Well over a month ago, I decided to jet to Segovia to visit my high school friend Lauren.  Even though I arrived at 11 a.m. on a Saturday and left at 8 a.m. on a Sunday, I got to know the place well enough because of its size.  I realized then that smaller cities like Segovia have some clear advantages over big ones like Madrid.

In Madrid, bus and metro trips are something that you have to accept.  Traveling between tourist sites takes time even with public transit.  Segovia, on the other hand, is a super walkable town.  During the afternoon, I was comfortable ambling between the main tourist sites: the aqueduct and the cathedral, in the center, and the alcazar, on the edge.

It’s also sometimes a hassle to determine where to meet in Madrid.  When Lauren’s friends in Segovia want to gather, however, they only have to say, “Meet at the aqueduct.”  The giant Roman aqueduct that runs through the center of town is an ideal meeting place.  When I was there, the group assembled for dinner at the appointed hour with limited planning.

Last of all, I had the chance to see the nightlife in Segovia because I stayed overnight.  Unlike in Madrid, there are no long lines, cover charges, or dress codes.  It was a welcome change to walk straight into clubs.

All in all, Segovia was a refreshing break.  I needed that before returning to the bustle of Madrid.