Madrid in 3 Days

Morning:
Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol
Start your journey at the Plaza Mayor, a grand square that has been the heart of Madrid since the 16th century. Marvel at the symmetrically designed buildings, and maybe even treat yourself to a churro from a local vendor. A short walk away is Puerta del Sol, another iconic square and the true center of Madrid.

Royal Palace of Madrid
From there, head to the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. Although they don’t live there now, its grandeur remains intact. Don’t miss the Throne Room, and if time permits, the Royal Armory.

Afternoon:
Almudena Cathedral
Adjacent to the palace, the Almudena Cathedral beckons with its neo-Gothic interiors and a stunning view of Madrid from its dome.

Lunch in La Latina
For lunch, head to the nearby La Latina district, famed for its tapas bars. Dive into a spread of patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo, and of course, sangria.

Evening:
Temple of Debod and Gran Vía
Post-lunch, visit the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain. As the sun sets, its reflection in the surrounding waters is a sight to behold. End your day with a stroll down Gran Vía, Madrid’s bustling shopping street, and maybe catch a flamenco show.

Morning:
Prado Museum
Begin your day at the Prado Museum, Spain’s premier art gallery. Housing works from Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco, it’s an art lover’s paradise.

Afternoon:
Reina Sofia Museum
Dedicate your afternoon to another iconic art institution, the Reina Sofia Museum. Here, marvel at Picasso’s Guernica and works by Dalí.

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel
Experience culinary delights at Mercado de San Miguel. From olives to cured ham, it’s a sensory feast.

Evening:
Retiro Park
End your day with a leisurely stroll in the expansive Retiro Park. Hire a rowboat, witness street performers, or simply relax by the lake.

Morning:
Chamartín and Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
For football enthusiasts, a tour of Santiago Bernabéu, home to Real Madrid, is a must. Even if football isn’t your passion, the stadium’s magnitude is impressive.

Afternoon:
Salamanca District
Head to the upscale Salamanca district for luxury shopping and chic boutiques.

Lunch at Platea
Experience gourmet dining at Platea, a former cinema turned food hall.

Evening:
Malasaña and Chueca
Explore Madrid’s hippest neighborhoods, Malasaña and Chueca. Famed for their nightlife, bohemian shops, and funky restaurants, it’s the perfect way to conclude your Madrid journey.