Looking for a Madrid 3 day itinerary for your upcoming trip? You’re in the right place!
As a travel blogger living in Spain who’s visited Madrid multiple times, I’ve put together a detailed plan to help you experience the highlights without feeling rushed.
This 3 day Madrid itinerary includes must-see attractions, local food spots, neighborhoods worth exploring, and a few hidden gems.
Whether it’s your first visit or you’re looking to see more of the city, this itinerary will help you make the most of your time. Here’s how to spend 3 days in Madrid.
Madrid 3 Day Itinerary
Here’s a breakdown what to see in Madrid in 3 days, complete with must-see sights and hidden gems, perfect for those staying in Madrid for the first time:
Day 1: Iconic Madrid Sights & Foodie Favorites
Day 1 in Madrid is all about exploring the heart of Madrid and seeing some of the city’s most famous landmarks–with time to try some of the most famous foods in Spain !
Madrid Day 1 Itinerary at a Glance
- Start at Puerta del Sol
- Have Churros at ChocolaterÃa San Ginés
- Walk Through Plaza Mayor
- Browse the Stalls at Mercado de San Miguel
- Wander Around the Historic Center
- Join a Food Tour with Devour Tours
- End with Drinks in Barrio de las Letras or Santos y Desamparados
Start at Puerta del Sol
Start your first day in Madrid at Puerta del Sol , one of the most famous and central squares in the city.
It’s home to the “Kilometer Zero” plaque, which marks the exact center of Spain’s road network.
This lively spot is also where you’ll find the iconic statue of the bear and the strawberry tree, a symbol of Madrid.
It’s a good place to kick off your trip and get your bearings before heading deeper into the historic city center.
Have Churros at ChocolaterÃa San Ginés
Next, grab some churros at ChocolaterÃa San Ginés , one of the most well-known spots in Madrid for this classic treat.
It’s been around since 1894 and is famous for its fresh churros and thick hot chocolate for dipping.
In Spain, churros are usually eaten for breakfast and are a bit more bland, but they’re still really good and a must-try while you’re here.
This place is pretty popular, but the service is fast. I was honestly surprised there wasn’t a line when I went.
Walk Through Plaza Mayor
Next, walk through Plaza Mayor , the most famous plaza in Madrid and one of the prettiest, too.
It’s a huge square surrounded by elegant red buildings, with a statue of King Philip III right in the center.
While the setting is beautiful, most of the restaurants around the plaza are pretty touristy (there’s even a Pizza Hut) so if you want to sit down, it’s better to just grab a drink and enjoy the view.
This is one of those spots you’ll likely pass through a few times during your trip since it’s right in the heart of the city.
Browse the Stalls at Mercado de San Miguel
Next, head over to Mercado de San Miguel , just steps from Plaza Mayor, to browse the food stalls and try a few local bites.
This trendy local market is one of the most popular things to do in Madrid . It’s little bougie and can get pretty crowded, but it’s still a fun stop, especially if you’re hungry.
You’ll find everything from jamón ibérico and Spanish cheese to empanadas, tortilla española, fresh fruit, and desserts, plus drinks like wine, sangria, and vermouth.
There are some tables in the middle where you can hang out and enjoy whatever you pick up.
Wander Around the La Latina Neighborhood
Next, wander around the La Latina neighborhood, just a short walk from Plaza Mayor and one of the more authentic areas in the city.
It has a local feel with quieter plazas, narrow streets, and lots of outdoor terraces where people hang out over drinks.
This is also one of the best neighborhoods in Madrid for tapas, so it’s a great place to keep in mind if you’re planning to eat later.
Even if you don’t stop for food, it’s a nice area to explore on foot.
Join a Food Tour with Devour Tours
Rest up a bit before heading out for an evening food tour with Devour Tours—I did their Tapas, Taverns & History tour and it was fantastic.
It usually starts around 6:30 or 7:30 PM and takes you to four different local spots where you’ll try both food and drinks.
Along the way, you’ll also get a walking tour of the city with a local guide who shares fun stories and interesting history without making it feel like a lecture.
It’s such a fun way to experience Madrid and get to know the city through its food—you can read my full Devour Tours Madrid review for all the details!
↳ Book now: Food Tour with Devour Tours
End with Drinks in Barrio de las Letras or Santos y Desamparados
The tour ends right in the heart of Barrio de las Letras, so it’s the perfect spot to stick around for a drink.
This area is the Literary Quarter and has a lot of cool bars and a fun atmosphere at night.
If you’re in the mood for something a little different, head to Santos y Desamparados , which is a cocktail bar with a slightly spooky vibe and creative drinks.
It’s a great way to wrap up your first day in Madrid.
Day 2: Royal Palaces, Hidden Gems, and Flamenco
Day 2 is all about exploring royal landmarks, discovering hidden corners of the city, and ending the night with a flamenco show and cocktails.
Madrid Day 2 Itinerary at a Glance
- Start Your Day at Mazal Bagels
- Stroll Through Plaza de España
- Visit Templo de Debod
- Tour the Royal Palace of Madrid
- Step Inside Almudena Cathedral
- Grab Lunch at La Campana or Divorare Focaccia
- Walk Around the Historic Center
- Enjoy Dinner at Sobrino de BotÃn
- Watch a Flamenco Show
- End the Night with Drinks at Salmon Guru
Start Your Day at Mazal Bagels
Start day 2 with a taste of home at Mazal Bagels , a cute little spot serving fresh bagels, bagel sandwiches, and other breakfast favorites.
You can grab a table inside or take your food to go and enjoy it in one of the nearby squares.
It’s a solid option if you’re craving something a little more familiar before diving into the day’s sightseeing.
Stroll Through Plaza de España
Next, walk over to Plaza de España , one of Madrid’s most prominent squares.
There’s not a ton to see here, but it’s a nice open space with a statue of Cervantes and a quick photo stop on the way to your next activity.
It’s also right by Gran Via and easy to swing by as you head toward Templo de Debod.
Visit Templo de Debod
Templo de Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple that was gifted to Spain in the 1960s as a thank-you for helping save historic sites from flooding.
It was dismantled, shipped to Madrid, and rebuilt in a park near Plaza de España.
If you want to go inside, tickets are free but must be reserved online in advance .
Even if you don’t go in, it’s still worth a visit to walk around the outside. The temple is surrounded by green space and has some really nice city views.
Tour the Royal Palace of Madrid
Next up, head over to the Royal Palace of Madrid , which is the largest royal palace in Western Europe and one of the most famous monuments in Spain.
The Spanish royal family doesn’t live there anymore but It’s still used for official ceremonies, and you can go inside to see the incredibly lavish rooms, grand staircases, royal chapel, and more.
Tickets have a timed entry and usually sell out a couple of weeks in advance, so you’ll need to book online ahead of time .
But even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth stopping by for photos as the area around the palace is really royal and photo worthy.
↳ Book now: Royal Palace of Madrid tickets
Step Inside Almudena Cathedral
Right next to the Royal Palace is Almudena Cathedral , the main cathedral of Madrid and one of the newest in Europe.
It was only completed in the 1990s, which makes it pretty modern by European standards.
There’s a suggested donation of 1 euro to enter, and it’s worth stepping inside to see the bright interior and unique blend of architectural styles.
Since it’s so close to the palace, it’s an easy and quick stop to add to your day.
Grab Lunch at La Campana or Divorare Focaccia
After visiting the Almudena Cathedral and Royal Palace, head back toward the Plaza Mayor area for lunch.
You can try the famous bocadillo de calamares (fried calamari sandwich) from La Campana , a classic Madrid snack that locals swear by.
If seafood’s not your thing, grab a sandwich from Divorare Focaccia . These Italian-style focaccia sandwiches are seriously good!
Either way, take your lunch to go and enjoy it on one of the benches in Plaza Mayor for a laid-back break with a view.
Walk Around the Historic Center
After lunch, spend some time walking around the historic center near Plaza Mayor and the Sol area.
This part of Madrid is full of pedestrian streets, small shops, and classic architecture. It’s also a great spot to pick up some Madrid souvenirs.
The area can get busy, but it’s a fun place to explore on foot and soak up the atmosphere.
Enjoy Dinner at Sobrino de BotÃn
Rest up for a bit, then head to Sobrino de BotÃn for dinner.
Open since 1725, it’s said to be the oldest restaurant in the world and is famous for its roast suckling pig, cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven.
The space feels historic and authentic, with stone walls and old-school charm that make the experience feel special.
Be sure to make a reservation online, as it’s a popular spot.
Watch a Flamenco Show
After dinner, head to Essential Flamenco for a show. I caught a show there on my last trip to Madrid and would definitely recommend it.
The venue has a cave-like feel with brick walls and just a few rows of chairs, which makes the performance feel really intimate.
There’s no sound system, so you get the full effect of the live music and dancing right in front of you.
Aim for the 9 PM show or later so you have time to enjoy dinner and get there without rushing.
↳ Book now: Flamenco Show in Madrid
End the Night with Drinks at Salmon Guru
End the night with drinks at Salmon Guru , a fun and colorful cocktail bar just a short walk from the flamenco venue.
The vibe is creative and a little over the top in the best way, with colorful decor and playful touches throughout.
I tried the Ultravioleta cocktail, made with vodka, Cointreau, and lavender flower, and it was as good as it looked.
All the cocktails are super unique, both in flavor and presentation, so it’s a great spot to wrap up your night.
Day 3: Parks, Museums, and Rooftop Views
Day 3 is all about soaking up Madrid’s green spaces, exploring world-class museums, and ending with sunset views from a rooftop.
Madrid Day 3 Itinerary at a Glance
- Start Your Morning with Breakfast at Casa Dani
- Explore the Upscale Salamanca Neighborhood
- Stop by the Puerta de Alcalá
- Stroll Through El Retiro Park
- Visit One of Madrid’s Top Art Museums
- Go Shopping on Gran Via
- End with Rooftop Views and Drinks
Start Your Morning with Breakfast at Casa Dani
Start day 3 by heading to Mercado de la Paz, a more local and low-key market located in the Salamanca neighborhood.
Inside, you’ll find Casa Dani , a no-frills bar and restaurant known for serving some of the best tortilla de patata in Madrid.
This was honestly the best tortilla española I’ve had anywhere in Spain! It’s slightly runny, so flavorful, and super fresh.
It’s inexpensive, local, and a great way to kick off the day.
Explore the Upscale Salamanca Neighborhood
After the market, take some time to explore the upscale Salamanca neighborhood, one of the wealthiest areas in Madrid.
It’s a beautiful part of the city with wide streets, elegant buildings, and a polished, local feel.
You’ll come across designer boutiques, stylish cafes, and corner wine bars that are perfect for a slow morning stroll.
It’s a nice contrast to the busier historic center and gives you a different perspective on the city.
Stop by the Puerta de Alcalá
Next, walk down to the Puerta de Alcalá , a famous monument located just outside El Retiro Park.
Built in the 18th century, it once served as one of the original gates into the city and is now one of Madrid’s most recognizable landmarks.
It’s in the middle of a busy roundabout, but you can still get great photos from the sidewalks nearby.
It’s a quick stop, but worth seeing before heading into the park.
Stroll Through El Retiro Park
From there, head into El Retiro Park and spend some time exploring one of Madrid’s most iconic green spaces.
The park is massive with lots of wide paths, shaded areas, and open lawns, perfect for a midday break.
The main highlights include the lake with rowboats, the Crystal Palace, and gardens on the right side of the park where peacocks roam freely.
While the Crystal Palace is currently under renovation and completely covered, the rest of the park still makes for a great visit.
There are also a few spots like Florida Park where you can stop for drinks or a casual lunch.
Visit One of Madrid’s Top Art Museums
After the park, consider visiting one of Madrid’s top art museums if you’re really into art.
The Prado Museum is the most famous, known for its classic works by artists like Velázquez and Goya.
The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum has a bit of everything, from Renaissance to modern art, and the Reina SofÃa Museum is great if you’re more into contemporary pieces like Picasso’s Guernica .
Definitely book your tickets online ahead of time to avoid long lines.
And if art museums aren’t really your thing, feel free to skip this and head straight to the next stop.
Go Shopping on Gran Via
On your way back, stroll up Gran Via, one of Madrid’s main shopping streets.
It’s often compared to Times Square, though it’s much more classic than flashy, with elegant architecture instead of bright lights.
You’ll pass the iconic Metropolis Building , one of the most photographed buildings in the city, and find lots of international stores along the way.
It’s a great area for retail therapy or just soaking up the Madrid city vibes.
End with Rooftop Views and Drinks
End your final day in Madrid with rooftop drinks and amazing city views.
I’d recommend Cielo de Montera at Hotel Montera Madrid , Azotea del CÃrculo , or Ella Sky Bar .
Some of them have a small entrance fee that sometimes goes toward your first drink.
No matter which one you choose, it’s a fun way to wrap up your trip and see Madrid from above.
How to Get Around in Madrid
Getting around in Madrid is super easy, and honestly, you can walk just about everywhere.
On my last trip, I walked almost the entire time and only used public transportation a couple of times.
If you do need to get around faster, the metro and buses are both reliable and easy to use.
You can buy metro tickets from the machines at any station, and buses accept credit cards right at the front.
It’s all pretty straightforward, even if it’s your first time in the city.
Final Thoughts: How to Spend 3 Days in Madrid
I hope this 3 days in Madrid itinerary helps you plan an amazing trip and get the most out of your time in the city.
From historic landmarks and local food to beautiful parks and rooftop views, Madrid has so much to offer without feeling overwhelming.
Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been before, this itinerary mixes the must-sees with some local gems.
No matter how you spend your time, you’re in for a great three days in Madrid!
READ NEXT:
- Where to Stay in Madrid: Best Areas & Hotels
- Hotel Montera Madrid Review: Is This Luxury Hotel Worth It?
- Is Madrid Worth Visiting? Travel Guide + Tips
This article originally appeared on Splendidly Spain .
