Madrid, Spain-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Madrid Itinerary: Tapas, Treasures & Thrills

This itinerary balances iconic landmarks with local experiences, offering a taste of Madrid’s vibrant culture.

Accommodation: Consider staying in the charming La Latina neighborhood for its bustling atmosphere and proximity to attractions. Boutique hotels like Hotel Praktik Atocha or Room Mate Oscar offer stylish stays within budget.

Transportation: Madrid boasts an excellent metro system (Metro de Madrid). Purchase a rechargeable travel card (“Tarjeta Multi”) for easy access. Walking is also enjoyable, allowing you to soak in the city’s ambiance.

Day 1: Arrival & Art Immersion

  • Morning: Arrive at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), take the metro to your accommodation in La Latina.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Museo Nacional del Prado, home to masterpieces by Spanish greats like Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.
  • Evening: Savor tapas and sangria at Casa Lucio (Calle Cava Baja) – a legendary spot known for its huevos rotos (broken eggs).

Day 2: Royal Grandeur & Lush Gardens

  • Morning: Visit the opulent Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real), official residence of the Spanish royal family.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the serene Retiro Park. Rent a rowboat on the lake, admire the rose garden, or visit the Crystal Palace.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional flamenco show at Corral de la Morería, one of Madrid’s oldest and most prestigious venues.

Day 3: Football Fever & Market Delights

  • Morning: Take a tour of the legendary Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid FC, and delve into the world of Spanish football.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Mercado de San Miguel. Sample artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and fresh seafood.
  • Evening: Indulge in a delicious dinner at Sobrino de Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world (founded 1725) - try their famous suckling pig.

Day 4: Day Trip to Toledo

  • Take a day trip by train to Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of Spain. Explore its historic streets, visit the Alcázar fortress, and marvel at the stunning Toledo Cathedral.

Day 5: Modern Art & Rooftop Views

  • Morning: Discover contemporary art at the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, home to Picasso’s iconic “Guernica.”
  • Afternoon: Climb the stairs of the Temple of Debod for breathtaking panoramic views over Madrid as the sun sets.
  • Evening: Experience modern Spanish cuisine with a rooftop dining experience at Azotea del Círculo de Bellas Artes.

Day 6: Shopping Spree & Culinary Exploration

  • Morning: Shop for designer goods on Gran Vía, Madrid’s bustling main street, or explore the unique boutiques in the Chueca neighborhood.
  • Afternoon: Take a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional Spanish dishes like paella or tortilla Española.
  • Evening: Enjoy tapas hopping in La Latina. Sample various delicacies at different bars and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Day 7: Farewell & Final Bites

  • Morning: Relax in a café with a “chocolate con churros” (thick hot chocolate with fried dough pastries) - a quintessential Spanish breakfast experience.
  • Afternoon: Purchase souvenirs from local artisans or browse the shops at El Rastro, Madrid’s famous flea market (Sundays only).

Things to Know:

  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated for good service.

Tips:

  • Download offline maps and translation apps.
  • Purchase a Madrid Card for discounts on attractions and transportation.
  • Learn basic Spanish phrases like “Hola” (hello), “Gracias” (thank you) and “Por favor” (please).
  • Embrace the siesta culture: Many shops and restaurants close between 2 pm and 5 pm.

Enjoy your unforgettable adventure in Madrid!