Discovering Pedraza, Spain! Visit this Medieval Village in Segovia!

Close your eyes for a moment and picture a walled medieval village, with no modern buildings, completely unaffected by the passing of time. Now open and rejoice in the fact that a place like this still exists in the province of Segovia, Spain.

Think Game of Thrones but much, MUCH better. Why? Because it’s real. This is not a Hollywood set that’ll be torn down in a month’s time. This village has remained unbelievably well-preserved for more than 700 years. Unlike a movie set, it isn’t going away any time soon.

Things to Do, See & Experience in Pedraza, Spain

This beautiful village has less than 500 inhabitants who help run the local hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries. There’s only a handful of these establishments, which isn’t surprising considering it only takes you about 20 minutes to walk around the entire village. Life is simple and quiet in Pedraza which is how the locals like it. Don’t get me wrong, they welcome visitors and are very proud to show off their history.

Pedraza was declared a national Historical Heritage site in 1951 and it’s easy to see why. The entire village is surrounded by a wall with one crumbling door which lets visitors in and out. Just imagine, more than two cars trying to get in and out at the same time can cause a terrible traffic jam! But I’d choose rush hour in Pedraza over Los Angeles any day.

Spend time in the Main Plaza or, Plaza Mayor, and be sure to visit one of the bars. I think there are only two in total but they are very unique and keep the old Spanish tradition of serving a free tapa, or small plate of food, when you order a drink. If your Spanish is good enough, don’t be shy about conversing with the locals. If you’re lucky, one particular bar owner will share with you her fascinating family history. She’ll be happy to explain how her bar has been in her family for five generations, and that she was born just upstairs. You’ll quickly realize that every building in Pedraza has a story. Above the door of many homes there are still Coats of Arms, some dating back to the 16th century.

From Thursday through Sunday, Pedraza Castle is open to visitors. This fortress dates back to the 13th century and was heavily transformed in the 15h century. Today it belongs to the Zuloaga Family where Spanish painter Ignacio Zuloaga displays his art work in one of the castle’s rooms. Be sure to climb the castle and walk around the wall for beautiful views of the village and the surrounding province of Segovia.

Another medieval attraction, and the only other one in Pedraza, would be a prison right at the entrance to the village. It’s mostly open on the weekends and only costs a few euros to enter. It’s small, dark, terrifying and utterly fascinating. You’ll leave feeling extremely thankful you weren’t a criminal back in medieval times.

On the first and second Saturday in July, the lights of the village are switched off and candles are replaced inside each house. The locals also decorate their patios and windows in an effort to light the entire village with candlelight. The Night of the Candles would be an ideal time to visit, and it’s certainly the only time of the year you’ll see more than a few tourists in Pedraza at one given time!

There are a few tour companies who will take you from Madrid by bus to visit Segovia and Pedraza in a day. That’s probably the easiest way to get there. However, I’d highly recommend visiting on your own. It might be a small village but a visit to Pedraza shouldn’t be rushed. A Spanish company called Linecar offers a bus from Madrid to Pedraza, but it only runs on certain days of the week. I’d suggest contacting Madrid or Segovia’s tourism boards to help organize your transportation since Linecar’s website might be difficult to navigate if you don’t speak Spanish. Or if you’re renting a car, it’s only a 90 minute drive from Madrid!

Pedraza is certainly a hidden gem, but I can assure you, it’s worth all of the effort once you’re there.

How to Get to Pedraza (Stress-Free From Madrid or Segovia)

Pedraza is the kind of place that rewards a slow approach. Rolling fields, stone farmhouses, and then the storybook gate appears like a scene curtain lifting. If you’re driving from Madrid (about 90 minutes) or Segovia (roughly 40 minutes), the final stretch is on smaller country roads that set the mood perfectly. The historic gate is narrow and the lanes inside are cobbled. So, most visitors park outside the walls and wander in on foot. Buses exist but are limited and often run only certain days; if you’re using public transport, plan your departure and return before you go. Whichever way you choose, arrive before late morning to enjoy the silent streets and a coffee in Plaza Mayor before lunchtime fills the village.

• Self-drive is the most flexible; bring coins or a card for small municipal parking lots near the gate.
• If you must enter the gate by car (lodging check-in, drop-off), go slow—two vehicles can’t pass at once.
• Public buses typically require a change in Segovia and don’t run late; screenshot schedules in case signal drops.
• Tours combine Pedraza with Segovia’s classics; they’re efficient, but you’ll trade spontaneity for structure.
• Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable: cobbles + gentle slopes = happy ankles if you’re prepared.

At-a-Glance: Getting There

What to See: Short Walk, Big History

Pedraza is compact, so you can wander without a map and still meet all the highlights in a leisurely loop. Start at the Gate and duck into the old prison (haunting and fascinating), then meander toward Plaza Mayor where arcades, wooden balconies and sunlit stone create a living postcard. When the castle is open (typically Thu–Sun), the walk around the ramparts delivers beautiful views over tiled roofs and countryside. Between stops, peek at door lintels—many still bear family coats of arms—and note how the lanes subtly funnel you back to the square. The joy here is in the details: door knockers, flower boxes, and the rhythm of village life carrying on as if centuries never happened.

• Plaza Mayor: order a drink, enjoy the free tapa, and watch the day unfold under carved wooden eaves.
• Castle: check hours at the gate; the Ignacio Zuloaga collection is a lovely bonus when open.
• Medieval Prison: small, atmospheric, and a quick visit that sticks with you.
• Walls & Views: walk the perimeter lanes for countryside panoramas and mellow golden light.
• Tiny Churches & Hermitages: often closed, but beautiful to admire from outside.

At-a-Glance: Sights Planner

*Hours vary seasonally; confirm on arrival.

What to Eat: Wood Ovens, Village Bars & Sweet Endings

Meals in Pedraza lean rustic and celebratory. They’re built around wood-fired cordero asado (roast lamb) and shared starters in village bars. If you’re here on a weekend, consider reserving a table for a slow, three-course lunch: hearty stews, seasonal salads, and generous mains are the norm. In the square, ordering a drink still often brings a complimentary tapa, and for dessert you’ll spot regional classics—think simple flan, cheesecake, or the Segovian impulse buy: a slice of ponche segoviano if available. Local wine lists frequently nod to nearby regions, with Ribera del Duero and Rueda well represented, plus house red by the jarra for easy afternoons. If you’re picnicking, pop into a small shop for bread, cured meats, and cheese and find a sunny bench along the walls.

• Signature main: cordero asado (order ahead in some restaurants; portions are generous).
• Starters to share: morcilla, chorizo, roasted peppers, or a simple tomato salad with olive oil.
• Dessert ideas: flan, natillas, or a local pastry from Segovia if you’re passing through.
• Drinks: order a vino de la casa or crisp verdejo; ask for a small bottle if you prefer to sample.
• Timing: lunch starts later (14:00+); dinner is calm and early nights suit Pedraza’s quiet vibe.

At-a-Glance: Meal Planner

When to Go: Seasons, Light & Candlelit Magic

Pedraza is beautiful year-round, but each season shifts the mood. Spring brings wildflowers in the fields and mild afternoons that make lingering on the square irresistible. Summer weekends are livelier, and the famous Night of the Candles in early July bathes the village in flickering light—an unforgettable experience that also draws bigger crowds and may require advance planning. Autumn wraps the hills in gold and rust, and the softer sun flatters every stone; it’s a photographer’s dream. Winter is quieter, colder, and wonderfully atmospheric—think misty mornings, early dinners, and a village that feels like it’s yours alone.

• Morning light is crisp for facades; late afternoon warms the stone and softens shadows.
• Weekdays are hushed; weekends see more day-trippers around lunch.
• The candlelit festival is magical—arrive early, be patient, and enjoy the glow.
• Shoulder months (May–June, Sept–Oct) balance weather, light, and calm.
• Pack layers—even in summer, breezes on the ramparts feel cooler than the square.

At-a-Glance: Best Time to Visit

Pedraza With Kids & Accessibility Notes

Families do well here because distances are short and there’s plenty of visual interest—gates, towers, and just enough “castle” to spark imaginations. Strollers work on the square and main lanes; for steeper or rougher side streets, a baby carrier is easier. The prison and some castle sections have steps and low headroom, so check comfort levels and skip areas that feel tight. For anyone with limited mobility, the square and immediate streets provide a satisfying visit without committing to the hillier edges. Build in snack breaks; kids love picking their own “mini lunch” of bread, cheese, and fruit from a small shop.

• Choose wide-lane routes between the gate and plaza for strollers.
• Bring a carrier for exploring uneven lanes or the castle approaches.
• Pack water and a hat in warm months; shade pockets are limited along the walls.
• Rest points: benches near the gate, shady arcades on Plaza Mayor.
• Keep little hands clear of low door hardware and steep drop-offs by viewpoints.

At-a-Glance: Family & Accessibility

Easy Pairings: Make a Day of It

If you’ve got a full day, linking Pedraza with a nearby stop turns a pleasant outing into a mini-road trip. Segovia is the obvious pairing—visit the aqueduct, Alcázar, and cathedral before or after your village wander. For gardens and fountains, detour to La Granja de San Ildefonso, where royal water features and glass-blowing add variety. Nature lovers can press on to Sepúlveda and the Hoces del Río Duratón reserve for soaring cliffs and vulture-spotting. Keep your ambition modest: two stops plus Pedraza is a full, happy day without rushing.

• Pedraza + Segovia: city icons and village calm in one loop.
• Pedraza + La Granja: palaces, hedges, fountains, and forested hills.
• Pedraza + Sepúlveda/Hoces: medieval lanes + river canyon lookouts.
• Start early; lunch in Pedraza, late afternoon at your second stop.
• Fuel up before leaving the highway; rural stations can be spaced out.

At-a-Glance: Pairing Ideas

Sample Plans: Half-Day Calm or Full-Day Explorer

Short on time? A half-day still delivers the essence of Pedraza: enter through the gate, linger in the square, visit the prison, and circle the walls. With a full day, layer in the castle, longer café time, and a perimeter walk for views and photos. If you’re here in summer, plan your long lunch under arcades and save the wall walk for golden light when the stone glows. In winter, flip the order: brisk walks first, then a hearty meal and an early return. Whichever you choose, let the village set your pace—this is the place to un-hurry.

• Half-Day (3–4 hrs): Gate → Plaza coffee → Prison → Plaza tapas → Perimeter stroll → Souvenir stop.
• Full-Day (6–8 hrs): Morning lanes → Castle → Long lunch → Siesta-style coffee → Wall walk → Blue hour photos.
• Reserve lunch on weekends; wood-oven dishes take time (worth it!).
• Build in a 20-minute bench break just to listen: birds, footsteps, church bells.
• If pairing with another stop, leave Pedraza by late afternoon to drive in daylight.

At-a-Glance: Itinerary Blocks

Budget Snapshot: What a Visit Typically Costs

Pedraza can be as affordable or indulgent as you like. A simple coffee and tapa in the square barely dents the wallet, while a wood-oven feast with wine turns lunch into an occasion. Entry fees (prison, castle) are modest, and parking outside the walls is typically inexpensive or free. If you’re pairing with surrounding sights, the main “cost” is time—so spend it where it makes you happiest. Bring a small stash of euros for tips, small purchases, and coin-only machines, and keep a card handy for restaurants.

• Coffee + tapa: €2–€5; tapas plate: €6–€12.
• Long lunch with house wine: €20–€40 pp depending on mains.
• Castle/prison entries: small, variable, often just a few euros.
• Parking: near-gate lots are typically low-cost or free.
• Souvenirs: handcrafted ceramics, local foods, and small prints make packable mementos.

At-a-Glance: Costs

Pedraza is small on distance and big on atmosphere, a living museum that still cooks lunch, sweeps stoops, and rings bells on its own timetable. Give it a few unhurried hours, let the cobbles lead you, and you’ll leave with stone, light, and quiet tucked under your skin—the kind of travel souvenir that lasts.

Is Pedraza on your travel list?