and a café – which is where we headed. It was very nice.
Planning your visit
📍 Location
Plaza Reina Victoria Eugenia, s/n, 40003 Segovia, Spain
(About 1.5 hours from Madrid by car or train)
Official Website: https://www.alcazardesegovia.com/
🕰️ Opening Hours
April to October:
10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (last access at 7:30 PM)November to March:
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last access at 5:30 PM)Closed: January 1, January 6, and December 25
🎟️ Ticket Prices (2024)
General Admission: €9
(Includes palace, museum, and Armory)With Tower of Juan II: €11
Reduced (students, seniors): €6–€8
Free: Children under 5, disabled visitors (+1 companion), certain holidays/hours for EU citizens
🛑 Note: Tickets can be bought on-site or online in advance (recommended, especially in peak season).
🗺️ What to See
Sala del Palacio Viejo (Old Palace Room)
Medieval architecture and historical displays.Hall of Kings
Painted busts of Castilian monarchs.Throne Room
Lavishly decorated with Moorish-style ceilings.Royal Chapel, Armory Museum, and Tower of Juan II
(Climb the tower for panoramic views of Segovia!)
📸 Tips for Visitors
Photography is allowed, but no flash.
Wear comfy shoes – there’s a lot of walking, and the tower has 152 narrow spiral steps.
Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh light for photos.
Getting to Sergovia
Getting to Segovia, Spain is pretty straightforward, especially from Madrid. Here are your best options:
🚅 By Train (Fastest & Most Popular)
Departure: Madrid Chamartín-Clara Campoamor Station
Train Type: AVANT (high-speed train)
Duration: ~27 minutes
Arrival: Segovia-Guiomar Station (just outside the city center)
From the Station: Take a local bus (line 11) or taxi (~10 min) to the historic center.
Pro Tip: Book tickets in advance on Renfe for better prices.
🚌 By Bus (Budget Option)
Departure: Moncloa Bus Station, Madrid
Company: Avanza
Duration: ~1 hour 20 minutes
Arrival: Segovia Bus Station (closer to the city center than the train station)
Good For: Budget travelers and those staying near Moncloa.
🚗 By Car (Most Flexible)
Duration: ~1 hour 15 minutes via A-6 and AP-61 (toll road)
Bonus: You can stop by El Escorial or the mountains on the way.
Parking Tip: Use one of the public lots near the old town like “Parking Acueducto.”
The best time to visit Segovia
The best time to visit Segovia, Spain is typically spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). Here’s why:
🌸 Spring (April – June)
Weather: Mild and pleasant, great for walking around the historic sites.
Scenery: The countryside is lush and green, flowers in bloom.
Crowds: Less crowded than peak summer months.
Events: Easter (Semana Santa) is often celebrated with processions and cultural events.
🍂 Fall (September – October)
Weather: Still warm but cooler than summer.
Vibe: Fewer tourists, a more relaxed local feel.
Harvest Season: You can enjoy seasonal local food, including roasted suckling pig (cochinillo) and regional wines.
🚫 Times to Avoid:
Mid-Summer (July – August): Very hot (can reach 35°C / 95°F), and it’s high tourist season.
Winter (December – February): Can be chilly, and some attractions may have reduced hours—though it has its quiet charm.
Where to stay in Sergovia
1. Luxury – Áurea Convento Capuchinos
Áurea Convento Capuchinos is a luxurious hotel nestled within the historic walls of a 17th-century Capuchin convent in the heart of Segovia, Spain. Elegantly blending heritage and modern comfort, the property retains its original monastic architecture, including vaulted ceilings, stone walls, and serene cloisters, while offering upscale amenities and refined interiors. Overlooking the lush Eresma Valley and just steps from iconic landmarks like the Alcázar and the Segovia Cathedral, the hotel provides an immersive cultural experience in a setting rich with history. With a tranquil spa, gourmet dining, and sweeping views, Áurea Convento Capuchinos is a unique retreat that honours its spiritual past while catering to the modern traveller.
2. Mid Range – Exe Casa de Los Linajes
Exe Casa de Los Linajes is a charming hotel located in the heart of Segovia, Spain, just steps away from the city’s historic landmarks, including the famous Roman aqueduct and the Segovia Cathedral. Housed in a renovated 16th-century noble mansion, the hotel seamlessly blends the elegance of its original architecture with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the Eresma Valley and the surrounding countryside from many of its rooms and terraces. With its peaceful atmosphere, refined decor, and proximity to Segovia’s cultural treasures, Exe Casa de Los Linajes offers a unique and memorable stay for visitors exploring this UNESCO World Heritage city.
3. Budget – Hostal Don Jaime I y II
Hostal Don Jaime I y II is a welcoming 1-star establishment located in the heart of Segovia, just 100 meters from the iconic Roman aqueduct. Guests consistently praise its excellent value for money, cleanliness, and friendly staff. The hostal offers amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and 24-hour reception. Its central location provides easy access to Segovia’s main attractions, including the Plaza Mayor and the Cathedral, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking both comfort and convenience.
