Madrid in 3 Days

• Day 1: Visit the Prado Museum, which houses numerous works of art including the masterpieces of Francisco de Goya, Diego Velazquez, and El Greco. Stroll around El Retiro Park, a well-manicured park with a lake, rose garden, and sculptures. End your day at Plaza Mayor, the central square of Madrid surrounded by cafes, bars, and shops.
• Day 2: Start your day at the Puerta del Sol, the bustling central square of Madrid. Explore the Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family is an impressive monument. Head to the Mercado de San Miguel, a market with a variety of food vendors. Later, step into the Temple of Debod, an Egyptian temple moved brick by brick to Madrid.
• Day 3: Kickstart your day at the Cibeles Palace, a neoclassical building north of the city center. Take a walk down to Gran Via, Madrid's famous shopping avenue, and admire the stunning architecture. End your tour with a visit to Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza, displaying European art from the 13th century to the late 20th century.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Prado Museum (2-4 hours, €15)
• El Retiro Park (1-2 hours, Free)
• Plaza Mayor (1-2 hours, Free)
• Royal Palace of Madrid (2-3 hours, €13)
• Mercado de San Miguel (1-2 hours, €10)
• Temple of Debod (1 hour, Free)
• Cibeles Palace (1-2 hours, Free)
• Gran Via (1-2 hours, Free)
• Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza (2-3 hours, €13)
Total Estimated Costs: €51

Transportation

Madrid has an extensive metro system, the most convenient and efficient way to navigate the city. A single metro ticket costs €1.50 or buy a 10-trip travel card for €12.20. If you choose to use taxis or ride-sharing services, expect to pay €0.95-1.20/km. A taxi from the airport to the city center costs approximately €30-40 and takes 20-30 minutes.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, visit the Reina Sofia Museum, displaying Spanish art since the 20th century, or the Casa de Campo, Madrid's largest park. If you have less time, skip Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza or Mercado de San Miguel. Avoid eating at touristy spots, instead head to Tapas bars with locals for a more authentic experience.