Two-Day Must-See Madrid Itinerary: Culture, Cuisine, and History Explored

Day 1: Historic Landmarks

Madrid, Spain on June 2, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café de Oriente

Enjoy a traditional Spanish breakfast with fresh coffee and churros at Café de Oriente, located close to the Royal Palace, a convenient start to your day.
EUR5, 1h0m

9:30am

Royal Palace of Madrid

Visit the grand Royal Palace, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, known for its stunning architecture and lavish interiors. Opens at 10:00am.
EUR13, 1h30m

11:15am

Plaza Mayor

Walk to Plaza Mayor, a historic square in the heart of Madrid, perfect for soaking in the local atmosphere with street performers and quaint shops.
Free, 45m

12:00pm

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Taste a variety of Spanish tapas and fresh seafood at the vibrant Mercado de San Miguel, near Plaza Mayor. A lively place to experience local flavours.
EUR15, 1h0m

1:15pm

Puerta del Sol

Explore Puerta del Sol, a bustling square and the symbolic centre of Madrid, famous for its clocks and landmarks like the Bear and the Strawberry Tree statue.
Free, 30m

2:00pm

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Art lovers should visit this museum featuring an extensive collection from medieval to modern art. It is within walking distance of Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor. Open from 10:00am to 7:00pm.
EUR13, 1h30m

4:00pm

Return to accommodation for rest

Head back to your stay at C. del Carnero to freshen up and relax after a day of sightseeing.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sobrino de Botin

Dine at the world’s oldest restaurant, serving traditional Castilian dishes such as roast suckling pig and lamb, close to Plaza Mayor. Opens until 11:30pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Art & Parks

Madrid, Spain on June 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at La Rollerie

Start your day with pastries and coffee at La Rollerie, a cozy bakery near your accommodation on C. del Carnero.
EUR6, 1h0m

9:00am

Prado Museum

Visit Madrid’s renowned Prado Museum hosting masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco; opens at 10:00am, so you can arrive early to buy tickets.
EUR15, 2h0m

11:30am

Retiro Park

Relax with a stroll in Retiro Park, Madrid’s largest green space, featuring a lake, sculptures, and the Glass Palace. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at El Brillante

Have a casual lunch with a famous calamari sandwich at El Brillante, close to Atocha station, near Retiro Park.
EUR12, 1h0m

2:30pm

Reina Sofia Museum

Explore modern art collections at Reina Sofia Museum, home to Picasso’s Guernica. It’s open until 7:00pm and is located nearby Retiro Park and Atocha station.
EUR12, 1h30m

4:15pm

Optional: Explore Lavapiés Neighbourhood

If time permits, wander around Lavapiés, a vibrant multicultural area with street art and independent cafés.
Free, 45m

6:00pm

Return to accommodation

Head back to rest and prepare for departure or your evening.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Botín or Casa Lucio

Enjoy a farewell dinner at historic Botín again or try Casa Lucio, known for its ‘huevos rotos’ dish for an authentic taste of Madrid. Open until 11:30pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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