MADRID: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
Madrid, the capital of Spain, is rich in history, culture, and culinary wonders. From world-class museums and delectable tapas to its lively atmosphere, Madrid offers something for everyone. To help you make the most of your visit, we've created the ultimate guide for you. Let's find out together why Madrid stands out as one of the best cities to visit in Spain!
*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to products and services we recommend. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps us continue to create helpful travel guides. Thank you for your support.*
HIGHLIGHTS
Before we get into the details of our carefully planned itineraries, here's a quick preview of what to expect and a summary for easy planning:
Day 1: Historical Madrid
Royal Palace of Madrid, Campo del Moro, Mercado de San Miguel, Prado Museum, Literary Quarter
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, Mercado de San Antón, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, Gran Vía, Flamenco Show
Day 3: Modern Madrid
Reina Sofía Museum, Traditional Spanish Lunch, El Retiro Park, La Latina Neighborhood
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, Bernabéu Stadium Tour, Walking Tour, Bike Tour, Warner Park, Local Food Tour
Toledo, Segovia, Ávila, El Escorial, Aranjuez
GETTING AROUND MADRID
Getting around Madrid is easy thanks to its great public transportation system with metro, buses, and trains. You can buy a Tourist Ticket for unlimited travel within the city.
To make sightseeing easier, think about getting a Madrid City Card. This all-inclusive pass grants skip-the-line entry to major museums and attractions, access to public transportation, along with discounts on tours and experiences.
If you're flying into Madrid, check out Skyscanner for the best flight deals. Once you land at Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD), you can take the Airport Express bus or the metro to get to the city center easily.
If you prefer driving, you can rent a car at the airport or in the city. It's a great way to explore Madrid and its surroundings at your own pace, with plenty of parking options available in central areas.
2-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Historical Madrid
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid. Take in the splendor of this royal residence, known for its stunning architecture and luxurious interiors. Be sure to explore the nearby Campo del Moro gardens for a peaceful escape.
Lunch: Head to the lively Mercado de San Miguel for a culinary adventure. Make sure to try out different Spanish delicacies, from freshly prepared seafood to gourmet tapas, in the pleasant atmosphere of this historic market.
Afternoon: Discover Madrid's artistic heritage at the Prado Museum. Explore its extensive collection of European art, including masterpieces by renowned artists such as Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Don't miss iconic works like Velázquez's "Las Meninas" and Goya's "The Third of May 1808."
Evening: Finish off your day with a walk through the charming streets of the Literary Quarter (Barrio de las Letras). Admire the beautiful architecture, cute bookshops, and relax at a traditional tavern with a refreshing beverage.
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
Morning: Explore the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum to admire a diverse collection of art spanning centuries. From Renaissance masterpieces to modernist works, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of art history.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Mercado de San Antón, a lively market in the trendy Chueca neighborhood. Try out different delicious foods from various stalls or eat at one of the market's rooftop restaurants with panoramic views of the city.
Afternoon: Dive into Madrid's local culture with a visit to the iconic Puerta del Sol. Explore the square, visit the famous bear statue, and check out nearby landmarks such as Plaza Mayor and the famous shopping district of Gran Vía.
Evening: End your day in Madrid with a thrilling flamenco show. Head to a traditional tablao (flamenco venue) in the historic district of Lavapiés or Huertas to experience the passion and energy of this iconic Spanish art form.
3-DAY ITINERARY
If you're planning to spend 3 days in Madrid, think about adding these activities to make your trip even better:
Day 3: Modern Madrid
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Reina Sofía Museum. Explore its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by Spanish masters like Picasso and Dalí. Be sure to view Picasso's iconic masterpiece, "Guernica"!
Lunch: Treat yourself to a traditional Spanish lunch at a local tavern or restaurant. Try classics like paella, Spanish omelette (tortilla española), or hearty stews like cocido madrileño.
Afternoon: Spend some time at El Retiro Park. Take a walk through the gardens, rent a rowboat on the lake, or simply relax and people-watch in this beautiful park.
Evening: Experience Madrid's renowned nightlife with a tapas crawl in the lively neighborhood of La Latina. Hop from one tapas bar to another, trying out different delicious small plates and savoring the vibrant atmosphere.
WHERE TO STAY
Madrid offers a diverse range of accommodation options to cater to every budget and preference. From luxurious accommodations to mid-range stays, there are many choices in this vibrant city. Here are some recommended options:
Mid-Range:
Hotel Miau: Experience comfort and convenience in the heart of Madrid's historic district. Enjoy cozy rooms located near Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, offering easy access to the city's top attractions.
Porcel Ganivet: Stay in the charming Barrio de las Letras, close to the Reina Sofía Museum and Puerta del Sol. Relax in stylish rooms and savor delicious cuisine, making your stay both pleasant and memorable.
Hotel Cortezo: Experience modern design near the Prado Museum. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and delicious meals.
Acta Pirámides: Discover contemporary design at this boutique hotel near the Prado Museum. Relax in chic accommodations and enjoy dining at the hotel's on-site restaurant. .
Luxury:
Mandarin Oriental Ritz: Experience luxury and elegance at this iconic hotel located near the Prado Museum and Retiro Park. Enjoy fancy accommodations, impeccable service, and Spanish cuisine at the hotel's restaurants.
NH Collection Madrid Palacio de Tepa: Stay in the heart of the Barrio de las Letras, steps away from the Reina Sofía Museum and Puerta del Sol. Relax in stylish rooms and enjoy gourmet cuisine at the hotel's restaurant.
Hotel Urban: Discover contemporary design at this boutique hotel near the Prado Museum. Relax in chic accommodations and enjoy gourmet dining at the hotel's on-site restaurant.
Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques: Enjoy luxury and sophistication at this hotel set within a historic palace. Experience lavish rooms, a serene garden oasis, and breathtaking city views.
EXTRA ACTIVITIES TO EXPLORE
If you find yourself with extra time in Madrid, consider adding these activities to your trip:
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: Discover Madrid's highlights at your own pace on an open-top double-decker bus. This flexible tour allows you to hop on and off at various attractions, making it a convenient way to explore the city. Book here →
Bernabéu Stadium Tour: Dive into the history of Real Madrid at the Bernabéu Stadium. Tour exclusive areas, learn about legendary players, and admire the extensive collection of memorabilia and trophies. Book here →
Walking Tour: Take a guided walking tour to explore various parts of Madrid. From the historic center to trendy neighborhoods, learn about the city's history, culture, and architecture. Book here →
Bike Tour: Discover Madrid with a guided bike tour. Explore the city's parks, historic sites, and hidden gems while enjoying the fresh air and exercise. Book here →
Warner Park: Have fun at Parque Warner Madrid, a popular theme park featuring thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and attractions based on Warner Bros. movies and characters. It's a great destination for families and adventure seekers alike. Book here →
Local Food Tour: Experience the culinary delights of Madrid on a guided food tour. Sample delicious tapas, enjoy local beverages, and learn about the city's gastronomic traditions. Book here →
Alternatively, check below for other activity options that offer a memorable journey through the heart and outskirts of this vibrant city.
BEYOND MADRID
While Madrid has lots to offer, there are also several amazing places nearby worth exploring:
Toledo: Travel back in time in the historic city of Toledo, known as the "City of Three Cultures" for its multicultural heritage. Explore its narrow streets, visit its medieval mosques and synagogues, and admire its stunning views of the Tagus River. Book here →
Segovia: Visit the picturesque town of Segovia and be amazed by its stunning Roman aqueduct, medieval castle, and charming old town with its historic churches and narrow cobblestone streets. Book here →
Ávila: Explore the well-preserved medieval walls and ancient churches of Ávila, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history and architectural heritage. Book here →
El Escorial: Head to the royal site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial to tour the grand monastery and royal palace, which served as the residence of Spanish monarchs and is home to an impressive art collection. Book here →
Aranjuez: Discover the royal palace and gardens of Aranjuez, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its beautiful architecture, beautiful gardens, and scenic riverfront.
Be sure to check here for curated day trips from Madrid that allow to combine some of the destinations above or explore additional locations, making the most of your Madrid trip.