🌎 3 Day Guide to Madrid from a Spain Specialist
Legend has it that Madrid was founded by the Muslim emir Muhammad I in the ninth century, who named the city "Mayrit" after the Arabic word for "source of water." In the 16th century when Madrid became the capital of Spain under King Philip II (that's the one who was married to Bloody Mary and tried to invade England with his armada under the reign of Elizabeth the Great)
During the following centuries, Madrid became a hub for art, culture, and debauchery. The city was home to some of the greatest artists of the Spanish Golden Age, including Diego Velázquez, Francisco de Goya, and Miguel de Cervantes.
But Madrid isn't all history and culture. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and, of course, its soccer team, Real Madrid. If you're looking for a good time, just head to one of the city's many tapas bars and order a plate of patatas bravas and a glass of sangria.
All in all, Madrid is a city with something for everyone. So whether you're a history buff, an art aficionado, or just looking for a good time, Madrid is sure to deliver.
Day 1
Time at Leisure to Explore Art Museums and Visit the Botanical Gardens
There are FANTASTIC art galleries in Madrid. I would recommend to wake up today, have a pan con tomate with a coffee for breakfast and stroll over towards the Buen Retiro park. Most of the art museums and galleries are located in that part of the city.
Here are my favorites:
If you prefer a guided experience, I would recommend this tour.
Tapas Tour in the Evening
Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a fun night out, a tapas tour is the perfect way to experience the vibrant culinary scene in Madrid. Especially during your first evening, it gives you a chance to connect with your guide and get to know the city from a local's point of view.
Here are some tapas tours you can book by yourself.
Day 2
Day Trip to Toledo
Today, I recommend to take a day trip to Toledo, a historical city outside of Madrid that's known for it's Arab, Jewish and Christian monuments.
You can take a train from the Atocha station. There's a train every hour, and it should take you about 50 minutes to get to Toledo.
You can buy tickets online through Renfe (available 2 months before) or at the station.
Once in Toledo, you will have to walk (don't worry, once you cross the river, there will be escalators that take you up!) or take a taxi from the station to get to the top of the city.
Here are some sites to visit.
If you would prefer to join a tour, I got you! Here's a company I recommend.
I also suggest to make a reservation at Restaurante La Ermitana for lunch to enjoy a beautiful view.
Day 3
Shopping Recommendations and Flamenco in the Evening
Madrid has some of the best shopping experiences in Europe. I love the mix of options for all budgets, from established brands to really small boutiques and thrift shops.
I recommend to spend the day and some stores. You can head to the Gran Via and make your way towards Salamanca.
Here are some I recommend on trying out:
On your last night in Madrid, I would recommend to experience some flamenco.
Flamenco is a traditional form of music, song, and dance that originated in the Andalusian region of southern Spain. It's characterized by its passionate rhythms, intricate footwork, and emotional expression, and has become an iconic part of Spanish culture.
OR book this experience:
Hotel Recommendations
**TIP: Be mindful of holidays, large conferences or sporting events as those tend to greatly raise hotel prices in Madrid.
**TIP: Be aware that you might be required to pay a tourist tax (1-2 Euros per person per day) when checking out of your hotel. Even if everything else has been paid for and settled in advance. Leave enough time to pass by reception at the end of your stay.
Restaurant and Bar Recommendations
Have fun!
You're going to have a wonderful time in Madrid! Make sure to follow me at @mazepa.travel on Instagram or @mazepatravel on TikTok. I would love to see pictures of your travels!
**Disclosure: this guide may contain affiliate links, meaning that I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my link at no cost to you.
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