A full itinerary for 2 days in Madrid (+ a map of all the top sights, tips for skipping the Prado Museum queues, the best day trips, and where to find the most delicious paella).
Sitting right in the geographical heart of Spain, Madrid is one of the country’s most visited destinations. Unlike Barcelona or Valencia, it doesn’t have a coastline, but what it lacks in beaches, it more than makes up for with grand boulevards and stunning architecture. It’s a city that will leave you in awe, not only for its history and buildings, but also for its incredible food.
Madrid’s story begins in the 9th century, when the Moors built a small fortress on the site where the Royal Palace stands today. Back then, it was known as Mayrit. Everything changed in 1561 when King Philip II moved the Spanish court here, transforming what was essentially a provincial town into the political heart of the Spanish Empire. From that moment on, Madrid grew alongside Spain’s global power – through golden ages of art and literature, dramatic wars, royal dynasties, and even a few revolutions along the way.
Perfect 2-day Madrid itinerary
I have to admit, it took me two trips to Spain before I finally made it to Madrid. I came mainly for the Royal Palace, as I’d heard it’s one of the most stunning palaces in Europe. Honestly, I didn’t have huge expectations – I thought Madrid would be kind of like Barcelona, just without the beaches. How wrong I was! I fell in love immediately with the city and its magnificent, grand architecture. I spent a full week exploring, with day trips to Segovia, Toledo, and El Escorial – each one utterly magical.
I’ve packed all of this into my complete Madrid itinerary. Inside, you’ll find all the must-see sights, tips for skipping the lines, and my favourite spots for brunch and dinner from my week in the city. Plus, I’ve included some amazing day trips from Madrid that you really shouldn’t miss. Let’s get started!
2 days in Madrid Itinerary (for first-timers)
- Day 1: Royal Palace of Madrid, Almudena Cathedral, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
- Day 2: Prado Museum, El Oso y el Madroño, Las Ventas Bullring, Flamenco show
- Best day trips: Toledo, Segovia, El Escorial
Compared to Barcelona, Madrid has fewer must-see tourist spots. In my opinion, you can see most of the highlights in just two days – without rushing, even if you’re a museum lover like me. So, two days in Madrid is a perfect introduction to the city.
But here’s the catch – I highly recommend setting aside an extra day for a day trip to Toledo, Segovia, or El Escorial. So, ideally, plan at least three days – one of those days for a side trip. But if you’re really short on time, don’t worry. I’ve included some tips on how to explore Madrid in just one day, right after this 2-day itinerary.
Tips for your 2-day Madrid itinerary
Accommodation – if you haven’t booked your stay yet, my complete guide on where to stay in Madrid will help you choose the perfect spot.
💖 My favourite hotel in Madrid: Room Mate Collection Alba
Perfect for: sightseeing – within walking distance of the Prado Museum, and right next to a metro station
What I loved: spacious boutique rooms, great breakfast spread
Check details & prices: Booking.com | Expedia
Restaurants – many places serve lunch and then don’t reopen for dinner until around 8 PM. Honestly, this was a bit of a nightmare for me, as I’m not a fan of eating that late. If there’s a restaurant you’re dying to try, make a reservation. Early dinners just aren’t a thing here, so it’s better to plan ahead than show up hungry and end up disappointed.
Sightseeing – Madrid is one of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations, so be sure to book your tickets to the Royal Palace or the Prado Museum in advance. Otherwise, you will end up waiting for hours in the scorching sun, not exactly the way you want to spend your holiday.
Madrid Tourist Map
Here you’ll find a tourist map of this 2-day Madrid itinerary, complete with attractions and restaurant links.
2 Days in Madrid itinerary – Day 1
Morning
Breakfast at Santa Eulalia
Duration: 50 min 🕒 09:00 AM – 09:50 AM
Start your first day in Madrid with breakfast at Santa Eulalia. Just steps from the Royal Palace, this bakery serves some of the best pastries in the city. Honestly, I’d come back to Madrid just to visit this place again! Their chef trained at Le Cordon Bleu, and it shows – the pastries are absolutely incredible. I highly recommend the croissants and the rolls with pistachio and walnuts, though really, you can’t go wrong with anything you choose.
Depending on where your hotel is, I can recommend two more fantastic bakeries to start your day – Santo Bakehouse and Panadería Novo Mundo. Both are within a 20-minute walk from the Royal Palace, so if you’re staying nearby, definitely make sure to check them out.
Santo Bakehouse is a small artisan bakery (there’s no seating inside), but what it lacks in space, it makes up for in incredible pastries and sourdough bread. The canelé is outstanding, and the ham and cheese croissant, and parmesan bun are absolute must-tries.
Another great breakfast option is Panadería Novo Mundo. This artisanal bakery serves some seriously amazing croissants and pastries. I loved their cinnamon rolls, and ham and cheese croissants. Unfortunately, the pistachio croissants and rolls I’d seen in photos on Google Maps (the very reason I came) weren’t available that day. Maybe it was too early in the morning, or they just weren’t baking them that day. Either way, it was still a tasty stop worth visiting.
Royal Palace of Madrid
Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
The Royal Palace (Palacio Real) is one of the most stunning royal residences in Europe. And even if you’ve seen your fair share of palaces as I have, this one will still surprise you. It was the main reason I decided to visit the city, and honestly, it’s worth the trip! With 3,418 rooms, it’s actually larger than both Buckingham Palace and the Palace of Versailles. Of course, you can only visit a small portion of it, but the sheer scale alone is impressive.
The current palace stands on the site of the old Alcázar of Madrid, which was destroyed by a massive fire on Christmas Eve 1734. Four years later, King Philip V of Spain ordered the construction of a new, fireproof palace made entirely of stone and brick to prevent another disaster. And if you think it’s grand enough from the outside, just wait until you step inside. The interiors are dramatic, with rooms filled with velvet, sparkling chandeliers, frescoed ceilings, and enough gold to make you pause in awe.
Despite its name, Spain’s royal family does not live in the palace today. It is now mainly used for official ceremonies and state events.
🎟️ Book in advance: timed-entry tickets often sell out, so secure yours now
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Royal Palace (fast-track entry, no waiting)
Best guided tour: Royal Palace Highlights Guided Tour – join an expert-led tour and explore the palace’s most stunning rooms and fascinating secrets
I strongly recommend booking tickets in advance. You’ll not only secure your preferred time slot but also get access to a separate, much shorter line for prepaid tickets. When I visited, that line was nearly empty, while the queue for walk-up tickets stretched well before opening.
Your ticket gets you into the Official Halls (including the Throne Room), plus the Royal Armoury and the Royal Pharmacy. Inside the Official Halls, you can also admire a rare set of Stradivari instruments, known as the Palatine Stradivari. I definitely suggest renting the on-site audioguide (it comes as a handy app), as it really makes exploring the palace way easier and more fun.
You can also visit the Gallery of Royal Collections (you’ll need a separate ticket, but you can grab one on-site, as there’s usually no line). Honestly, I wouldn’t say it’s essential, unless you’re a serious art fan and have more than two days in Madrid. I personally didn’t find it all that interesting, especially compared to the sheer grandeur of the palace itself.
Almudena Cathedral
Duration: 1 h 🕒 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Right next to the Royal Palace, you’ll find the Cathedral of Saint Mary the Royal of Almudena, or just Almudena Cathedral for short. It’s Madrid’s main Catholic church and the seat of the city’s archbishop. Compared to other European cathedrals, it’s pretty modern, officially completed in 1993, even though construction began back in 1883! The long wait was mostly due to funding problems, changing architectural plans, and a few wars along the way.
🎟️ Book in advance: no skip-the-line tickets, expect to queue on-site
Entry ticket: free for the cathedral and crypt, but you have to pay to climb the dome and visit the museum
From the outside, it has a classical look, but once you step in, you’ll find a surprisingly modern, bright, and colourful interior. Honestly, I found it a bit underwhelming compared to other European cathedrals. The crypt, though, is a different story – it keeps that old-school Gothic vibe and really impressed me. Definitely check it out! Just note that the entrance is through a separate door around the corner on Calle Mayor.
I visited the cathedral right after the Royal Palace, and there was no line to get in. As you approach, though, you’ll probably notice a long queue – but that’s actually for the museum and the dome climb. Unfortunately, the signage isn’t very clear until you’re almost at the entrance. So I accidentally wasted about 15 minutes waiting there, even though I only wanted to see the cathedral itself.
For the best view of the cathedral, head to Calle del Factor. The street runs alongside the cathedral and is slightly elevated, giving you a fantastic side perspective.
Lunch at Le Praliné
Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 12:40 PM – 02:10 PM
For lunch, stop by Le Praliné, just a few steps from the Royal Palace. This cosy brunch spot serves fantastic pancakes and every style of eggs you could crave. I went for the Eggs Benedict with Iberian ham, and it was absolutely delicious.
After lunch, you won’t need to go far for something sweet. Just next door to Le Praliné, you’ll find Zúccaru, a tiny gelato shop with a big reputation. They serve homemade Sicilian-style gelato that honestly rivals what I’ve had in Italy. The pistachio and tiramisu were my favourites – both incredibly rich and full of flavour.
Afternoon
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 03:00 PM – 04:30 PM
If you’re even slightly into football, visiting the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a must while in Madrid. Home to Real Madrid CF, this isn’t just a stadium – it’s basically a shrine to football history. We’re talking Champions League trophies, legendary players and dramatic last-minute goals. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, it’s hard not to get swept up in the scale of it all.
If you do the tour, you’ll get access to the museum, see the trophy room, walk through the players’ tunnel, and step out pitch-side. And I highly recommend booking in advance since it’s one of the city’s most popular attractions.
🎟️ Book in advance: timed-entry tickets often sell out, so secure yours now
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (save hours and skip the crowds)
The easiest way to reach Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is by taking the dark blue Line 10 from Plaza de España straight to Santiago Bernabéu station. When you come up from the station, the stadium is right in front of you – you really can’t miss it.
I’ve got to admit – football was a huge part of my high school life, but after that, I totally lost interest. So, I didn’t think it was worth spending a few hours of my limited time in Madrid checking out Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. But since I’m putting together this itinerary for most travellers, I know that the majority will want to see it, so I’ve included it here. That said, if you’re anything like me and more into art and museums, I’d skip the stadium. Head straight to the Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great (more details later in the guide) – you won’t regret it.
Dinner at La Taberna de Peñalver
For the best paella in the city, head straight to La Taberna de Peñalver. I love paella, so I tried plenty during my week in the city – and this one won, hands down. I went for the seafood paella with prawns, monkfish, squid, and shrimp. It was enormous, packed with flavour, and absolutely delicious. Seriously, if you only have room for one paella in Madrid, make it this one. I also recommend the garlic-grilled scallops – just as delicious.
Another fantastic dinner spot is La Mi Venta. This family-run gem is known for its tapas, Iberian ham, and authentic Manchego cheese. I tried the seafood paella and the goat cheese croquetas with homemade marmalade – both absolutely amazing.
For a more casual dinner, El Minibar is a great choice. Their tapas are delicious, and the grilled goat cheese with tomato jam and the Manchego with truffle are absolute must-tries.
More ideas for 2 days in Madrid – Day 1
Tapas & Wine Tasting Tour
Duration: 3 h
If you want to taste the real Madrid, I highly recommend this Tapas & Wine Tasting Tour with a local guide. You’ll wander through atmospheric streets, stopping at authentic bars you’d never find on your own. Along the way, you’ll enjoy 12 traditional tapas paired with excellent Spanish wines – more than enough to keep you full for dinner.
If you’re a real foodie, this Paella and Sangria Workshop is a fun, hands-on experience and an absolute must in Madrid. You’ll spend about 3 hours with a local chef mixing your own sangria, cooking authentic paella from scratch, and then enjoying every bite and sip you created with the group. Best of all, you’ll take the recipes home! So you can recreate those Spanish flavours and impress friends and family long after your trip.
Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great
Duration: 40 min
The Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great (Basílica de San Francisco el Grande) is one of the city’s hidden gems. This grand church, built in the 18th century, is famous for its huge dome, one of the biggest in Spain, and the stunning frescoes by Francisco Goya inside. Honestly, it’s one of the most stunning churches I’ve ever visited, and I’ve seen plenty! On top of that, it houses one of the country’s largest collections of 18th-century Spanish religious paintings.
Before my trip, I had zero luck finding the basilica’s opening hours online, so here’s a little insider tip. The Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM and 4 PM – 6:30 PM. In the summer months (July to September), it’s slightly different – between 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM. Entry is just €6 and covers both the church and the museum.
Temple of Debod
Duration: 40 min
One of the most unexpected things you’ll see in the capital of Spain is an ancient Egyptian temple sitting right in the middle of the city. Yep, you read that correctly. The Temple of Debod is a real Egyptian temple dating back to the 2nd century BC. It was originally built in southern Egypt, near Aswan, and dedicated to the gods Amun and Isis.
So how did it end up in Madrid? In the 1960s, when the Aswan High Dam was being built, several ancient monuments were at risk of being submerged. Spain helped Egypt save some of them, and as a thank you, Egypt gifted this temple to Spain in 1968. It was carefully dismantled, stone by stone, shipped to Madrid, and reconstructed in Parque del Oeste.
You can actually go inside for free, where small exhibits explain its history and original setting. But note that you must book a timed reservation in advance to visit.
Since I had already booked enough timed tickets for my trip, I decided to skip this one and just go for the sunset. The Temple of Debod is truly one of the best spots in the city for it! The pink sky, the temple glowing in the fading light – it was truly magical!
2 Days in Madrid itinerary – Day 2
Morning
Breakfast at Pum Pum Bakery
Duration: 40 min 🕒 08:50 AM – 09:30 AM
For your second day in Madrid, I’ve got three breakfast spots to recommend, all about a 15–20 minute walk from the Prado Museum. Pick whichever works best depending on where you’re staying. Honestly, I couldn’t find anything really good right by the museum itself, so a short stroll is worth it for a proper breakfast!
For a quick breakfast, Pum Pum Bakery is one of my favourites. Their pastries are delicious, and the coffee is really good, too. I went for the pistachio croissant and the ham and cheese croissant – both were amazing.
Another great option is Maison Kayser, which is the closest to the Prado Museum. I went especially for their famous rolls, and they didn’t disappoint. I tried the pistachio and the chocolate-caramel ones – both absolutely delicious.
If you’re starting the day a bit later and want a heartier breakfast, Café Pascal is a cosy spot to try. They open at 9 AM, so you’ll want to book a later slot for the Prado Museum rather than the earliest tickets. I had the Eggs Benedict and the grilled cheese sandwich (both were excellent), and the coffee was good, too.
Prado Museum
Duration: 2 h 🕒 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
The Prado Museum is Madrid’s crown jewel of art, and honestly, it’s a must-visit even if you’re not a hardcore art fan. The museum is home to one of the world’s finest collections of European art from the 12th to the early 20th century. You’ll find masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco – Velázquez’s Las Meninas alone is worth the visit. And if you love Italian art, don’t miss the works by Titian, Raphael, and Caravaggio.
My advice is to plan your visit for around 2-3 hours if you want to see the highlights without rushing.
🎟️ Book in advance: timed-entry tickets often sell out, so secure yours now
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Prado Museum (save hours, skip the crowds)
Best guided tour: Prado Museum Highlights Guided Tour – skip the lines and let an expert guide you through the Prado’s masterpieces (Velázquez, Rubens, Titian, and more)
I highly recommend booking your tickets in advance. This way, you can use the separate entrance for ticket holders and only wait at the security check. When I visited, the line for those without tickets was stretching all the way around the museum even before it opened!
El Oso y el Madroño
Duration: 10 min 🕒 12:15 PM – 12:25 PM
On your way to lunch, stop at Puerta del Sol, one of the city’s busiest squares. Here you’ll find El Oso y el Madroño (The Bear and the Strawberry Tree), one of Madrid’s most iconic symbols. It’s a bronze sculpture of a bear standing on its hind legs, reaching up into the branches of a madroño (a strawberry tree) to munch on fruit. And honestly, it’s pretty adorable!
In fact, the bear and the strawberry tree represent the official coat of arms of the city of Madrid. The emblem first appeared in the 13th century. According to the story, after a long dispute between the city council and the church over rights to the pastures and woodlands around old Madrid, King Alfonso VIII stepped in to settle the matter. He kept the forests (symbolised by the madroño tree) under city control, while the grazing lands (considered the realm of the bear) were granted to the church. From then on, the two figures became inseparable as a symbol of the city.
Lunch at EatMyTrip Gran Via
Duration: 1 h 55 min 🕒 12:35 PM – 02:30 PM
For lunch, head to EatMyTrip Gran Via, one of my all-time favourite brunch spots. I discovered EatMyTrip on my very first trip to Spain (Barcelona), and it’s been a favourite ever since. They have five locations across the country, including Madrid and Alicante, and the quality is consistently amazing. The dishes don’t just look incredible (very Instagram-worthy, I won’t lie), but they taste just as good as they look. My personal favourites are the Macho Ibérico Benedict and the Pavlova pancakes.
Another great option for a quick lunch is Pignic Ibérico. They serve incredible gourmet Iberian ham sandwiches – my favourite is the one with Iberian ham and Manchego. I stumbled upon this little gem one evening after a late train from Segovia, when everywhere else was closed. I loved it so much that I came back for my last meal in Madrid!
And no lunch is complete without dessert! For some of the best cookies in the city, head to Desván Bakery. I first discovered this gem in Barcelona, so of course, I couldn’t resist visiting their Madrid branch too. Their homemade cookies are incredible, with a huge variety of flavours. On my last visit, I tried their new giant cookies – basically a cake made from cookie dough with a delicious filling. The chocolate pistachio giant cookie was absolutely to die for!
Another fantastic dessert stop is Manteigaria – Fábrica de Pastéis de Nata. They specialise in traditional Portuguese custard tarts – small, round, and absolutely delicious. I’d suggest getting 2 or 3 – trust me, one is never enough!
Afternoon
Las Ventas Bullring
Duration: 1 h 🕒 03:00 PM – 04:00 PM
Bullfighting, or corrida de toros, is a centuries-old Spanish tradition where matadors face bulls in a highly ritualised spectacle. Part sport, part theatre, it’s both celebrated and controversial – some see it as cultural art, others as cruel. If you don’t want to attend a fight but still want to explore its history, visiting the famous Las Ventas arena is a great option.
Built in the 1930s, Las Ventas is the largest bullring in Spain! With its red bricks and beautiful arches, it’s an impressive example of Neo-Mudéjar architecture. You can tour the bullring and explore the small on-site museum to learn about the history and tradition of bullfighting in Spain. Inside, you’ll find matadors’ costumes, swords, and fascinating exhibits on the sport’s evolution.
🎟️ Book in advance: timed-entry tickets often sell out, so secure yours now
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Las Ventas (skip the crowds, with free cancellation)
The easiest way to reach the Las Ventas Bullring is via the metro. Take the red line 2 or the light green line 5 to Ventas station.
Flamenco show
Duration: 1 h 30 min
No trip to Madrid is complete without a flamenco show. Flamenco isn’t just a dance – it’s singing, guitar, and raw emotion all rolled into one unforgettable performance. And the best place to catch it is Teatro Flamenco, the world’s first theatre devoted entirely to flamenco. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t forget!
You can reserve your spot for Emociones Live Flamenco right here. Shows run at 5 PM, 7 PM, 8:45 PM, and on some nights even at 10:30 PM. It’s easy to fit into your Madrid itinerary (either before or after dinner) since the theatre is just a 15–20 minute walk from my dinner recommendations.
Dinner at Casa González
Finish your second day in Madrid with dinner at Casa González. This is another gem I stumbled upon during my trip. Founded in 1931, this traditional wine bar and shop serves delicious tapas, including high-quality Spanish cheeses, cured meats, and fantastic wines. I ordered a selection of Iberian cured meats and cheese boards, and they were some of the best I had in the city!
Another great dinner option is Bandida Tapas & Cocktail Bar. They offer fantastic cocktails and delicious tapas. I highly recommend trying the chicken meatballs in coconut milk sauce and the grilled baby scallops.
More ideas for 2 days in Madrid – Day 2
Reina Sofía Museum
Duration: 2 h
If you love modern art, the Reina Sofía Museum (Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía) is an absolute must. The museum has an impressive collection of over 25,000 works, featuring Picasso, Dalí, Miró, and other Spanish surrealists. The star of the show, of course, is Picasso’s Guernica.
I highly recommend buying your tickets in advance, as this museum is very popular and can sell out quickly.
Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum
Duration: 2 h
Another art gem is the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. Its collection spans from 13th-century religious paintings to 20th-century masterpieces. You’ll find European icons like Van Eyck, Rubens, Caravaggio, Monet, Degas, and Van Gogh, as well as 20th-century artists such as Picasso, Hopper, and Kandinsky. Unlike the Prado, which focuses mostly on Spanish art, and the Reina Sofía, which is entirely modern, the Thyssen offers a little bit of everything.
I recommend booking your ticket in advance, as entry is timed and tickets can sell out quickly.
Cibeles Palace
Duration: 15 min
The Cibeles Palace (Palacio de Cibeles) is another iconic landmark. Built in 1909 as the city’s main post office, it now serves as City Hall and a vibrant cultural hub. There is even a rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views over the city. I highly recommend visiting both by day and at night, when the palace is beautifully illuminated – it’s absolutely magical!
Also, don’t miss the gorgeous Cibeles Fountain right outside. The goddess Cybele, riding her lion-drawn chariot, is a symbol of the city and a favourite spot for Real Madrid celebrations.
Museum of Romanticism
Duration: 1 h
If you want a taste of 19th-century Madrid life, the Museum of Romanticism (Museo del Romanticismo) is a true hidden gem. Housed in a beautiful palace, it brings the Romantic era to life with art, furniture, and everyday objects from the 1800s. It’s not just paintings – think lavish salons, decorative arts, and period costumes that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
When I visited, the museum was nearly empty, and I practically had the whole place to myself. It’s definitely worth a stop if you have some extra time and enjoy exploring palaces.
Church of Saint Anthony of the German
Duration: 15 min
The Church of Saint Anthony of the German (Iglesia de San Antonio de los Alemanes) is one of the city’s hidden gems. This small 17th-century Baroque church is famous for its breathtaking frescoes, which cover almost every inch of its walls and ceiling.
A visit to the church is possible only with a combined ticket (€12), which also includes entry to the Monastery of San Plácido. The monastery is famous for its stunning Baroque architecture and its peaceful, beautifully preserved cloister.
This combined ticket was a bit of a surprise – I’d never seen anything like it mentioned anywhere online. Previously, entry was just a few euros. Since I had specifically set aside time to visit the church, I decided to go for it. While the interior was undeniably stunning, I’m not entirely sure it was worth the steep price.
Madrid’s street signs
One of my favourite little details in Madrid is something most people walk right past. Those beautiful ceramic street signs sit high up on the corners of old buildings – and they’re absolutely worth looking up for. Framed in hand-painted tiles and often decorated with illustrations, they turn something as simple as a street name into a small piece of art.
Torrons Vicens
If you’re after the perfect sweet souvenir from Madrid, Torrons Vicens is a must-visit. This historic Spanish brand, famous for turrón (nougat) and artisan sweets, has been around since 1775. They’re known for their classic nougat, more creative chocolate and confectionery treats. I especially loved their Gourmet Burnt Egg Yolk Nougat and Crispy Nougat with Hazelnut Praline.
Gioelia Cremería
I found Gioelia Cremería by accident while coming back to my hotel one evening. As a huge gelato lover, I couldn’t resist trying it – and it was so good that I came back two nights in a row! The gelato is made with really quality ingredients, and they have some awesome flavour combos. My favourites are Siciliana, Pistachio Cremino, Cremino, and Crema Catalana.
Book your tickets in advance
Madrid is an incredibly popular destination (even more visited than Barcelona), and many major attractions use timed entry tickets. I highly recommend booking in advance for the following sites to avoid sell-outs or spending hours waiting in line.
Prado Museum – with 3.6 million visitors a year, it’s one of the city’s top attractions. You can book your ticket to the Prado Museum here.
Royal Palace of Madrid – another popular attraction, attracting around 2 million visitors each year. Book your ticket to the Royal Palace here.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium – attracts over 2 million visitors each year for its museum and stadium tours, so be sure to book your tickets in advance here.
Las Ventas Bullring – over 500,000 visitors a year (fewer than the other sites), but tickets are timed, so be sure to reserve your preferred slot in advance here.
1-day Madrid itinerary
You can tick off quite a few sights in a day, but seeing Madrid properly in just one day isn’t really possible. Unless, of course, museums aren’t your thing and you’re happy just strolling through the streets on a walking tour.
Still, if you’re short on time, pick one thing you absolutely don’t want to miss – whether it’s the Royal Palace, the Prado Museum, or Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Start your day there in the morning, then join this Welcome Guided Walking Tour, which takes you through the city’s iconic sights and a few hidden gems. End your day with a flamenco show at Teatro Flamenco for the perfect finish.
3-day Madrid itinerary
For me, three days in Madrid is just right as it gives you enough time for a day trip to Segovia, Toledo, or El Escorial. Spend the first two days following my Madrid itinerary, then use day three to explore beyond the city. If you’re a fan of castles and palaces, Segovia or El Escorial are perfect choices. Toledo, on the other hand, is ideal if you’re looking for a small, charming medieval city. You’ll find more details on all three destinations later in my travel guide.
Where to stay in Madrid
Madrid is a big city, but the historic city centre, where you’ll spend most of your time, is very compact. That’s why I highly recommend staying here – you can literally walk everywhere and skip public transportation. Not to mention, this area is incredibly charming and beautiful. I suggest booking a hotel between the Royal Palace and the Prado Museum, ideally near Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, which is also a great transportation hub.
Hotel Regina – Best 4-star
Perfect hotel for first-timers, located just steps from Puerta del Sol and Sevilla metro stations. You can literally walk everywhere – from the Royal Palace and Prado Museum to the main shopping street, Gran Vía. The rooms are fantastic, with super comfy beds and Dyson hairdryers (ladies, you’ll definitely appreciate this).
UMusic Hotel – Best 5-star
If you’re after a bit of luxury, UMusic Hotel is an absolute treat. Housed in a stunning 18th-century building, this 5-star gem even has its own theatre! You can enjoy a rooftop saltwater pool with a cocktail in hand, relax at the piano bar, or dine at its excellent Spanish restaurant, El Albéniz.
Hotel Moderno Puerta del Sol – Best 3-star
If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation, Hotel Moderno is a great pick. It’s perfectly located on Puerta del Sol, just steps from a metro station. The rooms are quiet, and some even have a terrace with beautiful city views!
Best day trips from Madrid
Toledo
Located about 30 minutes away by train, Toledo is one of the most popular day trips from Madrid. This gorgeous medieval town is famous for its exquisite steel swords, delicious marzipan, and as the home of the painter El Greco.
How to get to Toledo from Madrid
- the easiest way is to take this Segovia and Toledo Tour, Alcázar and Cathedral (over 8,000 excellent reviews), which also takes you to the fairytale Segovia
- or take a train from Madrid-Puerta De Atocha-Almudena Grandes Train Station to Toledo – it’s about a 35-minute ride. From the Toledo train station, the Old Town is just a 15-minute walk away
Segovia
Segovia is another popular day trip from Madrid, just 30 minutes away on the high-speed Avant train. This medieval city is famous for its fairytale-like Alcázar and its stunning Roman aqueduct.
How to get to Segovia from Madrid
Take the high-speed Avant train from Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor Train Station to Segovia-Guiomar. Be careful not to take the slower train, which takes around 2 hours. Once you arrive, the easiest way into the city is by taxi (about €12) straight to the Alcázar, where you can start sightseeing.
El Escorial
This is my favourite day trip from Madrid, as I love anything with castles and palaces. The Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial (or just El Escorial) is one of Spain’s most impressive historical spots, only about an hour from the city. Built in the 16th century by King Philip II, this enormous complex served as a royal palace, monastery, and library, so there’s plenty to explore. The architecture is stunning, with grand halls, a beautiful basilica, and an incredible library. Don’t miss the royal pantheon, where Spanish kings and queens are buried.
On your way to El Escorial, I highly recommend stopping for breakfast at Pastelería Pontón. I stumbled upon this little gem completely by accident, and it ended up being one of my favourites. Their pastries and cheesecake are some of the best I’ve had in Spain! I loved it so much that I went back again for lunch after visiting El Escorial. The goat cheesecake was absolutely amazing!
How to get to El Escorial from Madrid
- the easiest option is to join this Escorial Monastery and Valley of the Fallen tour, which includes both the royal monastery and the famous Valley of the Fallen
- or take bus 661 or bus 664 from Moncloa Bus Station to San Lorenzo de El Escorial. There are several buses per hour, the journey takes about an hour. From the bus station, it’s roughly a 10-minute walk to the palace
What to see next
Planning to explore Spain beyond Madrid? Take a look at my complete itinerary for 4 days in Barcelona and my Mallorca travel guide. Both are packed with practical tips, real experiences, and the spots actually worth your time.
Getting around in Madrid
If you’re visiting Madrid, one thing you’ll quickly realise is that the city is big. Most of the main attractions are central and within walking distance of each other, but you’ll definitely need public transportation to reach places like the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and the Las Ventas Bullring. Luckily, the city has an excellent metro network. In fact, the Madrid Metro is the easiest and most efficient way to get around the city.
To use the metro, you’ll need a transport card – you can’t buy single paper tickets anymore. Instead, you’ll need to purchase a reusable Multi Card (Tarjeta Multi) from the machines in any station. There’s a small one-time fee for the card itself, and then you simply load your trips onto it.
For me, the 10-journey ticket (Metrobús) is the best deal. It covers metro rides within Zone A, which includes pretty much everything you’ll see as a tourist. And you actually start saving money after about your fifth ride!
How to get to Madrid
By air
Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (often called Madrid-Barajas Airport) is located about 15 km northeast of central Madrid. Here are the easiest ways to get into the city centre:
- by train – if you’re arriving at Terminal 4, you can hop on the Cercanías commuter train, operated by Renfe. It goes directly to central hubs like Atocha and Chamartín
- by bus – If you’re arriving at a different terminal (like me), the yellow Airport Express bus goes straight to Atocha, with stops along the way, including Cibeles
- by taxi – taxis have a flat rate of €33 from the airport to anywhere inside the central zone. This can be worth it if you’re travelling with luggage or want a direct ride
By train
Madrid has two main train stations: Atocha and Chamartín. Atocha is the biggest and busiest, handling high-speed AVE trains to cities like Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia, as well as regional and commuter trains. Chamartín, on the other hand, is located in the north of the city and mainly serves trains heading to northern Spain, including Segovia, Bilbao, and Valladolid.
If you’re planning to travel on the high-speed AVE trains, I’d strongly recommend booking your tickets in advance, as they can sell out for the whole day. It actually happened to me in Segovia, and I had to take a slow regional train back to Madrid. It was four times slower, but at least I made it back to my hotel!
You can easily check schedules and book your tickets online on the official Renfe website.
Best time to visit Madrid
The best time to visit Madrid is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is warm and perfect for strolling around without melting in the sun, plus there are fewer tourists. Summer can get really hot, especially in June, July, and August, with average temperatures around 34°C (93°F). So if you can, it’s best to avoid those months.
I visited in September, expecting temperatures around 25°C, but a heat wave hit and it soared to 35°C. After 1 PM, walking around and enjoying the city was basically impossible. I can only imagine how much hotter (and tougher) summer must be!
FAQs about visiting Madrid
2 full days are enough to see the city’s s main highlights, including the Prado, the Royal Palace, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, and even catch a flamenco show. If you want to explore a bit further, add an extra day for a classic day trip to nearby gems like Toledo, Segovia or El Escorial.
Absolutely! Madrid is one of the most popular European destinations, full of history, stunning architecture, and a great nightlife. Add in delicious tapas, flamenco shows, and easy day trips to nearby gems like Toledo, Spain and Segovia, Spain, and it’s clear why Madrid should be on every Spain itinerary.
With 2 days in Madrid, you can see all the city’s highlights and even fit in a flamenco show. On the first day, visit the Royal Palace and Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, then enjoy a delicious paella at La Taberna de Peñalver. On the second day, explore the Prado Museum, learn about the Spanish traditions at Las Ventas Bullring, and end the day with a flamenco performance.
Tipping is generally optional and not as expected as in the USA. In restaurants, it’s common to leave around 10% for good service, though many locals simply round up the bill.
Yep, tap water is totally safe and tastes great. Locals drink it all the time, and it’s perfect for cooking, coffee, or just refilling your bottle while exploring the city.
Both cities are fantastic, but it really depends on what you’re after. Choose Barcelona if you love beaches and iconic Gaudí architecture, like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell. Madrid, on the other hand, is perfect for world-class museums, art, and history, with highlights like the Prado Museum and the Royal Palace.
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