Ultimate 2-Day Madrid Itinerary for Explorers

Day 1: Art and Culture

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chocolatería San Ginés

Start your day with the iconic churros and thick hot chocolate at this legendary establishment.
Take Metro Line 1 to Gran Vía and walk for 10 minutes.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Prado Museum

Explore one of the world's premier art museums, filled with masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch.
Walk 15 minutes from Chocolatería San Ginés.
EUR15, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Stroll through El Retiro Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk in Madrid’s largest park, where you can relax by the lake or view the Crystal Palace.
Walk for 10 minutes to the park entrance.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at La Barraca

Savor an authentic paella at this lovely restaurant known for its traditional Spanish dishes.
Walk 15 minutes from El Retiro Park.
EUR20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Royal Palace

Visit the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens of Spain's royal residence.
Take Metro Line 2 from Sol to Ópera, which is near the palace.
EUR12, 2 hours

4:30PM

Wander through Plaza Mayor

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this historic square, a perfect spot for people-watching.
A short 10-minute walk from the Royal Palace.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Visit Mercado de San Miguel

Indulge in tapas and local delicacies at this lively market surrounded by beautiful architecture.
Walk 10 minutes from Plaza Mayor.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Sobrino de Botín

Enjoy a traditional Spanish meal at one of the oldest restaurants in the world, renowned for its roast lamb.
A leisurely 15-minute walk from Mercado de San Miguel.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 2: Historical Exploration

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Oriente

Start your day with a scenic view and a classic Spanish breakfast of tostada with tomato.
Walk 10 minutes from your accommodation.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tour of the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Delve into artworks from medieval to modern times, spanning centuries and styles.
Take Metro Line 1 from Príncipe Pío to Banco de España.
EUR13, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Gran Vía

Walk along Madrid's iconic street, bustling with shops, cafes, and stunning architecture.
Walk 10 minutes from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at El Tigre

Experience generous tapas portions with every drink ordered—the go-to place for locals!
Walk 15 minutes down Gran Vía.
EUR15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Reina Sofia Museum

Discover modern art masterpieces, including Picasso's Guernica, in this renowned museum.
Take Metro Line 1 from Gran Vía to Atocha.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Walk through Lavapiés neighborhood

Explore the vibrant multicultural area full of unique shops and local street art.
A 20-minute walk from Reina Sofia.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Sip Coffee at Miriot Café

Take a moment to relax in this charming café with delicious pastries and strong espresso.
Walk for 10 minutes.
EUR5, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Visit the Temple of Debod

Experience the tranquility and beauty of this ancient Egyptian temple, especially stunning at sunset.
A short 15-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Botín

Conclude your Madrid experience with a final meal of rich Spanish cuisine, continuing the tradition at the oldest eatery.
Take a 20-minute walk back to the restaurant.
EUR30, 2 hours
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