3 Days in Madrid- a local's guide
Table of Contents:
- Is Madrid worth visiting?
- Best areas to stay in Madrid + accommodation recommendations
- Must-do's + day trip recommendations
- What and where to eat
- FAQ's
Is Madrid worth visiting?
When I moved to Madrid September 2024 from Chicago, it was my first time ever in the Spanish capital.
Known as "una villeta dentro de una ciudad" (a village within a city), Madrid is decorated with charming historic buildings, winding cobblestone streets, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it distinct from other capital cities.
I spent my first few days in the city simply wandering around, enamored with the narrow streets and beautiful architecture.
After visiting other parts of Spain, such as the East coast, Southern side, and Mallorca, I can now compare Madrid with other parts of Spain.
And I would definitely say Madrid is worth visiting.
As the capital, Madrid has a little bit of everything from all parts of the country.
Compared to other regions, there is not a lot of things to do (in my opinion) if you are not an art lover.
Most of Madrid's activities, besides the famous nightlife, center around the art scene -- such as world-renowned museums, theatre and music.
If these things aren't for you, I would say Madrid is a perfect short trip where you can do everything you want in less than 3 days.
Madrid's charm lies in strolling the historic streets and enjoying tapas with friends, rather than having a packed itinerary of things to do.
As the center of Spain, it is the perfect jumping off point to explore other parts of the country, or more countries in Europe.
Best areas to stay in Madrid + accommodation recommendations
Sol (the center) is the best place to stay in Madrid.
This is because it is walking distance from pretty much all major tourist attractions, and the most centrally connected by public transport.
It is also a central spot for nightlife.
If you can't find or afford to stay in Sol, the surrounding neighborhoods such as La Latina, Malasaña, Chueca, or Barrio de Las Letras are all very convenient as well.
Madrid's center is statistically very safe.
Even as a solo female, I feel perfectly comfortable walking alone at night in any neighborhood -- so you don't have to worry about avoiding certain neighborhoods.*
*People have told me to be careful in Lavapies, which has a higher immigrant population, but I have never had any safety concerns personally...
Budget options-
Must-do's + day trip recommendations
Must-do's:
Daytrips:
1 hour away-
Where and what to eat-
Be sure to check out my guide to dining out in Spain (you really should be prepared)!:
WHAT:
• tortilla española (Spanish omelette)
This is by far my favorite Spanish food and my top recommendation if you want to try traditional food in Madrid.
I love it so much that I have a whole guide dedicated to the best tortillas in the city:
What you should know is that there are MANY variations to this dish: firm or runny, very salty and not so salty, thin potatoes or chunks, and of course, caramelized onions or no onions (the latter is a big debate).
Personally, I prefer my tortilla on the runny side with caramelized onions and not too salty.
However, a firm tortilla can be good as well when served warm. Here is my favorite place for this kind:
If you want to try the runny version (aka the better version), this is my current favorite:
• patatas bravas (“brave” potatoes)
• gambas ajillo (garlic shrimp)
• croquetas (croquettes)
• paella
• torrija (like French toast)
• tarta de queso (cheesecake)
FAQ's
How much time do I need in Madrid?
Depends on your interests. If you’re a museum person, 3-5 days.
If you’re not, 1-3 days is enough.
Is Madrid friendly for non-Spanish speaking tourists?
Yeah… but of course, as the capital city, people here are generally less open and friendly than you’ll find in the South.
Though you can get by with English, as most people speak at least basic English, knowing at least basic Spanish is a huge plus.
Is Madrid affordable?
Compared to the rest of Spain, it’s one of the most expensive places to visit.
Compared to the rest of Western Europe and the United States, sure it is — though not by that much.
Is Madrid safe for solo female travelers?
100% yes. Madrid is one of the cities I feel most safe in, at all hours of the day and no matter where in the city.
Like anywhere else in the world though, be aware of your surroundings, don’t walk alone at night if you’re not sober, and be aware of your belongings.
What are the best areas for nightlife?
The neighboring areas of Malasaña and Chueca, due to the high population of students. Also, the center area of Sol is always busy late at night.
What are some Spanish words/phrases to know?
Hola- hello
(muchas) Gracias- thank you (very much)
Buenas días- good morning
Buenas tardes- good afternoon/evening
Buenas noches- good night
Perdón- excuse me
¿Donde está?…- Where is…
El baño- the bathroom
La estación- the station
El tren/metro- train
La cuenta- the check
Muy rica- very delicious
Mucho gusto- nice to meet you
¿Habla inglés?- do you speak English?
No hablo español- I don’t speak Spanish
Thanks for reading 🙌
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