Join me for a day out to the Royal City of Aranjuez, a worthwhile day trip from the Spanish capital.

I hop on the Cercanías light-rail commuter train from Madrid's Atocha Station and make the 45 minute train ride through the middle of the harsh Castilian plateau, to the haven of peace and tranquillity of Aranjuez, which lies in a green fertile valley between the rivers Tagus and Jarama.

Wander with me as I explore this opulent, former Royal Spring retreat and walk its grand boulevards, squares and parks - that seem to remind me of a mini version of Paris.

I talk through the royal comings and goings over the centuries, take a look at the Royal Palace, stop off in a very traditional Taberna to soak up the history - and noise - over a beer and some Buñelos de Rape. Then off to cool down in the vast Jardín del Prícipe, probably Spain's largest park.

Tune in to find out about the famous modern classical concerto that the Prince's Garden inspired and what the 'Strawberry Train' is all about.

At the beginning of the episode I also talk in more detail about Madrid's Cercanías train system and the places of note you can visit easily and affordably by using it. More info here:  https://www.renfe.com/es/en/suburban/suburban-madrid

I didn't go inside the Royal Palace but you can find more info about ticket prices and the timetable here:https://www.patrimonionacional.es/en/visita/royal-palace-aranjuez

Enjoy the When in Spain podcast? Please support the show by becoming a When in Spain Patron: https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain?fan_landing=true

Check out more info and podcast episodes at https://www.wheninspainpodcast.com/