A Week Exploring Madrid on a Medium Budget

View Packing List

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

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

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

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

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

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

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