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What to see in Madrid in three days: a simple guide for your visit

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WHAT TO SEE IN MADRID IN THREE DAYS: A SIMPLE GUIDE FOR YOUR VISIT

A comprehensive tour to discover the capital

Three days can make a big impact... So, take your time and plan this unique city tour step by step, ensuring you don’t miss a thing. The Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, Royal Palace, and Almudena Cathedral are just the start of an amazing three days in Madrid. Explore with us!

3-day route: What to see and do in Madrid?

Experiencing Madrid in three days is an exciting journey. Start by investigating the historic center, including Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, or tour the magnificent Royal Palace. The local cuisine is another reason to plan your visit—be sure to sample some of the best tapas in the city. As the sun sets, unwind at the Temple of Debod, visit museums like the Prado, or take a leisurely walk through Retiro Park. There are countless activities to enjoy and ways to stay organized. Keep reading to discover more options:

What to see in Madrid on the first day?

Begin your journey at the famous Plaza de Cibeles to take in one of Madrid’s most notable fountains. Next, proceed down Alcalá Street towards Puerta del Sol square. Cross this landmark and walk along Arenal Street to Bailén Street, leading you to the Royal Palace, a beautiful example of baroque architecture and the official home of the Spanish king. Be sure to visit the Sabatini Gardens, ideal for a leisurely walk.

After a lunch break...

Dive into culture at the Prado Museum, where you can admire masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and other renowned artists. If art excites you, keep in mind that Madrid offers remarkable cultural spots, like the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and the Reina Sofía Centre. Wrap up your day with a walk along the Gran Vía as the sun sets. This lively avenue is filled with theaters, shops, and stunning architecture. Think about catching a musical or savoring dinner in one of the city's many restaurants.

The must-see attractions on the second day in Madrid

Begin your day by walking along the Gran Vía toward the Fuente de Cibeles or the Banco de España metro station. This area features the stunning fountain and Madrid City Hall. Continue up Calle Alcalá to reach the namesake gate, another notable landmark in the city. Next, head to Retiro Park, the heart of Madrid, where you can partake in various activities such as shows, boat rides, and a visit to the Glass Palace, built in 1887. After exploring Retiro, stop by the Congress of Deputies building and capture a photo with its renowned lions. As you stroll, don't miss out on another iconic fountain of the city: the fountain of Neptune.

A dream sunset with delicious tapas

When you arrive at the congress, you can take a guided tour or enjoy a coffee at a nearby café. After that, make your way to one of the day's final stops and watch the sunset from the rooftop of the Círculo de Bellas Artes. Spend the end of your day exploring Madrid’s most picturesque neighborhoods. Malasaña is known for its bohemian vibe and vibrant nightlife. Wander through the streets to discover vintage shops, art galleries, and charming cafés. Don’t miss the chance to taste some of Madrid's renowned cuisine, which offers a wide range from traditional tapas to innovative modern dishes.

What to do on the third day in Madrid?

On your third day in Madrid, head to the Paseo del Arte to explore its key museums. This is a great chance to see attractions you might have missed in the previous days. Begin your day at the Prado Museum, the most well-known in the city, though not the most significant. To maximize your visit, note which rooms you want to see and locate them ahead of time. A short walk along the Paseo de la Castellana will take you to the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. Further down, you’ll find the Reina Sofía Museum. You can visit one before lunch and the other afterward.

A last afternoon walk

You will arrive at Atocha Station. If you haven't been to the island yet, now is a perfect opportunity to see its tropical greenhouse from the inside. You can spend the rest of the afternoon and evening exploring some of the city's famous neighborhoods. Check out the lively Chueca district, the charming La Latina, and the elegant Salamanca district. Each offers something unique, so take your time deciding which suits you best. You can also plan museum visits by checking each museum's website for free entry days and times.

Accommodation in Madrid: where to sleep during your visit?

Madrid provides a diverse array of places to stay for every budget. You can choose from charming hotels in the city center, budget-friendly hostels, or rental apartments, giving you plenty of choices to find the ideal spot to relax after a busy day of exploring. You'll find hotels conveniently located for tourists, such as the Meliá Castilla and Meliá Madrid Princesa, as well as more upscale options like the Fénix Gran Meliá and Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá. For those wanting a more authentic experience, the Chueca and La Latina neighborhoods offer accommodations full of character while keeping you close to major attractions.

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Tips

Check the online reviews and think about how close your accommodation is to public transport when selecting a place to stay in Madrid. A good night's sleep is vital for fully enjoying your visit to the city.

Tips for exploring Madrid with children in three days

Madrid is a family-friendly city with numerous attractions for children. You can take the kids to the Madrid Theme Park or the Madrid Zoo, where they can both learn and have fun. Be prepared to spend nearly an entire day enjoying these activities.

Cultural activities for kids

One day, you can take your kids to the heart of Madrid. Start with a tour of the Museum of Illusions, then explore the Tooth Fairy Museum. Don’t miss the Plaza Mayor and the Royal Theater along with its beautiful gardens. If you still have some energy left, Madrid Río is a fantastic spot for the kids to play outdoors.

Plans to experience

On another day, consider visiting the Natural Science Museum along with exploring the Salamanca district and Retiro Park. If you go on the weekend, you can enjoy indoor puppet shows. Don’t miss the Glass Palace or the chance to take a boat trip. It’s an amazing experience!

Free routes to enjoy Madrid without spending

Madrid provides many free paths for you to explore the city without breaking the bank. Enjoy a stroll through its gardens, visit famous landmarks, or uncover hidden gems... We’ll share them with you!

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History of Madrid

Explore Madrid de los Austrias and uncover the city’s history through its famous buildings and squares, like Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol.

Art and culture

Utilize free hours at museums like the Prado or Reina Sofía Museum, which offer complimentary entrance on specific days and times.

Natural beauty

Take a walk along the Manzanares River in Madrid Rio park, an ideal spot for unwinding and staying active outdoors. Explore El Rastro on Sundays, a bustling open-air market where you can find antiques and one-of-a-kind treasures.

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Virginia Menachoによる

Travel journalist. She studied at Complutense University in Madrid. Since completing her studies, she has focused on exploring the world and indulging in one of her greatest passions: walking along the beach.