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Madrid, the vibrant heart of Spain, offers a perfect mix of history, culture, gastronomy, and entertainment. Whether you’re visiting for a short break or a family getaway, this 3-day guide will help you uncover the city’s must-see attractions, cool places, and hidden gems. Dive into the essence of Madrid with this step-by-step itinerary!
Begin your Madrid adventure at the majestic Royal Palace (Palacio Real de Madrid), one of Europe’s largest palaces with over 3,000 rooms. This architectural masterpiece offers a fascinating glimpse into Spain’s royal history through its ornate rooms, priceless artwork, and stunning gardens.
What to see: Don’t miss the Throne Room with its velvet-covered walls and impressive chandeliers, the Royal Armoury’s collection of weapons, the grand Staircase designed by Sabatini, and the private royal apartments, which showcase the exclusive living quarters once used by the Spanish royal family. Right next door stands the striking Almudena Cathedral (Catedral de la Almudena), unique for its blend of neoclassical exterior and modern neo-Gothic interior. The cathedral’s rooftop offers splendid views across Madrid. Be sure to catch the guard ceremony (changing of the guard) at the palace, which takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays and is a highlight for visitors interested in royal traditions.
Practical information:
Royal Palace: Calle de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid
Opening hours: Oct-Mar: 10:00-18:00, Apr-Sep: 10:00-20:00 (closed during state ceremonies)
Tickets: €14 for general admission (online booking recommended: www.patrimonionacional.es)
Almudena Cathedral: Calle de Bailén, 10, 28013 Madrid
Opening hours: Mon-Sat: 9:00-20:30, Sun: 9:00-22:00
Entry: Free (€1 donation suggested)
Is the Royal Palace worth visiting? Absolutely! As Madrid’s number one attraction, it is the official residence of the Spanish royal family, even though they do not live there full-time. The palace has a deep connection to the Spanish royal family, who historically used it for important ceremonies and state functions. It provides an unparalleled look into Spanish royal life and houses treasures including paintings by Caravaggio, Goya, and Velázquez, along with Stradivarius instruments and stunning royal collections.
After lunch, immerse yourself in Madrid’s bustling energy at its famous squares. Begin at Plaza Mayor, a grand 17th-century square that has witnessed everything from royal proclamations to bullfights.
What to do: Find a seat at one of the surrounding cafés and simply people watch as you sip a coffee or vermouth. Don’t miss trying a traditional “bocadillo de calamares” (fried squid sandwich) from one of the nearby bars like Bar La Campana (Calle Botoneras, 6). Believe us – it is squid and it is delicious.
Next, stroll to nearby Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s beating heart. Spot the famous “Kilometre Zero” marker (the point from which all road distances in Spain are measured) and snap a photo with the iconic statue of El Oso y El Madroño (The Bear and the Strawberry Tree), Madrid’s official symbol. From here, you can easily explore nearby places such as Gran Vía, Plaza de Callao, and the historic streets of the Austrias district.
Practical information:
Plaza Mayor: Plaza Mayor, 28012 Madrid
Puerta del Sol: Puerta del Sol, 28013 Madrid
Cool spots nearby: Mercado de San Miguel (Pl. de San Miguel, s/n), a covered market for gourmet tapas
As daylight fades, head to Gran Vía, Madrid’s most famous boulevard. Known as “Spanish Broadway,” this bustling street comes alive at night with illuminated historic buildings, theatres, and shops.
Why it’s fun: Gran Vía offers excellent shopping, dining options ranging from traditional Spanish to international cuisine, and the chance to catch a musical or show at one of its grand theatres.
Traveller tip: For a memorable end to your first day, visit the rooftop terrace at Círculo de Bellas Artes (Calle de Alcalá, 42). For €5, you’ll get breathtaking panoramic views of Madrid’s skyline, especially magical at sunset. Enjoy a drink at the rooftop bar while the city lights begin to twinkle below you.
Opening hours: Sun-Thu: 9:00-21:00, Fri-Sat: 9:00-22:00
Admission: €5 for rooftop access
Madrid houses one of the world’s most impressive collections of art, concentrated in three world-class art museums known as the “Golden Triangle of Art.” In consequence, Madrid is famous for its art museums, making it a top destination for art lovers.
Start your artistic journey at the magnificent Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado), also known as Museo del Prado or simply El Prado, Spain’s premier art museum. Home to masterpieces by Diego Velázquez (including “Las Meninas”), Goya (featuring Goya’s Black Paintings such as “Saturn Devouring His Son”), El Greco, Rubens, and Bosch, El Prado offers an unparalleled collection of European art. Don’t miss Hieronymus Bosch’s “Earthly Delights” and “Garden of Earthly Delights,” both must-see masterpieces. Booking a guided tour at the Prado Museum is highly recommended for deeper insights into its world-renowned collection.
Next, visit the Reina Sofía Museum (Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía), often referred to simply as Reina Sofia, to admire modern and contemporary art. The Reina Sofia Museum is renowned for its focus on contemporary art, including Picasso’s Guernica – a world-famous masterpiece depicting the horrors of the Spanish Civil War. A guided tour at the Reina Sofia Museum can greatly enhance your appreciation of its collection and architecture.
If time permits, complete your art tour at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, another major art museum, offering a comprehensive overview of Western art from the 13th century to the late 20th century, filling gaps left by the other two museums. Consider a guided tour here as well for a richer visitor experience.
Apart from the “Golden Triangle of Art”, the Sorolla Museum is also an important art museum in Madrid, showcasing the works and home of the renowned Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla.
Practical information:
Prado Museum: Paseo del Prado, s/n, 28014 Madrid
Opening hours: Mon-Sat: 10:00-20:00, Sun: 10:00-19:00
Tickets: €15 (free entry: Mon-Sat 18:00-20:00, Sun 17:00-19:00)
Website:www.museodelprado.es
Reina Sofía Museum: Calle de Santa Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid
Opening hours: Mon & Wed-Sat: 10:00-21:00, Sun: 10:00-19:00 (closed Tuesdays)
Tickets: €12 (free entry: Mon & Wed-Sat 19:00-21:00, Sun 13:30-19:00)
Website:www.museoreinasofia.es
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: Paseo del Prado, 8, 28014 Madrid
Opening hours: Tue-Sun: 10:00-19:00, Mon: 12:00-16:00
Tickets: €13 (free entry: Mondays 12:00-16:00)
Website:www.museothyssen.org
Practical tip: Purchase the Paseo del Arte (Art Walk) Pass for €32, which provides access to all three museums with significant savings. If you want to go beyond art, consider going for a Madrid City Pass which not only includes the Prado and the the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, but also includes access to several other attractions.
After immersing yourself in art, take a refreshing break in El Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro), Madrid’s magnificent 125-hectare green space once reserved for Spanish royalty.
Why it’s cool: This verdant oasis features manicured gardens, tree-lined paths, a serene lake, and several architectural highlights. Rent a rowboat (€6 for 45 minutes) and paddle across the lake, or simply join locals for a leisurely siesta under the shade of ancient trees.
Don’t miss the Crystal Palace (Palacio de Cristal), a stunning glass and iron structure inspired by London’s Crystal Palace. This architectural gem hosts temporary art exhibitions and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. Another unique monument in the park is the fallen angel statue (Angel Lucifer), notable as one of the few public sculptures in the world depicting Lucifer before his fall from grace, highlighting the park’s historical and cultural significance.
Practical information:
Location: Plaza de la Independencia, 7, 28001 Madrid
Opening hours: Apr-Sep: 6:00-24:00, Oct-Mar: 6:00-22:00
Entry: Free
Can I do something free in Madrid? Absolutely! El Retiro Park costs nothing to enter and provides hours of enjoyment. Many of Madrid’s top museums also offer free entry during specific times, and simply wandering through Madrid’s historic neighborhoods costs nothing but rewards you with authentic experiences.
As evening approaches, it’s time to experience one of Madrid’s most beloved traditions – a tapas crawl through the historic La Latina district. This charming neighborhood is famous for its narrow streets lined with tapas bars and lively weekend atmosphere.
What to do: Start on Calle Cava Baja, the epicenter of Madrid’s tapas scene, and hop between establishments, ordering a small plate and drink at each. Popular spots include:
Casa Lucio (Calle Cava Baja, 35): Famous for its huevos estrellados (broken eggs with potatoes)
Taberna La Concha (Calle Cava Baja, 7): Known for its seasoned mussels and peppers
El Viajero (Plaza de la Cebada, 11): Visit the rooftop terrace for tapas with a view
What to try: Classic Spanish tapas include patatas bravas (potatoes with spicy sauce), jamón ibérico (cured ham), croquetas (fried béchamel fritters), gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and tortilla española (Spanish omelette). Pair them with local wine, sangria, or vermouth.
Traveller tip: La Latina gets very busy on weekends, especially Sundays after El Rastro market. Go early (around 8:00 PM) to secure a spot, as Spaniards tend to dine late. Many places don’t take reservations for tapas, so be prepared to wait or visit on a weeknight.
Start your final day exploring Madrid’s trendiest districts – Malasaña and Chueca. These vibrant neighbourhoods showcase Madrid’s modern, creative side with their colourful street art, indie boutiques, and hipster cafés.
Begin at Plaza del Dos de Mayo, the heart of this bohemian area
Browse vintage and designer shops along Calle Velarde and Calle Espíritu Santo, both famous for their vintage shops and unique finds
Stop for coffee at one of Malasaña’s trendy cafés like Toma Café (Calle de la Palma, 49) or La Bicicleta (Plaza de San Ildefonso, 9) – La Bicicleta is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful spot to relax away from the crowds
Spot street art and murals that adorn many buildings
Explore Madrid’s vibrant LGBTQ+ neighbourhood, known for its inclusive atmosphere
Visit Mercado de San Antón (Calle de Augusto Figueroa, 24) – a three-story gourmet market where you can shop for local products and enjoy them at the rooftop restaurant
Shop in unique stores along Calle Fuencarral, one of Madrid’s best shopping streets
Admire the beautiful architecture around Plaza de Chueca
Discover local art at contemporary galleries and cultural centers scattered throughout the neighbourhood
Traveller tip: Both neighbourhoods are perfect for finding unique souvenirs and gifts away from tourist traps. For a local breakfast experience, try churros con chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés (Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5) – open 24 hours and a Madrid institution since 1894. (It’s a cheat-day anyway! You’re on vacation!)
For your final afternoon, choose between two iconic Madrid experiences:
For sports fans: Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Home to Real Madrid, one of the world’s most successful football clubs, the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes tour. Explore the players’ tunnel, visit the trophy room showcasing 14 European Cups, sit on the bench in the dugout, and enjoy panoramic views of the stadium.
Practical information:
Location: Av. de Concha Espina, 1, 28036 Madrid
Tour hours: Mon-Sat: 9:30-19:00, Sun: 10:00-18:30 (subject to match schedules)
Tickets: €15-25 (purchase online at www.realmadrid.com)
For market lovers: El Rastro Market (Sundays only)
If you’re in Madrid on a Sunday, don’t miss El Rastro, Madrid’s historic open-air flea market that has taken place every Sunday since the 18th century. With over 1,000 stalls spreading through La Latina district, you’ll find everything from antiques and vintage clothing to handmade crafts and quirky souvenirs.
Practical information:
Location: Centered around Plaza de Cascorro and Calle Ribera de Curtidores
Hours: Sundays and public holidays, 9:00-15:00
Fun thing to do: Bargain with vendors – it’s expected! After shopping, join locals for vermouth at the surrounding bars
End your Madrid adventure with a magical sunset at the Temple of Debod (Templo de Debod), an authentic ancient Egyptian temple dating back to the 2nd century BC. This unique monument was gifted to Spain by Egypt in 1968 as thanks for Spanish help in saving temples threatened by the construction of the Aswan Dam. The temple was donated to the Spanish state as a gesture of gratitude from Egypt, highlighting its importance as part of Spain’s cultural heritage.
Cool place in Madrid: Set in Parque del Oeste, the temple offers one of Madrid’s most serene and beautiful spots to watch the sunset. The temple is aligned east to west, allowing the sun to shine through its gate, creating a spectacular visual effect at dusk. The surrounding park provides stunning views of Casa de Campo and Madrid’s western skyline.
Practical information:
Location: Calle de Ferraz, 1, 28008 Madrid
Opening hours: Tue-Sun: 10:00-20:00 (closed Mondays)
Entry: Free
Traveller tip: Arrive at least 45 minutes before sunset to secure a good viewing spot, as this is a popular location for both tourists and locals.
Madrid boasts one of Europe’s best public transportation systems, making it easy to explore the city:
Metro: With 12 lines covering most tourist areas, the Metro is fast, efficient, and affordable. A single ticket costs €1.50-2.00, but consider buying a multi-day Tourist Travel Pass: 1 day (€8.40), 2 days (€14.20), 3 days (€18.40), 5 days (€26.80).
Buses: Complement the Metro perfectly, especially for routes between attractions. Look for blue buses marked EMT. The same tickets work on both Metro and buses.
Walking: Madrid is incredibly walkable, especially in the central districts. Most major attractions in the city centre are within 20-30 minutes’ walk of each other, allowing you to discover hidden corners and local life.
Taxi/Ride-sharing: White taxis with a red stripe are readily available and can be hailed on the street. Uber and Cabify also operate in Madrid.
Is Madrid walkable? Absolutely! Madrid’s compact centre makes it perfect for exploration on foot. The main tourist areas (Sol, Gran Vía, La Latina, Retiro) are all connected by pedestrian-friendly streets. Walking not only saves money but lets you discover charming cafés, local shops, and beautiful architecture you might miss otherwise.
Madrid experiences a continental Mediterranean climate with distinct seasons:
Spring (March to May): Ideal weather with temperatures between 15-25°C and blooming parks. Easter week brings special processions and events.
Autumn (September to November): Another perfect time with pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall colors in the parks.
Summer (June to August): Hot and dry with temperatures often exceeding 35°C. Many locals leave for vacation in August, but summer nights come alive with outdoor dining and events.
Winter (December to February): Cooler temperatures (5-12°C) but generally sunny days. Christmas markets and New Year celebrations create a festive atmosphere.
Madrid is surprisingly family-friendly with attractions to delight visitors of all ages:
Madrid Zoo and Aquarium: Home to over 6,000 animals including pandas, dolphins, and koalas. Features daily shows and feedings.
Location: Casa de Campo, s/n, 28011 Madrid
Hours: Vary by season, generally 10:30-19:00
Tickets: Adults €24, Children (3-7) €19
Parque Warner Madrid: A theme park with thrilling rides and attractions based on Warner Bros. characters, approximately 30 minutes from central Madrid.
Location: Carretera M-301, Km 15.5, 28330 San Martín de la Vega
Hours: Vary by season, check website
Tickets: From €29.90 (cheaper online)
Madrid Teleférico: A cable car offering spectacular views of Casa de Campo park and Madrid’s skyline – a hit with children.
Location: Paseo del Pintor Rosales, 28008 Madrid
Round-trip tickets: Adults €6, Children €5
Museo de Ciencias Naturales: The Natural Science Museum offers interactive exhibits perfect for curious young minds.
Location: Calle de José Gutiérrez Abascal, 2, 28006 Madrid
Hours: Tue-Sun: 10:00-17:00
Tickets: Adults €7, Children under 4 free
To maximize your experience while managing costs, consider purchasing the Madrid City Pass, which includes must-see attractions like the Prado Museum, the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, and tours of both iconic football clubs’ homes (Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid), along with a panoramic city tour.
Three days provides enough time to experience Madrid’s highlights and get a good feel for the city. You’ll be able to visit the major attractions, sample the culinary scene, and explore a few neighbourhoods. However, Madrid rewards those who can stay longer with deeper cultural experiences and day trips to nearby historic cities like Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history and architecture, or Segovia, which is famous for its roast suckling pig, a traditional dish known locally as cochinillo asado, and Ávila.
Essential tips for visitors:
Timing: Adjust to Spanish schedules – lunch is typically 2:00-4:00 PM, dinner starts around 9:00 PM. Many shops close for siesta between 2:00-5:00 PM but remain open later in the evening.
Language: While English is widely understood in tourist areas and younger Madrileños often speak it well, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience and is appreciated by locals.
Safety: Madrid is generally very safe, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas and on public transport.
Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common practice.
Water: Tap water is safe and of excellent quality in Madrid. Bring a reusable bottle to refill at numerous public fountains.
Weather preparation: Madrid can experience extreme temperatures – very hot in summer and occasionally cold in winter. Check the forecast and pack accordingly.
Madrid is a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new, offering something for every traveller. From historic palaces to bustling markets, from serene parks to trendy neighbourhoods, these 3 days will leave you enchanted with Spain’s vibrant capital.
Unlike other European capitals that wear their tourism on their sleeve, Madrid offers a more authentic Spanish experience. Its welcoming locals, relaxed atmosphere, and passion for enjoying life (what Spaniards call “disfrutar”) will captivate you from the moment you arrive.
So pack your bags, bring your walking shoes, and prepare your appetite – Madrid awaits with open arms, ready to share its treasures, traditions, and unforgettable experiences!
