Begin the day at the iconic Plaza Mayor, one of Madrid's most historic and central squares. Take a leisurely stroll and admire the grand architecture and street performers while grabbing some coffee, pastries or authentic churros at a nearby café. Follow this up by visiting the Mercado San Miguel, a covered food market with dozens of vendors selling tapas and drinks.
Start your day by immersing yourself in the world-class art collection housed in Madrid’s Prado Museum. The expansive galleries boast a collection of masterpieces by European artists. Next, explore the opulent interior of the Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. End the day at Puerta del Sol, the bustling square that marks the heart of Madrid.
Indulge in Madrid's incredible culinary scene by visiting the Casa Botín, the world's oldest restaurant. Its specialty is traditional Castilian cuisine, including the famous roast suckling pig. After lunch, take in the beauty of Retiro Park, a 19th-century garden with a boating lake, rose garden, and street performers.
The best way to get around Madrid is by metro or walking. The metro system is efficient and economical, with fares starting at $1.50 per trip. Taxis are readily available and cost-effective compared to other western European cities. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for short rides within the city.
If you have more time, add visits to the Templo de Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple relocated to Madrid, and Reina Sofia Museum, which showcases contemporary art. For a local experience, visit the San Anton Market or take a tapas tour in the Huertas neighborhood. If you have less time, skip the Royal Palace and spend more time exploring Madrid's food scene.
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) is Madrid's main airport, located about 10 miles northeast of the city center. It has four terminals and offers direct connections to many destinations within Europe and the Americas, as well as Asia and Africa. Taxis cost around $30-$40 from the airport to the city center, while the metro takes around 45 minutes and costs around $5.