Begin your trip with a visit to one of Madrid's most iconic landmarks; the Royal Palace. With its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens and impressive history, it's a must-see. Be sure to take a guided tour to fully appreciate the palace's grandeur.
Start your day by exploring the lively and bustling Puerta del Sol. Take a walk over to the nearby Plaza Mayor and marvel at its stunning architecture. These public squares are drenched in history and are great places to stop and relax over a refreshment.
Get a taste of Madrid's culture by visiting the beautiful El Retiro Park, which offers stunning gardens and lake. Follow it up with a visit to the "Museum Triangle" which is home to three of the world's most popular museums: Prado Museum, Reina Sofia Museum, and Thyssen Museum. Each museum offers something unique and are great places to learn more about Spanish art and history.
Enjoy the day exploring the impressive Santiago Bernabeu stadium, which is home to the Real Madrid Football Club. Take a tour of the stadium or catch an afternoon game. Soccer (or Football) enthusiasts should not miss this opportunity to watch some of the world's greatest players take the pitch at the famous stadium.
Relish in the local flavors and delicacies with a food tour of Madrid's varied neighborhood cuisine. Dine in the traditional restaurants and you can taste the local specialties, including the famous Jamón Ibérico, Tortilla Española, and Paella.
Leave Madrid for the day and visit the nearby cities of Toledo and Segovia. Toledo, known as "the city of three cultures" offers a unique blend of Jewish, Christian and Muslim culture. Segovia is a historical city famous for its impressive Roman Aqueducts and Gothic architecture.
No trip to Madrid is complete without experiencing its nightlife. Enjoy an evening in Malasaña, the city's most vibrant and happening neighborhood. Here you can find a variety of bars, pubs and discotheques, each with their own unique style and atmosphere. Enjoy drinks and food with the locals while exploring Madrilenian night culture.
Madrid's public transportation is very efficient and cost-effective (€1.50 per single journey). The metro and bus system can easily take you to any destination in the city. Taxis are also available, but they are significantly more expensive. Uber and Cabify are also good alternatives for visitors requiring a more comfortable mode of transportation.
If you have less time, consider skipping Toledo & Segovia to spend more time exploring Madrid's attractions. If you have more time, add trips outside the city like Alcalá de Henares, Ávila or take a day trip to nearby beaches like Valencia.
The main airport in Madrid is the Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD). It is located about 8.1 miles northeast of the city center. There are four terminals that serve both domestic and international flights. Visitors can reach the city center using metro, train or bus.