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Home » Europe » Spain » Madrid

MADRID Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Madrid, the city of bustling plazas, endless museums, and an art scene that has put it on the map as a cultural goldmine!

With an endless supply of fun and fascinating things to do, you could create a hundred Madrid itineraries and still have more to see! However, we’ve put together a jam-packed travel plan to enjoy, whether you’re planning a whirlwind getaway or spending five days in Madrid.

Get ready to explore the sun-kissed streets of this incredible Spanish city as you discover a collection of museums that would put the Louvre to shame, sprawling parks to get lost in, and oh-so-many amazing restaurants to get your fill of tapas!

Whether you’re a true-blue tourist looking for a Madrid highlights reel or in search of the city’s hidden gems, this Madrid itinerary has you covered. From a memorable weekend in Madrid to a week-long vacation, get a taste of history, nature, and art in this world-renowned city!

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Best Time To Visit Madrid

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When planning a top-notch Madrid trip itinerary, it’s never a bad idea to take a look at the best time to visit!

May and October are ultimately the best months to visit Spain’s capital city as it has cooler temperatures than the sweltering summer months. You will also get a more intimate travel experience as the number of tourists slows down. This is normally when Madrid’s hostels and other accommodation offer super low rates as well.

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Madrid’s climate is continental, so it has mainly pleasant and sunny weather throughout the year! However, summer is not ideal for a ton of outdoor sightseeing. Summer forms the city’s high season, so the streets and landmarks are often crammed with tourists!

If you’re wondering when to visit Madrid to enjoy the outdoors, the autumn months between September and November showcase Madrid’s natural beauty with golden light filling the parks and amazing wine tasting available! There is also a plethora of festivals during spring, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy strolling through the amazing city streets!

If you’re looking to enjoy Madrid’s amazing festivals, you can join Feria del Libro in May, (MULAFEST in June as well as the Feriarte Antiques and Art Galleries Fair in November.

Knowing what you’re looking for is vital when planning a trip to Madrid, because it will affect what kind of weather suits your chosen activities. Take a look at our breakdown of the weather and crowds to make the choice easier!

An integral part of creating a knock-out Madrid itinerary is, of course, deciding where to stay in this gorgeous city! Being the diverse and storied city it is, every neighborhood in Madrid has a unique vibe and has something special to offer.

Centro is by far the number one choice for accommodation in Madrid! As its name indicates, it is the central hub of all things touristy as well as some incredible places to stay. As the beating heart of Madrid, this bustling area is filled with unforgettable attractions as well as fantastic public transport to reach them all!

For an edgier place to stay, Malasaña is an up-and-coming area that is home to a ton of trendy restaurants and iconic nightlife. It’s also the ultimate area to enjoy a sampling of Madrid’s street art scene. From winning foodie spots to spectacular vintage shops, Malasaña is one of the best places to stay in Madrid!

To enjoy Madrid’s idyllic side complete with classic terraces and markets, La Latina is the place to be! Soak up Madrid’s unbeatable atmosphere as you admire the incredible architecture and enjoy strolling along the Calle de Cava Baja.

Get a taste of Madrid’s literary side in Calle de las Huertas where the streets are etched with famous quotes! Discover the writer’s residences which have been converted into museums and don’t miss a walk past the unreal twenty-four meter-high vertical garden at the CaixaForum Cultural Center.

On your quest to find the best place to stay in Madrid during your three-day trip, take a look at our picks from budget to luxury accommodation! Oh, if you want to truly live like a local then check out an Airbnb in Madrid and take an apartment or homestay for a few days.

Best Hostel in Madrid – Mola Hostel

With a stunning location on the Calle Atocha in Centro, Mola Hostel offers fantastic social activities and city tours to get to know Madrid! Take your pick from a range of hostel rooms and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at this memorable hostel. Plus, who doesn’t love a rainfall shower on their holiday?

If you prefer to stay in hostels, explore more options in our Madrid hostel guide.

Best Airbnb in Madrid:  Centrally located with 3 beds

This spectacular apartment located on the fifth floor of a historical building, has an amazing patio view that opens up to Plaza Mayor. The apartment can accommodate up to six guests and comes with amenities like wifi, a fully equipped kitchen, and air conditioning.

Best Budget Hotel in Madrid – Casual del Teatro Madrid

What better place to embrace the theatricality of Madrid than in a musical-themed hotel? Right in the heart of the city, the Casual del Teatro Madrid is close to tons of attractions and amazing foodie spots! With a gorgeous roof terrace and vintage interior, this unreal hotel is a stellar accommodation choice.

Best Luxury Hotel in Madrid – VP Plaza España Design

Enjoy everything from an exquisite rooftop pool complete with amazing views to evenings spent at the Gingko Sky Bar where the lights of Madrid are laid out before you! With tons of popular attractions nearby and an amazing interior, you’ll feel like a VIP at this unforgettable hotel.

Aah Madrid, the city of royalty! From the Royal Palace to the Royal Theatre, you’ll feel pretty regal as you enjoy walks along its many grand plazas or stroll through the impressive halls of some of the world’s finest museums. On your Madrid, Spain itinerary, there’s a smorgasbord of incredible options, so you’ll never be left wondering what to do in Madrid!

Central Madrid is mostly walkable with a lot of the main attractions being fairly close to each other. From the lush parks to nights out at one of the many amazing theaters, you’ll easily be able to zip from one Madrid attraction to the next! The trusty Metro is also there to help with any trips further out of the city, but we’ve put together a selection of amazing and central options!

If you’re not sure about how many days to spend in Madrid, anything from a day to a week will be a memorable experience. Take a look at our picks for a world-class Madrid itinerary!

…and if you’re super short on time, check out this guided tour!

From the Royal Palace to the Medieval Streets and even some tapas and wine tasting – you’ll get to see the best of Madrid with an awesome guide by your side in less than 5 hours.

Prado Museum | Retiro Park | Royal Palace of Madrid | Almudena Cathedral | Teatro Real

Enjoy a spectacular first day on your Madrid itinerary. It’s packed to the brim with exciting activities! From a stroll around the Royal Palace of Madrid to admiring the incredible art at the Prado Museum, there is a star-studded list of Madrid attractions to enjoy. If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, we’ve got your first day covered!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Prado Museum

• Why it’s awesome: One of the most visited museums in the world!
• Cost: €15 / USD $19.
• Food nearby: Enjoy fresh and flavorful cuisine at the Cafe Murillo. This fun and cozy spot found fame as one of Michelle Obama’s favorite restaurants!

As one-third of the iconic Golden Triangle of Art, the Prado Museum deserves first place on your Madrid trip itinerary!

The building was originally made to function as the Cabinet of Natural Sciences, but was converted into one of the world’s finest museums and one the ultimate Madrid attractions!

The Prado is also surrounded by lush greenery as it was built within a meadow, which also lent itself to the museum’s name. The building itself is like a work of art starting with the impressive main promenade which features an impressive statue of Diego Velázquez.

With a collection spanning over 7,000 priceless artworks, there is an incredible amount to see! The Prado Museum is home to works by Spain’s ‘big three’ – El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya, which has art lovers flocking to this famous gallery.

Complete with artwork dating from the 12th to the 20th century, the Prado Museum is known to have one of the finest collections of Spanish art! Along with works by the museum’s golden boys, you’ll also find creations by Rafael and Peter Paul Rubens, including notable works like The Descent From the Cross.

Whether you’re spending a week or one day in Madrid, this world-renowned museum is a must-see!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Retiro Park

• Why it’s awesome: Home to the Jardines de Cecilio Rodríguez where peacocks walk serenely amongst a labyrinth of trees!
• Cost: Free entrance!
• Food nearby: Tuck into an array of Mediterranean dishes with a twist at The Spanish farm! Admire the views from their terrace and enjoy one of their incredible desserts.

This amazing park is a winning choice on any Madrid itinerary! Just a stone’s throw away from the city’s museums, this gorgeous oasis of greenery is the perfect place to soak up the sun.

From enjoying a picnic to boating on the stunning lake, El Estanque, Retiro Park is worth the visit. On weekends, the park becomes a bustling hub of jugglers, buskers, and a range of other street performers.

The show-stopper is the exquisite Palacio de Cristal, an incredible glass palace observatory. Take in the sight of light streaming through the glass ceiling, which is surrounded by a beautiful lake where terrapins and ducks spend the day.

The park was created as a royal retreat but has become a well-loved place where families, friends, and tourists visit to enjoy the outdoors! Nestled beside one of the park’s smaller ponds is a quaint and brightly colored little house that looks like it was plucked from a fairytale! There’s even a tiny ‘mountain’ to climb nearby for an amazing view of Madrid.

If you’d like your day to get even more dreamy, take a stroll through La Rosaleda, the park’s beautiful rose garden. Surrounded by ivy-clad trellises, bubbling fountains and over 4000 roses of every hue – it’s truly picturesque!

Insider Tip: Grab a cool drink at one of the numerous Terrazas (open-air cafes).

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Royal Palace of Madrid

• Why it’s awesome: The famous changing of the guard happens at this regal landmark!
• Cost: €13 / USD $16 (unguided)
• Food nearby: La Candela Restó is perfect for a taste of fusion cuisine with an amazing tasting menu!

This spectacular palace definitely deserves a spot on your Madrid itinerary. The entrance alone is spectacular with its grand staircase and amazing interior!

Stroll through the palace’s collection of incredible rooms from the Hall of the Halbardiers to the impressive Hall of Columns adorned with majestic frescoes. Pretend to be a royal for an hour or two as you visit the incredible Throne Room where 17th-century sculptures stand gracefully around the room!

Next on the agenda is some of the immaculate rooms once used by bona fide Spanish royalty. Enjoy a walkabout through the opulent dressing room of Carlos III (Gasparini Room) which is covered in colorful mosaics and stuccoes. If you didn’t think it could get any more surreal, the Porcelain Room is next and you guessed it, it’s covered in wall-to-wall porcelain!

One of the highlights on a tour through the breathtaking palace is the remarkable collection of Stradivarius instruments, which is the only complete string quartet of its kind. If you’re looking for a touch of nature, the palace’s Sabatini Gardens will definitely do the trick! Drink in the sprawling grounds and idyllic pond as you stroll across the lawns.

Take in the history and stunning architecture of the city at one of the best Madrid landmarks!

Insider Tip: Arriving after 3PM will usually mean fewer crowds.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Almudena Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: Amazing views from the dome over Madrid!
• Cost: Free entrance but €6 / USD $8 for entrance to the museum.
• Food nearby: Cerveceria La Mayor is the perfect pitstop between sightseeing. Grab tapas or one of their delicious paellas!

The next stop on your Madrid trip itinerary is the incredible Almudena Cathedral , which is right next door to the Royal Palace. Built over a period of 100 years, the cathedral has quite an impressive history as well as remarkable features!

The cathedral has become renowned for its amazing mixture of architecture styles. Enjoy a memorable tour through the cathedral where you can admire the bright and colorful interior based on a Neo-Gothic style with incredible elements of Pop-Art decor.

Ancient stories are depicted in the almost-animated frescoes within this stunning building! The Neo-Romanesque crypt is the oldest section of the cathedral and houses an incredible 16th-century image of the Virgen de la Almudena.

Explore this uniquely modern interior complete with chapel interiors and statues designed by some of Spain’s finest contemporary artists. From its regal white and grey facade to the jewel-bright stained glass windows, the Almudena Cathedral is a must-see while touring Madrid!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Teatro Real

• Why it’s awesome: You may see a rehearsal in progress on your tour!
• Cost: €7 / USD $9 (audio guide included), €6 / USD $8 for people over 65 and under 26, children under 5 enter for free.
• Food nearby: For a quality dining experience along with a dizzying amount of freebies, enjoy a meal at the incredible De Maria Opera.

In a city famous for its theatre, a trip to the Teatro Real is a must on your Madrid itinerary. The Teatro Real is one of the most epic theaters in Europe with stunning architecture to complete the picture!

On a fascinating tour of the theater, enjoy the chance to step onto the historic stage, view the rehearsal rooms, visit the dressing rooms, and access the Royal Box like a member of the aristocracy!

The theater also has an incredible VR experience, which takes you into the performer’s world as you, step onto the stage during an opera performance! This unique and amazing experience is one to remember! The theater plays host to everything from incredible opera to less traditional art forms like their short film, Lemon. It’s grand architecture and high-quality performances make the Teatro Real one of the best Madrid landmarks.

Insider Tip: If you can, getting tickets to one of the incredible shows or concerts is definitely worth it!

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Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum | Madrid Botanical Garden | Real Basílica de San Francisco el Grande | Mercado de San Miguel | Essential Flamenco

If you’re spending an epic weekend in Madrid , take a look at our picks for even more unforgettable sightseeing! From the art-soaked halls of the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum to an wonderful performance by Essential Flamenco, the day two of your Madrid itinerary promises to be unforgettable!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

• Why it’s awesome: This unbelievable museum began as a private collection!
• Cost: €13 / USD $16.
• Food nearby: Enjoy a tasty Mediterranean meal at the oh-so-elegant La Rotonda!

The perfect way to begin a two-day itinerary in Madrid is a stroll around the incredible halls of the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum!

With an impressive collection of over 1,600 paintings, you’ll see everything from Expressionist paintings to works by 20th-century American artists. As the second piece of the Golden Triangle of Art, there’s a lot to see and be wowed by at this museum!

Started in the 19320s as a private collection, the museum has spent the last few decades accumulating incredible artworks from across styles and eras. You’ll find works from the English, Dutch and German schools as well as artists from the Impressionist, Expressionist, and Cubist art movements.

Stroll past works by the likes of Chagall, Salvador Dalí, Gaugin, Monet, Degas, Francis Bacon, and Jackson Pollock! You’ll also have the chance to view the museum’s State Rooms and an incredible photo exhibition.

If you are an art buff with an appreciation for the artistic masters from the last few centuries, or you just love a good painting, this is one of the top things to do in Madrid that definitely belongs on your list!

Insider Tip: The audio guide is a great way to get insight and take your time.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Madrid Botanical Garden

• Why it’s awesome: It was declared an artistic garden!
• Cost: €6 / USD $8 for adults, free for people 65 and over as well as children under 10, school groups and teachers.
• Food nearby: The Matilda Cafe Cantina is a quaint and cozy spot perfect for a light lunch or a slice of their delicious chocolate and pear cake!

Add a splash of nature to your Madrid itinerary with a trip to the Madrid Botanical Garden! The garden includes eight hectares of gorgeous lawns, a tapestry of flowers, and amazing greenhouses.

Founded in the Orchard of Migas Calientes on the banks of the Manzanares River, this lush oasis is the perfect break from the city sights. With over 90,000 plants and 1,500 trees, there’s plenty of greenery to get lost amongst on a relaxing stroll through the garden.

It’s also home to three stunning terraces, each with something different to discover! The Terraza de los Cuadros is home to an amazing collection of ornamental plants around a tranquil fountain as well as a beautiful Japanese garden.

Fountains dot the landscape and there are occasional art exhibitions to enjoy amongst the amazing plant life. For a step into nature and exploring the amazing Madrid landscape, a walk in the botanical garden is a winner!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Real Basílica de San Francisco el Grande

• Why it’s awesome: The frescoed dome is estimated to be the largest in Spain and the fourth largest in the world!
• Cost: €5 / USD $7 (including the museum).
• Food nearby: For some delicious and authentic Spanish cuisine, El Tormo is perfect for foodies looking for a traditional experience!

Add another touch of history to your two day itinerary in Madrid with a trip to the Real Basílica de San Francisco el Grande!

Built in the footprint of an ancient monastery, this Neo-Classical church became an architectural gem in La Latina. The cathedral is home to several remarkable frescoes that were painted between the seventeenth and nineteenth centuries.

The church is home to an incredible collection of chapels which are guarded by impressive statues of the twelve apostles. The golden child (or chapel) is Capilla de San Bernardino, which has a stunning central frescoes painted by Goya himself! Funnily enough, the famous painter included himself in the design and can be spotted in a yellow shirt.

With so much to see within, the cathedral’s facade is simple but beautiful with incredible detailing on the wooden doors. Visiting this remarkable church is a must on your trip to Madrid, and don’t forget to enjoy a stroll around the rose garden before you leave!

Insider Tip: The entrance is free during Mass, but the museum is closed.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Mercado de San Miguel

• Why it’s awesome: It was one of the first covered markets in the city.
• Cost: Entrance is free!
• Food nearby: This incredible food market has endless choices for places to grab a snack or have dinner.

This iconic market definitely deserves a spot on your Madrid itinerary, especially if you’re hoping to try as many different Spanish dishes as possible! The entrance alone makes you feel like you’re stepping into somewhere special, then the scent of amazing cuisine and fresh produce takes over!

This is the perfect place to get a taste of a variety of Spanish food from classic tapas to the more adventurous. With everything from pastries to seafood and glasses of cava, you won’t go hungry at the Mercado de San Miguel! This market is a real favorite when touring Madrid and it has become one of the city’s treasures.

This historic market has become a hub of activity where a mix of tourists and locals enjoy good food and fantastic atmosphere! Experience the sights and flavors from over twenty stalls with amazing dishes to enjoy!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Essential Flamenco

• Why it’s awesome: Performed in an intimate space by a small but talented group of artists!
• Cost: Tickets from €35 / USD $41
• Food nearby: Finish off the night with amazing tapas alongside tasty sangria at the Taberna del Chato!

It would be a crime to visit Spain without seeing a Flamenco performance, so we’ve got you covered with our Madrid itinerary!

This vibrant and beautiful performance style began with the folkloric music traditions of southern Spain and has become a UNESCO-stamped masterpiece of heritage . Essential Flamenco offers an intimate and authentic performance of this incredible art form!

The show consists of six artists including two dancers, one singer, one guitarist, one percussionist, and one violinist. Flamenco evolved in hidden places and the group pays tribute to that with their venue and style.

Enjoy a memorable one-hour show in a small cellar space where the music and movement will fill your mind with wonder. This emotive and genuine experience is definitely not to be missed on your vacation in Madrid!

Mola Hostel

With a winning location on the Calle Atocha in Centro, Mola Hostel offers fantastic social activities and city tours to get to know Madrid!

• 24 Hours Reception
• Free walking tour in English

Casa de Campo | El Rastro | Madrid’s Plazas | Sorolla Museum

In a city with so much to do, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit in Madrid during a stay of at least three days. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out at Madrid’s incredible amusement park or stroll through the city’s amazing plazas, we’ve included the very best options for what to do!

Casa de Campo

• Lookout points dotted all over the park to enjoy views of Madrid.
• Little wooden restaurants line the park for tasty Spanish fare.
• There are outdoor pools to enjoy in the warmer months.

In the footprint of an old royal hunting ground, Casa de Campo is the perfect activity for a fun day out in Madrid!

If you thought Casa de Campo was going to be a regular park, think again! It has just about everything you could think of! Go boating on the idyllic lake where you can see a gallery of Madrid’s incredible landmarks in the background.

Fancy seeing some animals? Casa de Campo is prepared for everything with the Madrid Zoo Aquarium which is home to over 6,000 animals! From giant pandas to giraffes and bottlenose dolphins, you could spend all day exploring this amazing park.

If you’re up for some old-fashioned entertainment, enjoy stomach-churning rollercoasters and more relaxed rides.

There are multiple ways to reach this amazing park including walking alongside the River Manzanares until you reach a crossing near the Principe Pio Metro station. Alternatively, there is a fun cable car ride that runs from the Parque del Oester or a Metro line that runs to the park’s entrance.

A trip to the fun and jam-packed park of Casa de Campo is a must on your three day Madrid itinerary!

Enjoy the El Rastro

• Open on Sundays between 9AM and 3PM.
• Jazz bands play on occasion!
• It’s busiest at 11AM, so enjoy a visit before or after peak hours.

This amazing outdoor market sets up camp across the streets of central Madrid and has become a major tourist attraction!

If you’re deciding what to do in Madrid, this is the perfect way to experience the atmosphere of Madrid amongst locals who sell their wares, play music, and fill the streets with chatter. Whether you’re searching for the ultimate souvenir , handmade jewelry, or an enjoyable stroll, El Rastro is the place to be!

Meet interesting characters as they run their stalls or enjoy the music played by talented buskers. If you’re looking for real gems, head down the side streets where you might just find an incredible vintage item or bargain.

As one of the most popular street markets in Spain, it has become a true hub of activity with everything from earthenware plates to gas masks on sale. A Visit to El Rastro is a top choice for your three day Madrid itinerary!

Stroll through Madrid’s Plazas

• Admire the incredible Clock of the Puerto del Sol.
• The Metropolis and Telefonica Buildings are amazing for taking photos.
• Enjoy a stand-up comedy night at La Chocita del Loro!

Seeing the best of the city’s plazas is perfect for an itinerary in Madrid. We have to begin with the Gran Via, which is known as Madrid’s Broadway, and is filled with theaters of all kinds!

If you’re looking for an opportunity to do some high-end shopping, Gran Via is a hub of Spanish boutiques and brand names including Chanel and Dior! The Gran Via is also home to a collection of incredible buildings which make for amazing photos. Don’t miss out on a stroll past the incredible Casa de las Siete Chimeneas (the house with the seven chimneys).

The next leg of your Madrid walking tour should include the well-known central square of Madrid, Puerto del Sol! Check out the Zero Stone which marks the starting point for Spain’s six national roads.

If you’re looking for a true monument of Madrid to snap a pic with, the Oso y el Madroño (Bear and the Strawberry Tree) is the perfect spot! Preciados Street is amazing for a night-time walkabout with tons of shops to peruse and amazing lighting.

Finish off your tour of Madrid’s plazas at Puerta de Alcalá in the Plaza de la Independencia. This ancient ‘gateway’ is one of the city’s most well-known monuments with amazing sculptures adorning its facade. Add a tour of the city’s incredible plazas to guarantee an unforgettable three days in Madrid!

Sorolla Museum

• The garden was designed by the artist himself.
• View the original furniture used by Sorolla.
• Museum’s creation was orchestrated by Sorolla’s wife, Clotilde García del Castillo.

You can’t finish off your backpacking adventure in Madrid without a final splash of Spanish art!

Discover the life and works of amazing painter, Joaquín Sorolla. This house-turned-museum houses the largest collection of his works in the world! With over 1,200 of his original pieces, the collection is quite breathtaking.

Alongside his incredible works, you’ll have the chance to view a collection of precious objects he collected over his life. Admire sculptures, ceramics, popular jewelry, antique photographs, and an unbelievable anthology of letters penned by the artist himself.

The garden is also a sight to remember and is known as one of the most beautiful in the city. Stroll through the grounds where water features and sculptures turn it into a museum of sorts as well. This incredible and underrated gem is the perfect addition to finish off your third day in Madrid!

An important factor in planning your Madrid itinerary is knowing how to keep safe while visiting the city!

While Madrid is a fairly safe city (and Spain is a safe country in general), pickpocketing is quite a high risk in Madrid. Because of the size of the city, the bustling tourist attractions, and the number of visitors, pickpockets are quite active in central Madrid as well as near major tourist attractions.

Using a bag with strong straps is quite useful as it will be harder to pull off of you and keeping your bag as close as possible is recommended. It is better to leave your passport, most valuables, and large wads of money at your accommodation (as long as that is fairly secure). However, remember to carry some form of identification on your person, especially if you are not from Spain.

Areas that are at risk, especially at night, are Retiro Park and Lavapies. The areas around Plaza Mayor and Puerto del Sol are also at risk for bag snatchers and pick-pocketers.

When you travel to Madrid, it’s also a good idea to keep a spare Metro ticket in your pocket in case yours gets stolen. SATE (Servicio de Atención al Turista Extranjero) is a specialized bureau for foreign visitors should you encounter theft or a crime of any kind.

There is also the potential risk of scams including petitions and selling fake jewelry, which you should be on the lookout for. In general, Madrid is a safe city for tourists but being vigilant and aware is always recommended. Have safe travels!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Madrid

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

With so much on offer in this vibrant and unforgettable city, there’s already an array of options to choose from. However, four days in Madrid is hardly complete without a few amazing day trips thrown in the mix. Take a look at our choices for the top day trips from Madrid!

Segovia Hot Air Balloon Flight & Tour

If, by any chance, you’re left wondering what to do in Madrid, a memorable day trip from Madrid to Segovia could be the answer!

Take in the sensational aerial views of Segovia as you float above the beautiful city in a hot air balloon. After the tour by air, experience the city on foot as you explore the historic Roman Aqueduct, visit the last Gothic cathedral built in Spain and admire the incredible Alcazar Real!

Enjoy breathtaking views from this cliffside fortress built on the edge of a stunning cliff near the Sierra de Guadarrama massif. Add a champagne breakfast to the mix, and you’ll have an incredible day trip!

Guided Tour of Avila & Salamanca

Filled with incredible architecture and amazing landmarks, this tour to Avila and Salamanca is unmissable!

If you’re wondering what to see in Madrid, Spain in 3 days or more, a guided tour of these historic towns is a top-notch choice. Follow your knowledgeable guide as they lead you through the history and legends of both cities, pointing out fascinating monuments along the way!

On this fantastic tour, enjoy views of the many impressive cathedrals in Salamanca’s Plaza Mayor and wander through the city’s oldest squares. The, get to know charming Avila from San Vicente’s Shrine to the Cathedral of Avila.

Enjoy the 16th-century atmosphere Avila has preserved while you stroll through the cobblestone streets. Experience these quaint and idyllic towns on the perfect interlude from bustling Madrid!

Royal Monastery of El Escorial & Valley of the Fallen Tour

On a day trip from Madrid, a walking tour through San Lorenzo is a fantastic choice!

Experience the grandeur of the Royal Monastery of El Escorial, which has become a major symbol of sixteenth-century Spain! On this memorable tour admire monuments like the Habsburg palace, the Kings and the Princes Mausoleum.

The Basilica of the Valley of the Fallen is another incredible gem pressed into the mountains near Madrid. Explore the Chapter Houses, Architecture Room, library, and Basilica on this unforgettable tour! Built between 1940 and 1959, this basilica is quite a remarkable monument.

Enjoy a guided tour then take advantage of your free time where you can admire the truly incredible views of Sierra de Madrid!

Toledo Tour With Wine Tasting

Exploring the gorgeous city of Toledo makes for one of the ultimate day trips from Madrid! This ancient and storied city is perched high above the Castilla La Macha plains of central Spain, which promises some truly amazing views.

Discover the incredible Unesco monuments of Toledo where you can enjoy a memorable stroll down the city’s medieval streets and learn all about their most prominent figures. Toledo also happens to be the birthplace of famous Spanish painter, El Greco, who features in many of Madrid’s incredible museums.

Next up is a fantastic look at local wine-making! Get an inside look at the history and tradition of winemaking in Castilla La Macha, then enjoy a delicious wine and tapas tasting!

Cuenca & Enchanted City Tour

The name alone sounds amazing and a tour of this incredible city doesn’t disappoint! Perched on the cliffs of the Huécar River gorge, this historic city is filled with breathtaking monuments like Spain’s very first Gothic cathedral, complete with an amazing facade.

Cuenca is also home to some truly spectacular scenery! The show-stopper on this tour is the Enchanted City, which is a collection of incredible stones that have become famous for their amazing likeness to animals! You’ll see the likes of a seal, mushroom, turtle and bears in this memorable labyrinth.

A tour to Cuenca is definitely a top choice when deciding what to do in Madrid during three days or a week long adventure!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Madrid itinerary.

How many days do you need in Madrid?

Spending 3-4 full days in Madrid will allow you to see the city’s top attractions. Any extra days for relaxing or day trips are a bonus!

What can you do in one day in Madrid?

Make sure to check out these Madrid highlights: – Prado Museum – Almudena Cathedral – Retiro Park – Mercado de San Miguel

What are the best day trips from Madrid?

Admire the city from above on a Segovia Hot Air Balloon ride , check out Avila and Salamanca, visit Cuenca & the Enchanted City, or indulge in a Toledo & Wine Tasting Tour.

When is the best time to visit Madrid?

That really depends on what you’re after! Spring is best for festivals and has adequate weather for exploring. September – October are ideal for good weather and small tourist crowds.

From its art scene to its many amazing parks, your Madrid itinerary will be packed with fantastic opportunities to explore this incredible city! No matter how many days in Madrid you spend discovering the sights, history, and unique atmosphere of one of Spain’s finest, you’ll never run out of things to do.

From a jam-packed weekend to an incredible four day vacation in Madrid, the city will have you captivated. When you travel to Madrid, just strolling through the vibrant streets gives you a glimpse into the many treasures this city holds! Discover art from across the centuries, dip your toes into the amazing Spanish architecture and definitely dig into Madrid’s amazing tapas.

This city will have you hooked and we hope this itinerary helps you get the most out of your trip!

Take a look at our ultimate travel tips while preparing for a trip to Madrid!

Mathilde Magnier

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Madrid Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 28, 2024

Like its rival Barcelona , Madrid embraces the night. Dinner doesn’t happen until 9pm or 10pm and the partying doesn’t kick off until several hours after that. It’s a city for night owls.

Though it’s somewhat sprawling, Madrid’s numerous neighborhoods are perfect for getting lost in, binging on tapas, and drinking sangria. The warmth of the locals and the slowness of the meals will keep you out late as you soak in the city’s pace. If you embrace the late (and long) meals and the late-night partying and live your life on Madrid’s terms you’ll have a much deeper, enriching visit.

This Madrid travel guide will give you everything you need to know to eat well, save money, and see the best sights the city has to offer!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Madrid

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Madrid

1. stroll plaza mayor.

The Plaza Mayor, which dates to the 15th century, is Madrid’s main square. While walking this plaza, which was designated a Spanish Property of Cultural Interest in 1985, don’t miss Ayuntamiento (the impressive city council building), the Baroque Church of San Pedro, the 18th-century San Francisco el Grande Basilica, and Calle de Cuchilleros (a popular place to eat, but expect tourist prices). In summer, the plaza hosts various festivals and music events, and in winter, it’s home to a sprawling Christmas market.

2. Visit the Prado Museum

The Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado) is one of the world’s greatest art galleries and the largest art museum in Spain. It’s also one of the most-visited museums in the world and has earned that title because it’s a great destination even for those who aren’t “museum” people. See a dazzling display of around 20,000 works by the great European masters housed in a grand 18th-century building that opened as a museum in 1819. The museum is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Spanish Property of Cultural Interest, home to works by Goya, Rembrandt, Caravaggio, Bernini, Monet, and many others. Admission is 15 EUR, and it takes about 3 – 4 hours to see the highlights of the museum.

3. Unwind in El Retiro Park

Officially known as The Buen Retiro Park, this is the main park of Madrid. It’s a leafy oasis with more than 15,000 trees and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it the perfect place to relax on a sunny day. The park dates back to the 17th century and spans over 350 acres. There is a large lake where you can hire a rowboat, a monument to the victims of the Madrid terrorist bombings (which killed 193 people and injured over 2,000 in 2004), and the Crystal Palace (a 19th-century conservatory that once held a human zoo).

4. Visit the Palacio Real

While the King of Spain no longer lives in the palace, it is used for state ceremonies. Built in the 18th century, the Baroque-style palace is the largest functioning palace in Europe, home to over 3,400 lavishly decorated rooms. The palace was originally built on a former 9th-century Muslim fort and today functions much like an art museum with numerous works, including pieces by Caravaggio, Juan de Flandes, and Francisco Goya. Admission is 14 EUR for self-guided tours and 20 EUR for a guided tour. Audio guides are available for 5 EUR. It’s free for EU citizens on Wednesdays.

5. Take a food tour

Other things to see and do in madrid.

1. Take a free walking tour

Free walking tours are one of my favorite activities to do in a new city. You’ll get the lay of the land, learn about the history and culture, and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. New Europe, Free Walking Tours Madrid, and Cat’s Hostel Walking Tours are the best free tours in the city. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

2. Check out Puerta del Sol

This is Madrid’s most famous and central square. Originally, it was the site of one of the east-facing city gates and was adorned with an image of the sun, hence the square’s name (“The Sun Gate”). The square is actually semi-circular in shape and owes its current form to the major renovation work carried out between 1854-60. There’s a stone slab on the ground in front of Casa de Correos’ main entrance (the current headquarters of the Madrid regional government) to mark kilometer 0, as this is also the center of Spain’s radial road network. The area has plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops, and makes for an easy central location to meet up with friends. People congregate here on New Year’s Eve to celebrate under the clock on top of the Casa de Correos building. It’s tradition to eat a “lucky” grape for each of the 12 strokes of midnight.

3. See flamenco dancers

The highly emotive dance set to guitars and singing originated in Andalusia and migrated to Madrid by the early 19th century. Based on the various folkloric music traditions of southern Spain, the shows will leave you transfixed. You’ll find flamenco shows in many bars and taverns across the city, such as Las Carboneras where you can enjoy a flamenco show with a glass of wine for 45 EUR. The historic Corral de la Morería offers shows for 49.95 EUR, including a drink.

4. Visit the National Archaeological Museum

This museum is a must for those who love ancient artwork and archeological finds. You’ll find an incredible collection of everything from ancient statues to ornate gold chandeliers from across the Iberian Peninsula. There are items from ancient Greece and Rome, along with artifacts from the Visigoths, Egypt, and Mesopotamia. Don’t miss the famous La Dama de Elche (a near-perfect condition bust of a 5th-century Iberian woman) and the Altamira pre-historic cave paintings. You’ll also see the Guanche Mummy of Madrid. He was embalmed by the indigenous people of the Canary Islands between the 11th and 13th centuries. Admission is 3 EUR.

5. Explore the Naval Museum of Madrid

When you think back on the world’s historical naval powers, the 16th-century Spanish Armada likely comes to mind. You can come here to learn about the nation’s rich naval history through historic maps from as early as the year 1500. It also has lots of old drawings, weapons, and navigation equipment, and a really interesting and detailed section on the Spanish Armada. It’s located on Madrid’s Art Walk near the Prado Museum and makes a nice stop in between the larger, more crowded galleries (most people skip this one). Admission is free, but donations of 3 EUR per person are suggested. It’s closed on Mondays.

6. Admire some modern art

The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía (Reina Sofía National Art Center) offers a fantastic collection of modern art. Works by masters like Picasso, Miró, Kandinsky, Dalí, and Bacon can all be found here. The centerpiece of the exhibit is Picasso’s famous Guernica painting, a 1937 oil painting that’s considered the most moving anti-war painting in the world. While I don’t love modern art, even I enjoyed this museum more than I thought I would. Admission is 12 EUR though free admission is available from 7pm-9pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays as well as from 12:30-2:30pm on Sundays.

7. Shop at the Mercado de San Miguel

This iconic indoor market is a fun spot to do your grocery shopping. It’s the oldest covered food market in the city and is also an iconic architectural landmark for its striking iron and glass structure. It’s the perfect place to snack on cheap tapas, pick up ingredients for supper, or do some people-watching. Open seven days a week, the market is a five-minute walk from Plaza Mayor and attracts the after-work drinks crowd in the evenings.

8. See the ancient Temple of Debod

The Temple of Debod is an Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BCE. It was given as a gift to Spain by the Egyptian government as a thank you for helping them relocate monuments from the Aswan Dam site to avoid flooding (the Aswan Dam is the largest embankment dam in the world and was built across the Nile in the 1960s-70s). The temple was rebuilt in Spain between 1970-1972 and can now be found in Madrid’s Cuartel de la Montaña Park on the top of a hill. Although the inside of the temple is off-limits, you can still walk along the outside while also admiring panoramic city views. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-8pm. It’s closed on Mondays. Admission is free.

9. Spend time in the Barrio de La Latina

This upbeat neighborhood and its maze of narrow lanes and streets lined with tapas bars, restaurants, and cantinas is perfect for exploring on foot. If you’re here on Sunday, peruse the offerings at the El Rastro flea market (open 8am-3pm) and stuff your face at one of the many food stalls. Be sure to step inside the 18th-century San Francisco el Grand Basilica or the Moorish San Pedro el Real church, which originally dates to the 14th century.

10. See the Plaza de Cibeles

Plaza de Cibeles is a famous plaza in Madrid, located along the central Calle de Alcalá and adjacent to Paseo del Prado. Here you can find the Buenavista Palace, now the headquarters of the Spanish Army. Free guided tours are available, and you see the changing of the guard here on the last Friday of most months. There’s also a Neoclassical 18th-century fountain dedicated to the Roman goddess Cybele (the mistress of wild nature). There is an observation deck at the city hall building (called the Mirador del Palacio de Cibeles) so you can take in the view (closed on Mondays). Admission is 3 EUR.

11. Watch a Real Madrid soccer match

Madrid’s soccer team is one of the best, not only in Spain but in the world. If you want to see soccer (or football as they say in Europe) at its best, watch a game. The stadium is always full, holding over 81,000 people, and the crowds get wild. If you want to experience local life, this is a must. Tickets start at 35 EUR.

12. See the Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales

The Convent of Las Descalzas Reales (which means “Monastery of the Royal Barefooted”) was built in the 16th century and was the former palace of Emperor Charles V and Empress Isabel of Portugal. Unmarried princesses and “spinster” noblewomen came here to live as nuns and they brought any wealth they had accumulated with them. These days, just a few nuns look after the grounds and its relics, which include (alleged) pieces of Jesus’s cross and the bones of St. Sebastian, who died around 288 CE. A Spanish Property of Cultural Interest, inside the building, you can see many works of art. For example, the main staircase is decorated with murals that date to the 16th and 17th centuries. Admission is 6 EUR.

13. Stroll Around the Royal Botanical Garden

Spanning some 20 acres, these botanical gardens are home to more than 5,000 species of plants and trees spread out over four picturesque terraces. There are also greenhouses, sculptures, and some immaculately landscaped gardens here too. Founded in 1755, the park has lakes, labyrinths, fountains, and lots of flowers that make it a serene and beautiful place to relax. For plant history lovers, there is also a library and archives building that contains over 2,000 works and antique drawings related to botany. Admission is 4 EUR.

14. Explore the Museo de la Historia de Madrid

Madrid’s Museum of History opened in 1929 and sheds light on the city’s evolution from the 16th century (when it became the capital) to World War I. A walk thorugh the small museum helps you experience the city as it was throughout the ages through a series of exhibits, artifacts, maps, paintings, and sculptures, including works by famous artists like Francisco Goya. Admission is free, and you can see the entire museum in about an hour.

  For more information on other cities in Spain, check out these guides:

• Barcelona Travel Guide
• Granada Travel Guide
• Seville Travel Guide
• Valencia Travel Guide

Madrid Travel Costs

During the off-season, a bed in a room with 8 beds or more costs from 35-40 EUR per night while smaller rooms start at about 45-50 EUR. Free Wi-Fi is standard, and many hostels in the city also include free breakfast.

A basic private room for two with a private bathroom starts at 160 EUR per night during both peak season and off-season.

There are limited options for camping outside the city and prices are often more than hostels. Most charge around 20-30 EUR per night for a basic tent plot without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Budget 2-star hotels start at 125-150 EUR per night during peak season. Expect to pay 90-100 EUR per night in the off-season.

Airbnb type rentals is available for those wishing to have more privacy or kitchens to cook their own food. Private rooms start around 50 EUR per night though they average closer to 80 EUR. Entire homes/apartments average 180 EUR per night though you can find them for as little as 100 EUR if you book early.

That said, Airbnb has caused a lot of problems in Madrid as it has pushed locals out of the city center and authorities are clamping down on illegal listings. Be sure yours has listed its tax ID number and avoid staying with hosts who have multiple listings (they are corporate housing disguised as Airbnb).

Food – Spain has a strong food culture, where meals can last hours and dinner isn’t served until after 8pm. Each region in the country has its own local dishes and food culture, all of which you can find in Madrid as it’s something of a culinary hub. Be sure to try local favorites such patatas bravas (spicy potatoes), beef stew, tortilla de patatas (Spanish omelet), and, of course, churros.

You can get a meal of cheap tapas for around 15 EUR. If you want wine included, expect to spend at least 20 EUR. At nicer tapas places you should plan to spend around 30 EUR for a meal with a drink.

Like any city, Madrid has meals for any budget. Most sit down spots cost around 35 EUR for a mid-range dinner of a dish like paella with a drink. On the other end of the spectrum, cheap fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 8 EUR for a combo meal. Chinese food is around 9-12 EUR while pizza costs 10-15 EUR for a large.

Beer is 3–4 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-4 EUR, and a latte/cappuccino is around 2.50 EUR. Bottled water is about 1.50 EUR. (In general, tap water is safe to drink in Spain.)

If you buy your own food, expect to spend about 50-65 EUR for a week’s worth of groceries. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Madrid Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Madrid, expect to spend around 80 EUR per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, cooking most of your meals, limiting your drinking, taking public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like free walking tours and relaxing in the parks. Add 10-20 EUR per day to your budget if you plan on drinking or partying a lot.

On a mid-range budget of 205 EUR per day, you can stay in a private room in an Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out at inexpensive restaurants for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like cooking classes and museum visits.

On a “luxury” budget of 365 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a nicer hotel, eat out more often, drink with most meals, take more taxis, and do more guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Madrid Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Madrid can be an expensive city, especially if you indulge in the city’s famed food and drink. Accommodation prices have also risen a lot since COVID. Fortunately, you can trim your costs if you follow a few simple tips and tricks. Here are some general ways to save money in Madrid:

• Eat a large lunch – Lunch is much cheaper than dinner in Madrid. You can find “menu del día” which costs around 10-15 EUR for a large meal, typically consisting of an appetizer or salad, a main meat or fish dish, and a glass of wine or beer. Many also include a small dessert.
• Get the Madrid city card – The pass offers free public transportation and discounts to the Prado and other museums, as well as discounts to other popular tourist sites across the city. You can purchase a 24-hour card for 8.40 EUR, a 2-day card for 14.20 EUR, a 3-day card for 18.40 EUR, or a 4-day card for 22.60 EUR.
• Embrace free museum days – Lots of museums in Madrid are free on certain days or at certain times throughout the day. Others have free hours. For example, the Prado offers free entry Monday through Saturday between 6-8pm and Sundays between 5-7pm Be sure to check before you go because it’s far better to see one of the world’s best museums for free versus paying full price. You can ask at the tourism office as they hold a list there.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to save money on accommodation while also getting some insight from the locals. While hostels aren’t too expensive in the city, this is still the best way to save money (as your biggest budget item is typically accommodations) and connect with an insider who can share their expert tips and advice.
• Take a free walking tour – This is one of my favorite ways to get to know a new destination — and you can’t beat the price! New Europe Walking Tours and Cat’s Hostel Walking Tours are the two most popular free tours in the city. Please remember to tip your guide at the end of the tour.
• Grocery shop at the markets – Fresh food can be bought for cheap at some of the daily markets in the city. Check out the Mercado de la Paz or Mercado de Maravillas for fresh produce, meat, and even some prepared foods like Tortilla Española (Spanish omelet with potatoes). You’ll save a ton compared to the supermarket and will have a chance to choose from the most seasonal produce.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Madrid

Madrid has a ton of choices in a variety of neighborhoods and budgets. Here are the best hostels and budget hotels in Madrid:

• The Hat Hostel
• Sungate One
• Cats Hostel
• Petit Palace Puerta del Sol
• Hotel Indigo Madrid–Princesa

How to Get Around Madrid

Public buses run all over Madrid from 6:30am-11:30pm (with some night routes also), and they cost the same as the metro. You can also get 10-journey cards from 11.20 EUR depending on your zones.

Tourist passes are available for unlimited usage on all public transportation, ranging from 1-7 days. They cost 8.40-17 EUR for a daily pass or 35.40-70.80 for a weekly pass, depending on the zones you need. Most tourists will only need a Zone A pass.

Bicycle – Madrid has an electric bike-sharing program called BiciMAD. Rentals start at 2 EUR per hour, and then it’s 4 EUR per extra hour.

Taxis – Taxis start at 3.25 EUR and then 1.10 EUR per additional kilometer. Skip them if you can, as prices add up fast!

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Madrid but Cabify is the more popular option for residents.

When to Go to Madrid

Madrid is a year-round destination like the rest of Spain, but during peak season (June-August) crowds are heavy, prices are highest, and the heat is oppressive. Daily temperatures soar well above 30°C (86°F) in the summer, so plan for hot weather. While the city is lively, you’ll need to book everything in advance as places sell out.

Personally, I think the shoulder season is the best time to visit Madrid (April-May and September-October). Tourist sites are much less congested, and prices for accommodation are lower. Temperatures are moderate, with average temperatures hovering around 64°F (18°C), which makes walking around or enjoying outdoor hikes or cycling much more pleasant Just bring a raincoat in case there are brief showers. In spring, expect parks full of blossoms, and in fall, outdoor events are still going strong.

Visiting in the winter is also doable, though the days can be chilly. While the weather isn’t great, you’ll get much of the sights and museums to yourself, and prices will be lower. Expect daily highs around 10°C (50°F). If you go in December, you’ll see the main squares decorated with large Christmas displays and bakeries full of seasonal treats.

How to Stay Safe in Madrid

Madrid is a safe city. Violent crime is very rare, though pickpocketing and petty theft are common, especially in the major tourist areas and on the metro. You need to be really careful with your stuff and always watch your pockets when you’re out and about — especially while on public transportation. The pickpockets here (and across Spain in general) a very talented!

If you need a taxi, especially from the airport, be sure to use the official white city taxis with a red stripe (there are some rogue drivers who may try to scam you into believing they are licensed. The fixed rate from the airport to the city center is 33 EUR, and you should not be charged extra for luggage that fits within the trunk.

If you go out at night, only bring the money you need. Leave the rest in your accommodation just in case.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk around intoxicated at night, etc.). There are options for female-only hostels and some sites for female-only accommodation sharing. You can visit any one of the numerous solo female travel blogs for specific tips, as they will be able to provide advice.

Tourist scams are prevalent in the city, so keep an eye out for groups of kids trying to distract you, as they’re probably trying to take your money. Moreover, be wary of people offering to carry your luggage or take your photo, as they may try to charge you a large fee for the service. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for police, ambulance, and fire services.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Madrid Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Spain.

Madrid Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Spain travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 7 Best Hotels in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Seville

The Perfect 3 Day Granada Itinerary

The 7 Best Hostels in Seville

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

TRAVEL BLOG

Long Weekend: Madrid

Defiant, dynamic and dangerously good fun, Emma Weinbren picks out the very best of the Spanish capital, from the Buen Retiro to the Bernabeu, with plenty to savour in between.

If there’s one thing Madrid won’t tolerate, it’s being second best. Situated in the heart of the country, the city prides itself on being the pinnacle of Spanish culture, art and style. Madrid’s buzzing atmosphere, diverse cultural events and resplendent architecture – even the Post Office building is a work of art here – more than justify its status as Spain’s capital. Yet this beautiful, land-locked city is often shunned in favour of Barcelona’s coastal charms .

But Madrid isn’t the kind of city to take this lying down. In true Spanish defiance, Madrid has refused to pander to the mainstream tourist trail and instead celebrates its understated, authentic atmosphere. From its glorious Art Deco buildings, such as the Edificio Metropolis , to its picturesque cobbled streets, Madrid oozes an effortless style. There’s no need to boast about the capital’s world-class shopping, rich culture or relentlessly energetic nightlife, you’ll discover them when you get here. An easy-going and friendly city, Madrid casually invites visitors rather than demanding their attention. The Madrileños don’t feel the need to talk up their city: they prefer to sit back, enjoy the sun-soaked atmosphere and pity those who are missing out.

Best of the Beaten Track

The buzzing Gran Vía area is a Mecca for fun-loving residents and tourists alike. Madrid’s answer to Oxford Street, Piccadilly Circus and Broadway all rolled in to one, this is where you find the city’s main entertainment. Enjoy a grandiose musical at Plaza de Callao, treat yourself to a cocktail on the rooftop of the Círculo de Bellas Artes , or simply browse the shopping haven of Gran Vía and Puerta del Sol .

If all this leaves you thirsty for culture, then head to the Prado and Reina Sofía museums. Art-lovers flock to both in droves to ponder some of Europe’s most famous artwork. While the Prado showcases earlier artists such as El Greco and Goya, the Reina Sofía houses more contemporary work. Picasso’s Guernica is the museum’s top crowd-puller and visitors stop in their tracks to stare at this mind-boggling interpretation of the Spanish Civil War.

When your energy starts to flag, the Parque del Buen Retiro provides the perfect playground for a lazy afternoon in the sun. An oasis of greenery in Madrid’s hectic core, visitors come here to soak up the rays among the park’s balmy trees and landscape gardens. But the Retiro isn’t just a pretty face – cutting-edge artwork is always on display here and Madrid’s performers regularly grace the park’s picturesque paths. Although if it’s pure piece and quiet you’re after, the lake area is best avoided – a zealous drummer will usually spring to life here around lunchtime, with energetic sun-worshippers dancing to the beat.

Hipster’s Guide

Malasaña is the district of choice among the young and trendy Madrid crowd. The eclectic mix of cluttered cafés, offbeat bars and boutique shops is a haven for those seeking to escape the McDonald’s and Starbucks chains of the city centre. While the area may not be picture perfect – graffiti adorns many of Malasaña’s walls and shutters – its cobbled streets exude a quirky charm.

Calle Fuencarral is best for designer boutiques and independent outlets, while chic bars and cafés lie on the neighbouring side streets. If you’re in the mood for a more tranquil setting, the artistic Café Manuela invites passers-by to while away the afternoon – board games are even on hand for when the conversation runs dry.

Experience & Events

Nowhere knows how to throw a fiesta like Madrid, and every local holiday invites a hedonistic mix of celebratory events, processions and revelry. San Isidro is perhaps the best time to experience Madrid in full party mode, marking the annual homage to Madrid’s rural patron saint. Celebrations start on May 15th, as Madrileños don ceremonial dress and open air performances take place in every corner of the city. The Plaza Mayor is always particularly lively, often playing host to traditional dance and theatre productions.

The bustling El Rastro market is also a great way to experience a colourful slice of Madrid while picking up a thrifty deal. Traders have set up their stalls here every Sunday for nearly five centuries, attracting tourists and bargain hunters alike. Granted, it may take a while to find a gem among the maze of market stalls, but you’ll soon find haggling can get you everywhere.

Of course, no football fan comes to Madrid without paying a visit to Real Madrid’s legendary stadium . Football is a sacred sport here, but take care if you expect every local bar to be backing Real Madrid all the way. There’s a bitter rivalry between Madrid’s flagship team and the underdog Atlético club, said to be supported by the ‘real Madrileños’. Proudly displaying a ‘los blancos’ shirt can attract more abuse than you may expect.

If, on the other hand, you actively enjoy resolving tricky situations then how about upping the ante and travelling back in time to the 1930s to solve a grand art theft, or heading back to the Cold War to avert a false alarm that could trigger a nuclear war? We already reported on the Escape Rooms trend that started in Budapest , but here in the Spanish capital you can also test your grey matter at the likes of EXIT Madrid .

If slow travel is your thing, sign up for Spanish classes with Expanish Madrid and learn the lingo, in between exploring the city and its culture.

Pillow Talk

The Hotel de las Letras is one of Madrid’s most stylish haunts, designed around the unusual combination of luxury and literacy. While guests are treated to five-star surroundings, including a sleek rooftop bar overlooking Gran Vía, there’s also a relaxing library for when the jet-set lifestyle becomes too much. Despite the cheesy ‘Room mate’ gimmick – each hotel in the chain is named after an attractive slumber partner – the Mario hotel is perfect for reasonably-priced rooms in the central district. With a rooftop bar, modern decor and complimentary fruit at reception, you’ll still feel like you’re in the lap of luxury. And if you’re on a budget, Cat’s Hostel offers cheap and cheerful accommodation, with the best value bar in the city. Naturally the web-o-sphere dishes up some attractive apartment options too offering affordable digs in various central and hip districts.

Eating ham is practically a religion here in Madrid, with many tapas bars choosing to devote themselves to various types of jamón iberico . For a taste of authentic tapas without splashing the cash, head down to El Tigre , a sidrería (cider bar) where every drink is served with a selection of the day’s dishes. This is best visited during the week though – weekends can see crowds rushing in for the prospect of free chorizo and patatas bravas .

Meanwhile, Casa Lucio delivers top class Castillian food, serving traditional dishes such as cocido (Madrid-style stew).

And fear not if you’re vegetarian – Malasaña’s restaurants offer plenty of delicious alternatives to ham. Check out the extravagant Isla del Tesoro (‘Treasure Island’) for the best meat-free cuisine Madrid has to offer.

Madrid’s nightlife is famously energetic and continues well into the morning, when revellers hungrily grab a breakfast remedy of chocolate and churros. The central district of Sol is a hub of nocturnal activity, with many frequenting lively, no-frills hotspots such as El Sol .

Alternatively, stroll around Malasaña’s bars for a more chilled-out experience – the oriental Areia and authentically Spanish El 2 De are both local favourites.

And if it’s pure luxury you’re after, take a trip to the Baton Rouge for extravagant cocktails, or Kapital for a bling-filled dancefloor and R’n’B beats.

Getting There & Around

Easyjet and Ryanair fly to Madrid from a number of UK airports and other major cities around Europe, with traditional carriers such as BA, Iberia, Air Europa, Vueling and Spanair also operating routes. For getting from the airport into town check out Book Taxi Madrid to reserve a ride easily in advance online. Trenhotel also run overnight trains from Lisbon and Paris ; whilst fast, if not cheap, trains will also get you to and from Barcelona, Valencia and Sevilla within Spain .

The Time Out website is packed full of ways to enjoy the city, from the most authentic flamenco bars to the best way to spot a local bargain. What Madrid gives travellers a useful area by area guide to the city, while About Madrid has a number of practical tips and links.

Guidebooks-wise, Lonely Planet and Eyewitness guides give a great picture of the city, while Frommer’s Madrid Day by Day has plenty of ideas in a handy, pocket-sized format.

Depending on your nationality, a story about a Spanish mercenary out to kill two Englishmen in Madrid may or may not be comfortable reading – however the swashbuckling adventures of Captain Alatriste by Pérez-Reverte is the kind of romp Alexandre Dumas would be proud to pen.

Another hugely enjoyable epic is the Manuscript Found in Saragossa , a bizarre series of stories within stories set in Spain by the eccentric Polish Count Potocki.

Silver Screen

For films set in Madrid, look no further than Abre Los Ojos , the original Spanish (and needless to say infinitely better) version of Vanilla Sky .

Naturally, a fair share of Almodovar ‘s movies are also set in the capital, such as Women on the Edge of a Nervous Breakdown , which was nominated for best foreign film.

There’s a great list of Madrid-based films on this blog .

Soundtrack to the City

This article was first published in 2010, and updated on 18th February 2022.

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Current version updated on February 18th, 2022

First published on February 18th, 2022

Posted in City Guide with destination tags Madrid , Spain

7 thoughts on “ Long Weekend: Madrid ”

Hey, We have been checking out your blog and we must say that we are very impressed. It’s really great.

We have particularly been following your posts about Madrid as we visited there too. We have even written a guide, which you can check out here: http://hitchhikershandbook.com/country-guides/spain-2/madrid/ We would love your feedback and any tips, information, advice that you might have would be warmly appreciated.

Keep up the good work!

Ania & Jon

“Madrid’s nightlife is famously energetic and continues well into the morning”. Now this part of Madrid is I very love, the fun never stops! more about madrid here http://www.simplymadrid.org/

We are a very useful tool to prevent unwanted situations in Madrid. It´s a free app and you can also find help such us drugstores, police stations, currency offices, your embassy, and so on. All the information is available in your own language and you can share your experience with other travellers. HAVE A SAFE TRAVEL! https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.safetraveller

I love Madrid so much! Especially the food 🙂 We went there last year, joined a free walking tour (a very good one I must say) by a company called Madride the first day to get to know a little bit about Madrid history…and pretty much just wandered around and hanged out in bars the rest of our week there. I’d love to come there again!

Thanks for the amazing info!! Besos

So much to see in Madrid… There are things to do for all wishes and pockets. In particular the cultural scene.

Really interesting Blog! I am living in Madrid for couple months and I already feel like a local!

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Madrid Travel Blog

Against popular belief, Madrid is not only a large, anonymous town but has a million things to offer: the fascinating Madrid museums , tapas bars, history, and beautiful parks.

One of Europe’s great capitals, Madrid, is a city awash with fine art and culinary delights just waiting to be devoured.

For centuries Spanish royals bestowed riches on the best artists of the day that can be seen it the city’s three excellent museums, the Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Prado, and Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza.

If you take nothing else away from your visit to Madrid, it will be that the locals know how to enjoy life with the streets alive at night with the sounds of people having fun.

Architecturally about as beautiful as you can get, Madrid is an exciting, fun city that you will want to return to time after time.

Useful Travel Information About Madrid

⚘ Avoid  tourist traps  and get the customizable  “Spain Like a Local”  itinerary. – Get it  here ✈ Book cheap  flights  to Madrid with  Skyscanner ✔ Book  tours  in Madrid with  GetYourGuide ➳ Find the best  hotels  in Madrid with  Trivago ❖ Rent a  car  with the best discounts with  DiscoverCars ☘ Get the best  outdoor gear  (outlet) with  REI.com ✎ Never leave without  travel insurance . I get mine at  SafetyWing . It is easy to set up, cheap and reliable. $  Withdraw  money  without hidden fees, and avoid exchange rates with  Wise  (you’ll get a free card on top!)

Good to know before traveling to Madrid

Capital: Madrid

Currency: EUR

Power voltage and socket type(s): 230V, plug types F and C.

Official religion(s): 60% of the population is Roman Catholic, followed by atheist and agnostic citizens

Official language(s) and general knowledge of English: Spanish is the official language. English is semi-widely spoken.

Main tourist areas: La Latina, historical center, Malasaña, Gran Vía

Most famous places in Madrid

Museo nacional del prado.

Home to one of the world’s finest collections of European paintings dating from the 12th century to the early 20th century, the Prado houses the Spanish royal collection of art. Francisco Goya, Bosch, El Greco, Rubens, Titian, and Diego Velázquez are just a few famous artists whose works are on display. – Get tickets here

Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

The Centro de Arte Reina Sofía houses Madrid’s premier collection of contemporary art featuring works by Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Joan Miró. Located in room 206 on the second floor, you will find Picasso’s Guernica’s masterpiece, the most potent anti-war painting. – Get tickets here

Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza

While the Prado and Reina Sofía allow you to study a single artist’s works, the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza provides a more eclectic collection approach. By doing this, you are given a tour of how artist styles and genres have evolved over the centuries. – Get tickets here

Plaza Mayor

If Madrid were the hub of a spoke reaching out to every corner of Spain, its heart would be the beautiful and impressive Plaza Mayor. A vast open place in the center of the city surrounded by imposing buildings, the Plaza Mayor is full of historical tales and vibrant street life.

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

Home to one of Spain’s two great football teams, Real Madrid, the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, is one of the world’s most famous football venues. A tour of the stadium and a visit to the impressive trophy room should be on every visitor’s list of things to see and do. – Get tickets here

Accommodation in Madrid

Being one of Europe’s great capital’s Madrid gets over six million visitors per year, which means that the city has plenty of places to stay.

Most of Madrid’s accommodation can be found in the center of the town with a sufficient amount of design-conscious, medium-priced hotels to select from.

If you would like to stay in Madrid’s finest establishments, visit on the weekend when business travelers have gone, and they have special offers.

When it comes to an inexpensive place to stay, hostels are the way to go. No longer the bare bones room and a shower you found back in the ’70s, today’s hostels are hip fun places not reserved exclusively for backpackers.

Located between many of Madrid’s most popular attractions and tapas bars, the OK Hotel offers minimalistic modern dorms and private rooms with beds starting from 17€ per night. If you want your own personal space, prices start from 50€ per night. – Check rates here

Housed in a historical building or sleek and contemporary, Madrid offers a plethora of mid-range hotels of which to choose from. Housed in a former industrial building, the Hotel Atlantico **** is a stunning light-filled hotel popular with fashion and media workers.

Located in the heart of Gran Via this 34-room gem is the perfect place for a weekend getaway. Prices at the Hotel Atlantico start from 63€ per night. – Check rates here

While London has the Ritz and Paris the George V, Madrid is home to the Hotel Wellington ***** .

Fans of old school glamour will fall in love with the Hotel Wellington and its luxurious rooms and rooftop garden. Not only does the Hotel Wellington occupy a great location, but it also has a Michelin-starred restaurant and an A-list guest list that included Ernest Hemmingway and Graham Greene. Prices at the Wellington start from 170€ per night. – Check rates here

Other Accommodation Options:

In recent years, home share and apartment rentals have become extremely popular with families and people traveling in groups. By staying in an apartment, it not only gives you added privacy but the option of cooking meals rather than eating out.

The best place to look for a private place to stay in Madrid is on websites like Airbnb. – Check AirBnBs here

Do I need a visa to travel to Madrid?

Fast-Track:  Get your Spain Visa in advance

As a part of Spain, European Union citizens are free to enter and reside in Madrid. Citizens of the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa and are allowed to stay in Spain for up to 90 days.

Citizens of all other countries should check with their nearest Spanish Embassy or Consulate before traveling to Madrid.

Best time to visit Madrid

During the summer, Madrid can be very hot and especially so in August, prompting many businesses to close and go on vacation.

If you don’t mind drab weather and want to visit Madrid for its culture, the winter months are good as the hotels reduce their rates.

Overall though, the best time to visit Madrid is in the spring and fall when the temperatures are near perfect.

Transportation in Madrid

Madrid has an excellent public transport system, including a metro with lines from the southern suburbs stretching as far as Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) in the north. Buses are also an option as are metered taxis found at ranks or hailed on the street.

How to get to Madrid

Flight: Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) in the north of the city has flights arriving and departing from every part of the globe. Spain’s national flag carrier Iberia is based at Terminal 4. – Check tickets here

Train: Spain has an excellent high-speed rail network that fans out like the spokes of a bicycle wheel, of which Madrid is the hub. – Get tickets here

Car: Roads and motorways in Spain are excellent and easily navigated. If you plan to drive around in Madrid, though, it can be like driving in rush hour no matter what time of day.

How to get around in Madrid

Car: It is not recommended as it is always busy and hard to find a place to park. If you need to get somewhere by car, take a taxi. – Check taxis here

Public Transport: You can get to nearly everywhere in Madrid by metro or bus.

Best Food in Madrid

A country with more bars than anywhere else, eating out Madrid’s options can be a little overwhelming. As the country’s capital, Madrid has food found in every region of Spain plus some dishes that are typical of the city.

Read: Typical food to eat in Madrid

Typical food in Madrid:

Cocido madrileño.

Once the winter arrives, this typically Spanish pork stew can be found in every local restaurant. Containing vegetables, chickpeas, chorizo sausage, and pork, the dish is served in two or three courses with the broth being served first.

Callos a la Madrileña

Another dish found in winter is Callos a la Madrileña, smokey, savory paprika infused stew of tripe chorizo and blood sausage. Recipes for the dish date back to the 16th century, making it a Madrid winter favorite.

A staple of Spanish cuisine, the humble Spanish omelet made with eggs, potatoes, and onions can be found in every bar.

While not from Madrid but the surrounding villages, suckling pig, is a traditional delicacy that Madrileños cannot get enough of. Roasted whole in the oven, Spaniards have been devouring. Cochinillo since the Middle Ages.

Like doughnuts but made into strips rather than rings, Chuurs are deep-fried and then dipped in a creamy hot chocolate. Churros are an early morning favorite after a night on the town. – Read about Spanish snacks here

Best Things to do in Madrid for Outdoor travelers

While most people visit Madrid for art, architecture, and food, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy both within the city and the surrounding countryside.

As cities become more bicycle-friendly, Madrid has not been left behind building multiple bike paths throughout the city. Renting a bike from one of the many bike hire shops is a great way to see all Madrid’s plaza’s, parks, and emblematic buildings all in one day.

Parque Del Retiro

Belonging to the Spanish monarch until the late 19th century, the Parque Del Retiro is a 350-acre green space not far from the Prado Museum. Whether you pack a picnic or rent a rowboat on the park’s lake, the Parque Del Retiro is a lovely place to kick back and relax.

Madrid Polo Club

Learn all about the sport of polo and take a private lesson at the Madrid Polo Club. Depending upon your equestrian level, the tasks can be tailored to suit your experience.

Paragliding

Easy and fun to do after a few lessons and a safety briefing, paragliding in the rugged Sierra de Guadarrama National Park should be on everyone’s list. Located just an hour’s drive from Madrid’s center, the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park is the 5th largest of Spain’s protected areas.

Canyoning is an excellent way of getting back to nature in a fun and exciting way. For wild water swimming, rappelling, and scrambling your way through the cliffs and gorges, head to the town of Cuenca two and a half hours from Madrid. Famous for its hanging houses, Cuenca is also where you will find the Júcar River and your canyoning adventure.

Nobody would ever use the words skiing and Madrid in the same sentence, yet it is possible to visit the Spanish capital and spend a day skiing. Located 52km (32 miles) outside Madrid, the tiny resort of Navacerrada is where Madrileños hit the slopes. Try and avoid going on the weekend as it gets jam-packed.

Rock Climbing and Hiking

Located 50 kilometers ( 30 miles) from Madrid, La Pedriza is a massive field of strangely eroded granitic rocks with nearly 1,000 marked rock climbing routes. Hiking in the area is extremely popular also with plenty of mountain hikes through meadows and streams.

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Urban Planning and Travel Blog

3 days in Madrid

Travel Blog Last Updated · Dec 6th, 2022 [post_author_posts_link] · [post_comments before=""] -->

Welcome to this guide on 3 days in Madrid.

If you have limited time in the city this guide will show some of Madrid’s tourist attractions and allow you to get acquainted with Spanish culture.

As well as transporting yourself around Madrid on foot, using the city bikes and taxis, you can join onto tours that will give you chance to see some of the attractions on the outskirts.

Table of Contents

3 Days in Madrid

The capital of Spain, Madrid is one of the most popular destinations to visit in Spain, and one of the most popular city breaks in all of Europe.

Generally Madrid is safe for tourists and there are loads of things to do in the city and surrounding region. We recommend a minimum of three days to explore the city, see the sights, as well as take in the culture.

Most likely you will have already heard about some of the destinations, however, we have also included some lesser-known gems, as well as some amazing places to visit outside of the city.

Is Madrid Worth Visiting?

Madrid is a city worth visiting for its vibrant energy.

The capital city of Spain is a known to be a place that never sleeps and it’s particularly famous for its nightlife.

The range of things you can see and experience is really endless.

How about visiting world-famous museums and art hubs like El Prado and Reina Sofia , or admiring the beauty of its plazas and exploring its charming culture?

Here you can taste some of the best Spanish food and sip delicious red wines. For an authentic experience try the popular tapas!

Is 3 days enough to see Madrid?

If you have the chance to spend 3 days in Madrid, you’ll be able to cover some of the best attractions during your stay.

You might also be able to add two or three of ‘less touristic’ sights to your itinerary, if you plan your time wisely.

In 3 days you should definitely visit El Prado and Reina Sofia Museum, the Palacio Real and Puerta del Sol and stroll around the El Retiro Park.

Best Time to Visit Madrid

Annual weather in Madrid can be best described as seasonal, with hot summers and cool winters.

The summer season in Madrid runs from June until September, where the days are a lot longer compared to the winter.

The average temperature during these months hovers around 72°F. The hottest months on average to visit are July and August with averages of 77°F, with highs of up to 92°F.

Rainfall is quite low during these months, with between 3-6 days of rain for each month.

As well as being the hottest, July and August are also the driest months, with on average 10mm falling throughout each respectively.

During the summer on your 3 days in Madrid make sure that you get to taste the city through this 2.5 hrs tour with wine and tapas that allow you to taste the best of each kind from some Madrid’s oldest bars.

The winter season in contrast is a lot colder, running from December until February. The average temperatures during these months are a chilly 42-45°F, with lows of 34°F sometimes occurring in January.

High temperatures for these months range from 50-54°F. Rainfall is a lot higher during these months, with an average of 50mm falling in December, and 40mm in both January and February.

🔒 Get a FREE travel insurance quote from SafetyWing to get timely support when it comes to protecting your travels in Madrid.

Madrid 3 day itinerary

Below we have outlined our custom 3 day itinerary for Madrid.

This includes some of the top rated attractions, and also a chance to get a closer insight into Spanish culture in closeby towns such as Sigüenza.

Day 1 Madrid:

On our first day in Madrid, we will head to the Royal Palace and marvel at the impressive size and abundance of wealth throughout the complex.

After the visit, we then head to Plaza Mayor in order to get some lunch from one of the local restaurants close to the square, and also to walk along and get some impressive photos of the sprawling courtyard.

For the mid-afternoon, skip the line with this Prado Museum direct entrance ticket in order to witness the legendary collection of paintings and sculpture The evening is then free to use as you please.

For a place to stay Barceló Emperatriz is one of the most prestige hotels that’d be perfect for a night’s stay if you can manage to get a room.

Day 2 Madrid

We wake up early on our 2nd and head to the Chamartin train station to catch the train to Sigüenza. The train takes an hour and a half to arrive.

Once in Sigüenza, take the time to visit the castle and take in the impressive views of the scenery from above.

You can then have lunch in the historic center, before then visiting the impressive Cathedral. After, we then head back to Madrid at a convenient time for the evening.

Aim to stay central in a cool area such as Puerta del sol. We liked Room Mate Alba which is perfect for when looking for a sustainable property.

Day 3 Madrid

We will also wake up early on our third day, and first head to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. You will need around 2 hours for the tour, and to walk around the inside of the pitch and dressing rooms.

After getting a late breakfast or early lunch, we then head to the Atocha Train Station and head to Toledo, which takes around 30 minutes.

Once here, we then have the afternoon to explore the ancient fortified city, starting with the Puerta del Sol gate, and then visiting the Catedral Primera after.

You can then, catch the train back and head to your hotel to collect your luggage. When on a more modest budget we recommend you try places such as Toc Hostel who will even hold your luggage for you (if need be).

Things to Do in Madrid

With a huge list of things to do in Madrid let’s take a look at some popular activities that you won’t want to miss during your visit:

Royal Palace

The official residence of the Spanish Royal family is also the largest functioning palace in all of Europe. It contains a grand total of 3418 rooms and over 135,000 m2 of floor space.

The Royal Palace is known for its grand wealth and decorations, featuring paintings from artists such as Francisco de Goya and Velázquez.

With this skip the line ticket and guided tour , you can conveniently enter the vicinity filled with grand wealth and decorations, featuring paintings from artists such as Francisco de Goya and Velázquez.

With over 7600 paintings and over 1000 sculptures, this museum is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the World.

Also known as El Museo Nacional del Prado, this museum of national art is widely considered to have one of the best collections of European Art, including the Spanish Royal Collection.

Plaza de Mayor

This plaza is one of the biggest open spaces to walk around and relax in the heart of Madrid.

Dating back to the 15th Century, the plaza features many beautiful sights, including the Casa de la Panadería as well as the King Philip III statue, which was built and erected in 1616.

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

The stadium of Real Madrid was built in 1947 and is one of the most historically important in the World.

Inside they offer a stadium tour, where you can learn about the history of Real Madrid as well as take some impressive photos from the pitchside.

Why not experience all this with a Bernabéu Stadium tour and even get access to exclusive areas of the Stadium for a real-life close up?

Day Trips From Madrid

As with most European cities doing a day trip gives you chance to see much more than you usually would within a shorter time frame.

This fortified city is located roughly 50km South of Madrid and is one of the most popular day trips to take in the region.

Known as the “City of Three Cultures”, Toledo has a rich history, with influence from the Muslims, Christians, and Jews.

Some of the best things to see here include the imposing Catedral Primera, as well as the Puerta del Sol, a giant stone gate protecting the North of the city.

You can explore the most interesting parts of Toledo with a local on a day tour to learn more about the offerings of this beautiful city.

This ancient city is located roughly 2 hours North of Madrid and is one of the most beautiful yet underrated destinations to visit in the region.

The Cathedral is a must visit, made of Ashlar Stone with two giant towers on either side.

The picturesque Sigüenza Castle is another great destination to visit, with its interior dating back as early as the 5th Century.

Madrid Itinerary Map

See the map below to accompany our 3 days in Madrid itinerary:

Madrid Travel Tips

• The best time to visit Madrid is in the summer months of July and August, which offer consistently hot weather and little rainfall.
• For a first-timer, or for the best overall area, we recommend staying in the Sol neighborhood.
• Remember to get your FREE travel insurance quote from SafetyWing to receive fully comprehensive support when it comes to unforeseen travel complications.
• Using the extensive metro (over 12 lines) is the most affordable way of exploring Madrid, and it’s very safe to use as well.
• We like to carry a Pacsafe (or an equivalent style backpack) when exploring capital cities like Madrid to help conceal any valuables.
• If you are visiting during the weekend, be sure to head to the neighborhood of La Latina, where you can try out many tapas dished from the region, and also experience some of Madrid’s best nightlife.

Now you have some great ideas of how to spend 3 days in Madrid by spending your time in this beautiful city.

If you wish to spend more time in the city but are unsure, we suggest you read this guide on how many days in Madrid to help you decide.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning, if you click through and make a purchase or sign up for a program, we may earn a commission. This is at no additional cost to you.

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One Day in Madrid: What to See, Itinerary, Map & Tips

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 15, 2024

Are you thinking of visiting Madrid for 1 day and wondering what are the best things to do in such a short time and how to plan your time?

In this guide, we share suggestions on how to spend one day in Madrid, Spain . Where to go, what to see, and how to plan it all so that you can make the most of your day trip to Spain’s capital city.

In addition, we also include some practical travel tips and a map of the main attractions that will help you navigate this extraordinary city. Our 1-day itinerary is designed for anyone who is strapped for time and wants to make the most of their day in Madrid. Find out!

Good to know: This article was published with the help of a fellow travel blogger Daniel James from Layer Culture . Daniel has been to Madrid many times, exploring not just the best-known tourist attractions, but also many places off-the-beaten-track. In this guide, he shares the very best places and experiences that you absolutely shouldn’t miss on your first visit to Madrid. Take a look!

READ ALSO: Toledo Day Trip from Madrid (must-do!)

With such a rich history, Madrid is full to the brim with historic buildings, museums, and beautiful parks. It’s also home to some of the best art galleries in the world. Furthermore, no visit to Madrid would be complete without tasting some of Spain’s culinary delights.

But aside from Spain’s most delicious food and the long list of museums holding some of the world’s renowned art masterpieces, what else is waiting for you? And how to decide which places are worth your time the most if you only have a day in Madrid?

Below, you can find our list of the VERY BEST places to see and things to do in Madrid in one day!

Good to know: Madrid city center is quite walkable, so you can visit everything we mention here on foot. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes!

If you don’t like to walk the whole day, you can also opt for a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus . Or join the popular Segway tours to visit some places, such as e.g. Retiro Park. Bike and e-bike tours are also good options with just a day in Madrid.

Further below, you’ll also find a short overview of the suggested 1-day Madrid itinerary . And here is a map of all the places mentioned in our guide . It will give you a better idea of where everything is and help you better plan your day in Madrid.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Here’s what you can see and do in Madrid in one day:

Puerta del Sol

To arrive in Madrid and not pass through the Puerto del Sol area would be almost impossible. Not only is this the busiest square in the city, but it is also the one place where something will catch your eye in every direction that you look.

Puerta del Sol is a place you definitely must see, so we suggest starting your day in Madrid here!

In the olden days, Puerta del Sol was a crucial meeting point for people arriving from different regions of Spain. Today, it’s home to one of Madrid’s busiest metro stations and is still one of the most popular meeting places in the city.

This bustling city square is surrounded by historic buildings, and you’ll find several fountains and impressive statues here as well. Street artists, musicians, and entertainers can be found here from the early hours until late at night. There’s always so much going on!

There are many shops, restaurants, and cafes scattered around the outskirts of this square. So it’s a good place to pick up some gifts or souvenirs, grab a coffee, or get breakfast. Feeling peckish? Get in line at La Mallorquina for one of the sought-after pastries located in the western corner of the square.

TIP: If you get the chance, try to get a picture of Spain’s Kilometer 0 , the starting point for all major roads in the country. It can be found on the ground in front of the Clocktower building. This plaque marks the geographical center of Spain and is a popular landmark in the capital.

Also, don’t miss the statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree ( El Oso y el Madroño). This bear snuggling a strawberry tree is the symbol of Madrid and a popular meeting spot for locals.

Good to know: Puerta del Sol is also the meeting point for many city tours. So if you want to make the most of your day in Madrid and see the main highlights of the city with a local guide, it’s likely that you’ll start your visit here as well.

El Retiro Park

If looking for a more local experience in Madrid, definitely go for a stroll around El Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro) . You could easily spend several hours exploring all that is on offer here! But even if you just have an hour, it’s well worth it.

Buen Retiro Park is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Furthermore, it’s close to the best museums so it can fit in your 1-day itinerary quite well. It’s a beautiful and huge park with impressive statues, boats, topiaries, live music, and even roaming peacocks. Don’t miss the Crystal Palace ( Palacio de Cristal )!

El Retiro Park is the ideal place for art and history lovers too. The Fountain of the Fallen Angel ( Fuente del Ángel Caído ) is a must-see masterpiece made from bronze and stone. The Monument to Alfonso XII and the central pond (Estanque Grande del Retiro ) are the highlights as well.

There are many shaded areas and the park is a popular place for a picnic. You’ll find various playgrounds as well, so it’s a good place to check out if visiting Madrid with kids.

PRO TIP: El Retiro Park is very big! So with just one day in Madrid, you may want to opt for a Segway or a bike tour to visit here. This popular segway tour allows you to explore the park and see many other nice places in the city center in just 1.5 hours. This 3-hour bike tour covers most of the main landmarks in Madrid.

Taking a tour like that will not only save you time but also quite some walking. However, I recommend that you first decide on what you want to see and do in the city before you commit to any tours.

TIP: With one day in Madrid, w e suggest that you visit one of the city’s best museums in the morning. We recommend either Prado Museum or Reina Sofia Museum. Be sure to get your tickets in advance and be there at 10 AM when the museums open! Plan at least 2 hours for one museum (you could easily spend half a day in each). More info about the two museums below.

If you are an art lover and absolutely want to visit two or even three museums (Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum) in one day, then go with a local guide. They’ll be able to guide you to all the most famous artworks in the shortest possible time. Here you can find some tours that combine several museums in Madrid .

Prado Museum…. or

The Prado Museum ( Museo Nacional del Prado ), is the main art museum in Madrid. This museum contains famous masterpieces from Diego Velazquez, Francisco Goya, and Raphael, just to name a few.

Many critics say that this is one of the greatest art museums in the world and it should be very high on any Spain bucket list ! So if you only have the time to visit one museum in Madrid, we recommend the Prado Museum.

Like most of the landmarks suggested in this guide, the museum is easily accessible from Puerta del Sol on foot. It’s also just near El Retiro Park. If you arrive around the opening time, you may be able to avoid some of the larger midday crowds. Be sure to get tickets in advance as it will help you save precious time!

Practical info: The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM. On Sundays and holidays, it closes at 5 PM. Do not carry any luggage or backpacks here as they are not allowed inside. Photos inside are not permitted either. For more practical info, please check the museum website .

Good to know: Just like most other museums in Madrid, Prado Museum offers free access in the evening. Free entrance is from 6 to 8 PM between Monday and Saturday and from 3 to 5 PM on Sundays. But with just one day in Madrid, it’s probably better to focus on what you really want to see and the best way to do it all, rather than change your whole itinerary for free access here or there…

… or Reina Sofia Museum

Reina Sofia Museum ( Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía ) is named after Spain’s Queen Sofia and is dedicated solely to Spanish art. Here, you can expect to see the works of some of Spain’s most prized talent. It’s a more modern art museum, focusing on 20th-century art.

Some of the most famous works are those by Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí. Many people visit here with the specific purpose of seeing the Guernica masterpiece by Picasso. Bear in mind, though, that this is one of the most visited art museums in the world. So you can expect an army of tourists equipped with cameras all waiting to capture the exact same photographs.

The artwork you’ll find in this museum is truly captivating, to say the least. Some works depict the horrors of fascism and civil war, and it’s a very moving visit.

However, with just a day in Madrid, you’ll have to be selective about where you spend your time. So unless you have a particular interest in 20th-century art, consider Prado Museum instead. As you will see below, there are so many other interesting places to see in Madrid!

Practical information: Reina Sofia Museum is open every day from 10 AM to 8 PM, except Tuesdays and some public holidays. On Sundays, it closes at 2.30 PM. Also for this museum, it’s best to get tickets in advance . If you visit from 6 PM (or from 1.30 PM on Sunday), you can also enter the museum for FREE. For more information, please check the official website .

Lunch at Mercado de la Cebada

For lunch, we recommend heading to Mercado de la Cebada . It’s about 30 minutes walk from El Retiro, back in the city center where you started in the morning.

Located in the Latina neighborhood , this food market is one the most colorful markets to visit in Madrid. Inside you’ll find open stalls offering local cuisine as well as beer and wine, all sold at very competitive prices.

Some of the stalls will offer you food samples to try. This is where some basic Spanish skills can take you a long way when speaking with the vendors (see our tips for learning Spanish to learn a few words before your visit).

Mercado la Cebada is a local market and not a tourist trap. So even if you arrive here during peak time, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by just how tranquil everything is. And although you’ll mostly see fruits, vegetables, meat, and fish to take home, there are also quite a few vendors selling ready-to-eat foods.

To me, this is the ideal lunchtime spot in Madrid! It’s also a chance to explore a bit of the La Latina neighborhood . If you want to get a more local food experience whilst spending a short time in the city, this would be my top pick. Alternatively, if you rather sit down at a restaurant table, head to the nearby Plaza Mayor – see below.

Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is a must-see place for travelers of all ages and backgrounds. With just a short walk up from the previously mentioned Puerta del Sol, this extraordinary town square was once the center of old Madrid. In contrast to the wide avenues and boulevards in other parts of town, this area is characterized by narrower streets.

Plaza Mayor means Main Square in English. As the name suggests, this is indeed one of the main town squares in Madrid and a place you shouldn’t miss on any visit. It’s a popular place buzzing with activity at any time of the day (and also great at night). You’re also likely to encounter some elaborate street performers with whom you can get a photo as a souvenir.

The period architecture here is stunning. Stand in the middle of this gigantic historic square and enjoy the epic views around you. You can’t miss the statue of Philip III . It was during his reign that the square was built at the beginning of the 17th century.

TIP: Under the many covered archways, you’ll find lots of cafes and restaurants. If you haven’t had lunch yet, look for the menu of the day, which is always great value for money. Or just grab a coffee or a glass of sangria, and watch the world go by.

Almudena Cathedral

Almudena Cathedral (Catedral de la Almudena) is one of the main landmarks of Madrid. So even on a short day trip to Madrid, it’s worth checking it out. This huge building is absolutely impressive, both on the outside as well as on the inside.

With similar historic background, this Cathedral has a history comparable to that of Gaudi’s masterpiece in Barcelona – La Sagrada Familia. It’s not nearly as old as most of the cathedrals you’ll find in other European capital cities. The works on the church have started in 1883, the facade was finished in 1960, and the cathedral was finally completed in 1993.

You can expect to see everything from gorgeous paintings, to beautiful stained glass windows, elegant robes, and intricately painted ceilings. If you go with a tour, you’ll also get to access the roof and will be able to see the incredible views over Madrid.

Be prepared to walk around in discovery mode – the interior of the Cathedral is stunning! Also, remember to pick up one of the leaflets as they contain a wealth of translated information for English speakers.

Good to know: The Cathedral is open daily, from 9 AM to 8.30 PM (in July and August – from 10 AM to 9 PM). You can visit it free of charge (donations welcome). However, the Museum & Dome visit is only possible from Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 2.30 PM and requires a ticket.

TIP: If you are planning to visit the museum, definitely check their website and get your tickets in advance. Although, with just a day in Madrid, it might be difficult to squeeze it all in, especially because of the limited opening hours. So as a minimum, just visit the church. Count at least half an hour for a visit inside.

Royal Palace of Madrid

The Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real de Madrid) is a place that should be on everyone’s list of things to see in Madrid. While it is an official Heads of State residence, the King of Spain and the royal family do not actually live here.

What makes the Royal Palace of Madrid unique is that you can actually visit it as it’s open to the public. Most other official royal palaces in the world can’t be visited at all. Some others only open to the public for a very limited period of time when the Monarchs are on their yearly summer holidays (this is the case with Buckingham Palace in London and the Royal Palace in Brussels ).

With 3,418 rooms, this is the largest royal palace in Western Europe. You can see grand chambers, stunning chandeliers, beautiful tapestries, impressive works of art, rare musical instruments, and so much more. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Madrid, so do not miss it!

Every room inside the palace is elegantly decorated and furnished to perfection. You will find that each room has description notes so you can get extra information about the individual pieces. However, we recommend either taking an audio guide (aka tablet tour) or joining a guided tour . It’s quite overwhelming otherwise.

TIP: On Wednesdays and Saturdays, from 11 AM to 2 PM, you can see the Changing of the Guard ceremony (FREE). In the summer months (mid-June to mid-September), it’s from 10 AM to noon.

Also the nearby Sabatini Gardens offer nice views of the Palace.

Practical information: The Royal Palace is open for visits daily except for some public holidays. From Monday to Saturday, you can visit from 10 AM to 6 PM (in summer to 7 PM), and on Sunday – from 10 AM to 4 PM. Monday to Thursday, from 4 PM, you can visit the Palace free of charge.

PRO TIP: Also here, you should pre-purchase tickets to save precious time. For more information, please check the official website .

Plaza de España

If you are already in this neighborhood, you can’t really miss Plaza de España . This is yet another town square with a little park, a fountain, and Monumento Cervantes .

The statue to Miguel de Cervantes and a sculpture to his most famous book characters Don Quixote and Sancho Panza are not to be missed.

A visit here doesn’t require much of your time. And since you’re passing by anyway, it’s well worth a few minutes of your time.

Sunset at the Temple of Debod

There’s probably no better place to end your 1-day Madrid sightseeing itinerary than at the Temple of Debod .

The Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple and one of the best places for sunset in Madrid. Thanks to UNESCO, this temple dating to the 2nd century BC was saved from its previous location and rebuilt in the center of Madrid.

Located on the end of Gran Vía Street , the park with the temple is just a few minutes’ walk from the Royal Palace.

There is much more to it than what meets the eye! Make sure you look out for the barely visible hieroglyphics that are still intact. There is also a small museum (free) inside where you can discover more about this ancient Egyptian landmark and its rich history. But if it’s very busy, don’t feel that you are missing out a lot if you can’t visit inside.

TIP: At the nearby park, there is a nice vantage point from which you can get photographic views of Palacio Real .

It is also worth noting that there is another park nearby with a playground. It for may come in handy at the end of a tiring day for families exploring Madrid with children.

Food & Drinks in the Malasaña Neighborhood

With just a day in Madrid, it’s normal to focus on the most famous landmarks and attractions in the city. However, if you still have some time and energy at the end of the day, definitely head to the Malasaña neighborhood for drinks and dinner!

Known by many as Madrid’s hippest neighborhood, this is also one of my personal favorite places in the city. This is where I always stay when I visit Madrid. You’ll be amazed at all that is going on in this area!

Here you can experience the vibrant youth culture and thriving nightlife scene. This is where people party like no other place, so you can expect to feel the buzz of street life during the early evenings right through into the early hours of the morning.

You’ll also find some of the most authentic Spanish bars and restaurants here. Malasaña is the perfect place to come for drinks or dinner.

TIP: Look out for a small restaurant Ribeira do Miño which specializes in Galician food. A must for those who wish to try some inexpensive local cuisine and who are not yet familiar with this region of northern Spain! We indicated it on our map among all the other recommendations in this guide.

Alternative Suggestions for Your Evening in Madrid

If you want to get the absolute most out of your 1-day visit to Madrid, you may want to opt for a food & wine tour in the evening. It’s a nice way to get to know the city with a local, get off the beaten path, and try some traditional food and drinks typical to the region. You can find some nice food tours here .

Alternatively, you may want to watch a Flamenco show . This is such a typical Spanish experience and will make your day in Madrid even more special. Furthermore, some of these shows are at the local cafés and food is included, so you can easily combine this with dinner. You can find a selection of some of the best Flamenco shows in Madrid here .

However, if you are visiting the Andalusia region in southern Spain as well, then skip flamenco in Madrid and see a show in the region where it originated. Here you can read about the best flamenco shows in Seville .

Otherwise, just go for a walk in the city . Many buildings are beautifully lit in the evening! The famous Gran Vía Street is well worth checking out. Plaza de la Cibeles is another impressive landmark that you could try to see if your feet are still not too sore from all the walking…

Madrid One Day Itinerary

Based on the suggestions above, here is an overview of how your 1-day itinerary in Madrid could look like:

• 8 AM. Start your day in Puerta del Sol . Grab a croissant from La Mallorquina for breakfast or sit down at one of the other breakfast spots. Alternatively, you can pick up a good coffee from Brown Bear Bakery as you walk to El Retiro Park.
• Head over to El Retiro Park on foot or via metro and spend an hour exploring. If you take a small detour, you could also pass the impressive Cybele Palace on your way there.
• 10 AM. Visit either Prado Museum or Reina Sofia Museum. Booking your tickets in advance is essential!
• By 1 PM navigate back towards the city center and head to Mercado de la Cebada for delicious local lunchtime snacks. Even if you decide not to eat here, it’s a nice local market to visit.
• Walk to Plaza Mayor . If you haven’t had lunch yet, see what menu del dia you can find for lunch at one of the restaurants here . Keep in mind that dining times are very different in Spain! So it’s normal to have lunch at around 2-3 PM, and most restaurants are only open for dinner at 8 PM.
• 3.30 PM Almudena Cathedral . If you want to visit the museum and the dome, you’ll have to get here earlier, so keep that in mind when planning your day.
• A short walk from the Cathedral is Palacio Real de Madrid . If you come here after 4 PM (Monday to Thursday), you can even visit for free. However, check the website anyway to see if you don’t have to reserve a spot.
• Stop at Sabatini Gardens and/or Plaza de España or come here after visiting Temple of Debod.
• Sunset – Temple of Debod . This place is just a short 10-minute walk from the Royal Palace. However, since sunset times differ depending on the time of the year you visit, you’ll have to check online when the sunset time is and plan accordingly if you absolutely want to be here at sunset. For example, in April, the sunset is at around 8.30-9 PM, in June or July – 9.30-10 PM, and in December – at around 5.45 PM. Huge difference!
• Follow at least a part of Gran Vía – one of the main streets in Madrid – as you walk back to the old town or to the Malasaña neighborhood.
• Dinner in the Malasaña neighborhood. Depending on the time of the year when you visit, you may want to have dinner first before heading for sunset views. Alternatively, go on a local food tour or attend a flamenco show and get the most out of your day in Madrid!
• If you have some time left, head back to the Puerta del Sol to get a taste of the city center during the evening hours. Or walk to Plaza de la Cibeles – it’s absolutely stunning when lit at night.

Some Practical Tips

The city of Madrid is far too big to be able to see everything in just one day. The good news is that by sticking to an itinerary or at least a rough plan, you can be sure to cover all the ‘musts’, while still leaving some room for unexpected discoveries.

Of course, you don’t have to visit everything we recommended. If you are not interested in museums, skip that and have a more relaxing day. If you don’t care about the parks, you can just focus on the other places. But at least now you know what is worth your time the most and how you could structure your day in order to see it all.

Here are some additional tips for visiting Madrid:

• Consider doing walking/ biking/ Segway tours to make the most of your day in Madrid. Many tours leave from Puerta del Sol.
• Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be walking a lot!
• Use the Metro system to cover big distances in the city. This is a huge time saver and will allow you to see more landmarks in Madrid in a shorter space of time. Alternatively, opt for HoHo buses .
• Watch your personal belongings . Places such as Puerta del Sol are a pickpockets paradise. Be sure to conceal any valuables you may have and try not to leave any bags lying around to avoid attracting thieves.
• Learning some basic Spanish conversation will go a long way in getting things done quicker. Spanish is not necessarily required to enjoy the attractions listed in this guide but can enrich your overall experience if you can speak it a little.
• Some of the best and most authentic food can be found in the most unexpected places. You can find Spanish dishes from 1 euro up to 40 euros, depending on where and what you eat, so always bear that in mind. While not cheap, food tours are a great way to get to know the city, local way of life, and taste some traditional food.
• Take a day trip! No trip to Madrid would be complete without visiting the medieval Toledo or seeing the famous windmills of Don Quixote of La Mancha. Here you can find the most popular guided tours for a day trip from Madrid.

READ ALSO: How to Plan Toledo Day Trip from Madrid

Where to Stay

In order to get the most out of your day in Madrid, ideally, you would stay two nights in the city. That way, you can maximize your time and make the best use of this itinerary.

For the best experience, stay as centrally as possible – around the Puerta del Sol area or close to the Royal Palace. Here are some of the best-rated hotels in this area for different budgets:

• €€€€€ Only YOU Boutique Hotel Madrid .
• €€€€ Oriente Palace Apartments .
• €€€ Hostal Central Palace Madrid – fantastic location and the best reviews!
• €€ Intur Palacio San Martin .
• € Hostal Mendoza .

TIP: Using the map below, you can also compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in central Madrid . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay. Check it out!

So, this is our guide to what to do in Madrid in a day. This itinerary covers the most popular places so that you can get a really good feel of what Madrid is about.

If you have about 24 hours in Madrid over the course of two days, you can easily adjust this itinerary as well. And maybe even take more advantage of the free museum hours.

Have a great time in Madrid!

TIP: If you are also visiting another amazing city in Spain – Barcelona – make sure to check our Barcelona travel tips ! Here you can also find our suggested 1-day Barcelona itinerary and tips on how to spend 2-3 days in Barcelona.

If you are traveling to the south of Spain as well, take a look at our 2-day Seville itinerary or – for a shorter trip – 1-day Seville itinerary .

If you are also planning to visit Portugal , check out our Portugal travel guide . It contains a large number of travel guides to various popular destinations all over the country.

READ ALSO: Best Time to Visit Europe & Tips for Traveling to Europe

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More 1-day itineraries for some of the nicest European cities:

• 1 Day in Amsterdam (Netherlands)
• 1 Day in Edinburgh (UK)
• 1 Day in Florence (Italy)
• 1 Day in Glasgow (UK)
• 1 Day in Lisbon (Portugal)
• 1 Day in London (UK)
• 1 Day in Milan (Italy)
• 1 Day in Manchester (UK)
• 1 Day in Naples (Italy)
• 1 Day in Rome (Italy)
• 1 Day in Salzburg (Austria)
• 1 Day in Venice (Italy)

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The 11 best things to do in Madrid in 2024

Feb 10, 2024 • 7 min read

From traditional tapas bars to frenzied flamenco shows, Madrid has so much to offer © RgStudio / Getty Images

The Spanish capital is a cultural and social behemoth that attracts visitors from around the world and they keep coming back for more. Madrid has something to tempt every traveler and will have many of them dancing until sunrise thanks to its thriving nightlife.

With architectural wonders, world-class gastronomy, famed art museums and even an Egyptian temple within the city limits, Madrid offers sights and attractions to satisfy all visitors. Here are 11 experiences not to be missed when you get there.

1. Visit the Golden Triangle of Art

Madrid’s "Golden Triangle of Art" consists of three renowned museums, the Museo del Prado, Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, which are home to some of the world’s most valuable art collections. Even if you’re not typically the gallery type, a stop at one of these venues is an essential Madrid experience.

The Prado houses several masterpieces by Spanish artists Diego Velázquez, Francisco Goya and Francisco Zurbarán. Arguably the most famous work people flock to see is Velázquez’s Las Meninas , an oil on canvas considered among the most important paintings in Western art.

The Reina Sofía is the Spanish national museum dedicated to 20th-century art, exhibiting impressive collections of Surrealist and Cubist masters Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso, including Picasso’s huge anti-war oil painting Guernica .

Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza , once the private art collection of Baron Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza and his son Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza, showcases nearly 1000 paintings of the world’s most celebrated European and American artists from the 13th to the 20th centuries. It’s a real feast for art fans.

2. Get a taste of Spain on a traditional tapas crawl

Tapas hopping, or ir de tapas , is a national pastime and a satisfying prelude to dinner, which in Spain is typically eaten between 9pm and midnight. A tapa is a small plate of food usually paired with a glass of wine, caña  (a small glass of beer) or vermút , Madrid’s popular aperitif. 

You can join locals after work any day of the week, hopping from one tapas bar to the next to sample a selection of Iberian hams, charcuterie and cheeses.

Planning tip: Sunday afternoons are the best time to visit Cava Baja, a popular street in the historic La Latina neighborhood with vibrant little bars, taverns and restaurants that are perfect for a laid-back tapas crawl.

3. Shop at El Rastro flea market 

Every Sunday and on public holidays, you can take part in a 400-year-old shopping tradition at  El Rastro flea market . Open from 9am to 3pm, El Rastro stretches along the La Latina neighborhood’s Plaza de Cascorro, La Ribera de Curtidores and Ronda de Toledo and features a labyrinth of open-air stalls peddling clothes, souvenirs, handicrafts, antiques and all the bric-a-brac you can imagine. 

Planning tip: Many of the vendors only accept efectivo  (cash). Get some cash out before heading to the market or you’ll be left hunting for an elusive ATM.

4. Follow Hemingway’s footsteps

"Hemingway did not drink here" is a popular joke written on signs hanging in some Madrid establishments. It’s no secret that the American literary giant, fondly called "Don Ernesto," was Madrid’s adopted sybarite who loved to drink, eat, write and watch bullfights while he was covering the Spanish Civil War as a foreign journalist. 

Fans of Hemingway can retrace his footsteps and enjoy some of his favorite haunts that still exist today, including Restaurante Botín , the world’s oldest restaurant, which houses a 16th-century cellar cradling dust-covered wine bottles.

Hemingway also used to frequent La Venencia , a dimly lit sherry bar that is virtually frozen in time with its massive molasses-stained wooden barrels, antique cash register and fading sepia-hued posters.

Planning tip: Don’t bother whipping out your phone to take some pictures at La Venencia – snapping photos is still strictly prohibited, just as it was in the 1930s when the bar was wary of fascist spies.

5. Watch a flamenco show

While Andalucía in southern Spain is the birthplace of flamenco, you don’t need to venture far from Madrid to watch live shows of the Spanish dance. Dinner, tapas and drinks are usually served during the performance, providing a full evening’s entertainment.

You can watch the frenetic spectacle in big touristy venues such as Cardamomo and Teatro Flamenco or smaller cozy venues like Las Tablas , which make up for their size with the big flamenco artists they attract.

Planning tip: For a truly luxurious experience, the Corral de la Moreria is an intimate space that also features a Michelin-starred restaurant.

6. Explore Retiro Park

Parque del Buen Retiro , Madrid’s most famous park, is an expansive 118-hectare (292-acre) area that was once reserved for Spanish royalty and aristocracy until it was opened to the public at the end of the 19th century. "El Retiro" is adorned with ornate fountains, statues of Spanish writers and heroes, gazebos and open-air cafes.

Different areas of the park reveal various landscaping styles, from French-inspired manicured lawns to craggy tree-lined pathways and the romantic La Rosaleda  rose garden with more than 4000 roses that are in full bloom in May and June.

The park's grounds have several landmarks, including the grand Monument to Alfonso XII depicting the former Spanish king atop his horse, the  "Fallen Angel" statue  (one of the only public statues of Lucifer in the world) and the oldest tree in Madrid, planted in 1633.

Planning tip: Don’t miss Palacio de Cristal , an architectural marvel of iron and glass that occasionally hosts events and reflects magnificently on the waters of the surrounding lake.

7. Stand in the center of Spain

Translated to "Gate of the Sun," Puerta del Sol  is Madrid’s busy central public square and main crossroads. A clock sits atop the plaza’s main building, the old Casa de Correos  – now the headquarters of the Madrid regional government – and every New Year’s Eve, thousands of revelers gather here to eat the traditional 12 grapes right before the clock strikes midnight. 

All roads (quite literally) lead to Sol, as it is the symbolic center of Spain, marked by the Kilometer Zero plaque at the footstep of the Casa de Correos. At the plaza’s center is the equestrian statue of King Charles III, though his popularity is overshadowed by a more famous character on the east side of the square – the Bear by the Madroño tree sculpture that represents Madrid’s coat of arms.

8. Tour Madrid’s iconic soccer stadiums

Spain is a soccer powerhouse, with its international teams winning both the World Cup and European Championships and its regional teams dominating European football.

Madrid has two teams, and soccer fans can enjoy a tour around both world-renowned stadiums – the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu  for Real Madrid and the Wanda Metropolitano for Atlético de Madrid. Guided tours of the museums display the teams’ trophies, jerseys throughout the years and memorabilia narrating their long, illustrious histories.

9. Pull up a chair in Plaza Mayor

At the heart of old Madrid, the beautiful, expansive Plaza Mayor  has been the stage for everything from royal crowning ceremonies and soccer games to outdoor markets, bullfights and public executions during the Spanish Inquisition. 

Today, 237 balconies peer out from a three-story residential compound embracing the plaza. While it’s easy to get distracted by the buskers, it’s worth taking a seat at one of the buzzing (albeit overpriced) cafes and taking time to admire the magnificent frescoes painted between the balconies.

Planning tip: The square also plays host to the city’s annual Christmas market, which has taken place since 1860.

10. Wander through an Egyptian temple 

Few people know that Madrid is home to an ancient Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BCE. Dedicated to the goddess Isis and the god Amun,  Templo de Debod was the Egyptian government’s token of gratitude to Spain for helping restore the temples of Abu Simbel in southern Egypt. Templo de Debod was transported and rebuilt stone by stone, opening to the public in 1972 in Madrid’s Cuartel de la Montaña Park, near Plaza España . 

Planning tip: The temple boasts some of the best panoramic views of western Madrid, particularly at sunset when the walls reflect off the surrounding pools, making for incredible photos.

11. See the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace of Madrid

Although you won’t find the Spanish king and queen living in  Palacio Real  anymore, it is still the official residence of the Spanish monarchy. Inspired by the Italian sculptor Bernini’s sketches for the construction of the Louvre in Paris, the palace faces a large central courtyard and contains 3418 rooms, making it the largest functioning royal palace in Europe. 

The biweekly changing of the guard happens every Wednesday and Saturday, but the grander spectacle is the Solemn Changing of the Guard that takes place every first Wednesday of the month, showcasing a parade of horses and the Spanish Royal Guard, as performed during the time of King Alfonso XII.

This article was first published Mar 2, 2020 and updated Feb 10, 2024.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

City Guides .\33 a132798-3f3b-4585-954d-7e70cf863447{fill:#231f20}

Madrid travel guide — insider tips for visiting madrid on a budget.

The best things to do, see, and experience in Madrid.

Spain’s capital and its largest city, Madrid is a top destination for many visitors. And for good reason — it’s a lively city that’s both affordable by Western European standards and boasts outstanding culture, architecture, art, and excellent nightlife. But it’s also a fairly modern city so you’ll discover that much of the architecture is from the 20th century — which can sometimes be a surprise to many visitors looking for “old” Europe. That said, it is a city overflowing with energy and old-world charm that keeps pulling visitors back year after year.

In this Madrid Travel Guide we’ll cover what to do, what to see, what to eat, and everything else you need to know about exploring this great city. 

[We’ve also written travel guides for Amsterdam , Barcelona ,  Berlin , London , Paris , Rome , and multiple other cities .]

What You’ll Find In This Madrid Travel Guide

How Much To Budget To Visit Madrid

• How Long To Visit Madrid
• The Best Time to Visit Madrid
• The Good And Not-So-Good Things About Madrid
• Madrid’s Must-See Sights and Attractions
• Where To Eat & Drink In Madrid
• Best Madrid Hostels
• Madrid Nightlife
• More Resources To Help You Plan Your Visit On A Budget
• How To Use The Public Transportation
• And More Travel Tips

Madrid is a moderately priced city so it’s not incredibly cheap but it isn’t too bad either.

We recommend budgeting  € 30-€60/day for travelers on a backpacker’s budget — you can easily spend more and you might be able to spend less, but this is a good range for planning purposes. You can read our Madrid Daily Price Guide for more in-depth cost details.

That said, in general, food and beer/wine can be very affordable and most of the major museums have free days/times.

How Long To Visit Madrid: 3-4+ Days

There is certainly a lot to see, do, and eat in Madrid so we recommend giving it at least three or four full days — but you can easily add an extra few days if you love spending a lot of time in museums or like to take your time as you travel. There are also a handful of great day trips from Madrid so doing a few of those could extend your stay.

When To Visit Madrid + Weather

Summers in Madrid are hot — expect temperatures in the upper 80’s to over 100 in July and August. It’s pretty brutal but at least the humidity is low.

Winters in Madrid are actually cold. Most people assume that Spain is warm all year but Madrid gets a bit of snow most years and commonly drop around the freezing mark.

We’d recommend visiting late March-Mid June and September-October as temperatures are a comfortable 65°F-85°F.

The Good And Not-So-Good Things About Madrid: A Quick Overview

Madrid is a favorite destination for a reason, but even this city has positives and negatives that we wanted to share before you visit.

• The Good Life:  Madrid is a city with an electric atmosphere but somehow it remains laid back. The people of Madrid know how to live the good life.
• A Cultured City:  Madrid is home to some of the best museums in the world.
• Free Museum Times: Most of the major museums have free times throughout the week so that’s a great way to save a little cash. 
• Nightlife:  It’s amazing and there is something for every age and every style. The streets are full of life with people enjoying the city’s cafes, restaurants, and bars. The action seems to never stop — except after lunch when the locals rest after their big lunches. And for the true partiers, the clubs are open until 6 am. 
• The Food:  As long as you stay far away from the tourist traps, you can find a lot of amazing food in Madrid. Tapas and seafood are two specialties. As an added bonus, the prices are very reasonable. 
• Cheap and Reliable Public Transportation:  You’ll have no problem getting around the city and it’s cheap. We ended up walking most of the time since the city is fairly compact.
• Good Day Trips:  There are multiple excellent towns within a one to two-hour train ride from Madrid.

The Not-So-Good

• It’s a “New” City:  Many people are surprised that Madrid is a fairly young city by European standards — most of the buildings were built in the 20th century. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing but it’s something good to know.
• Tourists and Tourist Traps:  Just like other popular cities in Europe, Madrid sees a massive influx of tourists and that means lots of people and tourists traps. Be sure to seek out good restaurants or there’s a good chance you’ll have bad food.
• The Weather:  People automatically think that all of Spain is warm. Well, in the summer it gets really hot and in the winter it often gets below freezing. So make sure to pack for their weather.

Madrid Neighborhood Guide

One of the great things about Madrid is how there is a neighborhood for just about every travel style and budget. Below we’ve outlined a general guide to Madrid’s neighborhoods to help give you an overview of the city. We’ve also included a quick write-up and some photos to help give you an idea of each neighborhood’s vibe. 

Note: Madrid is a fairly compact city so you’re never more than about a 30-minute walk from anything in the city center (aka Centro). You can also take the metro if you don’t feel like walking. 

Sol & Austrias Neighborhoods (Historic Royal Center)

Filled with multiple grand squares (notably the Plaza Mayor), the Sol and Austrias Neighborhoods are Madrid’s literal and figurative city-center. Most of the city’s major attractions are located within about a 15-minute walk from these areas. It’s also the most tourist-centric part of the city so you’ll find lots of shopping and dining everywhere you go. And since the area is such a tourist draw, you need to be careful to avoid expensive/low-quality restaurants — so be sure to do your research before heading out to eat.

Malasaña & Chueca Neighborhoods

Want to experience the coolest/hipster/bohemian neighborhood in Madrid? Then head to the Malasaña neighborhood . These once seedy streets are now home to cool coffee shops (many of which turn into bars at night), diverse restaurants, outdoor cafes, hip bars, independent boutique shopping, street food markets, tons of small public squares filled with people, and all the nightlife your heart desires. It also has a large student population so you can find lots of budget-friendly bars, restaurants and vintage clothing shops. But all this nightlife means the neighborhood does tend to be fairly loud until the very early morning so it might not be the best option for light sleepers.

Traditionally Madrid’s gay neighborhood, the Chueca neighborhood is a lovely part of town famous for its old buildings, laidback coffee shops, trendy restaurants, sidewalk cafes, diverse bars, cool food markets, boutique shopping, and some of the best nightlife in the city. In many ways, it’s very similar to its Malasaña neighbor (they essential blend seamlessly into each other). This is another neighborhood that stays up all night so some parts will be loud well into the early morning.

Huertas Neighborhood and Retiro Park

To the east of Sol is the Huertas neighborhood — which is technically called Barrio de las Letras but everyone calls it Huertas. It’s also filled with plenty of boutiques, bars, and restaurants. The neighborhood is anchored by the lively Calle Huertas — a street lined with the full gambit of tapas bars, restaurants, beer houses, jazz bars, dive bars, and restaurants so there is something for everyone.

Along the eastern border of Huertas you’ll find the city’s largest park — El Retiro. This area is also home to three of Madrid’s most famous museums: the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza.

La Latina Neighborhood

La Latina neighborhood (aka the Latin Quarter) is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and it continues to be one be a lively and authentic part of the city — it truly comes alive around lunch and at night. You’ll love getting lost in its maze of narrow medieval streets and alleyways as you hop from tapas bar to tapas bar — its most famous street is Calla Cava Baja.

La Latina is still a very authentic neighborhood so you’ll find a lot more locals than tourists. Head to El Rastro Flea market every Sunday for some interesting shopping and food.

Note: The “La Latina” neighborhood is different from the neighboring “Latina” neighborhood. 

Lavapiés/Embajadores Neighborhood

Time Out Magazine called Embajadores neighborhood (notably the Lavapiés section of the neighborhood) one of the “top 50 coolest neighborhoods in the world”. This funky neighborhood has been in a constant state of change. Traditionally home to the city’s poorest citizens for more than 600 years, it is now a melting pot of cultures from across to globe and locals seeking affordable rents. This quickly gentrifying neighborhood is still a little rough around the edges but it is now home to plenty of trendy bars and restaurants alongside traditional Indian, Moroccan, Lebanese, Pakistani, Chinese, and Sub-Saharan restaurants. This is another neighborhood where you won’t find many tourists.

Moncloa-Arguelles Neighborhood

Moncloa-Arguelles is a largely residential neighborhood that is very popular with students (both local and from abroad) thanks to its multiple universities, affordable housing prices, and a short distance to Madrid’s city center. It’s a fairly quiet neighborhood but there are plenty of lively cafes, bars, shopping, green space, and things to do — all within walking distance.

Chamberi Neighborhood

The Chamberi Neighborhood is located just a bit outside Madrid’s “center” and is another authentic residential neighborhood that’s full of locals enjoying life in its laidback cafes, traditional tapas restaurants, and locally-owned shops. It has a nice mixture of students, upper-class residents and everything in-between so it strikes a nice balance of being hip but not too posh.

Salamanca Neighborhood

Do you only wear Gucci and Prada? Then the Salamanca Neighborhood might just be the place for you. This high-end part of Madrid is home to some of the most expensive real estate in Europe and its where you’ll find the best luxury shopping in Spain. You’ll also find exclusive restaurants and expensive bars. The nightlife also caters to a high-end clientele but there are a handful of options for any budget. And, if nothing else, it’s a nice neighborhood to explore and admire the architecture.

Madrid’s Top Sights & Attractions

Yes, there is more to do in Madrid than partying until 6 am.

Royal Palace ( Palacio Real de Madrid )

This impressive palace is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family — but it’s only used for state ceremonies. It’s also the largest palace in Western Europe so set aside a few hours to visit this behemoth. By the way, lines to visit the palace can easily take over an hour to get through so get there early.

• Admission: €10-€14
• Visit Website
• See On Google Maps

Budget Tip: There is free admission on weeknights from 6-8 pm.

Local Tip: The Almudena Cathedral is right next to the Royal Palace and offers great city views from its towers. Free admission but admission to the museum is €6.

Prado Museum ( Museo Nacional Del Prado )

The Prado Museum is Spain’s main and national and largest museum that features one of the world’s premier collections of European art — which dates from the 12th century to the early 19th century. The Prado features numerous masterpieces from artists like Velázquez, Goya, Raphael, Rubens, Bosch and many more.

• Admission: €14 
• Website: museoprado.es

Budget Tip: The Prado is free Monday to Saturday from 6 pm to 8 pm and on Sunday from 5 pm to 7 pm.

The Queen Sofia Museum ( Centro de Arte Reina Sofía )

The Queen Sofía Museum is Spain’s national museum of 20th-century art. It features works mainly by Spanish artists — including excellent collections of Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí. It also has a smaller collection of international artists.

• Admission: €8
• Visit Website: museoreinasofia.es/en

Budget Tip: Free Monday to Friday from 7 pm to 9 pm, Saturday from 2:30 pm to 9 pm, and Sunday from 10 am to 2:30 pm

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Featuring over 1000 pieces of art (mainly from the 13th century to the late 20th century), the Thyssen is one of the biggest and best private art collections in the world.

• Admission: €10
• Visit: museothyssen.org

Budget Tip: Free on Monday. 

Sponsored by Spain’s Caixa Bank, the Caixa Forum is a former electrical power station that was converted into one of Madrid’s most interesting looking structures. It houses revolving exhibitions of modern and contemporary art, music, multimedia and more.

• Admission is €4
• Visit: Caixaforum.es

National Archaeological Museum ( Museo Arqueológico Nacional )

The archaeological museum features artifacts ranging from prehistoric to Renaissance times. The museum’s highlight is Lady of Elx — a bust of a 5th century BC Iberian woman. 

• Admission: €3

Budget Tip: Free after 2 pm on Saturday & 9.30 am to noon on Sunday.

Paseo ( Paseo del Prado )

The Paseo del Prado is a grand, tree-lined boulevard that passed by many of Madrid’s top attractions — including the city’s most iconic museums. It’s an excellent place to stroll and take in the ambiance, fountains, flowers, and architectural beauty of Madrid.

Plaza Mayor

The Plaza Mayor (which means “the main square” in Spanish) is the city’s grand central square and one of the most impressive squares in Spain. It’s the heart of Madrid.

Local Tip: Visit the near-by Bar La Campana restaurant ( see on Google Maps ) to chow down on some of the best bocadillos de calamares (fried calamari sandwich) in Madrid. Don’t be scared by the line as it moves quickly. 

Puerta del Sol

Located at the literal center of Madrid, the Puerta del Sol is a public square that’s also one of the business/liveliest parts of the city since it’s where most of the main roads converge. You’ll find some of Madrid’s most famous sights around the square so you’re sure to visit a few times, but it does get overrun with tourists and pickpockets.

• See on Google Maps

Local Tip: Visit the iconic and chaotic La Mallorquina pasty shop ( see on Google Maps ) for the excellent   Napolitana con Chocolate. They also have a million other pastries (the strawberry cake is another local favorite) but there is a reason people order the Napolitana. 

El Retiro Park

Located near many of Madrid’s popular sights, Retiro Park is a large public park and it’s a great place to take a stroll and rent a rowboat.

Plaza de Santa Ana

Plaza de Santa Ana is the heart of the compact Huertas neighborhood — which is one of Madrid’s most vibrant areas that’s with bars, restaurants, tapas bars, and cafes. This was a favorite area for Hemingway. 

Local Tip : Check out Café Central Jazz ( see on Google Maps ) for the best jazz in Madrid. 

El Rastro Flea Market

Looking for a unique souvenir? Head to El Rastro — which is Europe’s largest flea market (it’s been around since the Middle Ages). It has just about everything you can imagine, from junk to literal treasures (but mostly junk). There are also some nice local tapas bars in the area.

• Open on Sundays from 8 am-3 pm

Local Tips: This is a hotbed for pickpockets. Arrive at/before opening to avoid the crazy crowds. 

Take a (Free) Walking Tour

Walking tours great ways to explore and learn more about the city you’re visiting. I like to take one on my first day in a new city as I find it’s an excellent way to get my bearings and it gives me an idea of where I want to revisit.

The free walking tours are great for overviews. However, you’ll have to pay if you want a better quality guide or more specialized information (food tours, etc.).

Below is a list of the free walking tours:

• New Europe: Madrid Tour
• OGO Madrid Tours
• PanchoTours

If you’re looking for a paid tour we recommend checking out  Trip Advisor to find reviews .

Other Popular Sights in Madrid

Here are a handful of other things you might want to check out if you’re spending an extended amount of time in Madrid.

Las Ventas Bullfighting Ring: Into bullfighting? Well, this is the place for you. Bullfights are held from March to December. You can also take a tour of the building. Visit Website . See On Google Maps . 

Casa de Campo Park : This is Madrid’s largest public park and it is home to an aerial gondola, zoo, amusement park, tennis courts, restaurants & two outdoor swimming pools. See On Google Maps . 

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Real Madrid FC Stadium): You can tour the iconic and world-famous Real Madrid FC stadium. It’s also fun to catch a game if you can score tickets. Visit Website . See On Google Maps . 

Temple of Debod: This Egyptian temple located in Cuartel de la Montaña Park was donated to Spain from Egypt and dates back to the 2nd century BC. It’s a small temple and you can’t go inside but it’s cool to see if you’re in the area. Visit Website . See On Google Maps . 

The Must-Try Food in Madrid

Life in Madrid seems to revolve around eating and drinking well so take a cue from the locals. In this section, we’ve covered the highlights about which kinds of food you should seek out.

My buddy James from the Spain Revealed Youtube channel created an awesome Madrid Travel Guide that’s filled with a ton of handpicked restaurants (as well as other travel tips). The guide costs €17.95 and is worth every penny.

Traditional Breakfast in Madrid

The standard breakfast in Madrid is traditionally pretty simple. A staple is tostadas — toast that is traditionally topped with crushed tomatoes but you can also get your toast topped with everything from ham and eggs to avocado and fruit. These are served just about everywhere. 

Spain grows a lot of oranges so just about every place serves fresh-squeezed orange juice .

And of course, there is coffee . You can get some decent coffee at most places but Madrid has a growing specialty coffee shop scene if you’re looking for higher-quality coffee (we’ve listed a few of our favorite coffee shops later in the article). 

Of course, there are plenty of options for you sweet-toothed travelers. Torrijas are similar to french toast and it’s super tasty. You can also find plenty of pastries that range from croissants to the excellent Napolitana con Chocolate (100% recommended).  

Our Favorite Torrijas and Napolitana con Chocolate:

• El Restaurante Lhardy: Lhardy, an upscale restaurant that’s been open since 1839, might just have the best Torrijas in Madrid. Their restaurant is super expensive but they have a takeaway window for their baked goodies. See On Google Maps .
• La Casa de las Torrijas: It’s no surprise that a place called La Casa de las Torrijas is going to have some solid   Torrijas . See On Google Maps .
• La Mallorquina: An old-school pastry shop that’s most famous for their Napolitana con Chocolate and N apolitana con Crema — which is kind of like a Spanish version of a Pain au Chocolat (the crema version is a cream instead of chocolate). These things fly off the shelves. They also have plenty of other treats — including an excellent Torrijas . It does get very busy and a little chaotic (its a bit of a free-for-all counter service) so you’ll most likely take everything to go. However, there is an upstairs dining room for table service. ( See On Google Maps ) 

Churros and hot chocolate is another traditional breakfast that can honestly be eaten anytime (in fact, San Ginés is famous for their churros and hot chocolate and they’re open 24/7). An alternative to churros are porras — which is basically a bigger version of a churro. And the hot chocolate is very thick and decadent (basically a melted chocolate bar) so it might make you want to take your siesta early.

Furthermore, Madrid is an international city so you can find just about any kind of breakfast option and the idea of “brunch” seems to be quickly catching on.

Our Favorite Hot Chocolate and Churros Spots:

• Chocolatería San Ginés: The most famous place to get hot chocolate and churros — they’ve been open since the 1890s. Yes, it is touristy and always busy but the service is super quick. And it’s open 24/7! ( See On Google Maps )
• El Riojano: El Riojano is another Madrid institution (opened in 1855) famous for their pastries and hot chocolate (which many people say is even better than San Ginés). They don’t make churros but get your hot chocolate with soletilla (basically a Spanish ladyfinger biscuit). This is a very old-world kinda place. ( See On Google Maps )

Lunch, Dinner, and Tapas in Madrid

People in Madrid tend to eat lunch from about 1:00-3:30 and then have dinner from 8:00 pm to around 11:00 pm. A number of restaurants and tapas bars will close from 4-8 pm.

Lots of people will enjoy a drink and some tapas during lunch and then again from around 5 pm to dinner time. 

So let’s start with  tapas and  racións since that’s Madrid’s most famous dish. Tapas are basically bite-sized snacks of various dishes and racións are closer to full-sized portions.

Tapas can be something as simple as olives or nuts but some places go all out and feed you enough to become a meal. Often, different restaurants will specialize in one or two different types of tapas — which is why the locals move from bar to bar trying different things.

In many tapas bars, you get free tapas as long as you are ordering a drink. In other places, you buy the tapas separately (these tend to be a little more substantial than the tapas you get free with a drink).

NOTE: We’ve listed a few of our favorite tapas bars further down in this article.

You have to try Madrid’s various cured meats — specifically the thinly sliced jamon iberico (expensive and high-quality cured ham). Do yourself a favor and find some good quality meats while you’re in Madrid. The “iberico” designation is the best quality ham so you gotta try some.

Tortillas are basically like a Spanish version of an omelet so it’s nothing like a Mexican tortilla. They honestly don’t look that appetizing (and they’re hard to photograph well) but they’re super tasty. Croquetas (fried balls of potato and other ingredients like ham, fish, veggies, etc.) is another famous dish.

Our Favorite Tortillas & Croquetas Spots:

• Pez Tortilla: Local favorite with €3/slice tortilla, c roquetas, and craft beer. See On Google Maps .
• Casa Julio: Probably the best croquetas in Madrid — and they’re affordable. See On Google Maps . 
• Bodega de la Ardosa: An authentic spot that’s been serving up excellent t ortillas , croquetas , and home-made vermouth for more than 100 years. See On Google Maps .

I fell in love with Huevos Rotos in Madrid. Translated as “broken eggs”, Huevos Rotos is fried eggs and normally ham that is traditionally served over French fries. Another standard is Patatas Bravas — which are fried potatoes covered in a spicy tomato sauce.

Our Favorite Huevos Rotos and Patatas Bravas Spots:

• Los Huevos de Lucio: Old school tavern and Madrid institution famous for their Huevos Rotos. See On Google Maps .
• Antigua Huevería: Cozy neighborhood restaurant that serves up some really nice Huevos Rotos and a few local craft beers. See On Google Maps .
• Docamar: The place to go for patatas bravas in Madrid but it is a bit outside the city center. See On Google Map
• Las Bravas: Another excellent place to score some perfectly cooked patatas bravas . See On Google Maps .

Madrid is also known for its high-quality seafood — which doesn’t make a ton of sense since it’s a landlocked city. However, the fresh seafood is transported in very quickly, and you’ll actually often find better seafood in Madrid than you will in many of the coastal towns — but it can get a little pricy.

One of the must-eat seafood dishes in Madrid is the famous bocadillo de calamares (fried calamari sandwich). These tasty and cheap sandwiches are sold all over the city — especially near the Plaza Mayor.

You should also try bolas de bacalao frito — deep-fried balls of cod. So good.

Our Favorite Bocadillo de Calamares and Bolas de Bacalao Brito Spots:

• Bar La Campana: Super popular restaurant serving up excellent bocadillo de calamares . See On Google Maps
• Bar Postas: Another local favorite serving up cheap and tasty bocadillo de calamares . See On Google Maps
• El Brillante: Yet another no-frills spot that’s constantly rated one of the best places to get excellent bocadillo de calamares. See On Google Maps
• Casa Labra: Old school spot serving up some of the best deep fried cod and cod croquettes in Madrid since 1860. See On Google Maps .
• Casa Revuelta: Local favorite best known for their fried cod. They also have a nice home-made vermut. See On Google Maps .

Of all the seafood dishes in Spain, paella is the most well-known. However, Madrid is full of really bad paella. Skip any place that has signs out front that advertises with generic images of paella — all those places are total junk. Find nicer restaurants if you want authentic paella… they might be a little more expensive but it’s worth it.

Some of our favorite online food resources and bloggers:

• Devour Tours: Madrid Food Blog
• Spain Revealed
• Spotted By Locals: Madrid
• Naked Madrid
• Madrid y Yo
• Cheap in Madrid
• Oh Hello Spain
• Time Out: Madrid
• Time Out: Best Budget Restaurants in Madrid

Take A Food Tour

We realize that tapas bars and unfamiliar food can be a little intimidating if you’re not familiar with how everything works (we know it is for us, anyway). That’s why I took a food tour with Devour Tours and had a blast. You get to try a bunch of different Spanish food and they take you to multiple family-run spots that you’d probably never find on your own.

Where To Eat in Madrid

Alright, who is hungry? Below are some great places to eat and get some solid coffee in Madrid.

Great Coffee Shops in Madrid

Spain hasn’t traditionally been known for its coffee (especially compared to their Italian neighbors) but these days you can find plenty of nice coffee shops to get a quality caffeine fix. 

Most people order a café solo/doble (single or double shot of espresso) or a Café con Leche (equal parts espresso and milk). For a sweet treat try a café bombón (café Solo with condensed sweet milk). Or try a carajillo (espresso mixed with whiskey, rum, or brandy). And, of course, there is the Americano (café solo with water). For a more nuanced look at ordering coffee, check out this Devour Madrid Food Tour’s guide to coffee in Spain . 

Most coffee shops in Madrid will at least serve light breakfast options (tostadas, pastries, yogurt, cake, etc.) but some will serve a more robust breakfast or brunch offerings.

Tip: We’ve compiled all our recommended coffee shops into a single Google Map to help make your planning easier.

Toma Café: Hipster-esque coffee shop with a cool, cozy vibe and great coffee. This is a fairly small cafe and a local favorite so it does get busy at times. ( See On Google Maps )

Bicycle Café: A very trendy and comfy cafe that serves great coffee (they have Oatly oat milk for all you oat milk junkies) and a solid breakfast/brunch/lunch. This is a fairly large cafe so it’s nice for groups. Additionally, they have a few large tables with outlets that so it’s a popular coworking/student hangout — which means it can also get busy at peak times. ( See On Google Maps )

HanSo Café: Solid music, airy vibe with lots of natural light, and great coffee. They also have some nice breakfast/brunch options. ( See On Google Maps )

Boconó Specialty Coffee: A calm coffee shop with quality and affordable coffee. They also have some nice breakfast/brunch options as well as dessert. ( See On Google Maps )

Zero Point Coffee Shop: This small coffee shop is the spot for all your coffee geeks. The owner is super passionate about coffee and they have specialty beans you won’t find in other parts of Madrid. There isn’t much seating here but it’s worth stopping by if you’re in the area. ( See On Google Maps )

Misión Café: This laidback cafe has a hipster Scandinavian vibe. Solid coffee and some nice breakfast/brunch options. ( See On Google Maps )

Martina Cocina: Another cafe that’s popular with the locals so it can be busy in the morning. They also have nice breakfast and lunch options. ( See On Google Maps )

Ruda Café: This hole-in-the-wall coffee shop serves up great coffee. They also have some light food options like toast, yogurt, and cakes. ( See On Google Maps )

Hola Coffee: Another cozy and shabby-chic coffee shop with great coffee and simple things to eat. ( See On Google Maps )

Coffee And Kicks: Hidden little hipster coffee shop with solid coffee. ( See On Google Maps )

Cafelito: Cute little espresso bar that serves a small selection of cakes, tostadas, and other breakfast options. ( See On Google Maps )

Santa Kafeina: A hole-in-the-wall coffee shop that’s a neighborhood favorite. ( See On Google Maps )

The Best Tapas Bars (Recommended By Locals)

While I was in Madrid I met up with James Blick (co-founder of Devour Food Tours , the host of the excellent Spain Revealed Youtube channel and he has a new website at Spain Revealed Website — James is seriously the best resource about food in Madrid). We enjoyed a few drinks and tapas at his go-to tapas bar, Casa Toni. James was kind enough to share five of his favorite tapas bars in Madrid.

You can also buy this awesome Madrid Travel Guide (€17.95) that’s filled with a ton of handpicked restaurants (as well as other travel tips).

James Blick’s Recommended Tapas Bars: 

Casa Toni: It may not look like much, but this hole in the wall serves up some of the best and tastiest traditional tapas in the Puerta del Sol area. Pull up a stool at the bar and watch cocinero Carlos rock the plancha (flattop griddle). Don’t miss the mollejas – lamb sweetbreads! See On Google Maps .

La Casa del Abuelo : Not the cheapest gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns) in Madrid, but far and away the best. La Casa del Abuelo opened in 1906, remains in the same family, and their Mediterranean-fresh prawns flash-fried in olive oil and garlic are life-changing. Pair it with a glass of their own sweet wine. See On Google Maps .

Diaz y Larrouy: 50 tapas bars, one street. Enough said? You have to hit Calle Cava Baja when you’re in Madrid – it’s the city’s tapas mecca. Kick off the crawl in this well-loved wine bar where, as well as 30 vinos by the glass, they do a killer selection tasty tostas . So what are tostas? A Madrid tapas tradition that’s effectively delicious things on bread. My favorite is the slow-cooked pork, roasted red peppers, and garlicky alioli. See On Google Maps .

La Lastra. Escape the tourist center and hit this hyper-local bar in the Delicias neighborhood, where everyone seems to know each other and will probably know you by the end of the night. The seafood is excellent and cheap – try the almejas (clams) or gambas (prawns) on the grill, and also grab a pate of torreznos (big, fat juicy fried pork belly). See On Google Maps .

Cerveriz: Opposite the famous Mercado San Miguel is a family-run old-school bar that almost no tourists find, but where the food is home-cooked, made with love and downright delicious. Wife Maria-Angeles tends bar while husband Carlos knocks out Madrid’s best tortilla de patatas (Spanish omelet). Pair it with a caña, and lunch is sorted. See On Google Maps .

Great Tapas Bars & Traditional Spanish Restaurants in Madrid

Madrid is a city that loves to eat so there are so many great places to get a solid meal. Below are a few favorite local favorite spots.  Note: Our recommendations tend to skew to the budget end of the price spectrum so you’re not going to find any high-end restaurants here.

Pez Tortilla: Pez Tortilla is a local favorite that’s famous for their delicious yet affordable €3 Tortilla (Spanish omelet) and their croquettes are also solid. Furthermore, they have a nice craft beer menu. This place does fill up so it can be hard to score a seat during the busy times but it’s worth the wait (the kitchen opens at 7 pm so it’s easy to score a seat then). See On Google Maps .

Casa González: This is part tapas bar, part delicatessen that we visited on our Devour Food Tour . It’s been continuously run by the same family since the early 1930s. They specialize in cured meats , excellent cheeses , and 200+ wines from Spain so it’s a great place to sample some regional treats. See On Google Maps .

Casa Labra: This authentic tapas bar (which opened in 1860) has become famous for serving up the best bacalao (deep-fried cod or cod croquettes ) in Madrid — which tastes amazing with an ice-cold beer. This place is always hopping with hungry locals (especially at lunch) but it is 100% worth fighting the crowds. Casa Labra is also where the Spanish Socialist Part started back in 1879 so this place is a Madrid institution. See On Google Maps .

Casa Julio: Many people say that Casa Julio has the best croquetas in Madrid so that’s the thing to order. And the prices are very reasonable. It’s a small place so it fills up quickly but it’s not as bad during the week. See On Google Maps . 

Bodega de la Ardosa: This local favorite has been around for more than 100 years — the old-school atmosphere with worth the visit alone. But they’re also famous for their t ortillas , croquetas , and their home-made vermouth . It also gets very crowded (especially during on the weekend) but it’s still a cool place to check out for a real authentic experience. See On Google Maps .

La Colmada: A newer tapas bar that’s a great place to go for wine , meat , and cheese . See On Google Maps .

Los Huevos de Lucio: This tavern is slightly more expensive than other spots but they have some of the best Huevos Rotos (ham, fried eggs and fries) in Madrid. See On Google Maps . 

Antigua Huevería: We also had some excellent Huevos Rotos (ham, fried eggs and fries) at this cozy neighborhood spot. People also love their croquettes and they have a handful of local craft beers. See On Google Maps . 

El Tigre Sidra Bar: You don’t come to El Tigre for the quality tapas — you come for the quantity. You buy a small glass of beer and they bring you a literal plate of food… buy a bigger beer and you get even more food. This place is a dive for sure but if you want cheap this is the place to go. That said, it’s a favorite hangout for students and it does get fairly busy but it’s a large bar so there is usually room once you push past the crowd. See On Google Maps .

Docamar: Docamar serves classic Spanish food but their true claim to fame is their patatas bravas — they’re said to serve the best in Madrid. This is another local favorite so it does get busy but it’s worth it. That said, Docamar is located a bit outside the city center so it’s about a 25-minute subway ride away. See On Google Map

Taberna la Carmencita: This popular tavern is the second oldest restaurant in Madrid (opened in 1854) so you feel like you’re stepping back in time when eating here. The prices are slightly higher than normal but their food is of great quality. See On Google Maps . 

100 Montaditos: Ok, any true tapas fan would kill us for putting 100 Montaditos on our list because it is basically the McDonalds of tapas bar… but it is cheap. This chain has something like 20 locations in Madrid (they’re all over Spain). Most of their Montaditos (tapas-sized sandwiches) are €1 each (some of their “premium” ones are €1.50-€2/each) and you can get a large glass of beer for €1-€2. Plus, many locations have outdoor seating. So don’t expect much but we still wanted to point this place out.  Tip: You order by writing down your picks on slips of paper at each table and then hand it to the cashier. Then you pick up your order at the food window. See On Google Maps . 

Great Non-Spanish Restaurants

Madrid is an international city so you can find plenty of non-Spanish dishes in case you get tired of tapas and ham. Again, most of the restaurants in this section are “budget-friendly” options.

Takos Al Pastor: This authentic Mexican restaurant has taken Madrid by storm. Their tacos are only €1/each and they’re actually filling and delicious (plus, they’re served up in minutes after you order). Not surprisingly, this place is super popular so we had to wait in line for about 45 minutes — but it’s a great place to eat really well for cheap. See On Google Maps .

NAP Lavapies: The best place to go for authentic wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza in Madrid. A pizza will run you about 8€. See On Google Maps . 

Goiko Grill: Popular burger spot with multiple locations. It’s not super cheap but they have a decent lunch special. See On Google Maps

Hot&Smoked: Nice sandwich shop with some good beers and ciders. See On Google Maps

MEAT: Excellent burgers at a solid price. See On Google Maps . 

Tierra Burrito Bar: Basically the Spanish version of Chipotle. Prices are affordable. Multiple locations. See On Google Maps

Yatai Market: An Asian street food market with multiple stalls serving up different regional dishes. See On Google Maps

Tuk Tuk: Asian street food. See On Google Maps

Wok to Walk: International chain serving up cheap and tasty stir-fried Asian cuisine. See On Google Maps

Great Markets in Madrid

These days there are two kinds of markets in Madrid — traditional ones that sell fresh produce and the new markets that are filled with stalls selling prepared food. 

Mercado de San Miguel: San Miguel is easily the most popular market in Madrid so the place is always busy with both locals and tourists. All the vendors here sell prepared foods like various kinds of tapas, cheese, baked goods, and more. There are also vendors selling beer, wine, and vermouth. And the actually iron and glass structure (built in 1916) is fun to look at as well. See On Google Maps .

Mercado de San lldefonso: Very hip and trendy three-story street food market with 20 stalls selling international fare and three cocktail bars. See On Google Maps . 

Mercado de San Antón: San Anton Market is a multi-story market that has a small traditional market on the ground floor but food stalls on the other floors (tapas, Spanish cuisine, dessert, drinks, etc.). And there is also a really nice outdoor rooftop terrace with cool city views. See On Google Maps . 

Mercado de Antón Martín: This is your real-deal traditional market with vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheese, olive oil, and just about everything else. There are a few stalls that sell prepared food but this is mostly a place to do your shopping. See On Google Maps . 

Beer, Vermouth, Wine, & Other Drinks

You can’t talk about Madrid’s tapas culture without talking about alcohol — since they go hand in hand. As mentioned before, in a lot of tapas bars you be given free tapas with every drink you order. In some places, you’ll be given a ración if you order two drinks.

Popular Beer in Madrid

Beer in Madrid tends to be affordable. Do like the locals and order a caña — which is the small size draft beer. So why a can caña? The Spaniards like their beer extra cold so they’d rather order two or three super cold small beers than have their bigger beer get warm. 

The three most popular cheap beer brands in Madrid are Mahou (brewed in Madrid since 1890), Cruzcampo (brewed in Seville since 1904), and Estrella Damm (brewed in Barcelona since 1876). You’ll rarely pay more than € 1.50 for a caña. Madrid also has a small but growing craft beer scene if you’re looking to branch out to something a little different — two popular local craft breweries are La Virgin and La Cibeles .

Vermouth (Vermut)

You can’t visit Madrid without trying some of vermut (vermouth). I think I had a glass about every day. But vermouth in Madrid isn’t the bitter fortified wine that we’re used to in the US. In Spain, vermouth is a sweet white wine that’s been infused with caramel and a blend of various botanicals and spices (cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, etc.). In fact, the best bars serve their own in-house vermouth on tap (so each recipe will be a bit different).

Vermouth is traditionally enjoyed as a pre-lunch aperitif. In fact, despite being seen as an “old man’s drink”, the tradition of the La Hora del Vermut (Vermouth Hour) is still alive and well — in fact, vermut has seen a strong resurgence over the past few years. 

Where To Try Vermut:

• Bodegas Ricla: This small family-run bar has been around since 1867 and they serve up a great house vermut (they also have great wine). See On Google Maps .
• Casa Camacho: Another old school bar with great vermut. They’re also famous for their Yayo — a mixed drink with vermouth, soda, and gin. See On Google Maps

Madrid’s Nightlife

Madrid is one of the best cities for nightlife in Europe and you can find nightlife to fit just about anything you’re into. You’ll find people of all ages out and about until well after 10 pm on any given night.

Remember, people don’t really eat dinner until after 9 p.m. and they don’t head to the bars until around 10-11 pm. After the bars, people head to the clubs around midnight and they don’t close down until 6 am.

As for where to go, we loved simply walking around the Malasaña & Chueca neighborhoods — there will be a ton of people out enjoying all the bars and restaurants. The Huertas neighborhood (aka Barrio de las Letras) is also full of cool places to check out.  

Interested in nightclubs? Check out this guide to the best nightclubs in Madrid .

Madrid Hostels and Accommodation

Madrid sees a huge influx of visitors during the summer and the shoulder seasons so it’s recommended that you book your accommodation in advance if you want to have the most options available. That said, accommodation is generally affordable and it’s usually good quality.

You should budget around €15-€30/night per person for a decent hostel — although many hostels raise their prices on the weekend or during holidays . Remember, these prices are for a bed in a shared dorm room. If you want a private room you should expect to pay €50-€100+.

I stayed in the newly-opened and very chic Bastrado Hostel (we’ll have a more in-depth review soon but it was a very solid hostel in the awesome Malasaña/Chueca neighborhood).

We’ve always used Hostelworld to book our hostels so you’ll want to poke around there to find the perfect hostel. Here are a few of the best-rated hostels:

• Bastrado Hostel
• Ok Hostel Madrid
• MuchoMadrid
• Mad4you Hostel
• Las Musas Hostel
• Room007 Ventura Hostel
• Toc Hostel Madrid
• Room007 Chueca Hostel
• Living Cat’s Hostel

Note: Some hostels are known for being “party” hostels — especially in Madrid — so be sure to read the reviews before you book.

By the way, Madrid recently passed a law that forbids around 95% of the Airbnb rentals in the city center so we anticipate that rental apartments will be much harder to come by. 

Traveling Around Madrid

Madrid has an inexpensive and extensive network of subway and bus lines — in fact, it has the second largest underground network in Europe. That said, most of the major sights are all within about a 20-minute walk from the center of the city so you may not find yourself using public transportation too often.

• Single one-way Metrobús ticket for Metro (subway) and bus: €1.50
• Metrobús 10 journey ticket (valid for use on Metro and bus): €12.20
• 1-day pass: €8.40
• 2-day pass: €14.20
• 3-day pass: €18.40
• 5-day pass: €26.80
• 7-day pass: €35.40
• Bus from airport to city (Airport Express): €5
• Taxi from airport to city: €30

Madrid Day Trips

One of the great things about Madrid is its proximity to a number of smaller medieval towns that are great for spending the day exploring.

• Train Travel Tip One: The trains to these locations sell out often so we highly recommend booking ahead — even if it’s just by a few hours. We showed up to visit Toledo about 30 minutes before departure and all the tickets were sold out for the following two hours. 
• Train Travel Tip Two: The ticket lines can get pretty long and many of the automated ticket machines only accept contactless cards (which is a card that has technology embedded in it that lets you pay over a secure radio interface, much like Apple Pay — these are becoming standard in Europe). That’s why we booked our tickets with the Omino Train Ticket App . (i.e. we didn’t have to deal with lines or buying tickets at the station).
• Train Travel Tips Three: You’ll have to go through a quick security check so give yourself an extra 10-15 minutes for that. 

A little more than 30 minutes away (via train) from Madrid is Segovia. This city is full of UNESCO — including a beautiful castle, an amazing Roman aqueduct, and a huge gothic cathedral. You can see everything in a day but it’s also a treat to explore at night.

There are high-speed trains between Madrid and Segovia at least every hour and the journey takes less than 30-minutes. Your ticket will be around €13 each way. You can also take a bus for around €8 each way and it will take around an hour (we recommend the train).

Head south on the high-speed train and you’ll reach Toledo in about 30 minutes (around €12 each way). This gorgeous city is built on a hill and is topped with an Alcázar castle. Walking its winding streets as you make your way to the castle is a treat you won’t want to miss — especially if you can do it at night so you won’t have to deal with the day-trippers.

Toledo is probably the most popular day trip from Madrid so the trains do sell out. I bought my tickets the day before using the Omino Train Ticket App .

Around an hour and a half away by train is the medieval city of Ávila. The city’s old town is listed as a UNESCO site and it’s a nice place to spend a leisurely day trip. Ávila is best known for having some of the best preserved medieval walls and watchtowers in Europe — all of which can be explored by foot. 

San Lorenzo de El Escorial

A little under an hour from Madrid is San Lorenzo de El Escorial. The main draw to this town is El Escorial —  a massive palace that contains a monastery, a church, and a college.

Other Random Practical Travel Tips

Fill Up On Tapas. Hit up the tapas bars for (often) free snacks while you drink wine or beer. But be aware that not every bar will have free tapas with your drinks. 

Free Museum Times: Most of the major museums are free the last two hours of the day so be sure to check their schedules! 

The Madrid Card. This tourist card gives you entry into 50 museums and monuments (many of which you can skip the lines). There are multiple card duration options (one, two, three, or five days) that range from €47–€77. More info here:  madridcard.com

Pickpockets & Scammers. Avoid anyone who tries to get you to sign any petitions — at best they’re scammers and at worst they’re trying to pickpocket you. Be careful around ATMs, especially at night.

Late Dinners: People in Spain tend to eat fairly late at night so you might be the only person in the restaurant if you show up at 7 or 8 pm. That said, showing up early at tapas bars is a nice way to eat without having to fight the crowds.

More Resources To Help You Plan Your Madrid Visit

We’re still fans of ol’ fashion guidebooks as they give you a quick, easy and curated way to research your destination. If nothing else, head to the library or bookstore and spend a few hours thumbing through a guidebook — it’s worth it. We’ve also listed a few websites/blogs that will help with your planning.

• Rick Steves Madrid
• Lonely Planet Madrid
• WikiVoyage: Madrid

Packing Help + What To Wear

Packing your bag and knowing what clothes to bring shouldn’t be a huge hassle. That’s why we created our packing guides:

• Europe Packing List For Women  – Our famous packing list that’s specifically for the ladies.
• Backpacking Europe Packing List  – Our famous packing list that’s specifically for the dudes.
• Best Travel Backpacks  – We review our favorite travel backpacks, luggage, and other packing aides.
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Spain travel blog — the fullest spain travel guide blog for first-timers.

Spain is a top holiday destination and the 2nd most visited country in the world. Once a powerful empire in the past, Spain has a long-standing history, the diversity of different cultures, unique architecture, delectable cuisine and weather favoured. The diversity of cuisine with rich flavor served with premium fragrant wine. During the festive season in Spain you will be immersed yourself in vibrant flamenco dances, tomato throwing festival – La Tomatina or the excitement of thrilling bullfights. All make Spain is a dream destination for any visitor. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Spain for the first-time? Let’s check out our Spain travel blog (Spain blog) with the fullest Spain travel guide (Spain guide, Spain tourist guide, Spain visitor guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

• What to buy in Spain? — Top +18 souvenirs & best things to buy in Spain
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Spain travel blog: Overview of Spain

Spain, whose full name is the Kingdom of Spain, is located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. With an area of ​​more than 500,000 square kilometers and a population of nearly 47 million people, Spain’s southern and eastern parts are bounded by the Mediterranean Sea, a small part of which is bordered to the south by British Gibraltar, bordered by France and Andorra to the northeast, Portugal to the west, northwest and the northern part is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Biscay (Bay of Biscay). In addition, the territory of Spain also includes many islands located in the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.

Spain is a multilingual country. Spanish is also different in each region and is recognized as the official national language, in addition, English and German are also widely used. Roman Catholicism is the main religion of Spain, but due to immigration over the centuries, Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Islam are also gradually gaining support and widely accepted.

Spain travel blog: When to visit?

As the second largest country in Europe by area and with a diverse topography, the climate in each region of Spain can be very different. The southern and eastern coastal regions favoring by the Mediterranean climate, so the weather is very pleasant all year round. The north is usually colder than the south, while the central Spain will be drier and hotter.

If you want a sunny beach vacation, the period from June to August is the best time to come, but this is also the peak tourist season so you need to be prepared that the number of tourists flocking here will very crowded and prices may be higher than usual. Spain’s low season is usually late spring and late autumn, April, May, October and November. At this time the number of tourists will decrease but the weather is still very pleasant.

Spring (March – May): The spring climate in Spain is quite comfortable, especially in the mainland when the weather is getting warm but not too hot. This is a great time to visit major cities such as Madrid, Cordoba, and Seville because the groups of travelers have not yet come back too crowded.

Summer (June – August): This is the peak tourist season in Spain, cities located deep in the southern territory like Seville, Malaga or Cordoba will be extremely hot and dry. This is the good time for you to visit northern cities like San Sebastian, Santiago de Compostela or Galicia to avoid the heat of summer.

Autumn (September – October): The weather in this season is pleasant with some rain in October. This is probably the last time of year when you can visit the beaches in southern Spain before they close for winter.

Winter (November – February): Winter is a great time for skiing in the North. However, the weather is often very cold with thick snow, so before visiting Spain this season, you need to make sure the roads are still open.

You also can attend the San Fermín bull-running festival in Pamplona which takes place on July 4-7 every year. If you have an opportunity to visit Spain at this time, you should attend this festival to experience the thrill, to seeing the bravery of the people here. If you have not witnessed the bullfights or this bull running festival, you have not really experienced the full culture of the Spanish people. This is the most unique festival of the year in Spain that you should attend.

If you have the opportunity, you should also attend the annual La Mercè Festival Barcelona (“Castellers”) – human towers festival which is held for around five days in honor of the patron saint La Merce (the Virgin of Mercy). The prominent Spanish event will held at the end of September every year (around Sept 24) in the city of Barcelona.

Or attend the Spain’s weirdest festival – the festival of throwing tomatoes called La Tomatina to enjoy the feeling of dirty play of the Spanish people. It takes place on the last Wednesday of August in the town of Bunol, Valencia.

Read more: Spain itinerary 10 days — What to do & How to spend 10 days in Spain perfectly?

Spain travel blog: Getting to Spain

The easiest and most convenient way to get to Spain is by air. There are many direct flights from major U.S., Asian, European cities to Spain’s major cities of Madrid or Barcelona operated by big airlines such as United, American, Etihad, Emirates, Air France, Turkish Airline, Singapore Airlines… Depending on your departure point, you can find the suitable flights on schedules, routes via websites: Google Flights , Skyscanner , Kayak . Usually, travellers will landing at Madrid airport (Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport ) first before visiting other Spain cities on their Spain itinerary.

There are 4 terminals in Madrid Airport, each terminal has a 24-hour shuttle bus service which running to the central area of Atocha and Plaza de Cibeles for EUR 5/way. Taking the shuttle bus will be more convenient than taking the metro. If you want to take the metro, you have to go to terminal 2 to find Aeropuerto station, the price will be EUR 4.5/single-trip or more, depending on which station you arrive, the price will increase.

In addition, you also can reach Spain via ferry (see ferry routes here ) and especially by train which is very convenient to traveling within European due to the train systems of European countries are very modern and develop, well-connected between regions, cities within Euro zone. You can refer to train timetables and routes to get to Spain here .

Spain blog: Getting around Spain

Subway (metro).

To getting around the city of Madrid and its surrounding areas, the metro is a good choice for you. Metro is a fairly popular means of transport in Spain because of its speed, convenience and very cheap price. With only 1 euro you can travel comfortably in that route without limiting the number of travel times. If you travel a lot, you can buy a 10-Journey Tickets Metrobus for about 7.4 euros (With this type of ticket you can travel with 10 tram lines and even EMT bus lines).

Public transport tickets: Do not buy single tickets with the price of more than 2 Euros/trip, but should buy T10 ticket (Individual 10-journey ticket) for 11.35 Euros in Barca and 12.2 Euros in Madrid, which allows you take both bus and metro, if traveling in a group, tickets can be shared by using single ticket of T10 tickets package.

In big cities and even smaller towns in Spain, you can travel easily thanks to the inner city bus system, which usually operates from 6am to 11pm or midnight. Some cities also have night bus systems with more expensive fares. Besides, traveling between cities is not too difficult, especially from Madrid thanks to the central location of this city by the largest long-distance bus company in Spain is Alsa – Enatcar (ALSA). Buses are chosen by many visitors because it is quite cheap with 1 euro you can go 1 route. Most night buses stop at metro stations, so if you go out at night, you don’t need to worry too much.

Madrid – Barca is the most popular route in Spain: It takes about 3 hours by high-speed train, but the ticket is very expensive, or by plane with the price is similar. If you want to save more money like me, let book bus tickets on Alsa.es , departing at 11pm from Madrid, arrive in Barca at 7am the next morning. Tickets from 25 euros/ person, buy for a group of 4 people to get another 30% discount.

Some cities in Spain still keep this transport system like Valencia or Barcelona. Besides, a few cities like Malaga or Zaragoza are also considering to rebuild their tram system.

The cost of taking a taxi in Spain is inexpensive, but still not as convenient as the metro and bus.

Some cities alos have its own bike path, so you can rent a bicycle to get around the city. In Barcelona there is a bike-sharing system called “Bicing” that provides 6,000 bikes over 420 stations across the city. So you can comfortably ride a bicycle to enjoy the scene here.

If you want to get to other cities in Spain you can travel by plane or train. You can get to Seville from Barcelona by plane of Vueling – Spain’s low-cost domestic carrier, the fare is 20 euros. Then you can take the train from Seville to Granada, it takes about 3 hours with a fare of about 20.88 Euros/way, the train is clean, spacious and you also go from Granada to Madrid by bus, with 1 trip in every 1 hour with the price is 15 euros.

Read more: Guide to rail transport in Spain — How to travel around Spain by train & travel by train in Spain.

BlaBlaCar rideshare service is now gradually popular in Spain. You will save significant travel costs with this type of car sharing service, but also need to beware of risks such as the car pick up late or not picking, then you will miss your travel ride.

Spain travel blog: Where to go and what to do?

Considered as one of the most popular destinations for international tourists. The houses here all have ancient look and unique architecture. This place also has many heritages as well as extremely unique architectural works for you to freely explore as well as take beautiful check-in photos.

One of the most prominent ancient world wonders of this city is the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba. This is a Spanish-Portuguese Muslim-style mosque with columnar domes from the Hispano-Flemish period. The details are delicately sculpted, mixing the Baroque style with the beauty of the Christian civilization of the 16th – 17th centuries.

The capital of Spain – Madrid is also the largest city of this country, with diverse cultural identities of many ethnic groups but equally vibrant and bustling when night falls.

The main tourist attractions are mostly concentrated in the city center such as the Royal Palace – the residence of the King of Spain, Puerta del Sol Square – where festivals and street performances take place, Plaza Mayor Square, San Miguel Market, Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum.

Located in northeastern Spain, Barcelona is one of the country’s top tourist destinations and is also home to the famous painter Pablo Picasso. It has everything tourists look for in a European city from historic architecture to vibrant shopping malls and bustling nightlife. The architectural marvels of the famous Spanish architect, Antoni Gaudi such as Casa Batllo, Casa Mila and the La Sagrada Família (Church of the Sacred Family) definitely will make you overwhelmed. In particular, if you are a fan of the Barcelona football club, you can visit the FC Barcelona museum and the Camp Nou stadium.

In addition, stroll along the tree-lined pedestrian boulevard La Rambla, stroll through Guell park and sunbathe at Barcelona’s most famous beach are interesting activities for travelers.

Valencia is located in the east of Spain, famous for its delicious food, theatre, science museum, aquarium designed extremely modern and green space. Come here, you should not miss the opportunity to visit the City of Arts and Sciences cultural and architectural complex, which includes a science museum, planetarium and aquarium.

In addition, La Fallas festival held every March is also a cultural feature of the city. On the streets will display paper effigies of different colors and sizes. At the end of the week, these effigies will be burned according to local rituals while people celebrating and partying all night.

In particular, August is the time of the weirdest La Tomatina tomato throwing festival in this city, so if you have an opportunity, visit Valencia in August to experience one of the most vibrant festivals in the world.

Mallorca is located in the Mediterranean Sea and is the largest island belong the Balearic Islands. The attractive beauty of the island is created by the long sandy beach, turquoise color and clear of seawater and especially a very quiet atmosphere. Climbing the mountains in the southern part of the island, you will be even more excited by the vast ocean surrounding as if lost in a magical land.

To tasting typical Spanish wine, you must go to La Rioja. Located in the North of Madrid, this region is covered with extensive vineyards where you can take a tour to see vineyards and wine making process. Moreover, you can also taste and buy a few bottles as gifts right at winery.

Then, if you have time, visit the small village of Ezcaray, which has a beautiful and peaceful landscape.

The vibrant of Seville brings together all the most unique features of Andalusian culture. The Roman-style buildings are mixed with the religious beauty of Islam and gothic style. It is also the cradle of vibrant Flamenco dance and world-famous bullfights.

Coming to Seville , visitors also should not miss the tomb of the famous expeditor – Christopher Columbus and the Giralda bell tower, this is a world famous architectural complex with its splendid and magnificent beauty.

Santiago de Compostela

The capital city of the Galicia region located in northwestern Spain, Santiago de Compostela is famous as the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. This pilgrimage is very important to Christians because it is believed that this is where Saint James, an Apostle of Jesus, is buried.

Today, the city attracts thousands of visitors each year because of its rich history and religious traditions. The destination for most pilgrims is the main square located in the city center – Praza do Obradoiro, the Cathedral Basilica where the tomb of St. James is located.

Don’t forget Ibiza island if you are a partygoer, the party island of Spain, a perfect vacation spot for celebrities and famous football stars with vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches.

This is an impressive beach resort town and not to be missed when traveling to Spain. With a beautiful stretch of coastline, visitors will be able to admire the beautiful nature and enjoy delicious seafood dishes not to mention premium wines and hotels designed with large balconies overlooking the sea will bring you a wonderful view.

The most famous landmark here is the Red Fort – a palace complex recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage. Not only magnificent and preserving many historical imprints, the Red Fort, also known as Alhambra, is also located on a massive hill, right under the mysterious Sierra Nevada snow mountains.

Discovering the culture here will bring the most interesting things, when you can learn what belongs to the history of the Jewish people, Arabic culture, Gypsy culture, etc. Remember to buy some souvenirs sold in the city’s markets, they will help you remember how beautiful Spain is.

This place is very famous, the beauty of Bilbao is mainly made up of architecture. Guggenheim Bilbao Museum is the symbol of the city. The museum was built in 1997, displaying antiques and artifacts of great historical significance. The most special feature of the museum is that the outer layer is “built” of titanium, creating an extremely majestic and modern appearance.

In addition, Basilica of Our Lady of Begoña is another unique work. Built in 1591, the cathedral was buit to commemorate the arrival of Saint Mary. Other beautiful places of the city include the old town of Casco Viejo, the Arriaga theater, the Florale palace, etc. All are exquisitely decorated with works of art on display that will make you amaze.

Mijas Village

This is an ancient village, which visitors when coming here have to say “so beautiful”, especially for those who love photography. The houses close to each other are painted white, have small balconies with “mini-hanging gardens”, street corner cafes with very attractive romantic decorations. There is also the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepcion church was built in the 18th century, which is a place to take impressive “virtual-living” photos.

The people in Mijas are very friendly, hospitable, laid-back and open, so are the friendly cafes, or the amusement parks on the beach. You will feel nowhere on cozy and warm like here.

Picasso Museum

Located in the province of Malaga, the Picaso museum is of course the place to display the paintings of one of the most talented painters in the world. You will be admired 204 wonderful works preserved intact here. You can also find some “check-in” spots such as Phoenician archaeological site, Roman ruins, and more located right in the ground of the museum.

Tenerife Island

As the largest island in the Canary Islands where San Cristóbal de La Laguna is a city recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site with unique architecture and beautiful beaches. The land around Teide volcano is more than 3,700 meters high, very fertile with many species of flora and fauna. If traveling to Tenerife, you should not miss the natural attractive landscapes and unique architectural features in the town on the island.

Also known as the city of 3 cultures, because Toledo has been inhabited by Jews, Christians and Muslims for centuries. Perhaps thanks to this special feature that the city is known as a destination rich in history, art and architecture of the Roman Empire. Toledo is located on a mountaintop in central Spain, and served as the capital of Spain until the 16th century.

San Sebastian

Is the capital city of the Basque region in northern Spain, off the coast of the Bay of Biscay. This place is known as a great resort, with clear blue beaches, long white sand beaches, warm sunny weather, etc. Especially, the culinary tradition here is extremely outstanding.

Spain blog: What to buy as gifts?

Want unique souvenirs? Visit the craft markets in Madrid and Andalusia. These places selling a lot of wooden crafts, porcelain and jewelry. Andalusia is also home to some of Spain’s finest wines, bring home a bottle wine of sherry it would be great. You can also buy souvenirs for children at Alicante, the largest toy manufacturing center in the country. Spain also owns famous fashion brands, and if you want to own trending and unique designer clothes, Madrid and Barcelona are your destinations.

As the birthplace of guitar, you don’t need to worry about the quality. However, because it is quite bulky, it will not be easy to bring it back, so you should only buy it if you are sure that the person is a real guitar enthusiast. It is not difficult to find these guitars at famous stores in Madrid.

Gifts with signatures of Spanish players

Being the home of world famous football teams like Barcelona, Real Madrid… it will be a big regret for any football fan if you don’t buy the souvenir items with signature of idols when coming here.

Boxes and jewelry

Spain sells many decorative boxes, jewelry, beautiful watches with various designs. These items are very youthful, elegant and easy to mix with other accessories because they are inlaid with gold or silver. You can buy them in ancient capital of Toledo or central Madrid, shops on Prado Avenue at affordable prices.

Spain is known as the land of vineyards and major wine production in the world. The wine taste here is also very special and will give you a distinct feeling. In particular, Spain has Rioja, which is considered a traditional wine-making region of the Spanish with the famous Campo Viejo wine, which is an indispensable gift when leaving.

Spain travel blog: What to eat?

Spanish cuisine is also a tourist attraction. Spanish love their cuisine so much, so almost all their meals are prepared with great care and attention. Spanish specialties include paella, cocido, fabada, butifarra amb mongetes, tortilla, jamón, chorizo, longaniza, lomo, salchichón, churros, and seafood. Regarding drinks, Spain is famous for wine, beer and sherry – a specialty wine in southern Spain.

Tapas is an experience not to be missed if you want a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine. A regular plate of tapas will cost between 3-5 Euros and 12-20 Euros for seafood tapas.

Flamenco eggs (huevos a la flamenca)

Using eggs as a familiar dish in Spanish cuisine, with a creative and special preparation. In particular, must mention the Flamencos eggs, fried eggs with bacon, tomatoes and vegetables.

This is one of the traditional dishes in Spain originating from Valencia region. Pealla rice dish consisting of white rice, then added with green vegetables, beans, seafood and meat… There are 3 types of Paella for you to choose from: Seafood Paella, Mixed Paella, Valencia Paella.

This is a traditional Spanish Stew made from fresh vegetables, dried vegetables and various meats. You can find this dish anywhere. Each region will have a different way of processing, so you can completely enjoy it with different flavors.

Pimientos de Padrón (Spanish-Style Blistered Padrón Peppers)

Also known as Padrón Peppers from the town of Padrón in the Galicia region of Spain, made from green peppers is one of the popular appetizers in Spain.

A competitor of the paella rice dish. This is a pasta dish but has a similar cooking method to Paella rice. This dish is very popular in Catalonia and Valencia.

One of the most appreciated dishes in Spain is salted cod. Cod is caught from as far away as Norway or Newfoundland and salted for preservation.

This dish is made similar to Chinese fried dough sticks covered by sugar-covered, served in many in the festival or afternoon tea.

Leche Frita

If you think milk can’t be fried, think again. Fried milk Leche frita is a very popular dessert made from condensed milk into whipped cream, egg yolks and flour. All are mixed well, then rolled in bread crumbs and fried until golden brown. This dish can be eaten both hot and cold.

Jamón Serrano ham, Galician seafood, Torrija… are also attractive dishes that you should not miss when visiting this beautiful Spain.

The famous drinks of Spain are Vermouth, Granizados (fruit shaped-ice), Clara (lemon beer), especially Sangria (fruit wine) – the national drink, Espresso coffee, wine, beer, and sherry – is one specialty wine in the south of Spain.

Spain travel blog: Where to stay?

Hotels in Spain are very diverse with wide range room rates for visitors to choose from, and ensure dedicated service with all necessary amenities. There are also family apartments and overnight guesthoues in the suburbs, but there will be no weekend discounts like big hotels in the city.

To find top rated and best hotels, acommodations you should visit Agoda.com , Booking.com .

Spain blog: Traveling cost

Spain has many attractive tourist attractions, but you will not have to spend too much for those attractions. With attractions and museums will cost for admissions from 2-14 Euros. For rides at amusement parks cost 20-30 Euros, visiting the islands will cost about 45 Euros for each dive.

Staing in a dorm room cost from EUR 15/person/night up to 30 EUR/person/night in big cities like Barcelona or Madrid.

Cheap hostels cost from EUR 45/night. If you want to be a bit more luxurious and comfortable, you can choose to stay in apartments through services like Airbnb or Couchsurfing with more diverse prices and have interesting experiences when you have the opportunity to meet and live together with locals.

A sandwich cost from EUR3-7/part. Fast foods also cost around EUR7. Price from 15-22 EUR/person if you eat at small restaurants. And enjoy a meal at the luxury restaurants, will cost at least EUR27/person. You can also cook for yourself by buying ingredients from local markets for between 25-40 euros/person, which is also one of the interesting experiences when you go to the market in Spain.

Thus, the proposed budget for a tourist day in Spain will range from EUR50 – 60/day. This expected budget is calculated with the service of staying in the dormitory, self-cooking and traveling by public transport, which is the best and most economical budget calculation for you. However, the budget will be higher if you choose to stay in hotels and dining at restaurants.

Spain travel blog: Other notes before you go

• Please keep your money and personal documents carefully when traveling on public transport or going to crowded places because pickpocketing is quite common here.
• Some public places or restaurants, eateries have signs prohibiting smoking, you must pay attention to this because if you violate, you will be severely fined.
• When taking an escalator, remember to stand on the right side in case the person behind wants to pass.
• Spaniards often go out and have dinner quite late, after 8 or even 9 o’clock and they often eat while talking so the meal time is quite long. So there are a lot of restaurants that are only open from after 8pm to night. There are also some restaurants that open earlier, but they will be divided into two areas: the tourist area serving from 7 pm, the local area serving from 9 pm.
• Not all Spanish can speak English, even in big cities like Madrid or Barcelona. Do not rush to think that people are not friendly when you speak English with them but do not receive a response, simply because they may not understand what you are saying. So, learn some common Spanish phrases before coming here.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Madrid you can refer to

• Private Madrid International Airport (MAD) Transfers for Madrid
• Toledo and Segovia from Madrid
• Toledo & Windmills Tour from Madrid
• Toledo Half Day Guided Tour from Madrid
• Madrid Segway Tour
• Avila and Segovia Full Day Guided Tour from Madrid
• Madrid Half-Day Tour with Prado Museum, Royal Palace or Bernabeu Stadium Visit
• Prado Museum Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket
• Madrid City Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Royal Palace of Madrid Guided Tour with Fast Track Access
• Real Madrid Santiago Bernabéu Stadium & Museum Entrance Ticket in Madrid
• Cheapest & Fastest Trains from MADRID to BARCELONA
• Eurail Pass for Spain (3, 4, 5, 6 or 8 Days)

Are you looking for more top things to do in Madrid: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Spain travel guide here .

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50+ Best Madrid Blogs and Websites You Should Know About

Reading an informative blog post before trying something is not much different from driving a vehicle; you need to study highway codes, learn about the best routes, and beware of the traffic rules to reach your destination safely.  

Although nothing can give you the real feel like sitting behind the steering wheel and hitting the road, learning about the rules, routes, and driving norms help you navigate through the whole process. A good driving lesson, that is to say, is more like reading and learning about something through an informative piece of writing such as a – BLOG . 

And gathering information about the “ City of Contemporary Art ” Madrid is no exception. From its spots like b popular as shopping heaven to Royal Palace, Plaza de la Villa to eateries like Taberna Real and Meson del Champion, Madrid encapsulates a never-ending charm. Whether you have studied Spanish or want to travel to the exotic cities of Europe, learning about the city before you visit it will help you make the most of it.  

So if you are looking for the best Madrid blogs, you have landed on the right page. We have the ultimate list of the most popular Madrid blogs , bringing you a whole new view to discover Madrid, Spain through the eyes of experienced bloggers. Whether you want to explore museum exhibitions, you’re looking for a comprehensive list of historical sites, or you’re interested in learning about the Spanish cuisine, here is the list of 50 best Madrid blogs.

1. Naked Madrid

Visit Naked Madrid blog here : www.nakedmadrid.com

Naked Madrid has comprehensively listed some long articles, mainly presenting reviews on the scrumptious food spots, restaurants, and bars in the city. The attractive food illustrations and detailed food reviews combine to give you in-depth knowledge of the subjects.

From the best brunch spots to cozy and unique wine bars, Naked Madrid has enlisted them all. Interestingly, all the blogs are in English , giving you insights about the authentic food experience you may have in the city.  

Not only this, but Naked Madrid also enumerates tips on outdoor activities , trips to the town’s fascinating places, and music taste of the city. What interests us the most is the service information for the expats to help them learn the language and find housing.

Visit Espacio blog here : www.espaciomadrid.es

Leisure, getaways, street markets, and gastronomy, Espacio has a lot to tell you about The Spanish blog includes some well-researched and enlightening content for the readers. This local, independent blog takes a sneak-peek into everything that enables you to enjoy your stay. It lists events, fairs, exhibitions, theaters, monuments, and cultural news. In short, the blog is enough to give you an excellent highlight of what Madrid is up to.

3. Madrid Cool Blog

Visit Madrid Cool Blog here : www.madridcoolblog.com/en/

If you have been in the traveling market and are looking for an extensive guide blog to update your knowledge, Madrid Cool Blog is a must-check. The locally-run blog features some amazing insider tips and spots you can discover during your stay in the city. 

This English blog takes readers through the new eatery spots, bars, coffee houses , and some fantastic getaways in Madrid. From the Roman gold mine of El Bierzo to breathtaking Lavender fields in Brihuega; the blog can really give you the pure traveling vibes. 

4. Kusina Madrid

Visit Kusina Madrid blog here : www.kusinamadrid.com

From exciting cross-cultural stories to information about delectable cuisine, Kusina Madrid has it all. It is one of the best blogs for travel enthusiasts who are looking for an excellent blog that talks about both food and culture . Kusina Madrid also includes tips to choose interesting local eateries , highlighting the exclusivities and delicacies from the menus.

The food blogs have a good grip on the food culture as it also enlists food news, festivals, and the Spanish specialties in breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Offering some thought-provoking content in Spanish and English , the blog can be your food guide in Madrid.

5. Madrid y Yo

Visit Madrid y Yo blog here : ww1.madridyyo.com

A joined venture of two friends, Madrid y Yo, is not just an inventory of some of the unique places in the city. With its summery illustrations and feel, the blog typically reviews shops, coffees, restaurants, and markets . The blog is in English and is adding some more interesting sections for its readers. We are looking forward to the section that will add interviews of locals and exciting people around the town.

6. Spain Revealed

Visit Spain Revealed blog here : www.spainrevealed.com

You must check out “Spain Revealed” if you want to know personal experiences and reviews of one of the famous seasoned food writers – James Blick. Madrid features James’ personal take on the best restaurants and bars around Madrid. If you are a travel foodie and feel overwhelmed when picking an eatery spot, the blog is ideal for you. All you need is to trust in foodie-approved places picked by an expert foodie himself.

7. Be Madrid

Visit Be Madrid blog here : www.bemadrid.com/blog-madrid

Be Madrid makes an excellent and informative blog for students and expats visiting or studying abroad. The blog gives expats suggestions on finding economical houses, excursions, and activities. Some of the best features of this blog include survival tips to enjoy your stay to the fullest.

8. Madridnt

Visit Madridnt blog here : www.madridnt.com

The blog is not for you if you are planning to move to Madrid . Instead, it advises you to become a successful English instructor or language teacher in the city. The blogger has also added her personal experiences of apartment hunting and the best supermarkets in the town.

9. My Little Madrid

Visit My Little Madrid blog here : www.my-little-madrid.com

My little Madrid is your go-to blog that has plenty of spots to sleep , places of fun activities , and exciting events where you can participate with your little ones. Besides this, you can check out the blog to find some affordable shopping markets and restaurants. In short, you can find some useful information about the best spots where you can learn, buy, and enjoy while staying in Madrid.

10. Spanish Sabores

Visit Spanish Sabores blog here : www.spanishsabores.com

When you combine recipes and travel tips, it becomes “Spanish Sabores.” And that is what sets this website apart from the rest of the blogs. The blog doesn’t just make an ideal combo of food and travel but also includes much more beyond that. For instance, if you want to find out about Madrid Tapas tour or corporate experiences, don’t forget to check out this blog.

11. Secretos De Madrid

Visit Secretos De Madrid blog here : www.secretosdemadrid.es

As the name implies, Secretos De Madrid has all the secrets of the city that you might be interested in knowing. 

The Spanish blog is a center of information if you want to explore local experiences that locals themselves rarely know about. It includes everything from hidden gems , historical facts, red-light districts, to restaurant recommendations. Going through this blog is one way you can improve your language and general knowledge without having to spend a penny. This is a defining feature of this blog.

12. Cheap in Madrid

Visit Cheap in Madrid website here : www.cheapinmadrid.com

Very few blogs tell you about cheap deals in Madrid . One of them is “Cheap in Madrid,” where you can find some rare and valuable content related to the best ways to survive in the metropolitans like Madrid.  

A competent team of editors makes this blog incredibly useful for people trying to meet the ends. Thus, from secret places in Madrid and sharing living spaces to tips on affordable sightseeing , the blog guides you on just about everything.  

13. Oh Hello Spain

Sign up to Oh Hello Madrid blog here : www.ohhellospain.blogspot.com

The blog is a kind of personal piece of writing and belongs to Kate Turner-an English blogger , living in Madrid. Kate has beautifully narrated her experiences and travelogues in the blog. The personal insights to travel and live in the city are what make “Oh Hello Spain” standout.

However, you have to subscribe to Kate’s blog to follow and learn from the journey.

14. Visit Madrid

Check out Visit Madrid official website here : www.esmadrid.com/en

Want to stay updated and on top of local events , projects , Madrid fiestas , and neighborhood? Visita Madrid can help you do that. The blog has loads of information to discover Madrid at a glance. You can explore art and culture, sports, special event, tourist information centers on Visit Madrid.

15. Madrid no Frills

Visit Madrid no Frills blog here : www.madridnofrills.com

The blog will surely make you fall in love with its engaging content and amount of information. The blog takes you on a hunt to explore the hidden gems , breathtaking museums , authentic bars , and Madrid’s untold stories. The unique and well-written content in the blog combines interesting illustrations that are compelling enough to make you book a flight to Madrid.

16. The Making of Madrid

Visit The Making of Madrid blog here : www.themakingofmadrid.com

Interested in exploring the history of Madrid ? “The Making of Madrid “dives into the rich historical events and takes you to a thematic tour of the city. You may find about the things (from a medieval city to modern metropolis) and facts you have never heard of.

17. Madrid Food Tour

Visit Madrid Food Tour blog here : www.madridfoodtour.com/blog

Fun trips , local cuisine , and useful information about traveling within Madrid – this is one of the blogs you must check out for in-depth information . That means with its information on tours-to-join and events-to-participate, “Madrid Travel and Food Blog” can add a lot to your stay in Madrid.

18. Alternative Travelers

Visit Alternative Travelers blog here : www.alternativetravelers.com

As you can see from the name, the blog is not for you if you are a meat lover. Instead, the blog features veganism and the places where you can find the best vegan menus in Madrid . Plus, this English blog also talks about budget travel , house-sitting, and sustainability.

19. Wondrelicious

Visit Wondrelicious blog here : www.wanderlicious.es

It is another good blog if you are interested in a plant-based type lifestyle . The blogger mainly talks about vegan and vegetarian cooking and cuisine.

20. Microplan Madrid

Visit Microplan Madrid blog here : www.microplanmadrid.com

The Spanish blog digs deep and adds some unique continental eatery stops in Madrid . Moreover, it gives you a glimpse of picturesque architecture and less-known sights of the city. It is a must-check if you are planning a short trip to the city.

21. Madrid Diferente

Visit Madrid Diferente blog here : www.madriddiferente.com

It is another foodie blog that comprises information on local foods, bars, botanical nights, concerts, and music festivals . The interesting food blog offers some fun articles and reviews , and interesting food news to make you feel like a local (even if you’re not).

22. Time Out Spain

Visit Time Out blog here : www.timeout.com/madrid

“Time out” is undeniably an excellent blog about the stuff you can enjoy in free time. The Spanish blog details not only the latest news and cultural events but also offers great recommendations for restaurants, bars, music, and arts. The blog also has information on events happening in local areas and the best neighborhood.

23. We 3 Travel

Visit We 3 Travel blog here : www.we3travel.com

This family blog can be a great source of information for traveling with your children in Madrid . It has everything you need to know “What you can do in Madrid” with your kids. If you need suggestions for unique family activities and restaurants, We 3 Travel has a lot to guide.

24. Spain Guru

Visit Spain Guru blog here : www.spainguru.es

This blog is by American bloggers who advise people moving to Madrid . The blog includes comprehensive information about work permits in Spain or long-term residency options in Spain.

25. Women on the Road

Visit Women on the Road blog here : www.women-on-the-road.com

If you are a traveling soul and loves adventures, the blog is for you. Women on the road guide female solo travelers about how they can travel safely to some of the scenic and fantastic places in Madrid. The blog provides a unique perspective for travelers, especially people who are scared or apprehensive about solo traveling.

26. Madrid Free

Visit Madrid Free blog here : www.madridfree.com

Madrid Free is a blog with plenty of tips for travelers looking for free or cheap deals or activities in Madrid. The blog is in Spanish and includes posts about dancing, clubs, volunteer projects, guided tours, and exhibits.

27. Feel Madrid

Visit Feel Madrid blog here : www.feelmadrid.com

Feel Madrid is a travel blog entirely devoted to exploring Madrid . The blog digs travel information related to transport, events, landmarks, museums, best lodging, and landmarks in Madrid. The blog is in English and helps you explore the beautiful surroundings in Madrid.

28. Nomadic Matt

Visit Nomadic Matt blog here : www.nomadicmatt.com

The ultimate travel guide to Madrid, Nomadic Matt, can be a real reference to enrich your traveling experience. Posted by the New-York Times bestselling author , the blog offers some amazing money-saving trips. Written in English, the blog is a useful and extensive information source for travelers of all ages.

29. Y Travel

Visit Y Travel blog here : www.ytravelblog.com

It is another blog comprising of tips on things and activities to enjoy in Madrid. It is a part of the city guide series . A couple covers this series to give inspiration to travelers. The blog is all about accumulating experiences and memories with well written and original tips to enjoy in Madrid with family . The blog recommends the best neighborhoods and places to eat and drink.

30. Eat and Love

Visit Eat and Love blog here : www.eatandlovemadrid.es

The Spanish blog inspires you to enjoy delicacies and world-class cuisines. It is a guide to love and eat by trying new recipes and interesting stuff. This lifestyle blog keeps on updating unique places to eat and drink with stunning pictures to help you feel alive and motivated. The blog also features some traveling guidelines for foodies to gather authentic, unique, and fun experiences.

31. Somos Malasana

Visit Somos Malasana blog here : www.somosmalasana.eldiario.es

It is an in-depth and comprehensive Spanish blog about exciting neighborhood activities . You can explore everything from community projects to new restaurants, bars, and news in the blog.

32. Little Miss Madrid

Visit Little Miss Madrid blog here : www.littlemissmadrid.wordpress.com

It is a blog from Cat Powell- the most active and popular blogger of Madrid. The blog aims to explore the delicacies and specialties of newly opened restaurants in Madrid . More like a review, Little Miss Madrid can bring you insights into the eatery projects blossoming in the city.

33. Meetup.com

Visit Meetup website here : www.meetup.com

Traveling can become more fun in Madrid when you are with the right group of people. Whether you are visiting Madrid first time or have never been with the other traveling companions, this blog can provide you with endless options of different community groups to join in the city. If you are planning to stay long in Madrid, you must check out this blog.  

34. On the Luce

Visit On the Luce blog here : www.ontheluce.com

The blog can do great to maximize your money, travel time, and sharing tips for travel adventures with affordable luxury. By providing advice and inspiration for your travel time, it gives you many tips on how to plan everything on a budget . The English blog combines beautiful photos and inspirational stories, along with valuable details that can make your trips a reality.

35. Madrid and You

Visit Madrid and You blog here : www.nueva.madridandyou.com

Madrid & You is the best blog that explains why you should choose Madrid as your next traveling destination and gives you tons of reasons to explore the city. The blog allows you to enjoy the city from various perspectives so that you can feel like a local while exploring the best places to see, eat, drink, and, most importantly, confess your love to your significant one.  

36. Paulina on the Road

Visit Paulina on the Road blog here : www.paulinaontheroad.com

Are you all about sustainable and eco-friendly traveling? Paulina got you covered on her blog packed with travel stories & guides narrated in both English and Spanish. In just 8 years, she experienced living in 7 cities and have spent 4 years in Spain. Although she’s now back in Luxembourg, her home base, her blog is packed with tips on the best museums to visit, food & drinks to taste, and neighborhoods to explore in Madrid from local wanderer’s perspective.

37. Con El Morro Fino

Visit Con El Morro Fino blog here : www.conelmorrofino.com

The Spanish blog Con El Morro Fino is precisely for foodies . The features that make this blog stand out are the in-depth details and information about the best traveling deals and the hottest restaurants in Madrid.

38. Guias Viajar

Visit Quias Viajar blog here : www.guias-viajar.com/madrid

It is another unique add-on in the list of comprehensive blogs that has great content and information on the city. Guias Viajars shares information and updates on lovely and attractive sights in Madrid to visit.

39. Las Mesas de Vanessa

Visit Las Mesas de Vanessa blog here : www.lasmesasdevanessa.com

This Madrid blog is all about restaurants . The food blogger features a wonderful selection of bars and eateries in Madrid to help travelers explore popular cuisine and dishes from different places. That means you can find the reviews on the best restaurants in Madrid, where you can have tasty Italian, French, Japanese, and Mexican food.

40. La Madrid Morena

Visit La Madrid Morena blog here : www.lamadridmorena.com

This personal Madrid blog talks about excursions, cultural plans, and gastronomy. The Spanish blog also includes some must-visit restaurants that specialize in Italian cuisine. The blog has an Italian-Madrilenian soul, making it unique and different from other blogs. It has also won “ the best blog award ” by 20 Minutos newspaper .

41. Expert Vagabond

Visit Expert Vagabond blog here : www.expertvagabond.com

Matt – a renowned name of blogging is a photographer by profession . His adventurous soul is what made him quit his job and follow his dreams. He started writing in 2010 to motivate and make people learn from his posts and traveling mistakes.

Matt’s blog includes everything from exciting destinations to ideal and exotic restaurants and scenic places for photography. Moreover, the blog dives deep into Madrid’s local culture and highlights the defining features and traditions of the city.

42. Desbravando Madrid

Visit Desbravando Madrid blog here : www.desbravandomadrid.com

Desbravando Madrid is a blog for you if you have a Portuguese background. The blogger belongs to Portugal and created this blog for the Portuguese speaking travelers to help them explore the gems of Madrid City. The blog includes tips and tricks, fun facts, and legends to give travelers a hang of the Spanish city.

43. Esto Es Malasana

Visit Esto Es Malasana blog here : www.estoesmalasana.com

The blog is a creative piece of writing from Adriana Fernandez, who came to live in the neighborhood of Madrid in 2012. She narrated her personal experiences , explorations, and discoveries in the city to educate traveling enthusiast. Her blog features a unique mix of opinions, places, and reviews of the eateries and visiting spots in the Spanish capital. You can keep track of Adriana’s latest blog posts also on her Facebook page or even Instagram .

44.   Go Madrid

Visit Go Madrid blog here : www.gomadrid.com

This piece of the blog has everything you need to know before traveling to the largest city in Spain. It is not much different from a mini city guide that contains beneficial tourist information. Make sure you read this blog to find out the best places to stay, eat, and pay a visit to. 

45. Oneika the Traveller

Visit Oneika’s blog here : www.oneikathetraveller.com

Who would mind having some unique traveling tips from a travel enthusiast like Oneika Raymond? The travel channel host and popular media personality have added her unique experiences and suggestions to the blog. You can find picnic spots, decent hotel rooms, cheap accommodation, and metro spots in the majestic city of Spain.

46. Moving2Madrid Blog

Visit Moving2Madrid blog here : www.moving2madrid.com

As the title implies, the English blog is for international professionals who want to move to Madrid. The blog provides plenty of hassle-free options to find a dream house in Madrid. From sourcing, leveraging networks, negotiating the prices to handling home buying or renting process, the blog helps you in everything.

47. The Chorizo Chronicles

Visit The Chorizo Chronicles blog here : www.expatmadrid.com

Daniel is one of the famous Spanish bloggers who write for people who live in Spain and people who want to move to Spain. The refreshing blogs use the latest news and happenings from Madrid to educate and entertain people.

48. The Eating Place

Visit The Eating Place blog here : www.theeatingplace.com

The blog is the joint venture of two friends Carlos and Rafa, who want to share their passion, experiences based on the trip, outings, and, most importantly, good food through writing.

In short, the Spanish blog makes readers a part of their gastronomic adventures . By reading this blog, you can explore fashionable restaurants, culinary corners, and new flavors.

49. Erasmusu

Visit Erasmusu blog here : www.erasmusu.com

The English blog is the best read if you want to make the most of your short-trips to Madrid. It includes information about exciting spots, sights, eatery spots, hipster neighborhoods in the city.

50. Lingo Bongo

Visit Lingo Bongo website here : www.lingobongo.com/madrid

Lingo Bongo is one-stop if you are looking for language training centers , local communities, employment opportunities, and best living spaces in Madrid. You can even post an advertisement and your resume on the page to explore more options.

51. LAE Madrid

Visit LAE Madrid blog here : www.laemadrid.com

The whole of Spain comes to one place when you read this blog. The blog is loaded with the information that you will rarely find in any other written piece. You can discover the unique details like cultural shocks, gifts that move emotions, free places to study in Madrid, best seasonal events, and friendship expressions in this blog.

52. Amigos Madrid

Visit Amigos Madrid blog here : www.amigosmadrid.es

You can discover the whole of Madrid through this Spanish blog. It is full of interesting leisure activities and fun places such as pubs, nightclubs, parks, natural pool, reality gaming spots, and music festivals in Madrid.

53. The Blegger

Visit The Blegger blog here : www.theblegger.com

Do you love going to the bars that have hip crowds, lively vibes, and a relaxed atmosphere? If yes, then “The Blegger” is your blog. Whether you are looking for the oldest hippie bar or the one that specializes in Gin tonics, the Blegger can be your go-to guide. Not only this, but you can also find some calm spots to spend time and friendly markets to buy traditional wear.

In a nutshell, Madrid holds a unique and distinctive charm that attracts tourists, adventurers, and traveling enthusiasts all round the year. The fabulous city is one of the hottest spots for bloggers who like to narrate their experiences and aspirations through informative blogs.  

Thus, the given list of the blogs talks about everything from splendid urbanity, beautiful art and monuments, tasty eatery spots, and distinct culture that make Madrid one of the must-added destinations on your bucket list.

The blogs do not only describe Madrid’s unique features in detail but also help people discover and understand its cultural norms, traditions, local practices, and food choices. You can read the blogs to get the quick highlights of the city and its lifestyle.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Madrid

Discover the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do with Travel + Leisure's Madrid travel guide.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

Best Hotels

Things to do, best shopping, best restaurants, best time to go, how to get there, neighborhoods to know, how to get around.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

There's far more to Madrid than bullfighting, flamenco, and tapas, though you'll certainly find all three in the Spanish capital. Named one of the best cities to visit in Europe by Travel + Leisure readers and one of the best places to travel by T+L editors in 2023, there's a little something for everyone in this incredible city.

Art lovers can spend the day strolling around Madrid's Golden Triangle of Art, where three of the world's biggest museums meet. History buffs will love the city's gorgeous architecture and historic landmarks, including the oldest restaurant in the world and an Egyptian temple. (Yes, it's actually Egyptian.) And you can't go wrong with the booming food scene here — it's made Madrid one of Europe's best food cities.

Madrid offers so much to do that you may want to embrace the tradition of a midday siesta. The city's bars and clubs tend to hit their stride after midnight, so an afternoon nap in one of Madrid's top hotels may be just the fuel you need to transition from a day of sightseeing to a night of music and dance.

Rosewood Villa Magna

T+L readers voted the 154-room Rosewood Villa Magna the best hotel in Madrid in recent years, highlighting its central downtown location, modern elegance, and incredible wellness offerings. Each spa offering is individualized and combines ancient Iberian practices with newer innovation. For example, guests can sign up for the "El Retiro" Sense Journey, which starts with a guided power walk in the park and ends with a leg and foot massage.

Four Seasons Hotel Madrid

The Four Seasons Madrid , voted one of the best hotels in Madrid in 2023 by T+L readers, combines seven historic buildings to create a luxury enclave in the heart of the city. The hotel is the Four Seasons brand's first in Spain and sits just steps away from luxury shopping along the famous Gran Via. Plus, there's a rooftop terrace, a pool, and a four-level spa.

The Principal Madrid Hotel

This intimate boutique hotel boasts just 76 rooms, but its rooftop terrace offers some of the best views in the city. The property is located along the Gran Via, and its restaurant, Ático, is helmed by chef Ramón Freixa of the Michelin two-starred Ramón Freixa Madrid . "Guests can relax together in the cozy bar area or indulge in the spa when they need to unwind," T+L contributor Stacey Leasca previously reported.

Sleep'n Atocha

The centrally located Sleep'n Atocha isn't just good for your wallet, it's good for the environment. The hotel has been a carbon-neutral facility since 2019 and has committed to environmentally friendly practices like recycling, purchasing products with a low environmental impact, and using toxic-free cleaning products. Its whimsical design and excellent location make this affordable gem a must-stay in the capital city.

Only You Boutique Hotel Madrid

Located in a 19th-century palace, Only You Boutique Hotel Madrid combines modern design with classic Spanish-style architecture in a 45-room hotel. Guests can dine at the Younique Arts Club, where food and art intersect — both national and international artists host exhibitions in the space.

Puerta del Sol

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Located in the heart of Madrid, Puerta del Sol is one of the city's best-known and busiest public squares. It's home to the famous clock whose bells mark the beginning of the Spanish New Year. "Look for the marker in the middle of the plaza that marks Spain's Kilometer 0," Jamie Ditaranto, T+L contributor, recommended . "This is the starting point for all the major roads that leave Madrid and head toward all corners of the country."

Museo Nacional del Prado

The Museo Nacional de Prado is Spain's main national art museum. It "houses some of the most emblematic artworks of Spain, including Francisco de Goya’s 'Black Paintings' and Valásquez’s 'Las Meninas,'" Jamie Ditaranto previously reported .   Along with the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and the Museo Reina Sofía, the Prado forms Madrid's Golden Triangle of Art. The museum was founded as a museum of paintings and sculptures in 1819 and includes works of art from Spain and beyond.

Royal Palace of Madrid

The Royal Palace of Madrid is among the largest and most opulent palaces in Europe, boasting more than 1.45 million square feet of space spread over 3,418 rooms. Guests can spot paintings by famous artists like Francisco Goya and Diego Velazquez in the opulent rooms. Stop in to see the world's only complete Stradivarius string quintet and, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, catch the changing of the Royal Guard.

Plaza de Cibeles

Plaza de Cibeles is the public square home to the iconic Cibeles Fountain, which was built in 1782. This spot is surrounded by four pieces of legendary Spanish architecture, including the former post office that now serves as Madrid City Hall.

Temple of Debod

An Egyptian temple may be the last thing you would expect to find in Madrid, but that's exactly what the Temple of Debod is. This Egyptian temple traces its history to the 2nd century B.C. It was given to Spain by the Egyptians and moved to Madrid, where it was rebuilt stone by stone and opened as a tourist site in 1972. If you're looking to soak in a gorgeous Madrid sunset, this is one of the best places to do it.

Read More: 30 Best Things to Do in Madrid, From Palace Tours to Flamenco Shows

Gran Via is a nearly mile-long retail paradise where shoppers can expect to find a mix of luxury boutiques and mainstream brands nestled among some of the city's architectural gems. Retailers along the Gran Via include H&M, the Real Madrid Official Store, the Atletico Madrid Official Store, and the largest Huawei store in Europe.

Operational since 1740, El Rastro is an open-air market that sells everything and anything — from knick-knacks and antiques to clothing and furniture. It's open every Sunday and on public holidays and is located on Calle de la Ribera de Curtidores. "The market can get very crowded," Stacey Leasca previously noted, "but if you're feeling overwhelmed, you can step off to one of the shops lining the street behind the stalls to find a little space."

Mercado San Miguel

Mercado de San Miguel opened as a wholesale food market more than 100 years ago. Today, it's the place to sample everything from Iberian ham to fresh fish and tapas from more than 20 stands serving up delicious Spanish food.

Chocolateria San Gines

Chocolateria San Gines is a short walk from Puerta del Sol and is one of the most popular places in town to grab churros. The intimate cafe traces its history back to 1864 when it began developing its reputation as an after-theater dessert spot. It's tucked behind one of Madrid's oldest churches and serves up its signature dark hot chocolate and churros around the clock.

If you're looking for a memorable dinner, you'll want to reserve at DiverXo . The recipient of three Michelin stars , the restaurant is helmed by chef Dabix Muñoz. "The collision of ingredients sounded more like a word-association game than a recipe," Matt Goulding, a food journalist living in Spain, described in the July 2023 issue of T+L . "But [my] first bite left no room for doubt." A dinner ticket here starts at $380 per person. The restaurant is usually booked solid, but their website opens new reservation slots every day at midnight for the date 90 days in the future.

Casa Botin was founded in 1725 and is recognized by  Guinness World Records as the oldest continuously operating restaurant on Earth. Its signature dishes include suckling pig and roasted lamb, but its menu is full of chicken, veal, and seafood platters, too. Stop in for dinner, or take a tour of Casa Botin's dining rooms, cellar, and underground tunnels. The tour is about $87 and includes a set lunch or dinner menu.

Corral de la Morería

Corral de la Moreria is the place to experience flamenco in Madrid. This venue has been hosting live flamenco shows since 1956 and has performances every night of the week. And if it's dinner and a show you're after, there may be no better place. Coral de la Moreria has a Michelin-starred restaurant on-site. Guests over the years have included Ernest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso, Che Guevara, and Demi Moore.

Madrid's food scene isn't a Spanish-only affair. Peruvian chef Roberto Martínez Foronda combines Peruvian and Southeast Asian ingredients and flavors at his restaurant, Tripea, which opened in 2017. “The fusion boom in Madrid created so much bad food,” Foronda told T+L in the July 2023 issue . “But we’ve cut through the fat, and what’s left is mostly excellent.” For a little more than $53, guests can try Foronda's eight-course tasting menu.

Read More: How Madrid Became One of Europe's Best Food Cities

Madrid is a city that sizzles during the summer, with temperatures that can soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Brave the heat for Madrid's take on Pride, which starts each year in late June and runs through early July. What used to be a small celebration in the late 1970s has since grown into one of the largest celebrations of LGBTQ+ pride in Europe.

For better weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices, try visiting during the fall or spring (we have some recommendations for what to pack ). The days are sunny, and you'll be able to celebrate events like the San Isidro Festival, held each year in May, and the  Autumn Festival  (or Feria del Otoño), held in October or November. "[The Autumn Festival draws] acts from all over the world, from opera and ballet to theater and indie music," Stacey Leasca, a T+L contributing editor, previously reported .

Read More : The Best Time to Visit Spain for Great Weather and Famous Festivals

Madrid-Barajas Airport is in northeast Madrid and services most major airlines. Passengers can fly directly to and from many major U.S. cities, including New York, Los Angeles, and Miami.

There are direct routes from Madrid Atocha Railway Station to Barcelona on both the Alta Velocidad Española and Ouigo train lines.

Las Austrias : Known as the heart of old Madrid, Las Austrias is home to palaces, churches, and monasteries built as early as the 16th century. It's where you'll find Plaza Mayor, as well as the Royal Palace and Corral de la Morería.

Las Letras : This lively neighborhood known as the Literary Quarter is a book lover's paradise. This is where you'll find the former homes of icons of the Spanish Golden Age, including Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote. The streets here are narrow and car traffic is limited.

Chueca : This is the heart of Madrid's LGBTQ+ community. It's a lively area filled with bars, cafes, and shops — and at the center of Madrid's iconic Pride celebration each year

Malasana : One of the city's hippest neighborhoods, Malasana is known for vintage shops and one-of-a-kind boutiques. This historic area is also where you'll find live music and clubs.

Trains: Madrid's metro system runs from the Madrid-Barajas Airport through downtown and to the suburbs. Fares are based on a zone system with prices determined by the distance traveled, and passengers will need a Public Transport Card  to travel. Transportation cards can hold 10 single tickets and two 10-journey tickets at a time. Download the Metro de Madrid app to see train maps, waiting times, and information on fares, passes, and more. The underground is currently working to improve accessibility at stations throughout the city and is working to make 84 percent of its stations accessible by 2028.

Buses: For anywhere Madrid's dozen or so metro and light rail lines can't take you, the city operates a fleet of more than 2,000 buses. Those buses run over 200 routes and serve more than 10,000 stops from 6 a.m to 11:30 p,m. (Note that some buses run on different schedules. Check run times before you leave your hotel.)

Taxis: Taxis are typically white with a diagonal red band on their front doors. They can be found at taxi stands throughout Madrid, hailed by raising an arm, or called through several ride-share apps.

Ride service: Uber is available in Madrid, as well as Cabify and Bolt.

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Madrid travel blog: The 16 best restaurants and hotspots in Madrid (Spain)!

In this Madrid travel blog, you will find the 16 best food hotspots and hippest restaurants in Madrid in Spain! Food and going out have a central place in the life of people in Madrid. Therefore I share in this travel blog a wide variety of restaurants, eateries, tapas shops and markets with delicious food in Madrid. And of course some extra Madrid tips for your perfect weekend get-away or vacation!

The best restaurants and places to eat in Madrid!

Madrid, my second home. I have lived, studied and worked there for in total one year, and I have visited the city 10 times. Everyone is always talking about Barcelona, but believe me, Madrid is just as much fun! In early May I visited this nice place with friends N. and S., with whom I also lived here, and it felt like we had never left the city.

L ooking for the island vibes in Spain? Mallorca is your place to be! Find all Mallorca tips in this blog!

Best restaurants in Madrid for breakfast, brunch or lunch!

Below you will find seven restaurants that are perfect for a Spanish breakfast. But also eateries suitable for a budget-proof breakfast and hotspots for the hippest brunch in Madrid can be found here!

Harina  – The best Spanish breakfast of Madrid!

Want to have a real Spanish breakfast? Visit Harina! Delicious bread and fine spreads. There are several locations, I prefer the terrace at Plaza de la Independencia! You can find branches of this restaurant in the Salamanca, Chueca, Tetuan districts in Madrid.

Museo del Jamon – Budget-proof breakfast in Madrid

Are you on a small budget? Then visit one of the many branches of Museo del Jamon. This is typical Spanish, a butcher with huge serrano ham in the shop windows. For just one euro you can buy good sandwiches with fresh serrano ham or manchego cheese.

La Tita Rivera  – best breakfast burgers in Madrid

This finely priced restaurant serves mainly burgers. Ask for a table in the courtyard, where you are nicely sheltered but still outside. This restaurant can be found in the Chueca district.

Frida  – Hotspot for luxury lunch in Madrid!

This is a hip restaurant with a nice terrace. No tapas, but nicely made one-person dishes. This restaurant can be found in the Chueca district.

Lolina Vintage cafe  – Bruch in a cool restaurant in Madrid

Lolina Vintage cannot be missed because of the amazing interior. The name says it all, everything inside is vintage. Nice place to go for brunch! This restaurant can be found in the Malasana district.

100 Montaditos  – budget-friendly baguettes in Madrid!

Just like Museo de Jamon, this is a famous name in Spain. With this chain, you can buy a hundred different small rolls. Very budget-worthy you can choose from rolls of 1 euro, 1.5 or 2 euro. A roll is always accompanied with a portion of chips.

Le Coco  – feel-good food in Madrid!

Feel good dishes with a crazy twist. Put some delicious butter right out of the barrel on your bread. The pizza contains truffles and the hummus tastes just as good as in Tel Aviv. This restaurant can be found in the Chueca district.

The best beach city in Spain: Barcelona! Click here for our free travel guide with tips on Barcelona !

Best restaurants for amazing food during dinner time in Madrid!

Lamucca – relaxed dining in a beautiful setting.

Lamucca is a restaurant where we have been coming for years. Good food, nothing difficult but a very nice setting. Branches of this restaurant can be found in the Huertas and Malasana districts in Madrid.

La Musa  – the best cheesecake in Madrid

The best cheesecake according to N. can be found at La Musa. With a wall of moss located in the middle of La Latina a nice restaurant in a neighbourhood where you normally would not come. Branches of this restaurant can be found in the La Latina and Malasana districts in Madrid.

Habanera  – The best restaurant for a luxury diner in Madrid!

Wow, this beautifully chic and trendy restaurant has surprised us. Delicious wine, dishes with lots of vegetables and special tasty combinations. Furthermore, the interior is top-notch. Every corner is different, and there are beautiful attributes everywhere to be seen. The price was very reasonable in our opinion, especially given the chicness around us. From the same owner as Frida. This restaurant can be found in the Chueca district.

Lateral – The best tapas restaurant in Madrid!

Another chain, normally I am not a fan of that, but in Madrid this is different. Lateral you visit for good tapas that are not too standard. Think of salmon rolls filled with cream, serrano ham and caramelized apple. Branches of this restaurant can be found in the Huertas, Salamanca, Chueca and Tetuan districts in Madrid.

Maricastana  – The best meat in Madrid!

Simple but nice restaurant in Malasana. It is known for the meat skewers and for us, the good service jumped out. Desserts were a bit disappointing. This restaurant can be found in the Malasana district.

Off the beaten track in Spain: Andalusia! Perfect for a weekend getaway or longer holiday! Find tips and more in this Andalusia blog !

Coolest places and hotspots to have drinks in Madrid!

Where to go for fancy drinks in Madrid?  Four times the best places for cocktails, cava and wine in Madrid.

Mercado de San Anton  – drinks on a rooftop bar in Madrid!

This gem is tucked above a beautiful market hall in the middle of Chueca. The vegetables and fruit in the market hall are way to expensive, but the drinks are surprisingly mildly priced. The terrace is half open and is next to a nice restaurant where you can have a delicious lunch in the afternoon. Highly recommended: the menu del dia during lunch time. This restaurant can be found in the Chueca district.

Mercado de San Miguel  – Cava and tapas in Madrid!

This famous market hall is worth a visit anyway. Beautiful vegetables, meat and fish and also a lot of tourists. There is no better place to watch people with a glass of Cava and a tapa then here. This restaurant can be found in the Sol district in Madrid

Vinoteca Barbechera  – The best wine in Madrid!

Delicious wines and some tapas, really a very nice place at Plaza Santa Ana! This restaurant can be found in the Huertas district.

Hotspots Madrid to sleep in: The nicest hotels in Madrid!

If you are going to Madrid for a city trip, then of course you also want to sleep at a nice hotel! Below are three hotels in Madrid that we like! There is a budget hotel in Madrid (including swimming pool!) an affordable design hotel and finally a luxury hotel in Madrid!

This simple hotel is located just south of the city center, about a 10-minute walk from Plaza Mayor. The rooms are straightforward, but there is a roof terrace with swimming pool. You stay here from €58 per night.

Vincci Soho €€

This beautiful design hotel is located right in the city center, 1 minute away from my favorite square in Madrid: Santa Ana. The roof terrace and restaurant look really spectacular! You stay here from €119 per night.

Me Reina Victoria €€ €

We stayed in this lovely hotel when we ran the Madrid half marathon. And how wonderful it was! A rooftop, huge beds, nice view of Plaza Santa Ana and the best: an amazing champagne breakfast! From €185 per night.

More blogs on Spain

A holiday to andalusia (south of spain): what to do in malaga, barcelona travel blog: the best hotspots and things to do in barcelona, spain, mallorca travel guide: 6 cool things to do & our favorite mallorca hotspots.

La Musa is definitely one of the best places to taste chesse cake in Madrid, I have not found another place where they offer a better product than there.

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