The short version: Three days is ideal for Madrid. Day one for the Habsburg centre and royal palace, day two for the world-class art and Retiro, day three for the barrios, tapas and flamenco. Here is the plan.
Day 1: The old centre and Royal Palace
Start on the Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, tour the Royal Palace, snack at the Mercado de San Miguel, and watch sunset at the Templo de Debod.
Day 2: Art and the Retiro
Spend the morning at the Prado and see Guernica at the Reina Sofia, then unwind in the Retiro Park. Tapas-crawl La Latina in the evening on a tapas and wine tour, ending at classic Casa Lucio.
Day 3: Barrios and flamenco
Wander hip Malasana and, on a Sunday, the El Rastro flea market. Stroll the Gran Via and end with a passionate flamenco show.
Got a 4th day?
The medieval hill town of Toledo or the fairytale aqueduct of Segovia make superb day trips.
Frequently asked questions
Is 3 days enough for Madrid?
Yes. Three days covers the historic centre, the Royal Palace, the great art museums and the tapas barrios at a relaxed pace, with room for a day trip.
Is Madrid walkable?
Very. The centre is compact and walkable, and an excellent metro reaches everything else. You will not need a car.
What is the best time to visit Madrid?
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal. July and August are very hot, though the city empties and prices dip.
How many days for Madrid and Toledo?
Add a day for Toledo, just 30 minutes by high-speed train, so four days lets you enjoy Madrid and a classic day trip.
See where to eat, stay and explore in the full Madrid guide.
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