Spain-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Madrid

Morning

  • Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Spanish breakfast at a local café. Try a café con leche (coffee with milk) and a torta de aceite (a sweet pastry).
  • Royal Palace of Madrid: Visit the impressive palace, one of the largest in Europe. You can take a guided tour inside or stroll around the surrounding Sabatini Gardens.

Afternoon

  • Museo del Prado: Spend a few hours exploring this world-renowned art museum, home to works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.
  • Plaza Mayor: Admire the beautiful architecture of this historic square, surrounded by cafes and shops.

Evening

  • Tapas crawl: Experience Madrid’s vibrant nightlife by hopping from one tapas bar to another. Try classic dishes like patatas bravas (spicy fried potatoes) and croquetas (deep-fried balls filled with ham or fish).
  • Flamenco show: End the night with a passionate flamenco performance at a local tablao.

Things to know

  • Spain is in the Central European Time Zone (CET).
  • The official currency is the Euro (€).
  • Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English.
  • Be prepared for siestas (afternoon breaks) from 2 pm to 5 pm.

Day 2: Toledo

Morning

  • Train to Toledo: Take a short train ride (approximately 30 minutes) to this historic city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Catedral Primada de España: Marvel at the stunning Gothic cathedral, one of the most important in Spain.

Afternoon

  • Alcázar de Toledo: Explore the medieval castle, which has been used as a royal palace, military fortress, and even a prison.
  • Wander the streets: Get lost in the narrow, winding streets of Toledo’s old town, discovering hidden plazas and charming shops.

Evening

  • Return to Madrid: Head back to the capital city for dinner and relaxation.
  • Try a traditional Spanish restaurant: Enjoy dishes like cochinillo (roast suckling pig) or cordero al chilindrón (lamb with peppers).

Transportation

  • Renfe trains connect Madrid to Toledo. You can buy tickets online or at the train station.
  • Taxis and buses are also available, but less frequent.

Day 3: Segovia

Morning

  • Train to Segovia: Take a slightly longer train ride (approximately 1 hour) to this charming city, famous for its Romanesque architecture.
  • Aqueduct of Segovia: Be amazed by the ancient Roman aqueduct, still standing tall after centuries.

Afternoon

  • Catedral de Segovia: Visit the beautiful Gothic cathedral, built in the 16th century.
  • Alcázar de Segovia: Explore the medieval castle, said to be the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle.

Evening

  • Return to Madrid: Head back to the capital city for a farewell dinner and some last-minute shopping.
  • Try a local specialty: Enjoy judiones (small, sweet pastries) or churros con chocolate (fritters with rich chocolate dipping sauce).

Visa requirements

  • Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, do not need a visa for tourism stays up to 90 days.
  • Check the official Spanish government website for specific requirements.

Other things to know

  • Spain has a vibrant festival culture. Be sure to check local events calendars during your trip.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases, like gracias (thank you) and ¿dónde está…? (where is…?).