Going to Madrid 1st time in Feb. Is Cuenca feasible as a day trip? Is it possible to get there by train or bus? Or do we need a car? If so, any recomendations for lunch etc. If not; any recomendations for other smaller/interesting towns near Madrid? We are also going to Toledo and Segovia.

Sorry I can't answer your question about public transportation to Cuenca because we went by car--an easy drive. But I hope you do get there for sure because I have been to many areas of Spain, and Cuenca is still up there at the very top of my list of must see smaller towns. See if you can stay the night, in the old city. You'll find some good recommendations for accomodations on this board. Cuenca is truly amazing.

You can go to Cuenca either by train ( Renfe ) or bus ( Auto-Res ).

As for Toledo and Segovia, I would recommend the bus because it's faster and more convenient than the train.

If you wind up driving, try to see Segobriga which is near Cuenca, perhaps on your way back to Madrid. Segobriga is a small ruined Roman city, partially excavated, and often empty of visitors. They have a small museum building. The nearby town is Saelices.

I keep postponing my visit to Cuenca. I have heard that it can be quite cold in February so dress warmly. Let us know more if you decide to go!

I am planning to go to Cuenca from Madrid by train. I've checked out the RENFE website. Train joourney @ 2 hrs 15 mins.

If you prefer a day trip, you should look at the earliest depaarture ?

The earliest should be @ 8.50 am, arrive in Cuenca 11.16am. If you miss this one, the next train would depart 12.23pm, arrive Cuenca 14.45pm.

I've check out various guidebooks. Cuenca ranks the highest for small town trips. Recommended for overnight stay though.