Alcalá de Henares was the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, author of the world-famous “Don Quixote”, and you can visit the house he was born in, which is now a museum.
But there are many more reasons to plan a getaway to this town, just over 30 kilometres from Madrid: its imposing University, with centuries of history; Calle Mayor, its main street lined with arches; its ancient theatre, the Corral de Comedias… But also its sunny squares, its generous helpings of lunchtime tapas, and the special atmosphere of its Medieval and Christmas Markets.
What to visit
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How to get there - transport information
Select the means of transport to see how to get there or how to get around at your destination.
How to get to aeroplane
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Madrid-Barajas International Airport is just 14 kilometres from Alcalá de Henares. More information
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From there the car journey to Alcalá de Henares takes approximately 25 minutes.
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The 824 bus links Barajas Airport to Alcalá de Henares.
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Another option is to travel from Barajas airport by metro to Atocha or Chamartín railway stations in Madrid and then take the local train lines C2 or C7.
How to get there by road
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Access via the R-2 toll motorway and A-2 motorway. Take exit 23 for the historic town centre.
How to get to train
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The Cercanías-Renfe local train lines C2 and C7 stop at Alcalá de Henares.
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The journey from Chamartín station in Madrid takes approximately 25 minutes.
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The tourist train, Tren Cervantes, runs from Madrid with theatrical performances and tastings of traditional local foods on board. The service is available in spring and autumn. You can take the train out and return the same day to Atocha railway station in Madrid.
How to get to bus
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From Avenida de América station in Madrid, the 223, 227 and 229 bus routes and the N202 (night bus) all go to Alcalá.
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The 824 bus route goes from Barajas Airport to Alcalá.
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From Guadalajara, buses 221 and 221ª go to Alcalá.
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Alcalá de Henares bus station is just a five-minute walk from the old town centre.
How to get around in bus
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12 local bus routes run from approximately 07:00 to 00:00.
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Alcalá de Henares bus station is just a five-minute walk from the city’s historic quarter.
How to get around in other means of transport
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Car rental.
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Bicycle rental.
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Taxi.
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You can find some useful telephone numbers and links for these three means of transport here.
Shows, festivals, sports...
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