The Ultimate 3 Days in Madrid Itinerary

If you’re planning to visit Madrid, this Madrid itinerary will help guide you in what you should make sure to see when you’re here!

This Madrid itinerary is for anyone who’s looking to visit Madrid, but doesn’t know where to start.

Madrid is a beautiful city with plenty of attractions and things to do. However, it can be difficult to decide what you want to see in Madrid during your short stay! We’ve compiled a list of some of the best places that you should visit during your holiday.

The perfect place to begin your trip to the Spanish capital is in the city center. You could spend a full day here, or if you’re strapped for time, just take a quick walk around in between visiting some of the other sights on your list.

You can also arrange to get a guided tour or free walking tour on your first day to get to know some of your favorite places that you can revisit in the following days.

When to visit Madrid

If you’re visiting Madrid for the first time, it’s important to know when is best to visit.

Madrid is the capital of Spain and has four seasons with cool winters and hot summers.

The city can be much cooler during the winter months from December-March while making summer days very warm! Madrid has things to offer year round though, so travellers are really able to enjoy Madrid at any point in the year.

Madrid has an average of around 300+ days of sunshine each year, but we recommend visiting during spring or autumn to avoid crowds and heat waves!

If you’re a fan of the heat though, the summer months could be great for you!

If you’re looking for a great deal on your tickets, the best time to travel is in off peak season times, like in the colder months.

Here are some of the best things to do on your upcoming visit to Madrid.

3 Days in Madrid Itinerary

Royal Palace of Madrid

A visit to Madrid would not be complete without a visit to the grand Royal Palace of Madrid.

The palace is still the official royal residence, although the royal family doesn’t actually live here anymore. It really is one of the top things to see on your trip to Madrid.

The Royal Palace was originally created as a fortress to protect the area. It was turned into a royal residence by Charles I and his son Philip II, and suffered from a fire in the 1700s . The building that is there now was reconstructed by Philip V.

The palace has over 3000 rooms throughout. Now when you visit, you can also now see the royal kitchen which has been renovated and is now one of the oldest well-preserved kitchens in a European royal residence.

You can still catch the changing of the guard here on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Gran V�a

While Madrid has many great and popular attractions, the Gran Vía is a must-see on your Madrid itinerary.

Gran Vía is the most famous street in Madrid.

The street was constructed between the years 1910 and 1929, though planning began as far back as 1862! It stretches between Salamanca and Argüelles. To build here, 300 surroundings had to be torn down, as well as 50 surrounding streets!

It’s been named as one of Madrid’s most beautiful streets with some even referring to it as Madrid’s Fifth Avenue. If you want to do some shopping on your trip to Madrid, then this is definitely a place to explore while you’re here!

Along Gran Vía, you’ll find Madrid’s most renowned buildings and popular destinations, such as the Teatro Real Madrid.

In this neighborhood, you’ll also come across Plaza de España. It also leads to Madrid’s most famous street, Calle Mayor. Madrid’s main shopping areas and Plaza de Cibeles can also be found on the Gran Vía which is a great place to start if you’re looking for some good shopping in Madrid.

The Gran Vía has many incredible stories that come from its time during Franco’s dictatorship and it was even used as Madrid’s frontline during the Spanish Civil War!

If Madrid is on your travel bucket list, then you have to visit Gran Vía which will give you a great taste of some of Madrid’s best shopping options.

El Rastro

El Rastro Madrid is a must-see on Madrid’s itinerary for those looking to explore Madrid culture. The market offers an array of goods including antiques, handmade crafts, vintage items, and more!

The El Rastro Market is a flea market that was originally opened as early as 1740 with vendors selling all sorts of goods.

It’s still open today on Sundays from about 9:00 am to 3:00 pm with many shops along Calle de la Paja, San Fernando Street, or Plaza del Cascorro which is one of Madrid’s most iconic squares.

It’s also open on public holidays, so that’s a great thing to add to your list if you’re visiting during a holiday season and you’re looking for something to do while most other places are closed.

As Madrid is a city of contrasts and diversity, it stands to reason that there would be many markets in the city! If you’re looking for Madrid souvenirs or something truly original, then El Rastro Madrid offers some great items which make perfect gifts back home too!

El Rastro Market occupies Madrid Madrid’s main square, Plaza de Cascorro. The Rastros has many shops along Calle de la Paja or San Fernando Street which are some of Madrid’s most iconic squares!

Retiro Park

Madrid Itinerary would not be complete without a visit to Madrid’s Retiro Park. The park is one of Madrid’s most iconic destinations for some beautiful green space in the city.

The park has a large tree that is around 400 years old, and is considered to be the oldest tree still standing in Madrid!

There is also a beautiful glass Pavillion here that was built in 1887. You can visit some beautiful tropical plants here.

The Retiro Park covers an impressive area of about 125 hectares and is home to over 15,000 trees! You can stroll through the park and be surrounded by beautiful nature. Take in the views of some great fountains and sculptures along the way.

During the summer months, you can visit the park from 6 am – 12 am. In the winter months, it’s open from 6 am – 10 pm. You’ll definitely be able to find some time in your itinerary to check out this beauty.

Prado Museum

Madrid’s Prado Museum is one of the most iconic museums in Madrid. The museum has been open since 1819 which makes it now over 200 years old!

The original building was created to be a house of science but became a museum that housed the royal paintings.

During the Spanish civil war, the paintings had to be relocated to the basement for protection against potential attacks on the building. They were later completely removed and kept in Valencia, before being returned at the end of the war.

You can visit the Prado Museum between 10 am – 8 pm every day of the week. On Sundays however, they close an hour earlier at 7 pm.

Puerta del Sol

When creating your Madrid itinerary, you should take some time to go visit the beautiful, Puerta del Sol.

The origins of Madrid’s Puerta del Sol date back to the 17th century. These days it houses the head of the regional government in Madrid. If you’re visiting during the winter holidays, you can also join in the traditions of counting in the new year while you’re here!

This area of Madrid was the first to be set up with things like electric lights and streetcars.

Plaza Mayor

This central Madrid square is more of a must-do than a must-see attraction. Plaza Mayor, which is surrounded by cafés and bars, virtually encourages passers-by to sit down, order a coffee or glass of wine (depending on the time of day), and people-watch. Not only do hundreds of tourists come through, but so do several street entertainers.

During your three-day tour in Madrid, you will have unforgettable memories here.

The plaza’s corridors are a perfect place to cool off and shop for unusual items in little stores. The atmosphere is charged by midnight, and the area is packed with young revelers and families.

La Latina Neighborhood

If you’re looking for true Spanish cuisine over your three days in Madrid, look no further than this street. The lively, colorful backdrop of Calle Cava Baja makes it one of the neighborhood’s most famous venues to get food and drinks.

Calla Cava Baja is not only full of flavor but also has a variety of eateries to suit all budgets. Casa Lucas, for example, is a well-known wine bar that keeps busy until late at night. It’s a Basque-inspired bar that serves highly addictive pintxos, or bar snacks.

La Latina’s Casa de Granada is one of Madrid’s best-kept secrets, serving up some of the city’s best tapas deals. While inside, you’ll be greeted with low-cost sangria jugs and a spectacular view of the city from the rooftop patio. Enjoying street performers and people-watching outside the Basilica are also excellent ways to spend an afternoon.

Cybele Palace

Your Madrid Itinerary would not be complete without a visit to Madrid’s Cybele Palace.

The Cybele Palace is one of Madrid’s most iconic structures. It has a cutting-edge design and will undoubtedly amaze you during your 3-day vacation to Madrid itinerary. A two-hour trip by electric tuk-tuk is recommended for first-time visitors to Madrid.

You’ll see more in less time than on a walking tour. You’ll have a more personal experience here than on a bus trip. Enjoy the sights as you drive through some of Madrid’s must-see attractions, marking locations you might wish to return to for a more in-depth examination later.

Enjoy Madrid as if you were a member of a local family! On this tour, which mixes the main attractions of Madrid with a few sites only locals know about, take in the breathtaking views and some of the city’s unique hidden secrets. All of this, in addition to fantastic local anecdotes from your host.

Cecilio Rodriguez Gardens

Located in Retiro Park, the Cecilio Rodriguez Gardens in Madrid is a beautiful, free public garden that is great for a stroll. You may even spot a peacock during your time here.

You won’t be able to visit every area in your 3 days in Madrid because it spans 350 acres!

Reina Sofía Museum

The museum is a crossroads of locations, things, and times: a place where tales are told and narratives are woven together, making each intersection important as it goes off in one way or another, transforming it into an intensive experience of discovery and understanding. In this gorgeous museum, which was previously an elegant hospital building, see noteworthy pieces by major artists.

Examine the arched halls and take a stroll through the grounds to appreciate the structure from the outside. With your guide, walk around the museum’s halls and galleries, learning how and why the outstanding artists created what they did.

Mercado de San Miguel

The Mercado de San Miguel has been a wholesale food market for more than a century. This medieval structure is now one of the world’s most important food marketplaces. It allows visitors to taste the essence of Spain’s most important flavors.

From the best Iberian ham and the freshest fish and shellfish imported daily from Galicia to the finest cheeses from Castile and Mediterranean rice dishes, Asturias, and the Basque Country, the Mercado de San Miguel has it all.

This tour is perfect for anyone looking to learn about Madrid in a short amount of time while remaining calm. While riding a bicycle, you will see and hear a lot about the old center in around 3 hours and 12 kilometers. The locations, as well as the secret areas off the beaten route.

Naturally, there will be numerous photo opportunities along the way, as well as a break halfway through. You’ll get 3 tapas and 1 drink if you choose the tapas option. Following the tour, you’ll have a better idea of the sights you’d like to visit on your own time. You can also choose which restaurants and tapas bars you’d like to dine at. You’ve been inspired to continue with your Madrid itinerary for the next three days!

Madrid Botanical Garden

You have to also check out the Madrid Botanical Garden!

The 20-acre Royal Botanic Gardens of Madrid is located adjacent to the Prado Museum. The grounds, which have over 5,000 plant species and historical context, offer a diverse range of biodiversity to visitors for much of the year. A greenhouse at the Garden is dedicated to research that will help the local ecosystem.

The Gardens were once utilized to cultivate therapeutic herbs and classify new plant species hundreds of years ago. The grounds are now a terrific area to relax after a morning run, have a cup of coffee, or take photos. Pay this place a visit in one of your 3 Days in Madrid Itinerary. This joyous celebration transforms the Royal Botanic Gardens into a winter festival for visitors and locals alike.

Templo de Debod

Madrid’s Templo de Debod is a beautiful Egyptian temple. It was transported from Aswan to Madrid in the 1960’s. It officially opened to the public in 1972.

The Egyptian government gave the Temple of Debod to Spain as a symbol of gratitude for its help in repairing the Abu Simbel temples in Upper Egypt. It is a must-see attraction in Madrid. The Temple is one of the few standing ancient Egyptian monuments outside of Egypt.

The tranquil, magical atmosphere of the Temple of Debod today surely compensates for that awful day. It is a popular site for Madrileos to have weekend picnics, yoga sessions, or simply watch a stunning sunset, as it is surrounded by rich greenery and pools. Some of the best panoramic views of western Madrid may be found in the temple complex.

Walk over here from the neighboring Plaza de Espaa at sunset, when the brilliant temple walls are reflected off the surrounding waters, making this monument particularly stunning. The temple is available to the public and is free to visit.

The temple does not allow groups and may only be visited individually for a maximum of 30 minutes due to conservation concerns.

Sorolla Museum

Located in the Chamberi neighborhood, the Sorolla Museum houses the most complete collection of artwork from the painter Joaquín Sorolla.

This is where he lived and had his art studio, and it has been impeccably maintained.

Joaquín Sorolla lived here until his passing in 1923, and it opened to the public as a museum in 1932. The building itself is a museum and like walking through history.

Almudena Cathedral

The Neo-Romanesque crypt, which was created in the 19th century and houses a 16th-century figure of the Almudena Virgin, is the oldest component of the Cathedral. Excavations near Mayor Street have uncovered remnants of Moorish and medieval city fortifications.

The Almudena Cathedral features a museum that explains the churches and the archdiocese of Madrid’s history. You may see the new mosaics that adorn the Cathedral Sacristy and Chapter Hall. Then walk through the clerestory, and finish with a breathtaking view of Madrid from the dome. Remember to take some photos too for future reference!

The next time you find yourself in Europe, be sure to visit the beautiful city of Madrid. This city has a rich history and culture. This makes it a destination not just for tourists but also residents who want to enjoy its delicious food, awe-inspiring art, and beautiful architecture. You won’t regret spending some time exploring this European capital!

Madrid is also a great destination for artists. Art lovers visiting the city can see some amazing paintings at the Van Gogh Museum. Conveniently located in the city center of Madrid. This is one of the best museums around and is easily accessible by public transport.

Also, if you’re looking for a little bit of free time in this Spain itinerary, you can always grab a café con leche at a coffee shop in the heart of the city. What a perfect way to people watch!

Other noteworthy things to do during your trip:

Take in a flamenco show

Visit art museums

Try some of the fantastic local food. If you’re a big foodie, trying our a food tour could be right up your alley

Go explore some off the beaten path places with a local guide. (some find this the better way to explore).

I hope this article on Spain’s capital city has you excited to create your very own Madrid itinerary for your next trip here.

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