🏰 Ávila: Madrid’s Underrated Medieval Gem

Move over, Toledo—Ávila steals the spotlight with its intact 11th-century walls, mystic convents, and jaw-dropping steaks! 🌟 Why Ávila? UNESCO-listed walls (Europe’s best-preserved!). Sacred vibes: Home to Saint Teresa and Gothic-meets-fortress cathedrals. Day-trip gold: Just 1.5h from Madrid (less crowded than Segovia!). ⚔️ Must-See Sights 1️⃣ La Muralla de Ávila: Walk the battlements (87 towers!). 2️⃣ Catedral de Ávila: Blue stained glass + wall-embedded apse. 3️⃣ Basílica de San Vicente: Romanesque time capsule. 4️⃣ Los Cuatro Postes: Panoramic views (hike or drive). 🍽️ Foodie Wins 📍 Restaurante Siglodoce: €60 T-bone steak (750g! Bigger than your face). Comes with drinks + dessert (*2 girls = leftovers*). 📍 Heladería La Flor Valenciana (1927!): Legendary helado—expect queues (worth it!). 💡 Pro Tips Walk everywhere—tiny but mighty! Tinto de Verano break: Do as the Spaniards do. 🍷 Cathedral secret: Its "humble" interior dazzles with azure windows. Sunset at Cuatro Postes: Allow 20min to get there. #Ávila #MadridDayTrip #SpainHiddenGems #MedievalVibes #FoodieSpain