Every turn in Segovia unfurls a new hint of history. You'll find it nestled in the stories carved into the mesmerising Aqueduct, or whispering through the hushed corridors of the Alcazar. It can be tasted in the traditional Segovian dishes, and felt in the rustling leaves of the city's emerald parks. The things to do in Segovia offer a rounded senses-awakening experience, whether you're tracing cobblestone steps in the old Jewish quarter, or pausing to appreciate the ambiance of a seasonal local festival. Each moment here is a testament to the life and vibrancy inherent to this city.
Explore Segovia off the beaten path
Slip beyond the usual sights and follow a slower rhythm with alternative things to do that lead you into quiet lanes, small workshops, and locals’ everyday rituals.
Cultural experiences: Slip into late-afternoon vespers at Monasterio de Santa María del Parral, where chants roll across the Eresma valley. Later, catch a small concert or talk at La Cárcel_Centro de Creación, the former prison turned arts space.
Small museums and galleries: Step into Museo Zuloaga inside San Juan de los Caballeros to see ceramics and paintings in a cool, old church. Wander the Casa-Museo de Antonio Machado, the poet’s humble lodging with creaky floors and simple rooms. In the Judería, the Centro Didáctico de la Judería lays out Sephardic life with everyday objects and short, clear exhibits.
Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Aim for Mirador de la Canaleja in the late afternoon, when the light softens the rooftops and the street below calms. For wide Alcázar views, walk down to the fields by Ermita de la Vera Cruz near Pradera de San Marcos around sunset.
Shop for local products & souvenirs: Order ponche segoviano at Pastelería Limon y Menta, then box up a few slices for the trip home. Stop by the small shop at Monasterio de San Antonio el Real for biscuits and sugared almonds made in-house. For picnic supplies, browse Mercado Municipal de La Alhóndiga and ask for Cantimpalos chorizo and a wedge of local cheese.
Popular neighbourhoods
Plunge into the diverse array of neighbourhoods in Segovia and uncover the city's soul. Each corners serve up authentic Spanish culture, impressively preserved architecture, and memorable epicurean experiences.
Wander through Old Town, a labyrinth of cobbled streets steeped in history. Admire the medieval buildings, quaint plazas and cozy tapas bars tucked in its maze-like setting.
Visit the Aqueduct Area, where Segovia's iconic Roman Aqueduct gushes with historical splendor. Experience the majesty of this enduring engineering marvel, still standing after two millennia.
Explore Jewish Quarter, a testament to Segovia's rich cultural past. Marvel at the intricate sephardic architecture, steeped in layers of history that echo through the narrow, winding streets.
Stroll in the Cathedral Quarter, dominated by Segovia's magnificent Gothic Cathedral. Appreciate the impressive architectural details, the gentle hum of the choir, and serene monastery gardens.
Roam the Alcázar Quarter, its fairy-tale castle holding commanding views over Segovia. Delve into its illustrious past, appreciating the striking turrets, medieval towers and lush castle gardens.
Things to do in Segovia by season
Spring: Trace quiet lanes from the aqueduct to the Alcázar as gardens bud and patios open. Join Holy Week processions and catch Titirimundi’s puppet performances, a playful hit with families and a delight for culture seekers.
Summer: Drift through twilight on the paseo, then settle into shady plazas for tapas when the heat eases. MUSEG fills cloisters and courtyards with music, and late dinners stretch into starry nights for couples.
Fall: Walk under crisp skies to the viewpoints above the city and sample mushrooms from the nearby sierra. Look for Hay Festival Segovia in September and the San Frutos celebrations in October, a thoughtful time for history and literature lovers.
Winter: See nativity scenes in churches around Plaza Mayor and watch the Reyes Magos parade roll past warm cafés. Tuck into cochinillo in traditional mesones while snow dusts the distant peaks.
Across the year, Segovia’s cultural rhythm stays steady: Holy Week brings solemn beauty each spring, Titirimundi animates May, and MUSEG adds summer concerts in historic settings. Early autumn welcomes Hay Festival Segovia, and late October honours the city’s patron, San Frutos.