Discover the Rich Culture and Cuisine of Madrid: A 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Explore

Madrid, Spain on July 13, 2025

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Café de Oriente

Start your day with a traditional Spanish breakfast at Café de Oriente, enjoying their freshly made churros and hot chocolate with a view of the Royal Palace.
EUR12, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Royal Palace of Madrid

Visit the magnificent Royal Palace, the official residence of the Spanish royal family, and explore its stunning architecture and rich history.
EUR12, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Restaurante Botín

Indulge in a traditional Spanish meal at the oldest restaurant in the world, serving exquisite dishes like their famed roast suckling pig.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Plaza Mayor

Stroll through the historic Plaza Mayor, a central square surrounded by beautiful architecture, shops, and cafes—it’s great for photography.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Mercado de San Miguel

Experience Madrid’s vibrant food market, Mercado de San Miguel, sample delicious tapas, and maybe take a little break with a refreshing drink.
EUR10, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Restaurante Al-Mounia

Relish Moroccan-inspired dishes at this popular eatery, known for its tagines and couscous, which cater to halal dietary needs.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Cultural Journey

Madrid, Spain on July 14, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Panaria

Enjoy a delicious breakfast with a variety of pastries and freshly brewed coffee at Panaria, a cozy popular local spot.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Prado Museum

Visit the world-renowned Prado Museum, home to an extensive collection of European art, including works by Velázquez and Goya.
EUR15, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Restaurante Casa Mono

Savor modern Spanish cuisine at Casa Mono, acclaimed for its creative dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
EUR22, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Retiro Park

Take a leisurely stroll through Retiro Park, a sprawling green space perfect for relaxation, picnics, and boating on the lake.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Crystal Palace

Visit the stunning Crystal Palace within Retiro Park, known for its beautiful glass architecture and often hosts art exhibitions.
Free, 30 minutes

6:30 PM

Dinner at El Club Allard

Dine at this Michelin-starred restaurant, known for its innovative cuisine and exceptional tasting menus; reservations are essential.
EUR75, 2 hours

Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo

Toledo, Spain on July 15, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hostal Vázquez de Mella

Enjoy a light breakfast at this hotel with options including croissants and fresh fruit before heading out.
EUR8, 30 minutes

8:00 AM

Travel to Toledo

Take a short 30-minute train ride to Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture.
EUR10, 30 minutes

9:00 AM

Toledo’s Cathedral

Visit the stunning Toledo Cathedral, showcasing Gothic architecture and beautiful art, including famous paintings and stunning stained-glass windows.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Alcázar of Toledo

Explore the Alcázar, an imposing fortress that houses the Army Museum and offers magnificent views of the city.
EUR5, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at La Abadía

Enjoy authentic dishes at La Abadía, famous for their homemade sangria and traditional Spanish cuisine.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Toledo’s Synagogue

Visit the historic Sinagoga del Tránsito, an example of the harmonious coexistence of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish influences in Toledo.
EUR3, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Return to Madrid

Catch a train back to Madrid, taking in scenic views along the way.
EUR10, 30 minutes

5:30 PM

Dinner at La Casa del Abuelo

Experience a cozy atmosphere with home-cooked meals and traditional Spanish dishes perfect for a relaxed dinner.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Art and History

Madrid, Spain on July 16, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Chocolatería San Ginés

Savor churros and hot chocolate at this iconic café, known for its delicious breakfast options over the years.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Explore the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, showcasing many European masterpieces, providing a unique overview of art history.
EUR13, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Ildefonso

Enjoy a casual lunch at this trendy market featuring a variety of food stalls offering options to suit all tastes.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Royal Botanical Garden

Wander through the beautifully manicured Royal Botanical Gardens during the afternoon, taking in the beautiful plants and tranquility.
EUR6, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

National Archaeological Museum

Visit this fantastic museum housing impressive collections of art and artifacts from Spain’s extensive history.
EUR3, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at La Taberna de El Sur

End the day with a meal at this friendly tavern boasting a variety of traditional tapas and wines, perfect for sharing.
EUR30, 2 hours

Day 5: Historical Exploration

Madrid, Spain on July 17, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café del Sello

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee at Café del Sello, known for its relaxed ambiance, making it the perfect start to your day.
EUR7, 1 hour

9:30 AM

El Rastro Flea Market

Wander through El Rastro, the famous open-air flea market that takes place on Sundays and public holidays, offering a unique blend of antiques and local crafts.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at La Latina

Head to La Latina for a vibrant lunch scene, with plenty of tapas bars serving delicious small plates to share and savor.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Templo de Debod

Visit the Templo de Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple that offers stunning sunset views over Madrid and is a perfect photo location.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

National Museum of Decorative Arts

Explore this lesser-known gem displaying an array of decorative arts spanning from the Renaissance to contemporary styles.
EUR3, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Al-Mounia

Head back to Al-Mounia for a second visit and enjoy their famous Moroccan-inspired menu.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Relax and Unwind

Madrid, Spain on July 18, 2025

9:00 AM

Breakfast at El Pan de Tó

Savor freshly baked goods including croissants and artisan breads at this charming local bakery.
EUR9, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Museum of Contemporary Art

Visit the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, home to Picasso's Guernica, and a must-see for modern art lovers.
EUR10, 2.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at La Casa de las Tortillas

Discover tortilla española at its finest in a homey atmosphere that’s popular with locals and tourists alike.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Explore Malasaña Neighborhood

Wander around the eclectic Malasaña neighborhood, featuring quirky shops, street art, and vibrant cafés—perfect for an afternoon stroll.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Evening at La Latina

Enjoy tapas hopping in La Latina, tasting various local foods and drinks; this neighborhood is renowned for its bar scene.
EUR25, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at El Asador de Aranda

Visit El Asador de Aranda to enjoy delicious Castilian lamb, renowned for its quality and taste.
EUR35, 2 hours

Day 7: Farewell Madrid

Madrid, Spain on July 19, 2025

9:00 AM

Breakfast at El Café de los Escritores

Choose from a wide range of breakfast options, including traditional Spanish omelets and fresh juices in this literary-inspired café.
EUR12, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Shopping at Gran Vía

Enjoy shopping along Gran Vía, known for its iconic architecture, flagship stores, and vibrant street life.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at La Taberna del Alabardero

Finish your trip with a memorable meal at La Taberna del Alabardero, offering a blend of traditional Spanish and Mediterranean dishes.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Departure

Head to the airport for your flight, taking with you wonderful memories from Madrid.
Free, Variable