Madrid in 3 days
Madrid is at its best after dark: the paintings of the Prado by day, then tapas from bar to bar in La Latina and terraces that stay full late into the night. A capital that keeps late hours and welcomes everyone.
The plan, day by day
Day 1
- Morning
The Prado Museum2 to 3 hOne of the world's great art museums, with the finest collections of Velázquez, Goya and El Greco, including Las Meninas.
- Afternoon
Retiro Parkfree · about 2 hMadrid's central park, with a boating lake overlooked by a monument to Alfonso XII and the glass Palacio de Cristal.
Day 2
- Morning
Plaza Mayorfree · about 30 minThe arcaded 17th-century main square of old Madrid, enclosed by uniform façades and entered through nine archways.
- Afternoon
The Royal Palaceabout 1 h 30The 18th-century official residence of the Spanish royal family, now used for state ceremonies, with lavish state rooms and the Royal Armoury.
Day 3
- Morning
Tapas in La Latinafree · half a dayAn evening bar crawl along Cava Baja and nearby lanes in old Madrid, with a drink and a small plate at each stop.
Where to sleep in Madrid
- Generator Madrid · €32 a night
- Hostal Persal · €70 a night
- OK Hostel Madrid · €35 a night
- Hotel Vincci Soho · €130 a night
- Catalonia Puerta del Sol · €125 a night
- Hotel Preciados · €160 a night
- Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid · €600 a night
- Four Seasons Hotel Madrid · €800 a night
- Rosewood Villa Magna · €750 a night
Plan this trip
Hotel prices per room per night, checked when written. Some links are affiliate links: we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.