Hello Spain’s capital Madrid! Madrid is a city with a rich history, stunning architecture, mouth watering food, and truly alive atmosphere. If you have a long weekend or a few days you can spare however, here’s a 4 Day Guide on what you can do.
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center
1. Visit the Royal Palace
Releases from the Royal Palace spread marvels all over the world. And begin your day exploring the Palacio Real, an architecture and architectural style which is scarcely seen anywhere worldwide. With it’s opulent rooms, beautiful gardens and views over the city, it is the official residence of the Spanish Royal family and offers guided tours.
2. Stroll through Plaza Mayor
Get to Plaza Mayor, one of Madrid’s most famous square. Go for a leisure walk, have a coffee at the outdoor cafes. They also have many different shops and restaurants around the square so it’s a good place to take a break and some people watching as well.
3. Explore the Prado Museum
The Prado Museum is an absolute must see if you are in Madrid. The extensive collection of European art in this world famous museum includes works by artists such as Velázquez, Goya and El Greco. Enjoy the amazing works of art well displayed.
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
1. Wander through Retiro Park
In the midst of Madrid, Retiro Park is an oasis to start your day with. Head to the park’s lake and rent a rowboat, or just visit the Crystal Palace and enjoy a picnic (literally) surrounded by greenery. It is just a park by the city but it’s the kind of place where you can relax and escape.
2. Visit the Reina Sofia Museum
Visit the Reina Sofia Museum and home to an extensive collection of contemporary and modern art, to continue your cultural immersion. For its part, Guernica was the widely known house of Picasso’s masterpiece. Discover what the modern art world has to offer and its exhibitions.
3. Delight in Spanish Cuisine
Try some traditional dishes of Spanish cuisine, but then indulge in the unique flavors of Spanish cuisine just like that. Go to a nearby tapas bar for a sampling of all the little plates, or have a paella at a true Spanish restaurant. Also, make sure to go along with paired sangria for your meal!
Day 3: Madrid’s Hidden Gems
1. Discover the Malasaña Neighborhood
Head out the beaten path and discover the trendy Malasaña neighborhood. This is a vibrant nightlife, alternative culture area, with charming cafes, vintage shops, and street art. Wander the narrow streets with time and allow yourself to be a part of the bohemian atmosphere.
2. Have a look around the Mercado de San Miguel
Once you are on Plaza Mayor, make a stop at the Mercado de San Miguel, the crowded food market. Buenos sampleo de todo tipo de deliciosos bocados de la cocina española; including fresh seafood, cured meats and local cheeses. It’s a quick bite place or spot to have a taste of the local culinary scene.
3. Visit the Debod Temple
Visit the Debod Temple, a temple of ancient Egypt, located in Madrid and end your day! It was originally found in Egypt and then dismantled and given to Spain. The temple is located in a park with stunning views of the sunset over over Madrid’s skyline on the other side.
Day 4: Day Trips from Madrid
1. Toledo
If you do have an extra day, why not take a day trip to the charming city of Toledo(only a half hour or less of travel from Madrid). Winding streets, Toledo Cathedral, and the great panoramic views of the city from the Alcázar of Toledo … all to be explored.
2. Segovia
Segovia, with its beautiful Roman aqueduct and Alcázar de Segovia castle (a fairy tale castle) is an excellent alternative to a day trip. Marvel at the architecture, get hands on with the UNESCO World Heritage sites as you dive into the city’s cochinillo (roast suckling pig).
3. El Escorial
To history geeks, El Escorial is a must visit. Situated in a monumental complex comprising a royal palace, basilica, monastery and library, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a palace of enlightenment, which has fostered a nearly 1,000 year monastic tradition. Learn all about Spain’s rich history and architectural heritage in this guided tour.
This comprehensive 4 day itinerary of Madrid will allow you to make the most of your time there and give you a taste of the best the city has to offer. Madrid is filled with from cultural landmarks to hidden gems to day trips to the cities a little closer by.
