Madrid 10 days

Madrid's main international airport, serving as the primary gateway to the city. It's well-connected to the city center via metro, bus, and taxi services.

• Consider purchasing a multi-day public transport pass upon arrival for convenience.

A comfortable mid-range hotel located centrally, offering easy access to major attractions and public transport. It's a great base for exploring the city.

• Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

The official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, though now used mainly for state ceremonies. Explore its opulent rooms, armory, and beautiful gardens.

• Book tickets online to avoid long queues.
• Check for free entry times, usually the last two hours before closing on certain days.

The world's oldest continuously operating restaurant, famous for its roast suckling pig (cochinillo). Enjoy traditional Castilian cuisine in a historic setting.

• Reservations are essential, especially for dinner.

One of the world's finest art museums, housing masterpieces by Spanish artists like Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco, alongside European masters.

• Allocate at least 3 hours to see the highlights.
• Consider purchasing a 'Paseo del Arte' ticket for access to Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen museums.

A classic Madrid spot famous for its affordable and delicious bocadillo de calamares (fried squid sandwich). It's a quintessential Madrid experience.

• It's a standing-room-only bar, so be prepared to eat quickly.

Dedicated to 20th-century Spanish art, its most famous work is Picasso's Guernica. Also features works by Dalí and Miró.

• Free entry hours are usually in the late afternoon/evening, but expect crowds.

A lively traditional tapas bar in the Huertas neighborhood, known for its authentic atmosphere and good selection of wines and vermouth.

• Try their house vermouth and classic tapas like patatas bravas.

A trendy and bohemian district known for its vintage shops, independent boutiques, street art, and lively atmosphere. It's a hub for alternative culture.

• Wander through its narrow streets and discover hidden plazas.
• Look out for unique street art murals.

A popular modern Spanish restaurant in Malasaña offering creative tapas and main courses with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Great for a relaxed lunch.

• Their daily menu (menú del día) is often a good value.

An ancient Egyptian temple donated to Spain, offering stunning panoramic views of the city, especially at sunset. It's a unique and tranquil spot.

• Visit in the late afternoon for the best light and views.
• The surrounding park is lovely for a stroll.

A stylish tapas bar chain with several locations, offering a modern take on traditional tapas in a chic ambiance. Good for a sophisticated evening out.

• Their mini-burgers and goat cheese toast are popular choices.

Madrid's largest and most beautiful park, offering a serene escape with a boating lake, the Crystal Palace, rose gardens, and numerous statues and fountains.

• Rent a rowboat on the lake for a relaxing experience.
• Visit the Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace) for its architecture and exhibitions.

A classic Madrid restaurant near Retiro Park, known for its traditional Spanish dishes, especially seafood and grilled meats. It offers a refined yet unpretentious dining experience.

• Their seafood platters are highly recommended.

Madrid's most upscale district, famous for its designer boutiques, luxury brands, and elegant architecture. Ideal for window shopping or high-end purchases.

• Explore Calle de Serrano for international luxury brands.
• Discover Spanish designers in smaller side streets.

A chic and popular spot in Salamanca, offering a sophisticated atmosphere, creative cocktails, and a good selection of international and Spanish dishes. It's known for its lively evening crowd.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner or weekend evenings.

A beautifully restored historic market with a modern gourmet food hall. Sample a wide variety of Spanish delicacies, from tapas and seafood to pastries and wine.

• Go hungry and try a little bit of everything.
• It can get very crowded, especially on weekends.

A legendary Madrid bar famous for its simple yet perfect 'bacalao rebozado' (fried cod). It's a no-frills establishment where the food is the star.

• Order the fried cod and a small beer (caña).

One of Madrid's oldest and most charming neighborhoods, known for its narrow medieval streets, traditional tapas bars, and lively Sunday market (El Rastro).

• Explore Calle Cava Baja for a concentration of excellent tapas bars.
• If it's Sunday, don't miss El Rastro flea market.

One of the most famous and respected flamenco tablaos in the world. Experience an authentic and passionate flamenco show with dinner or drinks.

• Book well in advance, as shows sell out.
• Opt for the show-only ticket if you've already eaten.

Madrid's main train station, serving as the departure point for high-speed trains to many Spanish cities, including Toledo. It features a tropical garden inside.

A magnificent Gothic cathedral, one of the most important in Spain. Its construction spanned centuries, resulting in a blend of architectural styles.

• Climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the city.

A well-regarded restaurant in Toledo offering refined Castilian cuisine with modern touches. Known for its excellent service and local ingredients.

• Try their tasting menu for a comprehensive experience.

A historic fortress perched on a rocky outcrop, offering commanding views of the city and surrounding landscape. It houses the Army Museum.

Return train journey to Madrid.

Completing the 'Golden Triangle of Art', this museum bridges the gap between the Prado and Reina Sofía, showcasing a vast collection from Old Masters to modern art.

• Look for the works by Impressionist and Expressionist painters.

A modern market in the Chueca neighborhood with a vibrant food court offering diverse culinary options, from traditional tapas to international cuisine. Features a rooftop terrace.

• The rooftop bar is a great spot for a drink with city views.

Madrid's vibrant LGBTQ+ district, known for its lively atmosphere, trendy boutiques, stylish bars, and excellent restaurants. It's a hub of culture and nightlife.

• Explore Plaza de Chueca for its lively ambiance.
• Visit during Pride week (late June/early July) for a spectacular celebration.

A popular rooftop bar atop the Círculo de Bellas Artes building, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Madrid's skyline, especially at sunset. Serves cocktails and light bites.

• There's an entrance fee for the rooftop, which includes access to the building's exhibition halls.
• Arrive early to secure a good spot.

A hands-on Spanish cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes like paella and tapas. An interactive and delicious way to experience local cuisine.

• Book your class in advance.
• Many classes include a meal of what you've prepared.

One of Madrid's largest and most traditional markets, offering a vast array of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local products. It provides a glimpse into daily Madrid life.

• Great place to buy picnic supplies or try local snacks from vendors.

A historic Madrid institution famous for its churros con chocolate. Open 24/7, it's the perfect spot for a sweet treat any time of day.

• Try the 'suizo' version of hot chocolate, which is thicker and creamier.

A unique cinema-bar in a beautifully restored historic building, offering a relaxed atmosphere for drinks, snacks, and sometimes film screenings. It's a sophisticated nightlife option.

• Check their schedule for film screenings or events.

Home of Real Madrid C.F., this iconic stadium offers a tour where you can explore the pitch, dressing rooms, presidential box, and trophy room. A must for football fans.

• Book tickets online to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
• Allow extra time for the museum and souvenir shop.

A legendary Madrid restaurant famous for its traditional Castilian cuisine, particularly 'huevos rotos' (broken eggs). It's a favorite among celebrities and locals alike.

• Reservations are essential, especially for dinner.
• The 'huevos rotos' are a signature dish and highly recommended.

Madrid's most famous street, known for its stunning architecture, flagship stores, theaters, and bustling atmosphere. It's the heart of the city's commercial and entertainment life.

• Admire the iconic buildings like the Metropolis Building and Edificio Telefónica.
• Catch a musical or theatre performance in the evening.

Revisiting this historic gem for a different meal or to experience its ambiance at night. Alternatively, explore other tapas bars in the lively La Latina district.

• Consider trying different dishes from their extensive menu.

A stunning 19th-century glass pavilion located within Retiro Park. It often hosts contemporary art installations and offers beautiful views of the surrounding gardens.

• Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and light filtering through the glass.
• Check for any temporary art exhibitions.

The former home and studio of the impressionist painter Joaquín Sorolla, now a museum showcasing his vibrant works. It offers a more intimate art experience.

• The garden is a beautiful and tranquil space.

A historic and elegant café on Glorieta de Bilbao, offering a classic Madrid ambiance. Perfect for a final coffee or light snack before heading to the airport.

• Enjoy the traditional décor and people-watching opportunities.

Madrid's main international airport for departure.