Madrid, Spain-3-day-itinerary

Madrid Itinerary: 3 Days of Culture, Tapas, & Sunshine

This itinerary balances must-see attractions with local experiences, perfect for a first-time visitor to Madrid.

Things to Know:

  • Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Safety: Madrid is generally safe, but be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Transportation:

  • Metro: Efficient and affordable way to get around the city.
  • Cercanías: Suburban train network connecting Madrid to nearby towns.
  • Bus: Extensive bus network covering most areas.
  • Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance of each other in the city center.

Where to Stay:

  • Gran Vía: Lively area with theaters, shops, and restaurants.
  • Chueca: Trendy neighborhood known for its LGBTQ+ scene and vibrant nightlife.
  • Malasaña: Bohemian district with independent boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.

Day 1: Art & History Immersion

  • Morning (9:00 - 12:00): Start your day at the Museo del Prado, home to masterpieces by Spanish masters like Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.
  • Lunch (12:30 - 14:00): Enjoy a traditional Spanish lunch at Sobrino de Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world (according to Guinness World Records). Try their famous roast suckling pig.
  • Afternoon (15:00 - 18:00): Explore the opulent Royal Palace of Madrid. Wander through its grand halls and admire the stunning gardens.
  • Evening (20:00 onwards): Indulge in a tapas crawl in the La Latina neighborhood.

Day 2: Parks, Perspectives & Tapas

  • Morning (10:00 - 13:00): Relax and enjoy the sunshine in El Retiro Park. Rent a rowboat on the lake, visit the Crystal Palace, or simply stroll through the gardens.
  • Lunch (13:30 - 15:00): Grab a quick and delicious bite at Mercado de San Miguel, a covered market with diverse food stalls.
  • Afternoon (16:00 - 18:00): Head to the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain, for breathtaking sunset views over the city.
  • Evening (21:00 onwards): Experience a traditional flamenco performance at Casa Patas.

Day 3: Culture & Shopping Spree

  • Morning (10:00 - 13:00): Visit the Reina Sofía Museum, showcasing modern and contemporary art, including Picasso’s iconic “Guernica.”
  • Lunch (13:30 - 15:00): Savor delicious seafood paella at Restaurante La Tasquita de Enfrente.
  • Afternoon (16:00 - 19:00): Explore the vibrant shops and boutiques along Gran Vía, Madrid’s main shopping street.

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience.
  • Purchase a “Madrid Card” for discounted entry to attractions and free public transportation.
  • Embrace the late dining culture – dinner typically starts around 9 or 10 pm in Spain.
  • Take advantage of free walking tours offered by various companies.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Santiago Bernabéu Stadium: Home of Real Madrid football club, offering stadium tours and a museum.
  • The CaixaForum: A cultural center with rotating exhibitions and events.
  • El Rastro: A bustling flea market held every Sunday morning in La Latina.

Enjoy your journey through the captivating city of Madrid!