Madrid, Spain-4-day-itinerary

Madrid, Spain 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Royal Treatment

  • Morning: Start at the Royal Palace of Madrid (guided tours available). Be sure to book tickets in advance.
  • Lunch: Head to Mercado de San Miguel for a variety of tapas and local delicacies.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the adjacent Sabatini Gardens and take in the beautiful views of the palace.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine at Botín, a historic restaurant serving delicious roast suckling pig.

Where to Stay: Consider staying in the city center, near Puerta del Sol or Plaza Mayor. Budget-friendly options include Hostal La Macarena or Hotel Europa Style.

Day 2: Artistic Expression

  • Morning: Visit the world-renowned Museo del Prado to see an extensive collection of European art.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite at Café Gijón, a historic café with a beautiful interior patio.
  • Afternoon: Explore the trendy Malasaña neighborhood and discover its street art, vintage shops, and alternative culture.
  • Evening: Catch a flamenco show at Corral de la Morería, one of the most famous tablaos in Madrid.

Tip: Purchase a Madrid Tourist Travel Pass for free entry to many attractions and unlimited public transportation.

Day 3: Parks and Relaxation

  • Morning: Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Retiro Park, a former royal estate with stunning gardens and lakes.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic in the park or grab food from a local market, like Mercado de Antón Martín.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Reina Sofia Museum to see an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • Evening: Unwind with a relaxing evening at Debod Temple, a historic Buddhist temple with stunning views of the city.

Transportation: Use Madrid’s efficient public transportation system, including buses, metro lines, and commuter trains (Cercanías). Buy a rechargeable Tarjeta Multi for convenient travel.

Day 4: Local Flavors

  • Morning: Explore the historic Rastro Market, where you can find everything from antiques to souvenirs.
  • Lunch: Savor local specialties at La Sanabresa, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Spanish dishes.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum to complete your artistic journey through Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art.
  • Evening: End your trip with a scenic sunset at Debod Temple or Círculo de Bellas Artes, a rooftop bar with stunning views.

Things to Know:

  • Madrid is a vibrant city, but it’s also known for its siestas. Plan your day accordingly, as many businesses close between 2 pm and 5 pm.
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions. Consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening.
  • Don’t forget to try some delicious Spanish tapas and local wines!

Bonus Tip: For a unique perspective on the city, take a Madrid Segway Tour or a Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour.