3 Days in Madrid: The Ultimate Itinerary & Insider Tips

Discover the vibrant heart of Spain with this 3-day Madrid itinerary. Explore iconic landmarks, savor delicious tapas, and immerse yourself in the city's rich culture. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Day 1 in Madrid: Discover Madrid's Royal Legacy and Vibrant Culture

Explore the Opulence of the Royal Palace

Step back in time and explore the grandeur of the Royal Palace of Madrid, the largest royal palace in Western Europe. Immerse yourself in Spanish history as you wander through its opulent halls and lavish gardens.

Experience the Buzz of Plaza Mayor

Feel the pulse of Madrid in the historic Plaza Mayor, surrounded by historical buildings and shops. Soak up the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy the lively ambiance of this iconic square.

Stroll Along Madrid's Bustling Boulevard

Experience the energy of Gran Vía, Madrid's bustling boulevard, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Discover the city's vibrant pulse as you wander through this iconic street.

Immerse Yourself in Artistic Masterpieces

Delve into the world of European art at the Museo Nacional del Prado, one of the world's greatest museums. Admire masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco, and let the beauty of art transport you.

Day 2 in Madrid: Uncover Madrid's Hidden Gems and Green Oasis

Uncover Madrid's Street Art

Explore the alternative neighborhoods of Malasaña, discovering hidden murals and miniature artworks. Immerse yourself in the city's creative spirit and appreciate the vibrant street art scene.

Discover a World of Plants

Escape the city bustle and explore the diverse collection of plant species in Madrid's beautiful botanical gardens, the Real Jardín Botánico. Take a leisurely stroll and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Wander Through Madrid's Green Oasis

Escape the city bustle and relax in the serene El Retiro Park, featuring a tranquil lake, a glass palace, and sculptures. Enjoy a picnic, take a boat ride, or simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

Explore Madrid's Largest Park

Venture into Casa de Campo, Madrid's largest park, offering an amusement park, zoo, and hiking routes. Enjoy a day of adventure and explore the diverse landscapes of this sprawling green space.

Day 3 in Madrid: Experience Madrid's History and Local Flavors

Explore a Local Market for Delicious Treats

Immerse yourself in the local culture at the Mercado de la Cebada, a vibrant market offering delicious local snacks and treats. Sample the flavors of Madrid and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Discover Treasures at Madrid's Flea Market

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of El Rastro, Madrid's largest flea market, filled with antiques, books, and vintage finds. Unearth hidden treasures and immerse yourself in the city's unique culture.

Discover an Ancient Egyptian Temple

Explore the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple relocated to Madrid, offering stunning views of the city. Step back in time and marvel at this historical treasure.

Explore the Grandeur of Madrid's Cathedral

Discover the grandeur of Madrid's main cathedral, the Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena, a significant religious landmark. Admire its architectural beauty and immerse yourself in its spiritual atmosphere.

References

Transportation in Madrid

Getting around Madrid is relatively easy and affordable, with a comprehensive network of subway and bus lines. The city center is compact and walkable, with most tourist attractions within a 20-minute walk from the center. If you prefer to use public transportation, a single one-way Metrobús ticket costs €1.50, while a 10-journey ticket is available for €12.20. You can also purchase day passes, which are valid for all types of public transport in Zone A, starting from €8.40 for a 1-day pass. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or use ride-share apps like Uber or Cabify, which are available at the airport and can take you to the city center for around €30 or less. If you're planning to use the metro frequently, consider buying a Madrid Multi-Pass with 10 journeys for €12.20, which also includes an "airport supplement" of €3.

Dos in Madrid

Pay by credit card or cash, as both are widely accepted in Spain. Consider getting a credit card with no foreign transaction fees.
Learn basic Spanish phrases, such as "hello" and "thank you".
Download an offline map of Madrid using apps like Google Maps or Maps.me.
Pack a travel adapter for European plugs.
Pack comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the season.
Make a copy of your travel documents and send it to yourself by email.
Consider purchasing a city card for free public transportation.
Plan activities around siesta time to avoid crowds.
Order tapas like a local to experience authentic Spanish cuisine.
Try regional food specialties to taste the local flavors.
Check the hours of your accommodations and plan accordingly.
Make sure to get air conditioning in your accommodations, especially during hot summer months.
Bring the right electrical converters for Spain, which uses Type F power sockets.
Be prepared for regional weather differences, such as the dry heat of the south.
Enjoy sobremesa, the Spanish tradition of lingering over a meal.
Pack accordingly for your trip to Spain, considering the activities and regions you plan to visit.
Be aware of different languages spoken in Spain, including Spanish, Catalan, and Basque.
Use public transportation to get from/to the airport, which is often cheaper and more convenient than taxis.

Don'ts in Madrid

Don't forget that many shops and markets are closed on Sunday.