Madrid 7 Day Itinerary

October 10, 2024

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center

Arrive at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) and take a taxi or metro to your hotel
Check-in at your hotel and freshen up
Start your day at the famous Puerta del Sol, one of the most iconic squares in Madrid
Visit the nearby Plaza Mayor, a historic square with stunning architecture and lively atmosphere
Walk around the Royal Palace of Madrid (optional guided tour: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm), one of the largest palaces in Europe
Enjoy lunch at a traditional Spanish restaurant, such as Botín or Casa Mono
Visit the Mercado de San Miguel, a stunning marketplace with local produce and artisanal goods
End your day with a stroll through the beautiful Retiro Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city

Start your day at the world-renowned Reina Sofia Museum (10:00 am - 8:00 pm), home to Picasso’s Guernica and other modern art masterpieces
Visit the Prado Museum (10:00 am - 8:00 pm), one of the world’s greatest museums, featuring works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco
Explore the trendy Malasaña neighborhood, known for its street art, independent boutiques, and lively nightlife
Enjoy lunch at a local eatery or food truck in this hip area
Visit the CaixaForum Madrid museum (10:00 am - 8:00 pm), which hosts temporary exhibitions on contemporary art and culture
End your day with a flamenco show at Corral de la Morería or Cardamomo

Visit the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum (10:00 am - 7:00 pm), completing the “Golden Triangle of Art” along with the Prado and Reina Sofia
Explore the historic center, including the Calle de Alcalá and the beautiful Plaza de la Villa
Visit the Museo Nacional de Antropología (9:30 am - 8:00 pm), featuring artifacts from around the world
Enjoy lunch at a traditional tavern or tapas bar in the heart of the city
Visit the Palacio de Linares, a stunning palace with an impressive art collection and ornate architecture
End your day with a scenic boat ride on the Manzanares River

Start your day at the Sabatini Gardens (9:00 am - 8:00 pm), a beautiful green space within the royal palace complex
Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid’s armory and museum (10:00 am - 6:00 pm)
Explore the adjacent Campo del Moro gardens, offering stunning views of the palace
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or café in the historic center
Visit the Casa de la Moneda, a fascinating coin museum with historical artifacts
End your day with a stroll through the beautiful Retiro Park

Start your day at the bustling Mercado de San Antón (9:00 am - 4:00 pm), where you can sample local delicacies and drinks
Visit the lively Malasaña neighborhood, known for its street art, independent boutiques, and nightlife
Enjoy lunch at a trendy restaurant or food truck in this area
Take a wine tasting tour or visit a local winery (optional)
Experience Madrid’s vibrant nightlife by visiting the Gran Vía, a famous shopping and entertainment district
End your night with a cocktail or tapas bar in the trendy Chueca neighborhood

Take an early train to Toledo (approximately 1 hour journey)
Explore the historic city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Visit the stunning Cathedral of Toledo and the adjacent Archivo de Indias (10:00 am - 6:00 pm)
Wander through the narrow streets and admire the unique Mudéjar architecture
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in this charming city
Return to Madrid by train and enjoy the evening

Spend your morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market, such as the Rastro Flea Market (9:00 am - 3:00 pm)
Visit the stunning Museo Sorolla (10:00 am - 8:00 pm), featuring works by Joaquín Sorolla
Explore the trendy Salamanca neighborhood, known for its upscale shopping and dining options
Enjoy your last dinner in Madrid at a favorite restaurant or try a new place
End your evening with a scenic view of the city from a rooftop bar or a peaceful stroll through Retiro Park