Arrive at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas (MAD) and take a pre-booked taxi or airport express bus to central Madrid (30–50 min depending on traffic). Using a taxi for two with luggage is often simplest.
Check in at Hotel Regina (3★) or similar near Puerta del Sol for central access to sights and shopping; nightly rates are usually moderate and rooms are comfortable for city stays.
Sample a variety of Spanish small plates—seafood, jamón, and tapas—at the bustling indoor market; good introduction to Madrid's food scene. Market stalls generally open 10:00–23:00 but individual vendors’ schedules vary.
Walk through Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol and nearby Gran Vía for window shopping and first impressions of Madrid's historic center; shops on Gran Vía typically open 10:00–21:00.
If you still have energy, visit Museo del Prado (typical hours ~10:00–20:00; check exact hours and reserve timed tickets to avoid lines) to see Velázquez, Goya and other Spanish masters.
Take the Media Distancia train from Madrid Atocha to Toledo (~30–40 min). Trains run multiple times daily; reserve seats in advance for the morning departures.
Visit the imposing Cathedral of Toledo—a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a highlight for art and history lovers; typical hours ~10:00–18:00 (verify seasonal times).
Explore the Alcázar (military museum) and viewpoints across the Tagus for panoramic photos of the medieval hilltop city; Alcázar opening times usually morning through late afternoon.
Wander the Jewish Quarter, visit a synagogues-museums and see El Greco’s work in local churches and small museums (most open mid-morning to late afternoon).
Attend a flamenco tablao (Casa de la Memoria, Tablao El Arenal) for dinner and an authentic performance; shows typically start around 21:00 but reserve in advance.
Climb the Giralda tower and tour the massive Gothic cathedral (typical opening in May ~10:00–19:00; check seasonal hours). Reserve skip-the-line tickets if possible.
Explore Lisbon’s historic shopping streets, boutiques, and the Santa Justa lift (Elevador de Santa Justa) for a central view; Elevador usually open 7:00–23:00 but verify.
Book a Fado dinner at Clube de Fado or a similar venue for traditional Portuguese music with dinner; shows typically start ~20:30–21:00 and require advance booking.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower; typical hours ~10:00–17:30 (verify exact seasonal times) and both are ticketed attractions.
Visit bright, romantic Pena Palace perched above Sintra (opens typically 9:30–18:30 in May); buy timed tickets to avoid queues and allow 1.5–2 hours to explore gardens and terraces.
Tour a port cellar (Graham's, Sandeman, Cálem) with tastings; most offer guided tours from mid-morning to early evening—book ahead for afternoon slots.
Choose a 2-hour Douro short cruise from the Ribeira—relaxing way to see the waterfront. Alternatively, half-day Douro Valley tours are possible but require an early start.
Have an early lunch near your hotel or head to the airport depending on flight time. Leave for Porto Airport (OPO) at least 2 hours before international departures.
Arrive at Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport at least 2 hours prior to your international flight home. Taxi to airport ~20–30 minutes from center; public metro also available.