Madrid is a city that dances between history and modernity, where you can find yourself sipping espresso in a centuries-old café one moment and admiring contemporary art the next. With three days in this Spanish capital, you can get a taste of its rich culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and perhaps even discover your new favorite dish—because who doesn't love a good plate of patatas bravas? Let’s break down a perfect itinerary that’ll have you saying "¡Olé!" at every turn.
Day 1: Dive into the heart of Madrid
Morning: Start your day at Plaza Mayor, Madrid's main square. Arrive around 9 AM to beat the crowds. Grab a coffee and a classic Spanish breakfast of churros dipped in hot chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés. About 15 minutes of sweet indulgence should leave you ready for the day.
After breakfast, stroll over to the Royal Palace (Palacio Real). Just a 10-minute walk from the plaza, this stunning building is a must-see. Spend around 1.5 hours exploring its lavish rooms and beautiful gardens. Don’t forget to snap a few photos. You’re in Spain, after all.
Afternoon: Time for lunch! Head to the nearby Mercado de San Miguel. This bustling market is perfect for food lovers. Sample tapas from various stalls; you can’t go wrong with jamón ibérico and a glass of wine. Allocate about 1.5 hours here—trust me, you’ll want to linger.
Post-lunch, make your way to the Prado Museum (around a 15-minute walk). Spend a couple of hours admiring the works of Velázquez, Goya, and other masters. If you’re an art lover, you might just lose track of time. But remember, there’s a world outside those walls.
Evening: Wrap up your day in the Malasaña neighborhood. This trendy area is filled with quirky shops and lively bars. Grab dinner at La Ardosa, famous for its delicious tortilla española. After dinner, explore the local bar scene. Try a craft beer at one of the many hip spots. Who knows, you might discover a new favorite drink.
Day 2: Art, parks, and tapas
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Reina Sofía Museum (10 AM). This museum is home to Picasso’s “Guernica” and other modern masterpieces. Spend around 1.5 hours soaking in the art. You might want to bring a snack; sometimes art can be a bit too deep to digest without food.
Afternoon: Head to Retiro Park for a leisurely stroll. It’s a 15-minute walk from the museum. Rent a rowboat on the lake or just find a shady spot to relax and people-watch. Grab a light lunch from one of the park kiosks. Allocate about 2 hours for this serene escape from the hustle and bustle.
After your nature break, visit the nearby Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. This museum features an impressive collection from medieval to modern art. Spend another 1.5 hours here. You may or may not want to pretend you understand modern art. Just nod and smile.
Evening: Head back to the La Latina district for dinner. This area is famous for its tapas bars. Try Casa Lucio for their legendary huevos rotos. Spend the evening hopping from bar to bar, sampling everything from patatas bravas to croquetas. Don’t forget to order a few cañas (small beers) to wash it all down. This could easily turn into an all-night affair.
Day 3: Day trip and local life
Morning: Take a break from the city and venture out to Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Catch a train from Atocha Station (about a 30-minute ride). Arrive by 9:30 AM and head straight to the Toledo Cathedral. Spend about an hour exploring this stunning Gothic masterpiece.
Afternoon: After the cathedral, grab lunch at La Abadía for some authentic local cuisine. Try their famous marzipan—Toledo is known for it. Allocate about 1.5 hours for this culinary delight. Post-lunch, wander through the winding streets and visit the Alcázar of Toledo. Spend another hour here, soaking in the views and history.
Evening: Return to Madrid and hit up Chueca, known for its lively atmosphere. Have dinner at Taberna El Sur, a popular spot among locals. Sample their amazing paella and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Spend your last evening soaking in the energy—who needs sleep anyway?
With three packed days in Madrid, you might just find yourself wishing for a few extra days to soak it all in. But hey, who wouldn't want to spend more time eating tapas and sipping sangria? Madrid has a way of leaving you wanting more, and that’s part of its charm. So, don your walking shoes and get ready to explore this fantastic city! Your unforgettable adventure awaits.
