Ultimate 2-Day Madrid Itinerary: Culture & History

Day 1: Royal Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Oriente

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with views of the Royal Palace while savoring a traditional tostada with tomato.
A short 10-minute walk from central accommodations.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Royal Palace

Begin your day by exploring the majestic Royal Palace, filled with opulent rooms and beautiful gardens.
A brief 10-minute walk from the café.
EUR12, 2 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through Plaza de España

After the palace, take a leisurely walk to Plaza de España and admire the stunning monument to Cervantes.
Walk for about 10 minutes.
Free, 30 minutes

11:30AM

Visit Puerta del Sol

Receive a warm welcome at Puerta del Sol, the bustling heart of Madrid teeming with shops and history.
Walk 15 minutes from Plaza de España.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Restaurante Casa Lucio

Relish a delicious Spanish omelet in this iconic local eatery known for its authentic flavors.
A short 5-minute walk from Puerta del Sol.
EUR25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Mercado de San Miguel

Indulge your senses in this vibrant market filled with a variety of tapas and local delicacies.
Walk 10 minutes from the restaurant.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Admire the vast collection of art from the medieval period to modern times at this prestigious museum.
Take the metro (Line 1 to Banco de España).
EUR13, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Wander through El Retiro Park

Relax in El Retiro Park, where you can rent a boat or simply stroll through the serene gardens.
Walk 10 minutes from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at La Barraca

Enjoy authentic paella at this charming restaurant, known for its classic Spanish dishes.
Take Metro Line 2 from Retiro to Sol.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Art and Leisure

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at El Café de Chinitas

Start your day with a hearty breakfast and a touch of flamenco atmosphere at this beloved café.
Walk 10 minutes from your accommodation.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Prado Museum

Explore the renowned art collection at the Prado Museum, showcasing works by Spanish masters like Goya and Velázquez.
Take Metro Line 2 from Sol to Banco de España.
EUR15, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Revisit El Retiro Park

Take a second stroll in El Retiro Park, perhaps checking out the Crystal Palace or the Rose Garden.
Walk 10 minutes from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at El Tigre

Dive into a lively lunch at this tavern where you receive generous tapas with each drink ordered.
A 15-minute walk from El Retiro.
EUR15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Reina Sofia Museum

Explore contemporary art, with highlights including Picasso’s moving Guernica.
Walk 15 minutes from El Tigre.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Lavapiés neighborhood

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lavapiés, known for its multicultural vibe and street art.
A leisurely 20-minute walk from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Coffee at Miriot Café

Relax and recharge at this cozy café, with delicious pastries and a warm cup of coffee.
Walk 10 minutes from Lavapiés.
EUR5, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Visit the Temple of Debod

Experience the ancient Egyptian temple, a hidden gem offering spectacular views at sunset.
A short 15-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Botín

Conclude your Madrid adventure with a classic meal at one of the oldest restaurants in the world.
Take a 20-minute walk back to the restaurant.
EUR30, 2 hours
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