- Travel Enthusiast
- Mar 31, 2024
- 8 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
MADRID: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
Madrid, the capital of Spain, brings together royal history, major museums, and everyday city life in one compact center. From the Royal Palace and the Prado to Retiro Park and historic squares, the city’s main sights are easy to combine over a few days.
This guide covers Madrid’s key landmarks, includes practical tips for getting around, and offers a flexible itinerary for one to three days.
*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.*
MADRID HIGHLIGHTS
Madrid has so many incredible places to explore - these are the ones worth prioritizing:
Royal Palace of Madrid – One of the largest royal palaces in Europe and Madrid’s most iconic landmark, with grand interiors, formal rooms, and open courtyards that make it an essential visit.
Prado Museum – Home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, the Prado is one of the world’s most important art museums and a defining part of Madrid’s cultural identity.
El Retiro Park – Madrid’s green heart, offering tree-lined paths, open spaces, and landmarks like the Crystal Palace just steps from the historic center.
Plaza de Cibeles – One of Madrid’s most recognizable landmarks, where the fountain and surrounding buildings showcase the city’s grand, monumental character.
Puerta de Alcalá – A symbol of Madrid and one of the city’s most photographed monuments, marking the historic entrance to the center and the edge of Retiro.
Temple of Debod – An ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain, set in a quiet park near the palace and offering one of the city’s most unique landmarks.
Plaza Mayor – Madrid’s historic core, framed by arcades and centuries-old façades that reflect the city’s past and everyday life.
Gran Vía – Madrid at its most energetic, lined with bold architecture, theaters, and constant movement that define the city’s modern rhythm.
Reina Sofía Museum – Dedicated to modern and contemporary art, the Reina Sofía is best known for Picasso’s Guernica and offers a powerful contrast to the classical collections nearby.
GETTING TO AND AROUND MADRID
Getting around Madrid:
Madrid is a large city, but getting around is easy and efficient. Much of the historic center is walkable, especially areas like Sol, Gran Vía, La Latina, and the Literary Quarter, where many of the main sights are close together.
For longer distances, the metro is fast, affordable, and easy to navigate, with stops near all major attractions. The 10-journey ticket is the option we recommend, especially for short stays, as it offers better value and can be shared between travelers.
Buses fill in the gaps and run frequently throughout the day. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available and work well for short trips across the center or later in the evening.
If it’s your first time in the city, the hop-on hop-off bus is a convenient way to see Madrid’s main landmarks without worrying about routes or transfers.
For trips beyond the city, regional trains and high-speed rail make visiting places like Toledo, Segovia, and Ávila straightforward and stress-free.
Getting to Madrid:
By plane – Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) is Spain’s main international hub and sits about 25–30 minutes from the city center. The metro, Cercanías trains, airport bus, and taxis all provide easy access into the city.
By train – One of the easiest ways to arrive. High-speed AVE trains connect Madrid with Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, Málaga, and many other cities. Most long-distance trains arrive at Atocha or Chamartín stations, both well connected to the metro network.
By car – Useful if Madrid is part of a longer road trip, but less practical for exploring the city itself. Traffic can be heavy, and parking in central areas is limited and often restricted. Public transport is usually the better option once you arrive.
MADRID ITINERARY
Spending one, two, or three days in Madrid? This itinerary breaks it down so you can make the most of your time.
DAY 1
Morning: Visit the Royal Palace, Madrid’s most iconic landmark and one of the most impressive royal palaces in Europe. Walk through its grand rooms and ornate interiors, then step outside toward the Almudena Cathedral.
From here, continue into the Old Town, passing Plaza de la Villa and the surrounding historic streets.
Prefer to see it all with context? A guided walking tour of Madrid’s Old Town with skip-the-line access to the Royal Palace ties everything together.
Lunch: Head to Mercado de San Miguel and wander through the stalls. Fresh seafood, classic tapas, and small bites make it easy to try a little of everything in a lively, historic setting.
Afternoon: Visit the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Don’t miss Las Meninas and The Third of May 1808 – two works that define Spain’s artistic legacy.
Late Afternoon / Evening: Walk past Plaza de Cibeles and continue toward Puerta de Alcalá, two of Madrid’s most recognizable landmarks. From here, head into Retiro Park for a walk and a quieter pace as the day winds down.
DAY 2
Morning: Start at the Temple of Debod, one of Madrid’s most unexpected sights. This ancient Egyptian temple sits in a quiet park setting and offers wide views over the city.
Then, head to Gran Vía for shopping. This is Madrid at its most energetic, lined with flagship stores, historic buildings, and cafés. Pause around Callao Square or outside the Telefónica Building, then continue toward Puerta del Sol or Plaza Mayor.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Casa Dani, a local favorite known for its classic tortilla and comforting Spanish dishes.
Afternoon: Head to the Reina Sofía Museum, home to some of Spain’s most important modern art. The highlight is Picasso’s Guernica, but the collection also includes works by Dalí and Miró.
Evening: Have dinner at Beata Pasta, a popular spot for fresh pasta in central Madrid. Then, catch a live flamenco performance, one of the most authentic ways to experience Spain’s cultural traditions.
DAY 3
If you have another day in Madrid, you’ve got options. You can head out and explore beyond the city – there’s plenty worth the trip. Or take it slow and enjoy more of what Madrid has to offer at your own pace, from hidden corners to fun experiences you might’ve missed.
Full-Day Trip to Segovia & Toledo – Visit two of Spain’s most historic cities in one day. Wander through Segovia’s fairy-tale Alcázar, marvel at its Roman aqueduct, and take in the medieval charm of Toledo, with its winding streets and centuries-old cathedral.
Bernabéu Stadium Tour – For football fans, a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a must. See behind the scenes at Real Madrid’s home ground, explore the trophy room, and walk through the players’ tunnel.
Las Ventas Bullring Tour – Step inside one of the most famous bullrings in the world and learn about the history and cultural significance of bullfighting in Spain while exploring this stunning, historic arena.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum Visit – Complete Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art – alongside the Prado and Reina Sofía – with a visit to this museum, known for its wide-ranging collection from Renaissance masterpieces to modern works.
WHERE TO STAY IN MADRID
Looking for a place to stay in Madrid? Here are a few solid options for different budgets:
Budget:
Far Home Atocha – A modern and social spot close to Atocha Station, well placed for exploring Madrid’s cultural highlights and nearby districts on foot.
Onefam Madrid – A friendly, community-focused hostel close to Malasaña, known for its welcoming atmosphere and easy way to meet fellow travelers.
Only for Women Hostel Madrid Sol – A comfortable women-only hostel right by Puerta del Sol, offering a relaxed, safe base in the heart of the city with everything close at hand.
Mid-Range:
Akeah Hotel Gran Vía – A modern, comfortable stay just off Gran Vía, well placed for exploring Madrid’s main sights, shopping streets, and theaters on foot.
Hotel Miau – A simple, well-located hotel right by Puerta del Sol, offering easy access to Madrid’s historic center and lively surrounding streets.
Hotel Cortezo – A contemporary hotel near Plaza de Tirso de Molina, within walking distance of La Latina, Lavapiés, and many of the city’s key landmarks.
Luxury:
Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá – A refined hotel set in a former palace near the Royal Palace, combining classic architecture with a quiet, elegant atmosphere in the historic center.
Hotel Urban – A design-forward hotel close to Puerta del Sol, known for its modern feel and central location near museums and major sights.
Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid – A landmark hotel by the Prado Museum, offering a grand setting, polished service, and one of the city’s most iconic addresses.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
What is Madrid mainly known for?
Madrid is mainly known for its vibrant city life, world-class museums, grand architecture, and lively neighborhoods. It’s a capital that feels local and lived-in, with late dinners, busy plazas, and a strong cultural scene that goes well beyond the main sights.
What is the number one attraction in Madrid?
The Prado Museum is widely considered Madrid’s top attraction. It houses one of the finest collections of European art in the world and sits at the heart of the city’s famous “Golden Triangle of Art”, alongside the Reina Sofía Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, all located along the Paseo del Prado.
Is Madrid beautiful or Barcelona?
Both cities are beautiful, just in different ways. Barcelona stands out for its architecture and coastal setting, while Madrid’s beauty is more understated, found in its elegant streets, historic squares, and everyday atmosphere. It often comes down to personal preference and travel style.
Should I go to Seville or Madrid?
It depends on the experience you’re after. Seville is ideal for a slower-paced trip focused on history, traditions, and atmosphere, while Madrid works better for travelers who enjoy museums, neighborhoods, and a big-city rhythm. Both offer very different sides of Spain.
BEYOND MADRID
While Madrid has lots to offer, there are also several amazing places nearby worth exploring.
Toledo – Just 30 minutes by train from Madrid, Toledo feels like stepping back in time. Known for its medieval streets, layered history, and dramatic hilltop setting, it’s ideal for visiting historic monuments, and taking in views over the Tagus River. Planning a visit? We’ve got a detailed itinerary with everything you need to know.
Segovia – Around 30–35 minutes by high-speed train from Madrid, Segovia is famous for its impressive Roman aqueduct, fairy-tale old town, and striking hilltop fortress. It’s an easy day trip that combines history, architecture, and scenic viewpoints in a compact setting.
Ávila – About 1.5 hours from Madrid, Ávila is best known for its remarkably well-preserved medieval walls encircling the old town. Walk along the ramparts, explore quiet historic streets, and enjoy a slower, more tranquil atmosphere compared to larger cities.
El Escorial – Set at the foothills of the Sierra de Guadarrama, about an hour from Madrid, El Escorial is a vast royal complex that once served as a palace, monastery, and royal burial site. Its scale, symmetry, and mountain backdrop make it one of the most striking sites near the capital.
Aranjuez – Roughly 45 minutes south of Madrid, Aranjuez is known for its royal palace and expansive gardens. Stroll through manicured grounds, follow riverside paths, and spend time outdoors in one of the greenest royal towns in the region.
