Free walking tours in Torrejón de Ardoz and what to see

Must-sees

Torrejón's most visited spot is Parque Europa, a large urban park with scale replicas of European monuments. There you will see versions of the Eiffel Tower, the Brandenburg Gate, the Trevi Fountain or the Atomium, plus an original piece of the Berlin Wall. It has a lake, walking areas and outdoor activities, and is very popular with families.

In the centre are the Plaza Mayor, the church of San Juan Evangelista and the Casa Grande, an old estate that gives an idea of the town's farming past. The atmosphere is that of a residential town with good neighbourhood life. Its biggest advantage is its location: Alcalá de Henares, a World Heritage city, is very close, and so is Barajas airport.

Free tours and guided visits

There are hardly any free walking tours in Torrejón, so the practical thing is to use it as a base. Madrid has free walking tours every day around Habsburg Madrid, the Puerta del Sol, the Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace, as well as themed routes. In Alcalá de Henares, walks around the historic centre and the university are common. Among paid visits, guided entry to the Royal Palace or the Prado and trips to Toledo or Segovia are worthwhile.

How long to spend

Half a day is enough for Parque Europa and the centre. If you are staying here to see the area, allow three or four days. Spend two in Madrid, with a free walking tour on the first and museums on the second. Keep another for Alcalá de Henares and, if you have time, one more for a trip to Toledo, Segovia or El Escorial.

Where to stay

It is best to stay near the Cercanías station, which links with Alcalá and central Madrid without a car. The town centre has shops and restaurants close at hand. If you are driving, the areas near the A-2 make getting out easy. For early flights, being close to the airport is another clear advantage.