Madrid, Spain Help Needed

I would take the AVE train to Toledo, and spend the time there. 25 minutes total travel time. Recommend the Hostal Posada de Manolo, near the cathderal, and convenient by foot to all the area. Good breakfast with a fantastic view. Check its web site. Have stayed there three or four times. And, if you get lost on the narrow streets, all you need do is look for the cathderal spires!
There is a tourist "train" around the city, about an hour trip, no stops, but it does give you a great overall view of the area. Many museums with good exhibits, lots of history. Remember the city is not level, so wear comfortable shoes.

It's possible to do Toledo as a daytrip because of the AVE...that will then open up another daytrip to El Escorial or Segovia. Segovia is a beautiful town...very historic, but the real draw is the aqueduct (it's impressive for sure). But if you are really getting into Spanish history on your trip, it's hard to beat the palace at El Escorial. If I had to rank these three in order, it would be Toledo (hands-down winner without a doubt), Segovia, and then El Escorial. I haven't been to Avila, so I can't weigh-in on it. BTW, if you're frugal, check out reviews and photos for Hostal Acapulco on tripadvisor – highly-rated and cheap right in the center close to Puerta del Sol. I loved it.

Another vote for Toledo. We loved it and actually stayed two nights. The "tourist train" is a must. It is very hilly (a series of escalators helps) so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to get lost-like Venice without canals.

Thanks HJ, Michael and Susan, I really appreciate your feedback on the Madrid day trips! I would also appreciate any other traveler's feedback on Avila compared to Toledo, Segovia and El Escorial. Ken

Toledo and Segovia for sure. Easy day trips both, interesting history, sights, people, craft. The cathedral in Toledo is amazing inside and out, especially the "transparente" behind the alter (you'll say "Holy Toledo" for sure). Adolfo Vionteca has great tapa & wine specials (3 euro last summer). If you can stay for dinner in Segovia, the suckling pig is outstanding (once you get over the fact it's a baby pig, it will be the best pork you've ever eaten).

Toledo and Segovia. If you can do only one: Toledo.

Avila has an amazing wall but wouldn't be first on the list if you have to choose.

Toledo is great, and the AVE train makes the trip so pleasant. It is hilly!! Definitely wear comfortable shoes, and shoes with tread! When it rains, the streets get slippery so be careful. Pay attention to the food recommendations in the book. I didn't and regret a couple of lunch/dinner choices. I looked longingly at the McDonald's while trying to get through a yucky salad at Cafe & Te in Plaza Zocodover.

You're in Madrid for 4-days, allowing yourself one day for a daytrip. Of those you've listed, Toledo would have to be the one. There are two trains to Toledo, both leaving from Madrid Atocha train station: The AVE and the AVANT. There are only 3 AVE trains leaving for Toledo and 11 AVANT trains on weekdays and only 1 AVE on weekends with 9 AVANT trains. The trip takes 30 minutes on the AVE and 33 minutes on AVANT trains. Price is the same, 15 Euros each way. The Toledo train station, recently renovated, is historic and really beautiful. Worth some photos! Prepare yourself that Toledo is the most popular daytrip from Madrid and so you'll find many tourists in the old city center - the part you'll want to see. Also, since the old city center is on a hilltop, to see some things you'll have to walk down/then-up steep hills. Wear comfortable shoes and prepare for the June Toledo heat. Enjoy Madrid AND Toledo! I know you will. Saludos, MadridMan @ you-know-where!!

Thanks MadridMan, Sarah and everyone that responded to my post! Unfortunately, I stepped on a piece of broken glass in the kitchen, so we're postponing our trip.....:-( Fortunately, we bought trip insurance, so we're covered this time