AanmeldenAanmelden

Essential guide for discovering Madrid in 2 days

Inhoudsindex

ESSENTIAL GUIDE FOR DISCOVERING MADRID IN 2 DAYS

A detailed itinerary: from the Gran Vía to Retiro

The journey starts on Gran Vía, known for its shops and vibrant shows. Next, head to Plaza de España to admire the monument dedicated to Miguel de Cervantes. At the top of Gran Vía, take a brief pause in Plaza de Callao before making your way down Alcalá Street toward the fountain of the Goddess Cibeles. You’ll also spot the iconic Bank of Spain right in front of the fountain. From there, continue along Paseo del Prado until you reach Atocha. As you proceed toward Retiro Park, take a moment to enjoy the exhibitions at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. If you venture a bit further, you’ll encounter the Fountain of Neptune, another of the city's treasures. Circle around the fountain and head up Felipe IV Street. This path will lead you to Retiro Park via a side entrance, or you can walk toward Puerta de Alcalá and enter through the main gate. Once inside Retiro Park, wander through its gardens, ponds, and palaces. If the weather is nice, you might catch a street performance or see a temporary exhibition.

How to arrange your time to explore Madrid

Planning your visit to Madrid in just two days means focusing on the top attractions. Set aside time to investigate what the capital offers and choose which must-see spots align with your interests to create the ideal experience.

What to see in Madrid the first day

Begin your journey in the center of Madrid at Puerta del Sol. This lively square not only marks the starting point of Spain's roads but also hosts many of the city's key events. After a quick stop, make your way to the stunning Royal Palace, a remarkable piece of Spanish history and architecture. Be sure to wander through Plaza Mayor to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Madrid. For lunch, savor some tapas and traditional dishes at one of the many local restaurants or markets in the area. In the afternoon, stroll along Gran Vía to appreciate the impressive architecture while indulging in some shopping. Conclude your day with a visit to the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple that offers one of the best sunset views in Madrid.

Exploring Madrid on the second day

The second day starts with a visit to the Prado Museum, one of the world's key art museums. After that, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Retiro Park, a beautiful park in the city's center. Explore the Glass Palace, take a boat ride, and savor a moment of tranquility by the lake. In the afternoon, take time to explore Barrio de las Letras and Paseo del Arte, where you'll find the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and the Reina Sofía Museum. Be sure to stop by the Fuente de Cibeles fountain to admire one of Madrid’s most famous landmarks.

Questions about itineraries and visits in Madrid

Enjoy your cultural journey through Madrid by exploring these three essential art landmarks in the Spanish capital.

Is it possible to visit the Royal Palace and El Retiro in a single day?

You can modify your suggested itinerary for Madrid to visit the Royal Palace in the morning and Retiro Park in the afternoon. These two landmarks are easy to reach and provide a blend of culture and nature. While Madrid has much more to offer than what can fit into two days, this plan will allow you to capture the heart of the city and enjoy its most famous sites. Get ready to fall in love with Madrid and its charm!

a patio with chairs and tables on a rooftop

Where to eat during your 48-hour visit

Madrid presents a diverse selection of dining choices, featuring everything from classic cuisine to innovative dishes. For breakfast, savor the popular churro fritters dipped in chocolate. At lunchtime, the terraces of Plaza Mayor are an ideal spot to enjoy a squid sandwich. For dinner, areas like Salamanca and Malasaña provide options that cater to all preferences and budgets.

Activities recommended for families in Madrid

If you are traveling with children, the Amusement Park and Zoo Aquarium are two options that promise fun for the little ones. There are also many places where you can enjoy time in Madrid and Rio throughout the year. A trip to the Wax Museum offers an educational and entertaining experience. Families will also appreciate a boat ride on the lake in Retiro Park or a puppet show in the gardens at El Buen Retiro.

Maximize your time in Madrid over two days with these tips.

To enhance your stay, think about purchasing a tourist card that offers unlimited access to numerous attractions and public transport. Be prepared to walk, as many attractions are in close proximity to each other. Lastly, seize the opportunity to experience Madrid's vibrant nightlife, which features a fantastic selection of bars and nightclubs.