2-Day Madrid Adventure: Culture, Nature, and Food on a Budget

Day 1: City Exploration

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Oriente

Start your day with a delicious breakfast featuring fresh churros and thick hot chocolate at this charming café overlooking the Royal Palace.
Walk to the Royal Palace after breakfast, which is just a short 10-minute stroll.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid

Explore the lavish rooms and grand architecture of the largest royal palace in Western Europe.
After your visit, walk to the nearby Sabatini Gardens.
EUR12, 2 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Sabatini Gardens

Enjoy a peaceful walk through these beautiful gardens, perfect for capturing some photos.
Head to Plaza Mayor, a 10-minute walk away.
FREE, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Savor some tapas and local delicacies at this vibrant food market where you can sample various dishes on a budget.
Continue to the next destination by walking; it's 15 minutes from the market.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Plaza Mayor

Find a spot to relax in this historic square, people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere.
From here, head towards the famous Gran Via street, 10 minutes by walking.
FREE, 1 hour

3:00PM

Walk down Gran Via

Experience Madrid's bustling main street lined with shops and stunning architecture.
Make your way to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, about a 20-minute walk or you could catch a metro.
FREE, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

Take a tour of the iconic stadium and experience the passion of Real Madrid, even if you're on a budget.
After the tour, return to the city center via metro.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Taberna El Sur

Enjoy authentic Spanish food at this cozy tavern known for its great tapas and affordable prices.
Take the metro to reach your hotel or accommodation for a rest.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature and Culture

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Casa Luis

Start your day at this local favorite, known for its traditional Spanish omelettes and fresh coffee.
Walk to Retiro Park, approximately 15 minutes away.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Retiro Park

Wander through this lush park, rent a rowboat on the lake, or simply enjoy the gardens and sculptures.
Exit the park and head towards the nearby Museo del Prado, around 15 minutes walk.
FREE, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Museo del Prado

Discover masterpieces from renowned artists like Velázquez and Goya in Spain's premier art museum.
Walk to the Atocha train station for lunch, about 15 minutes.
EUR15, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Atocha Tokyo

Grab a quick and delicious sushi meal at this affordable eatery located within Atocha Station.
Head back to the city center by metro to Plaza de Cibeles.
EUR10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Plaza de Cibeles

Admire the stunning architecture surrounding this iconic square, including the beautiful Palacio de Cibeles.
Walk to Retiro Park for a second visit or explore the nearby Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza.
FREE, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza

Journey through art history from the Middle Ages to Contemporary pieces in this exquisite museum.
Exit and stroll around the local shops and cafes on Calle de Preciados.
EUR13, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Coffee at Café Nacional

Relax with a cup of coffee and a piece of cake at this historic café, perfect for a mid-afternoon break.
Make your way to La Latina for dinner, which is a 20-minute walk or a short metro ride.
EUR6, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Casa Lucio

Finish off your Madrid adventure with the famed Huevos Rotos (broken eggs) at this iconic restaurant with a lively atmosphere.
Walk back to your accommodation or hotel to unwind after an exciting trip.
EUR25, 2 hours
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