Here’s a comprehensive and detailed Madrid itinerary for both 3 days and 5 days, designed to help you make the most of your time in Spain’s vibrant capital — whether you’re there for a short city break or a slightly longer stay.
Madrid Itinerary for 3 Days – The Perfect City Break
Three days is the ideal amount of time to experience the highlights of Madrid — its royal landmarks, world-class art museums, lively plazas, and local food culture — without feeling rushed.
Day 1: Historic Madrid & Royal Heritage
Morning:
- Start your trip in the heart of the city at Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s bustling central square.
- Walk to Plaza Mayor, a 17th-century square surrounded by arcades, cafés, and historic buildings.
- Try a quick breakfast or snack — like churros con chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés, a classic Madrid experience.
Late Morning:
- Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real) — one of the largest and most magnificent palaces in Europe.
- Explore the nearby Almudena Cathedral, known for its modern dome and rooftop views.
Afternoon:
- Stroll through the Sabatini Gardens behind the palace.
- Have lunch in La Latina, one of Madrid’s most authentic neighborhoods, filled with tapas bars and local taverns.
Evening:
- Visit the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple with one of the best sunset views in Madrid.
- End your evening with dinner at a traditional taberna or catch a flamenco show at Corral de la Morería.
Day 2: Art, Culture & Parks
Morning:
- Head to the Golden Triangle of Art:
- Prado Museum – Masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco.
- Reina Sofía Museum – Picasso’s Guernica and modern Spanish art.
- Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum – European art from the Renaissance to modern times.
Afternoon:
- Have lunch at Mercado de San Miguel or Barrio de Las Letras, the old literary quarter.
- Spend the rest of your afternoon at Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro) — stroll by the lake, visit the Crystal Palace, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Evening:
- Walk along Gran Vía, Madrid’s famous shopping and theater avenue, illuminated at night.
- Dine in Chueca or Malasaña, neighborhoods known for their energetic nightlife, trendy bars, and tapas spots.
Day 3: Local Life & Neighborhood Exploration
Morning:
- Visit El Rastro, Madrid’s famous Sunday flea market (if it’s Sunday).
- Explore Lavapiés, a multicultural neighborhood full of art, cafés, and global cuisine.
Afternoon:
- Have lunch near Plaza de Santa Ana or Huertas — both filled with lively terraces and great food.
- Visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (home of Real Madrid) or the Museo Sorolla, a charming art museum set in the artist’s home.
Evening:
- Enjoy a relaxed final dinner in La Latina or Salamanca.
- Take an evening stroll through Madrid Río Park or return to Plaza Mayor for a final view of the illuminated old city.
Madrid Itinerary for 5 Days – The Complete Experience
If you have five days in Madrid, you can dive deeper into local culture, enjoy day trips, and discover more of the city’s unique neighborhoods.
Days 1–3:
Follow the 3-day itinerary above for the main attractions, art museums, and iconic city experiences.
Day 4: Day Trip from Madrid
Madrid’s central location makes it perfect for day trips. You can easily reach several UNESCO World Heritage cities by train.
Top Day Trip Options:
- Toledo (30 min by train):
A medieval city known for its cathedral, fortress, and cobblestone streets.
- Segovia (30–45 min):
Famous for its Roman aqueduct, fairy-tale Alcázar, and roast suckling pig (cochinillo).
- Ávila (1 hour):
Surrounded by perfectly preserved medieval walls.
- El Escorial (1 hour):
A royal monastery and historical palace complex.
Choose one city to explore for the day, then return to Madrid in the evening for a relaxed dinner.
Day 5: Modern Madrid & Hidden Gems
Morning:
- Discover the elegant Salamanca District, home to luxury boutiques, cafés, and art galleries.
- Visit the Museo Arqueológico Nacional (National Archaeological Museum) or enjoy brunch at a stylish café on Calle Serrano.
Afternoon:
- Walk or cycle along Madrid Río Park, a beautiful riverside park with gardens, bridges, and art installations.
- Visit Matadero Madrid, a former slaughterhouse turned cultural center hosting exhibitions and performances.
Evening:
- Have a farewell dinner with a view — try Azotea del Círculo de Bellas Artes, a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city skyline.
- Toast your trip with a glass of Spanish wine or tinto de verano as you watch your final Madrid sunset.
Bonus: Food & Dining Suggestions
Must-Try Dishes in Madrid:
- Cocido Madrileño – hearty chickpea stew.
- Bocadillo de Calamares – fried squid sandwich (try near Plaza Mayor).
- Huevos Rotos – fried eggs over potatoes with jamón ibérico.
- Churros con Chocolate – breakfast or late-night treat.
Best Food Markets:
- Mercado de San Miguel – gourmet tapas and wine.
- Mercado de San Antón – modern, rooftop dining.
- Mercado de la Cebada – authentic local market.
Summary: How Many Days Do You Need in Madrid?
| Duration | Best For | Highlights |
| ---------- | -------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| 3 Days | First-time visitors | Royal Palace, Prado Museum, Retiro Park, Tapas & Flamenco |
| 5 Days | In-depth exploration | Includes day trip to Toledo or Segovia, local neighborhoods, and markets |
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend 3 or 5 days in Madrid, you’ll find the city full of life, art, and delicious food.
In three days, you can see the essentials — royal heritage, art museums, and iconic streets.
In five days, you can go beyond the highlights — explore local culture, take a day trip, and truly feel Madrid’s rhythm.
Madrid is not a city to rush — it’s one to savor slowly, from morning coffee in a plaza to tapas hopping at night.
