Best Day Trips from Albacete

Albacete makes a brilliant base for day trips. The city sits in the middle of a high-speed rail line, so some big names are close. Meanwhile, the countryside around it hides cave villages, medieval castles and Renaissance squares. A few of these places need a car, so it is worth thinking about whether renting a car in Spain is worth it. If you prefer wheels, you can hire a car in Albacete. Hire a car with Discovercars. Here are six easy trips, ordered from nearest to farthest.

Chinchilla de Montearagón

Chinchilla sits only about 13 km from Albacete, so it makes a quick morning trip. This medieval hilltop town is a Historic-Artistic Site. Start in the Plaza Mayor, where a stone fountain represents the Júcar and Segura rivers. Next, look up at the 15th-century castle, which the Marquis of Villena built. A deep moat, cut into solid rock, surrounds it. Then wander into the Hondón quarter to see houses dug into the earth. Finally, drop into the Museo de Cerámica Nacional. If you are already in Spain, get directions.

Alcalá del Júcar

Alcalá del Júcar is the most famous village in the province. It lies about 55 km from Albacete, and the drive takes roughly an hour. Houses climb a rock above a bend in the Júcar river. A 12th to 13th-century castle crowns the top. Inside the rock, you will find the Cueva del Diablo and the Cuevas de Masagó. Both have tunnels, old cave bars and great views over the gorge. Walk down to the old stone bridge, then climb back up slowly. The streets are steep! Read our full guide to Alcalá del Júcar for more ideas. If you are already in Spain, get directions.

Almansa

Almansa lies about 75 km east of Albacete, near the Valencia border. Its castle towers over the old town and has been fortified since Almohad times. You reach it by a wide flight of steps from the Plaza de Santa María. A tourist office stands at the top. After your visit, wander the narrow streets of the old quarter. Food lovers should also know that the town is home to the Michelin-starred restaurant Maralba. Book well ahead if you want a table. If you are already in Spain, get directions.

Alcaraz

Alcaraz is a Renaissance gem about 80 km from Albacete. Its Plaza Mayor dates from the 16th century. Two towers flank the square, the Trinidad tower and the Tardón tower. Both are the work of the architect Andrés de Vandelvira. Nearby, the Lonja del Corregidor, an old market building, adds to the charm. Then climb to the top of the village, where you will find the walls of a 13th-century castle. Add the Santa María Magdalena convent to your list as well. If you are already in Spain, get directions.

Fans of historic towns may also enjoy our list of the best castle towns in Spain.

Cuenca

Cuenca is the easiest big-name trip by train. The journey takes only around 35 minutes. Take a high-speed train from Albacete-Los Llanos station. Check Train Schedules and Buy Tickets on Omio. The station sits outside the old town, so plan a bus or taxi ride into the centre. In the old town, look for the Casas Colgadas, the famous Hanging Houses perched over a gorge. One of them holds the Museo de Arte Abstracto Español, with works by Tàpies, Saura and Chillida. Afterwards, visit the cathedral on the Plaza Mayor. It mixes Norman and Gothic details. Finish by crossing the San Pablo bridge for the best photos. Read our full guide to Cuenca, and plan lunch with our tips on where to eat in Cuenca.

Alicante

Fancy some sea air? Alicante is just 47 minutes away by fast train. Hop on a train from Albacete-Los Llanos station. Check Train Schedules and Buy Tickets on Omio. Once you arrive, head straight to the Santa Bárbara Castle. You can climb up, or take the lift cut into the rock beside Postiguet beach. Next, stroll through the whitewashed Barrio de Santa Cruz on the way down. Then walk along the Explanada de España, a palm-lined promenade paved with millions of marble tiles in a wave pattern. History fans can add the MARQ archaeological museum. Finish with a swim at Postiguet. Our guides to things to do in Alicante and where to eat in Alicante will help you plan. You can read more about the city of Alicante too.

Tips for planning your day trips

Trains are quick and simple on this line. Our guide on how to use trains in Spain explains the basics. Driving suits the smaller towns best. Before you set off, read our tips on how to drive in Spanish villages. Also remember that many places close at midday, so check opening hours first.