Classic Madrid start with churros and chocolate near Puerta del Sol; a quick, iconic sweet breakfast to energize your first day. Check opening hours (usually early morning).
See Spain's premier art collection (Velázquez, Goya) for a cultural primer; best to prebook tickets to skip lines. Typical opening ~10:00am (verify seasonal hours).
Tapas and market stalls offering fresh seafood, jamón and wines — good for sampling many Spanish flavors in one spot. Market usually open late morning to midnight but hours vary by stall.
Dine at the world’s oldest continuously operating restaurant for classic roast suckling pig or lamb; reservations recommended (open evenings, often until late).
World-famous Moorish palace complex; timed-entry only — book well in advance and plan to spend at least 2–3 hours. Typical visiting windows run from morning into late afternoon/evening depending on ticket.
Drive into volcanic landscapes and stop at viewpoints to admire Spain’s highest peak; access is free but the cable car has restricted hours and a fee — check times and book cable car tickets in advance if you plan to ride (cable car typically runs ~9:00am–4:00pm but seasonal changes occur).
Depart from Gran Canaria with memories of mainland Spain and its islands; ensure all domestic connections and luggage transfers were confirmed earlier in the trip.