6-Day Ultimate Madrid Tourism Itinerary: Culture, Cuisine & History

Day 1: Central Madrid Exploration

Madrid, Spain on April 23, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Museo del Jamón

Enjoy a traditional Spanish breakfast with fresh ham and coffee in this iconic Madrid eatery famous for its affordable and authentic local flavors.
EUR5, 1h

10:00am

Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor

Visit these lively central squares, the heart of Madrid, perfect for people watching and absorbing vibrant city life.
Free, 1h30m

11:45am

Royal Palace of Madrid

Tour the grand official residence with stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and priceless art collections. Open 10am–6pm.
EUR13, 2h

1:45pm

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Sample a variety of gourmet Spanish tapas and seafood under one historic market roof, a favorite for locals and tourists alike.
EUR15, 1h15m

3:00pm

Almudena Cathedral

Visit this beautiful cathedral next to the Royal Palace, featuring a mixture of classical and contemporary architectural styles.
Free, 45m

4:00pm

Retiro Park

Relax in Madrid's most famous park, enjoy a boat ride on the lake, stroll through gardens, and discover the Crystal Palace. Open until sunset.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Sobrino de Botín

Dine at the world's oldest restaurant, serving traditional Castilian roast dishes since 1725, a quintessential Madrid culinary experience.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 2: Art & Culture Day

Madrid, Spain on April 24, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at La Mallorquina

Taste delicious pastries and coffee at this renowned bakery located in Puerta del Sol, perfect to start your culture-packed day.
EUR6, 45m

9:30am

Prado Museum

Spend the morning exploring one of the world’s finest art museums, housing masterpieces from Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Open 10am–8pm.
EUR15, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Restaurante El Botánico

Enjoy a scenic meal near the Prado with a menu focusing on Spanish traditional with a contemporary twist.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Reina Sofía Museum

Discover modern art including Picasso’s Guernica and works by Dalí and Miró. Open 10am–9pm.
EUR12, 2h

4:30pm

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Complete the Golden Triangle of Art by visiting this museum with a broad collection from medieval to modern art.
EUR13, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Lhardy

Try classic Madrilenian dishes like cocido madrileño in this historic deli and restaurant near Puerta del Sol.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 3: Royal & Green Spaces

Madrid, Spain on April 25, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café de Oriente

Enjoy breakfast with great views of the Royal Palace in this elegant café, perfect for starting a royal day.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

Sabatini Gardens

Stroll through these beautifully manicured gardens adjacent to the Royal Palace, offering peaceful fountains and lovely views.
Free, 45m

11:00am

Templo de Debod

Visit this ancient Egyptian temple in the city park with panoramic views of Madrid. Open 9:45am–6:45pm.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at El Viajero

Dine at this atmospheric restaurant in La Latina offering excellent Mediterranean tapas and a rooftop terrace.
EUR20, 1h15m

2:00pm

Walk through La Latina neighborhood

Explore one of Madrid’s oldest neighborhoods known for its narrow streets, vibrant plazas, and great local bars.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Visit Real Jardín Botánico

Relax in the botanical gardens near the Prado, open 10am–8pm, featuring a wide variety of plant species.
EUR6, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Casa Lucio

Try authentic Spanish cuisine including their famous huevos rotos in this beloved traditional restaurant.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 4: Day Trip to Toledo

Toledo, Spain on April 26, 2025

8:00am

Train from Madrid to Toledo

Take a 33-minute high-speed train from Madrid’s Atocha station to the historic city of Toledo for a full day of exploration.
EUR13 return, 0h33m

9:00am

Visit Toledo Cathedral

Marvel at one of Spain’s greatest Gothic cathedrals, featuring stunning stained glass and art. Open 10am–6:30pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

11:00am

Walk through the Historic City Center

Explore narrow medieval streets, ancient synagogues, and churches in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Restaurante La Abadía

Enjoy traditional Manchego cuisine close to the cathedral, known for its hearty and regional dishes.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Alcázar of Toledo

Tour the ancient fortress which houses a military museum, with panoramic views over Toledo.
EUR5, 1h30m

4:00pm

Return train to Madrid

Take the comfortable train back to Madrid to relax after your day trip.
Included, 0h33m

5:00pm

Rest at hotel or leisure walk in Madrid

Relax after your day trip or take an easy stroll along Gran Via for some evening city vibes.
Free, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Taberna Laukariz

Enjoy Basque-style tapas perfect for a casual yet top-quality dinner near downtown Madrid.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 5: Neighborhood & Market Strolls

Madrid, Spain on April 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Federal Café Lavapiés

Start your morning in this trendy café offering international and Spanish breakfast options in a lively neighborhood.
EUR8, 1h

9:30am

Explore Lavapiés neighborhood

Discover street art, multicultural food spots, and artisan shops in one of Madrid's most eclectic districts.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Visit El Rastro Market (Sundays and public holidays; confirm date)

Browse the famous open-air flea market for vintage goods, antiques, and souvenirs. Check if the market operates on this day.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Casa Toni

Enjoy classic tapas and traditional Castilian dishes in this historic tavern very popular with locals.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Visit CaixaForum and vertical garden

Explore contemporary art exhibitions and enjoy the iconic vertical garden outside. Open 10am–8pm.
EUR6, 1h30m

4:00pm

Stroll through Gran Via and Shop

Walk Gran Via, Madrid’s main shopping avenue, for high street and luxury shops plus impressive architecture.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at DiverXO

Experience innovative, Michelin-starred cuisine by Chef David Muñoz for a memorable fine dining night (reservation required).
EUR150, 2h
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Day 6: Relaxed Cultural Finale

Madrid, Spain on April 28, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Panadería Horno de San Onofre

Enjoy freshly baked breads and traditional pastries at this boutique bakery in central Madrid.
EUR6, 45m

10:00am

Visit Sorolla Museum

Explore the beautiful home and art of Joaquín Sorolla, a master of light and color, in a peaceful setting. Open 9:30am–8pm.
EUR3, 1h30m

12:00pm

Walk through Chamberí district

Explore less touristy neighborhoods with charming squares, cafes, and boutiques to get a feel of local life.
Free, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Sala de Despiece

Enjoy an inventive menu focusing on quality ingredients and creative presentations in a cool industrial setting.
EUR30, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at El Capricho Park

Spend your last afternoon at this hidden Madrid gem, a romantic garden with sculptures, labyrinths, and ponds. Open 9am–9pm.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Early dinner at Casa Mono

Enjoy contemporary Spanish dishes with a great wine list to toast your Madrid trip near the lively Malasaña area.
EUR35, 1h30m
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