1-Week Itinerary for Madrid: A Football Fan's Dream

  • Day 1: Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
    30 minutes (5.4 km) from Madrid city center

    Start your week in Madrid with a visit to the iconic Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, the home of Real Madrid CF. Take a tour of the stadium, visit the museum, and learn about the history of this legendary football club. If possible, try to catch a game to experience the electric atmosphere.

  • Day 2: El Prado Museum
    20 minutes (3.8 km) from Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

    Today, immerse yourself in Madrid's art scene with a visit to the El Prado Museum. This is one of the most important art museums in the world and home to an incredible collection of European art. Spend your afternoon admiring works from Goya, Velázquez, and other Spanish masters.

  • Day 3: Retiro Park
    20 minutes (3.2 km) from El Prado Museum

    Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in Retiro Park. This stunning park is the perfect place to spend a leisurely day surrounded by greenery and tranquility. Rent a boat on the lake, explore the gardens, or just soak up the sun.

  • Day 4: Plaza Mayor and Mercado San Miguel
    25 minutes (4.2 km) from Retiro Park

    Explore Madrid's cultural and culinary offerings today. Start at the Plaza Mayor, one of the city's most iconic squares. From there, head to the Mercado San Miguel, a beautiful indoor market filled with food stalls, wine bars, and other delicacies. Sample traditional Spanish dishes and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

  • Day 5: Royal Palace of Madrid
    15 minutes (2.8 km) from Mercado San Miguel

    Today, visit the stunning Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish royal family. Admire the impressive architecture and learn about the palace's history as you wander through its luxurious rooms and gardens.

  • Day 6: Atletico Madrid Stadium
    25 minutes (4.9 km) from Royal Palace of Madrid

    Complete your football pilgrimage with a visit to the Atletico Madrid Stadium, the home of Atletico Madrid FC. Take a tour of the stadium and museum, and learn about the history of this beloved club. If possible, try to catch a game to experience the passion of Atletico Madrid fans.

  • Day 7: Gran Via and Chueca District
    20 minutes (3.5 km) from Atletico Madrid Stadium

    Spend your final day exploring two of Madrid's most vibrant neighborhoods. Start on Gran Via, the city's main shopping street, and soak up the energy of the bustling crowds. From there, head to the Chueca district, famous for its lively LGBT community and trendy bars and restaurants.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Santiago Bernabeu Stadium tour (1.5 hours, €25)
  • El Prado Museum (2 hours, €15)
  • Retiro Park (3 hours, free)
  • Plaza Mayor and Mercado San Miguel (2 hours, €30)
  • Royal Palace of Madrid (2 hours, €13)
  • Atletico Madrid Stadium tour (1.5 hours, €19)
  • Gran Via and Chueca District (3 hours, €50)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €152

Transportation

Madrid has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, metros, and trains. We recommend getting a Madrid Tourist Travel Pass, which gives you unlimited access to public transportation for the duration of your stay. A 7-day pass costs €35. Taxis are also available but are more expensive.

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Temple of Debod, a beautiful Egyptian temple located in Parque del Oeste. You can also explore the bustling neighborhoods of Malasaña and La Latina for a taste of traditional Madrid culture.

If you have less time, consider cutting out the Atletico Madrid Stadium tour and spending more time exploring other areas of the city.

Airports

Madrid has one main airport, Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), located about 12 km from the city center. The airport has four terminals and offers many transportation options, including metro, bus, train, and taxi.

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