Madrid Spain 2 Day Itinerary

Madrid, Spain 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Café Central, a historic café in the heart of Madrid.
  • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid (optional guided tour), one of the largest palaces in Europe.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Take a stroll through the beautiful Sabatini Gardens, adjacent to the palace.
  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Explore the world-renowned art museum, Museo del Prado, featuring an extensive collection of European art.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Spanish dinner at Botín, one of the oldest restaurants in Madrid.
  • 10:00 PM - 12:00 AM: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Madrid in the Malasaña neighborhood, known for its trendy bars and clubs.

Day 2:

Morning

  • 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM: Visit the Reina Sofia Museum, home to Picasso’s Guernica and other modern art masterpieces.
  • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM: Take a leisurely walk in the Retiro Park, a beautiful green oasis in the city center.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Explore the historic center of Madrid, including the Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, two of the city’s most iconic squares.
  • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Visit the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, completing the “Golden Triangle of Art” along with the Prado and Reina Sofia museums.

Evening

  • 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Mercado de San Miguel, a beautiful and bustling market offering a wide range of food options.
  • 11:00 PM - 12:30 AM: End your trip with a scenic night stroll along the Gran Vía, one of Madrid’s main avenues.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Only You: A stylish, boutique hotel in the heart of Madrid.
  • Hostal La Macarena: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a great location.

Transportation:

  • Metro: An efficient and affordable way to navigate the city. Buy a rechargeable Tarjeta Multi for convenient travel.
  • Bus: A good alternative to the metro, with many routes covering the city.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but be aware that prices can add up quickly.

Things to Know:

  • Siesta: Many businesses close from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM for a traditional Spanish siesta. Plan your day accordingly.
  • Tapas: Try small plates of food (tapas) at bars and restaurants, a quintessential Spanish experience.
  • Language: While many Madrileños speak English, it’s always helpful to know basic Spanish phrases like “gracias” (thank you) and “¿dónde está…?” (where is…).

Tips:

  • Buy tickets in advance: For popular attractions like the Royal Palace and art museums.
  • Dress appropriately: Madrid can be quite sunny, so don’t forget sunscreen and a hat. In winter, bundle up for chilly mornings and evenings.
  • Be prepared for crowds: Popular areas like Sol and Plaza Mayor can get very busy.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Flamenco show: Experience the passion and energy of traditional Spanish flamenco music and dance at a local tablao (flamenco venue).
  • Day trip to Toledo: Visit this historic, UNESCO-listed city just an hour from Madrid by train.
  • Markets: Explore one of Madrid’s many markets, like the Rastro Market or El Campo de los Cebolla, for a taste of local culture and shopping.