How many days do you need in madrid?

This itinerary covers 7 days in madrid, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for madrid?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to madrid. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

7-Day madrid Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chocolatería San Ginés

Start your day with traditional Spanish churros and hot chocolate at this iconic spot in Madrid.

$, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid

Explore the opulent rooms and beautiful gardens of the Royal Palace, a must-see in Madrid.

$$, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Enjoy a variety of Spanish tapas and fresh seafood at this vibrant market in the heart of Madrid.

$$, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Walk around Retiro Park

Spend the afternoon strolling through the beautiful gardens, boating on the lake, and visiting the Crystal Palace in Retiro Park.

$, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Casa Lucio

Indulge in authentic Spanish cuisine at Casa Lucio known for its famous 'huevos rotos' (broken eggs).

$$$, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Madrid

Day 2: Exploring Madrid Continued

Madrid, Spain

9:00AM

Visit the Prado Museum

Discover masterpieces by artists like Goya and Velázquez at one of the most important art museums in the world.

$, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Botín

Enjoy a meal at the oldest restaurant in the world, famous for its roast suckling pig.

$$$, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Plaza Mayor

Wander around the historic square, shop for souvenirs, and soak in the lively atmosphere of Plaza Mayor.

$, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shop on Gran Vía

Shop for fashionable clothing, accessories, and enjoy some people-watching on Madrid's main shopping street.

$$, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Taberna el Sur

Savor traditional Spanish dishes and a wide selection of wines at this cozy tavern.

$$, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Madrid

Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo

Toledo, Spain

9:00AM

Visit Alcázar of Toledo

Explore the historic fortress and enjoy panoramic views of Toledo from the top.

$, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Adolfo Restaurant

Try local delicacies like 'carcamusas' and 'migas' at this charming restaurant with a view.

$$, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Walk through Jewish Quarter

Stroll through the narrow streets, visit synagogues, and admire the architecture of this historic neighborhood.

$, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Nuevo Almacén

Enjoy a fusion of traditional and modern Spanish cuisine in a cozy setting.

$$, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Toledo

Day 4: Day Trip to Segovia

Segovia, Spain

9:00AM

Visit the Aqueduct of Segovia

Marvel at the ancient Roman aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of Segovia.

$, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Alcázar of Segovia

Discover the fairy-tale castle that is said to have inspired Walt Disney's Cinderella Castle.

$$, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Mesón de Cándido

Taste the famous Segovian roast suckling pig or 'cochinillo' at this renowned restaurant.

$$$, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Walk around Plaza Mayor

Explore the charming square, visit local shops, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Segovia.

$, 1 hour

5:00PM

Try Segovian Ponche

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a local dessert like Segovian Ponche at a nearby café.

$, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Head back to Madrid

Take a scenic train ride back to Madrid and relax after a day of exploring Segovia.

$, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Taberna Real

Enjoy a selection of Spanish tapas and a cozy ambiance at this restaurant near the Royal Palace.

$$, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Segovia

Day 5: Day Trip to Avila

Avila, Spain

9:00AM

Walk along the Medieval Walls

Stroll along the well-preserved medieval walls of Avila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

$, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Avila Cathedral

Explore the stunning Gothic cathedral known for its medieval architecture and religious artifacts.

$, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Almacén

Enjoy a traditional Spanish meal with a modern twist at this cozy restaurant in Avila.

$$, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Plaza del Mercado Chico

Discover the local market square, shop for souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the Avila's bustling atmosphere.

$, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit San Vicente Basilica

Admire the Romanesque architecture and historical significance of this basilica in Avila.

$, 1 hour

6:30PM

Head back to Madrid

Take a comfortable bus ride back to Madrid and relax after a day of exploring Avila.

$, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at El Sur

Taste a variety of Spanish dishes and enjoy a lively atmosphere at this restaurant in Madrid.

$$, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Avila

Day 6: Day Trip to Salamanca

Salamanca, Spain

9:00AM

Visit Salamanca Cathedral

Explore the stunning Gothic cathedral and climb the bell tower for panoramic views of Salamanca.

$, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at El Mesón de Gonzalo

Savor traditional Spanish cuisine and local specialties at this welcoming restaurant in Salamanca.

$$, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Walk around Plaza Mayor

Discover the grand square, visit historic buildings, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Salamanca.

$, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore University of Salamanca

Visit one of the oldest universities in Europe, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.

$, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Head back to Madrid

Take a relaxing train ride back to Madrid and reflect on the beautiful sights of Salamanca.

$, 2 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at Mercado de San Ildefonso

Indulge in a variety of gourmet street food options and drinks at this trendy food market in Madrid.

$$, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Salamanca

Day 7: Final Day in Madrid

Madrid, Spain

9:00AM

Visit Temple of Debod

Start your day with a visit to this ancient Egyptian temple relocated to Madrid, offering great views of the city.

$, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Malasaña Neighborhood

Wander through the hip neighborhood of Malasaña, known for its street art, vintage shops, and eclectic vibe.

$, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at La Bodega de los Secretos

Enjoy a traditional Spanish meal in a historic underground wine cellar at La Bodega de los Secretos.

$$, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Shop at El Rastro Market

Browse through the stalls of this famous flea market, where you can find unique souvenirs and antiques.

$, 2 hours

6:00PM

Relax at Parque del Retiro

Unwind in the evening at Retiro Park, rent a boat on the lake, or simply enjoy the greenery and atmosphere.

$, 2 hours

8:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Botín

End your week with a memorable dinner at the historic Botín, known for its delicious Spanish cuisine and rich history.

$$$, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Madrid

Step 1 Outline Preview:

A Week Exploring Madrid on a Medium Budget

Day 1: Exploring Madrid

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Exploring Madrid Continued

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo

9:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Day Trip to Segovia

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:30PM

3:30PM

5:00PM

6:00PM

8:00PM

Day 5: Day Trip to Avila

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

6:30PM

8:00PM

Day 6: Day Trip to Salamanca

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:30PM

4:30PM

6:30PM

9:00PM

Day 7: Final Day in Madrid

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:30PM

3:30PM

6:00PM

8:00PM

More About madrid

Plan Your madrid Trip