Spain

Madrid

Madrid: grand boulevards, late nights and world-class art.

Local time: UTC+1
Population: 3.3M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$

Expensive

Food$$$$$About $60 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $142 a night for two
Transport$$$$$About $6.7 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇪🇺 EUR =

Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

MADMadrid Barajas International AirportOnly commercial airport; 14 km north-east of the centre.

How	Cost	Time
Cercanías C1 trainChamartín and Atocha	€2.60-3.50	25-35 min
No airport supplement; tap a contactless bank card at the barrier.
Metro line 8Nuevos Ministerios	€5	15-20 min
Includes €3 airport supplement; runs 06:00-01:30.
Airport bus 203Atocha and Cibeles	€5	30-40 min
Every 15-20 min from 06:00 to 23:30.
Night bus N27Cibeles	€1.50-2	30-40 min
Only public option late at night; every 35 min.
TaxiCentral Madrid inside M-30	€33 fixed	20-35 min
Fixed fare to the centre.
Uber / CabifyCentral Madrid	€30-40	20-35 min
Pick-up points are signposted at each terminal.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: Madrid

Getting around

Metro for most trips; walk the old centre.

Metro ★13 lines, fast and cheap. Single Zone A fare €1.50–2, airport supplement €3. A Multi Card costs €2.50 and is reloadable; a ten-trip Metrobús ticket is about €12.20.
BusBuses share the same tickets. Night buses run when the metro closes around 01:30.
Taxi / ride appsTaxis are plentiful and metered. Uber, Cabify and Bolt operate in Madrid.
Rental carNot needed in the city. Use the metro and trains for day trips.
Walking ★Best way to see the centre. Bikes and e-scooters are widely rented.
Tourist Travel CardUnlimited travel: 1 day €10, 2 days €17, 3 days €22.50, 5 days €32.50, 7 days €41. Worth it if you ride often.

Recommended stay★ 2 nights (3 days)

Two nights let you cover the Prado and Reina Sofía highlights, the Royal Palace, old quarter, and Retiro across two days without a full food day.

Best for

ArtThe Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen in one golden triangle.
FoodTapas crawls, market stalls and late dinners.
HistoryRoyal palace, old streets and Habsburg Madrid.

Weather by month

10°1°Jan🌧 6d

13°3°Feb🌧 5d

16°5°Mar🌧 9d

19°7°Apr🌧 9d

24°12°May🌧 6d

30°16°Jun🌧 4d

34°20°Jul🌧 1d

33°20°Aug🌧 2d

27°15°Sep🌧 5d

22°11°Oct🌧 9d

15°6°Nov🌧 8d

12°3°Dec🌧 7d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Continental climate: hot, dry summers and cool winters, with the wettest spells in spring and autumn.

Best months: May, June, SeptemberWarm days around 24–30°C and mostly dry. Great for walking the old centre.
Summer is very hot (July–August)Highs near 33–34°C with little rain. Do museums at midday and walk in the morning or evening.
Wettest in spring and autumnMarch, April and October each see around 9 rain days. Pack a small umbrella.
Cool wintersJanuary highs near 10°C and lows around 1°C. A warm coat and layers are essential.
Sunny most of the yearEven wet months have plenty of bright days. Sunscreen matters from spring to autumn.
What to packLight clothes and a hat for summer; a warm coat for winter; a rain layer for March, April and October; comfortable shoes for cobbled streets.

Landmarks 24

Must-see · 8

1
Prado Museum
Spain's premier art museum, home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya and El Greco. Book tickets online to skip the queue, and visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
2
Royal Palace of Madrid
The official residence of the Spanish royal family, with over 3,000 opulent rooms. Arrive early to avoid long lines, and check for changing of the guard schedules.
3
Plaza Mayor
A grand 17th-century square surrounded by arcades and historic buildings. Best visited in the evening when the lights come on; it's a short walk from Puerta del Sol.
4
Retiro Park
Madrid's most beloved park, featuring a tranquil lake and the Crystal Palace. Rent a rowboat or simply stroll; it's easily reached by metro at Retiro station.
5
Reina Sofia Museum
Home to Picasso's Guernica and an outstanding collection of modern Spanish art. Free entry during certain hours; go early or late to avoid crowds.
6
Puerta del Sol
The bustling heart of Madrid, famous for its clock tower and the 'Oso y el Madroño' statue. Visit at night to see the illuminated neon signs and enjoy people-watching.
7
Temple of Debod
An ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain, set in a scenic park with stunning sunset views. Free to visit; go at dusk for the best photos.
8
Gran Vía
Madrid's most famous shopping street, lined with grand architecture and theaters. Best explored on foot; it's a short walk from Puerta del Sol.

Cultural

Christian 1

University 1

Urban Hub 2

Historical Square 2

Museum 3

Gate 1

Park 1

Palace 1

Ancient Site 1

Activities

Football Stadium 2

Painting 5

Amusement Park 2

Theater 1

Cable Car 1

Day trips from Madrid

Toledo · 34 min by train

★★★★★ · Full day · 74 km from Madrid

Best way: Avant trains take about 34 minutes with 13 per day and arrive near the old town.

High-speed Avant trains run from Madrid Atocha directly to Toledo in about 35 minutes, arriving at Toledo's station with a short local bus or walk up to the old town.

Train ★34 min · from €14
Bus17 h 06
Car1 h 01 · taxi ≈ €100

What to see

Toledo Cathedral
Alcázar of Toledo
Jewish Quarter and El Tránsito synagogue
Mirador del Valle viewpoint
Santa María la Blanca

7 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Book Avant trains ahead as they can sell out
Many sights and shops close on Sundays or Mondays
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons

Segovia · 25 min by train

★★★★★ · Full day · 91 km from Madrid

Best way: Trains take about 25 minutes with 30 per day, then a local bus reaches the old town.

High-speed Avant trains from Madrid Chamartín reach Segovia-Guiomar in about 30 minutes, then a local bus connects the station to the old town.

Train ★25 min · from €7
Bus1 h 20 · from $6-$23
Car1 h 15 · taxi ≈ €120

What to see

Roman Aqueduct
Alcázar of Segovia
Segovia Cathedral
Plaza Mayor

2 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Book Avant trains ahead, especially on weekends
The aqueduct and Alcázar are the classic sights
Summer afternoons can be very hot

San Lorenzo de El Escorial · 41 min by train

★★★★☆ · Half day · 47 km from Madrid

Best way: Cercanías trains take about 41 minutes, then a short bus or walk reaches the monastery.

Cercanías C-3 trains from Madrid Atocha or Sol reach El Escorial station in about an hour, then a short local bus or uphill walk leads to the monastery.

Train ★41 min · from $4-$11
Bus50 min · from $3-$6
Car47 min · taxi ≈ €60

What to see

Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial
Basilica and Pantheon of the Kings
Philip II's Library
Casita del Príncipe

3 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

The monastery can close on Mondays
Book the monastery visit ahead in peak season
Mountain air makes it cooler than Madrid

Aranjuez · 33 min by train

★★★☆☆ · Half day · 50 km from Madrid

Best way: Frequent Cercanías trains take about 33 minutes and the palace is a short walk from the station.

Cercanías C-3 commuter trains run from Madrid Atocha and Sol directly to Aranjuez in about 45-50 minutes, with the palace a short walk from the station.

Train ★33 min · from €5
Bus32 min · from $4-$7
Car47 min · taxi ≈ €70

What to see

Royal Palace of Aranjuez
Jardín del Príncipe
Falúas boat ride on the Tagus
Plaza de Parejas

Good to know

The Royal Palace can close on Mondays
Spring is best for the gardens
Check Cercanías times for the last train back

Times and prices are typical one-way estimates (train and bus: Omio / Rome2Rio route data; taxi: local tariff × road distance, tolls extra). Exact prices are on the booking page.

Plans

Madrid rewards visitors with royal palaces, three great art museums and tapas bars that fill after dark. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

How long?

What do you enjoy most?

Day trip · Art

One big art day: the Prado first thing, then the Reina Sofía, with a park break between.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 69
Taxis: ≈ EUR 14

Day 1

Golden triangle in a day

Tickets ≈ EUR 69 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 14

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:30 · €15 general · free Mon–Sat 18:00–20:00 and Sun 17:00–19:00

Prado Museum Landmark quest

Be at the door at opening. Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec.

Open Mon–Sat 10:00–20:00 · Sun and holidays 10:00–19:00 · closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec · Source
2

10:20–10:40 · Included in the Prado ticket

Las Meninas (Velázquez) Landmark quest

Inside the Prado. Head here early before the crowds build.

Open Same as the Prado · Source
2

11:15–11:35 · Included in the Prado ticket

The Garden of Earthly Delights (Bosch) Landmark quest

Also in the Prado. Allow a few minutes to find the room.

Open Same as the Prado · Source
Taxi · 1086 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
3

13:00–14:30 · Free · rowing boats on the lake cost extra

Retiro Park Landmark quest

Ten minutes on foot east. Grab lunch near the park.

Open Daily, roughly 06:00–22:00 in summer, shorter in winter · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 5
4

15:30–17:30 · €12 general · free on some weekday evenings, check on the day

Reina Sofia Museum Landmark quest

Closed Tuesday. Check Sunday closing time on the day.

Open Closed Tuesday · otherwise roughly 10:00–21:00, shorter on Sunday · Source
Taxi · 183 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 4
5

16:00–16:30 · Included in the Reina Sofia ticket

Guernica (Picasso) Landmark quest

Inside the Reina Sofía. Ask staff for the room.

Open Same as Reina Sofia · closed Tuesday · Source

Day trip · Food

Eat your way from a churro breakfast to a Cava Baja tapas crawl.

Stay: Sol. Dead centre, walk to the Prado, Plaza Mayor and Royal Palace. Metro hub under the square. Noisy at night.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 0
Taxis: ≈ EUR 17

Day 1

Markets, old streets and tapas

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 17

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 534 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
1

09:30–10:15 · Roughly €5–8 per person

Churros con chocolate at a classic café

Start with churros con chocolate near Sol.

Open Most open early to late · Source
Taxi · 324 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 4
2

10:30–11:00 · Free

Plaza Mayor Landmark quest

Five minutes on foot. Quiet in the morning.

Open Always open · Source
3

11:30–12:30 · Tapas and drinks roughly €3–8 each · check on the day

Mercado de San Miguel

Ten minutes on foot. Busy by midday; go early for space.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–24:00 · Source
Taxi · 530 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
4

19:00–22:00 · Pay per tapa and drink · roughly €20–35 per person

La Latina and Cava Baja tapas walk

Many bars close Monday. Thursday to Saturday is liveliest.

Open Best from evening · many bars closed on Monday · Source
Taxi · 983 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
5

22:30–23:00 · Pizza from roughly €10 · check on the day

Telepizza Landmark quest

Backup late bite if tapas bars are full. Check branch hours.

Open Varies by branch · many open late · Source

Day trip · History

Royal Madrid and Habsburg streets, from the palace to a sunset temple.

Stay: La Latina. Old-town lanes, Sunday El Rastro market and the best tapas bars. Quiet mornings, busy weekends.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 14
Taxis: ≈ EUR 26

Day 1

Palace, cathedral and old Madrid

Tickets ≈ EUR 14 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 26

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 1132 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
1

10:00–12:00 · €14 basic ticket · reduced rates for students and seniors · check on the day

Royal Palace of Madrid Landmark quest

Be there at opening. Closed on some state days, check ahead.

Open Usually 10:00–18:00 winter, 10:00–19:00 summer · closed on some state days · Source
2

12:15–12:45 · Free entry to the main nave · museum and dome may charge, check on the day

Almudena Cathedral Landmark quest

Right next door. Shorter hours around Sunday mass.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–20:30, shorter on Sunday around mass · Source
Taxi · 857 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
3

13:15–13:45 · Free

Plaza Mayor Landmark quest

About ten minutes on foot. Lunch nearby.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 524 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
4

14:30–14:50 · Free

Puerta del Sol Landmark quest

Five minutes on foot. Busiest in the evening.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 6
5

18:30–19:15 · Free · interior visits limited, check on the day

Temple of Debod Landmark quest

Taxi or metro. Park always open; temple interior has short hours. Stay for sunset.

Open Park always open · temple interior has short opening hours · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ EUR 7

1 night · Art

One night, three big museums: the Prado first thing, Reina Sofía in the afternoon, a slow morning in Retiro.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 69
Taxis: ≈ EUR 30

Day 1

Prado at opening, then the golden triangle

Tickets ≈ EUR 69 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 15

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:30 · €15 general · free Mon–Sat 18:00–20:00 and Sun 17:00–19:00

Prado Museum Landmark quest

Go right at opening. Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec. Book online to skip the ticket line.

Open Mon–Sat 10:00–20:00 · Sun and holidays 10:00–19:00 · closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec · Source
2

10:20–10:40 · Included in the Prado ticket

Las Meninas (Velázquez) Landmark quest

Inside the Prado. Head straight for it before the rooms fill up.

Open Same as the Prado · Source
2

11:00–11:20 · Included in the Prado ticket

The Garden of Earthly Delights (Bosch) Landmark quest

Also in the Prado. Give yourself a break in the café after.

Open Same as the Prado · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 6
3

13:00–13:45 · Roughly €5–8 per person

Churros con chocolate at a classic café

Lunch nearby in Sol. Churros are a breakfast or late-night thing, so order a proper meal if you want one.

Open Most open early to late · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 6
4

15:00–17:00 · €12 general · free on some weekday evenings, check on the day

Reina Sofia Museum Landmark quest

Closed Tuesday. About 15 minutes on foot from the Prado.

Open Closed Tuesday · otherwise roughly 10:00–21:00, shorter on Sunday · Source
Taxi · 183 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 4
5

15:30–16:00 · Included in the Reina Sofia ticket

Guernica (Picasso) Landmark quest

Inside Reina Sofía. Check the room number at the desk, it moves.

Open Same as Reina Sofia · closed Tuesday · Source

Day 2

Retiro, then out

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 15

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–11:30 · Free · rowing boats on the lake cost extra

Retiro Park Landmark quest

Enter by the Puerta de Alcalá side. Shorter hours in winter, so check on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 06:00–22:00 in summer, shorter in winter · Source
Taxi · 1146 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
2

11:45–12:00 · Free

Puerta de Alcalá Landmark quest

Right by the park gate.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 522 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
3

12:15–12:35 · Free

Plaza de Cibeles Landmark quest

Ten minutes' walk down Calle de Alcalá.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 6
4

13:00–14:00 · Tapas and drinks roughly €3–8 each · check on the day

Mercado de San Miguel

Lunch at the market stalls. Busy at peak lunch, cheaper to stand.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–24:00 · Source

1 night · Food

Eat your way through Sol and La Latina: market lunch, a Cava Baja tapas crawl, churros to finish.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 0
Taxis: ≈ EUR 22

Day 1

Market lunch and the tapas crawl

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 8

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–10:45 · Roughly €5–8 per person

Churros con chocolate at a classic café

Breakfast. Many classic cafés open early.

Open Most open early to late · Source
Taxi · 324 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 4
2

11:00–11:30 · Free

Plaza Mayor Landmark quest

Five minutes' walk. Quietest in the morning.

Open Always open · Source
3

12:30–13:30 · Tapas and drinks roughly €3–8 each · check on the day

Mercado de San Miguel

Late-morning snack or early lunch. It gets packed after 13:00.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–24:00 · Source
Taxi · 530 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
4

19:30–22:30 · Pay per tapa and drink · roughly €20–35 per person

La Latina and Cava Baja tapas walk

Many bars close on Monday. Thursday to Saturday is liveliest. Eat standing at the bar.

Open Best from evening · many bars closed on Monday · Source

Day 2

Malasaña, then a late bite

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 14

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:30–10:50 · Free

Puerta del Sol Landmark quest

Start here, it is the centre of everything.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 1457 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 5
2

11:00–13:00 · Free to walk · cafés and bars extra

Malasaña neighbourhood walk

Afternoon into evening is best. Shops roughly 10:00–21:00.

Open Shops roughly 10:00–21:00 · bars late · Source
Taxi · 857 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
3

14:00–14:45 · Free

Gran Vía Landmark quest

Walk it after lunch. Best in the evening when lit.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 602 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
4

21:00–21:30 · Pizza from roughly €10 · check on the day

Telepizza Landmark quest

Backup for a late, cheap bite. Hours vary by branch, many open late.

Open Varies by branch · many open late · Source

1 night · History

Royal Madrid in a day: palace and cathedral in the morning, old streets and a sunset temple after.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 14
Taxis: ≈ EUR 29

Day 1

Palace, cathedral and the old town

Tickets ≈ EUR 14 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 15

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:00 · €14 basic ticket · reduced rates for students and seniors · check on the day

Royal Palace of Madrid Landmark quest

Be there at opening. Closed on some state days, check before you go.

Open Usually 10:00–18:00 winter, 10:00–19:00 summer · closed on some state days · Source
2

12:15–12:45 · Free entry to the main nave · museum and dome may charge, check on the day

Almudena Cathedral Landmark quest

Right next door. Shorter hours on Sunday around mass.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–20:30, shorter on Sunday around mass · Source
Taxi · 857 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
3

13:00–13:30 · Free

Plaza Mayor Landmark quest

Ten minutes' walk. Then lunch in the streets around it.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 6
4

18:30–19:15 · Free · interior visits limited, check on the day

Temple of Debod Landmark quest

Park always open. Temple interior has short hours. Go for sunset.

Open Park always open · temple interior has short opening hours · Source
Taxi · 749 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
5

19:30–20:30 · Free

Príncipe Pío riverside viewpoint

Riverside viewpoint nearby. Stay for the light, then dinner in La Latina.

Open Always open · Source

Day 2

Sol, Cibeles and out

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 14

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–10:20 · Free

Puerta del Sol Landmark quest

Start early, it is calm before the crowds.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 1229 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 5
2

10:45–11:05 · Free

Plaza de Cibeles Landmark quest

Fifteen minutes' walk up Calle de Alcalá.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 522 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
3

11:15–11:30 · Free

Puerta de Alcalá Landmark quest

Just past Cibeles, at the Retiro gate.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 1146 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
4

11:45–13:15 · Free · rowing boats on the lake cost extra

Retiro Park Landmark quest

A short loop before you leave. Check closing time on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 06:00–22:00 in summer, shorter in winter · Source

2 nights · Art ★ Recommended length

First-timers who want the big three museums plus the city's best outdoor art breaks.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 69
Taxis: ≈ EUR 32

Day 1

Prado at opening, then Retiro

Tickets ≈ EUR 45 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 12

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:30 · €15 general · free Mon–Sat 18:00–20:00 and Sun 17:00–19:00

Prado Museum Landmark quest

Go right at opening. Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec.

Open Mon–Sat 10:00–20:00 · Sun and holidays 10:00–19:00 · closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec · Source
2

10:30–10:50 · Included in the Prado ticket

Las Meninas (Velázquez) Landmark quest

Inside the Prado. Head here first before crowds build.

Open Same as the Prado · Source
2

11:30–11:50 · Included in the Prado ticket

The Garden of Earthly Delights (Bosch) Landmark quest

Also in the Prado. Allow time to find the room.

Open Same as the Prado · Source
Taxi · 1086 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
3

13:00–14:30 · Free · rowing boats on the lake cost extra

Retiro Park Landmark quest

Ten minutes on foot east. Late morning is calm.

Open Daily, roughly 06:00–22:00 in summer, shorter in winter · Source
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ EUR 7
4

15:00–15:45 · Roughly €5–8 per person

Churros con chocolate at a classic café

A late breakfast or early snack near Sol.

Open Most open early to late · Source

Day 2

Reina Sofia and Guernica

Tickets ≈ EUR 24 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 21

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:00 · €12 general · free on some weekday evenings, check on the day

Reina Sofia Museum Landmark quest

Closed Tuesday. Check the day before you go.

Open Closed Tuesday · otherwise roughly 10:00–21:00, shorter on Sunday · Source
Taxi · 183 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 4
2

10:30–11:00 · Included in the Reina Sofia ticket

Guernica (Picasso) Landmark quest

Inside Reina Sofia. Same closed-Tuesday rule.

Open Same as Reina Sofia · closed Tuesday · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 6
3

13:00–13:20 · Free

Plaza de Cibeles Landmark quest

Short walk north. Best lit in the evening, fine by day too.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 522 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
4

13:30–13:45 · Free

Puerta de Alcalá Landmark quest

Five minutes on foot up Calle de Alcalá.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ EUR 7
5

14:30–15:30 · Tapas and drinks roughly €3–8 each · check on the day

Mercado de San Miguel

Lunch at the market. Busy at peak times.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–24:00 · Source

2 nights · Food ★ Recommended length

Visitors who plan the day around markets, tapas bars and late dinners.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 0
Taxis: ≈ EUR 23

Day 1

Market lunch and La Latina tapas

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 8

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

11:00–11:30 · Free

Plaza Mayor Landmark quest

Quiet before the crowds arrive.

Open Always open · Source
2

12:00–13:00 · Tapas and drinks roughly €3–8 each · check on the day

Mercado de San Miguel

Five minutes on foot. Late morning is calmer than lunch.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–24:00 · Source
Taxi · 428 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 4
3

13:30–14:15 · Roughly €5–8 per person

Churros con chocolate at a classic café

Classic café stop near Sol.

Open Most open early to late · Source
Taxi · 510 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
4

19:00–22:00 · Pay per tapa and drink · roughly €20–35 per person

La Latina and Cava Baja tapas walk

Many bars close Monday. Thursday to Saturday is best.

Open Best from evening · many bars closed on Monday · Source

Day 2

Malasaña and a late dinner

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 14

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

11:00–11:20 · Free

Puerta del Sol Landmark quest

Quick look at the square and the bear statue.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 606 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
2

12:00–12:45 · Free

Gran Vía Landmark quest

Walk up toward Malasaña.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 857 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
3

13:00–15:00 · Free to walk · cafés and bars extra

Malasaña neighbourhood walk

Shops until about 21:00. Bars run late.

Open Shops roughly 10:00–21:00 · bars late · Source
Taxi · 1456 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 5
4

21:30–22:00 · Pizza from roughly €10 · check on the day

Telepizza Landmark quest

Easy late option. Hours vary by branch.

Open Varies by branch · many open late · Source

2 nights · History ★ Recommended length

First-timers who want palaces, old streets and the Habsburg core on foot.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 29
Taxis: ≈ EUR 24

Day 1

Royal Palace and old Madrid

Tickets ≈ EUR 14 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 11

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:00 · €14 basic ticket · reduced rates for students and seniors · check on the day

Royal Palace of Madrid Landmark quest

Be there at opening. Closed on some state days.

Open Usually 10:00–18:00 winter, 10:00–19:00 summer · closed on some state days · Source
2

12:15–12:45 · Free entry to the main nave · museum and dome may charge, check on the day

Almudena Cathedral Landmark quest

Right next door. Shorter hours around Sunday mass.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–20:30, shorter on Sunday around mass · Source
Taxi · 857 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
3

13:15–13:45 · Free

Plaza Mayor Landmark quest

Ten minutes on foot. Early or after dark is best.

Open Always open · Source
4

14:00–15:00 · Tapas and drinks roughly €3–8 each · check on the day

Mercado de San Miguel

Lunch next to Plaza Mayor.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–24:00 · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 6
5

18:30–19:15 · Free · interior visits limited, check on the day

Temple of Debod Landmark quest

Sunset is the best time. Temple interior has short hours.

Open Park always open · temple interior has short opening hours · Source

Day 2

Prado and the Paseo del Prado

Tickets ≈ EUR 15 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 14

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:30 · €15 general · free Mon–Sat 18:00–20:00 and Sun 17:00–19:00

Prado Museum Landmark quest

Weekday morning is quietest. Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec.

Open Mon–Sat 10:00–20:00 · Sun and holidays 10:00–19:00 · closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec · Source
Taxi · 822 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 5
2

13:00–13:20 · Free

Plaza de Cibeles Landmark quest

Short walk north.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 522 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
3

13:30–13:45 · Free

Puerta de Alcalá Landmark quest

Five minutes on foot.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 1146 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
4

14:00–15:30 · Free · rowing boats on the lake cost extra

Retiro Park Landmark quest

Lunch nearby, then a slow walk in the park.

Open Daily, roughly 06:00–22:00 in summer, shorter in winter · Source

3 nights · Art

First-timers who want the big three museums plus the old city on foot.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 83
Taxis: ≈ EUR 40

Day 1

Arrive, Prado highlights

Tickets ≈ EUR 45 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 10

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:30 · €15 general · free Mon–Sat 18:00–20:00 and Sun 17:00–19:00

Prado Museum Landmark quest

Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec. Book online to skip the ticket line.

Open Mon–Sat 10:00–20:00 · Sun and holidays 10:00–19:00 · closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec · Source
2

11:30–11:50 · Included in the Prado ticket

Las Meninas (Velázquez) Landmark quest

Inside the Prado. Head straight there before the rooms fill.

Open Same as the Prado · Source
2

12:00–12:20 · Included in the Prado ticket

The Garden of Earthly Delights (Bosch) Landmark quest

Also in the Prado. Allow extra time for the rest of the collection.

Open Same as the Prado · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 6
3

13:30–14:15 · Roughly €5–8 per person

Churros con chocolate at a classic café

Late breakfast or a snack near Sol.

Open Most open early to late · Source
Taxi · 324 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 4
4

15:00–15:30 · Free

Plaza Mayor Landmark quest

Short walk from Sol. Quietest early morning or after dark.

Open Always open · Source

Day 2

Reina Sofía and Retiro

Tickets ≈ EUR 24 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 19

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:00 · €12 general · free on some weekday evenings, check on the day

Reina Sofia Museum Landmark quest

Closed Tuesday. Check the day before you go.

Open Closed Tuesday · otherwise roughly 10:00–21:00, shorter on Sunday · Source
Taxi · 183 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 4
2

11:00–11:30 · Included in the Reina Sofia ticket

Guernica (Picasso) Landmark quest

Inside Reina Sofía. Expect a crowd.

Open Same as Reina Sofia · closed Tuesday · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 6
3

13:00–14:30 · Free · rowing boats on the lake cost extra

Retiro Park Landmark quest

Ten minutes on foot. Late afternoon is best in spring or autumn.

Open Daily, roughly 06:00–22:00 in summer, shorter in winter · Source
Taxi · 1146 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
4

15:00–15:15 · Free

Puerta de Alcalá Landmark quest

At the park's edge. Good photo stop.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 522 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
5

15:30–15:50 · Free

Plaza de Cibeles Landmark quest

Short walk down Calle de Alcalá.

Open Always open · Source

Day 3

Old Madrid and Debod sunset

Tickets ≈ EUR 14 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 11

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:00 · €14 basic ticket · reduced rates for students and seniors · check on the day

Royal Palace of Madrid Landmark quest

Go right at opening. Some state days it closes, so check ahead.

Open Usually 10:00–18:00 winter, 10:00–19:00 summer · closed on some state days · Source
2

12:15–12:45 · Free entry to the main nave · museum and dome may charge, check on the day

Almudena Cathedral Landmark quest

Next to the palace. Shorter hours around Sunday mass.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–20:30, shorter on Sunday around mass · Source
Taxi · 1054 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
3

18:00–21:00 · Pay per tapa and drink · roughly €20–35 per person

La Latina and Cava Baja tapas walk

Many bars close on Monday. Thursday to Saturday is liveliest.

Open Best from evening · many bars closed on Monday · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ EUR 6
4

20:30–21:15 · Free · interior visits limited, check on the day

Temple of Debod Landmark quest

Sunset spot. The park is always open; the temple interior has short hours.

Open Park always open · temple interior has short opening hours · Source

3 nights · Food

Eaters who want markets, tapas streets and late nights, with one big museum.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 29
Taxis: ≈ EUR 42

Day 1

Market and old squares

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 13

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

11:00–12:00 · Tapas and drinks roughly €3–8 each · check on the day

Mercado de San Miguel

Late morning is calmer. Roughly 10:00–24:00 daily.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–24:00 · Source
2

12:15–12:45 · Free

Plaza Mayor Landmark quest

Two minutes on foot.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 524 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
3

13:00–13:20 · Free

Puerta del Sol Landmark quest

Busiest in the evening.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 521 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
4

13:30–14:15 · Roughly €5–8 per person

Churros con chocolate at a classic café

Classic café stop near Sol.

Open Most open early to late · Source
Taxi · 1067 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
5

20:00–20:45 · Free

Gran Vía Landmark quest

Evening stroll before dinner.

Open Always open · Source

Day 2

La Latina tapas day

Tickets ≈ EUR 14 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 11

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:00 · €14 basic ticket · reduced rates for students and seniors · check on the day

Royal Palace of Madrid Landmark quest

Morning at opening, then walk downhill.

Open Usually 10:00–18:00 winter, 10:00–19:00 summer · closed on some state days · Source
2

12:15–12:45 · Free entry to the main nave · museum and dome may charge, check on the day

Almudena Cathedral Landmark quest

Beside the palace.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–20:30, shorter on Sunday around mass · Source
Taxi · 1054 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
3

19:00–22:00 · Pay per tapa and drink · roughly €20–35 per person

La Latina and Cava Baja tapas walk

Cava Baja bars. Many closed Monday.

Open Best from evening · many bars closed on Monday · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 6
4

22:30–23:30 · Free

Príncipe Pío riverside viewpoint

Riverside view to end the night.

Open Always open · Source

Day 3

Prado, then Malasaña

Tickets ≈ EUR 15 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 18

1

10:00–12:30 · €15 general · free Mon–Sat 18:00–20:00 and Sun 17:00–19:00

Prado Museum Landmark quest

Book ahead. Free evening slot is busy.

Open Mon–Sat 10:00–20:00 · Sun and holidays 10:00–19:00 · closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec · Source
Taxi · 1086 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
2

13:00–14:30 · Free · rowing boats on the lake cost extra

Retiro Park Landmark quest

Walk it off nearby.

Open Daily, roughly 06:00–22:00 in summer, shorter in winter · Source
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ EUR 7
3

17:00–19:00 · Free to walk · cafés and bars extra

Malasaña neighbourhood walk

Afternoon into evening. Bars run late.

Open Shops roughly 10:00–21:00 · bars late · Source
Taxi · 1456 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 5
4

21:00–21:30 · Pizza from roughly €10 · check on the day

Telepizza Landmark quest

Easy late bite. Hours vary by branch.

Open Varies by branch · many open late · Source

3 nights · History

Visitors who want palaces, Habsburg streets and the old city at an easy pace.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 44
Taxis: ≈ EUR 33

Day 1

Royal Madrid

Tickets ≈ EUR 14 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 9

1

10:00–12:00 · €14 basic ticket · reduced rates for students and seniors · check on the day

Royal Palace of Madrid Landmark quest

Right at opening. Check state days.

Open Usually 10:00–18:00 winter, 10:00–19:00 summer · closed on some state days · Source
2

12:15–12:45 · Free entry to the main nave · museum and dome may charge, check on the day

Almudena Cathedral Landmark quest

Next door. Shorter around Sunday mass.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–20:30, shorter on Sunday around mass · Source
Taxi · 857 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
3

13:00–13:30 · Free

Plaza Mayor Landmark quest

Short walk through the old streets.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 524 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
4

14:00–14:20 · Free

Puerta del Sol Landmark quest

Then lunch nearby.

Open Always open · Source

Day 2

Prado and Retiro

Tickets ≈ EUR 30 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 14

1

10:00–12:30 · €15 general · free Mon–Sat 18:00–20:00 and Sun 17:00–19:00

Prado Museum Landmark quest

Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec.

Open Mon–Sat 10:00–20:00 · Sun and holidays 10:00–19:00 · closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec · Source
2

11:30–11:50 · Included in the Prado ticket

Las Meninas (Velázquez) Landmark quest

Inside the Prado.

Open Same as the Prado · Source
Taxi · 1086 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
3

13:00–14:30 · Free · rowing boats on the lake cost extra

Retiro Park Landmark quest

Ten minutes on foot.

Open Daily, roughly 06:00–22:00 in summer, shorter in winter · Source
Taxi · 1146 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 5
4

15:00–15:15 · Free

Puerta de Alcalá Landmark quest

Park edge.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 522 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
5

15:30–15:50 · Free

Plaza de Cibeles Landmark quest

Lit up nicely in the evening.

Open Always open · Source

Day 3

Debod and La Latina

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 10

1

11:00–11:45 · Free · interior visits limited, check on the day

Temple of Debod Landmark quest

Park always open; temple interior has short hours.

Open Park always open · temple interior has short opening hours · Source
Taxi · 749 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 4
2

12:00–13:00 · Free

Príncipe Pío riverside viewpoint

Riverside walk.

Open Always open · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 6
3

19:00–22:00 · Pay per tapa and drink · roughly €20–35 per person

La Latina and Cava Baja tapas walk

Evening tapas. Many bars closed Monday.

Open Best from evening · many bars closed on Monday · Source

Swap in instead

Day trip to Toledo: train from Atocha in about 35 minutes; a walled old city full of history.
Day trip to Segovia: high-speed train in under 30 minutes for the Roman aqueduct and the Alcázar.
Art lovers: swap a city day for the Reina Sofía's Guernica and the Thyssen collection, or add El Escorial by train.

Getting around

Metro: 13 lines, fast and cheap; single Zone A fare €1.50-2, airport supplement €3.
Multi Card costs €2.50 and is reloadable; ten-trip Metrobús ticket about €12.20.
Tourist Travel Cards: 1 day €10, 2 days €17, 3 days €22.50, 5 days €32.50, 7 days €41.
Buses share the same tickets; night buses run when the metro closes around 01:30.
Taxis are plentiful and metered; Uber, Cabify and Bolt operate in Madrid.
Walking is best in the centre; bikes and e-scooters are widely rented.

Where to stay

Sol · ≈ EUR 90–200 a night
Dead centre, walk to the Prado, Plaza Mayor and Royal Palace. Metro hub under the square. Noisy at night.
Gran Vía · ≈ EUR 100–230 a night
Theatre strip with shops and big-name hotels. Walk to Sol and Chueca; lively late into the night.
La Latina · ≈ EUR 80–180 a night
Old-town lanes, Sunday El Rastro market and the best tapas bars. Quiet mornings, busy weekends.
Salamanca · ≈ EUR 180–450 a night
Elegant, calm and upscale. Good for shopping and quiet nights; a longer walk or short metro ride to the old centre.

Food & drink

Do a tapas crawl: order one small plate and a drink per bar, then move on. Dinner starts late, often after 21:00.
Try local dishes: tortilla española, jamón ibérico, patatas bravas, cocido madrileño and bocadillo de calamares near Plaza Mayor.
Markets are good value: Mercado de San Miguel for snacks, San Antón and San Fernando for cheaper local stalls.
Book popular restaurants ahead, especially on weekends. Many close one day midweek; check before you go.
Late-night eats: churros con chocolate after midnight, and bars around Sol and La Latina stay open very late.

Tips

Locals eat late; lunch is typically 2-4 PM and dinner rarely starts before 9 PM
Take advantage of free entry hours at major museums like the Prado and Reina Sofía
Order a drink at traditional bars and it often comes with a free tapa
Summers (July/August) are intensely hot; afternoon siestas are a practical way to avoid the heat
A Multi Card (Tarjeta Multi) is required to load metro and bus tickets

Sources for prices and hours

Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

Tours & activities

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Santiago Bernabeu

Tour the Bernabéu stadium
See Real Madrid's trophy displays
27,040 reviews · 4.5 rating

Entry includedTop rated

Tour Bernabéu Entry Ticket

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.5 (27,040)

$41View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Plaza Mayor

Watch a live flamenco performance
Central Madrid location near Plaza Mayor
15,708 reviews · 4.8 rating

Live showHighly rated

Teatro Flamenco Madrid: Live the Flamenco Experience

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (15,708)

$36View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Royal Palace of Madrid

Explore the palace state rooms with a guide
Avoid the main entrance queue
5,607 reviews · 4.8 rating

Skip the lineGuided tour

Royal Palace Skip-the-line Guided Tour

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (5,607)

$40View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Prado Museum

See masterpieces including Las Meninas
Learn the stories behind the collection
3,370 reviews · 4.5 rating

Skip the lineGuided tour

Prado Museum Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.5 (3,370)

$50View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Plaza Mayor

Taste Spanish tapas and wines
Explore central Madrid with a local guide
2,588 reviews · 4.8 rating

Food includedLocal guide

Tapas & Wine Tasting Tour with Local Guide

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (2,588)

$95View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Plaza Mayor

Sample street food around central Madrid
Visit the San Miguel Market area
200 reviews · 4.9 rating

Food includedSmall group

San Miguel Market and Street Food Walking Tour

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.9 (200)

$59View tour

Souvenirs

Violeta candies

EUR 7–15100–200g · estimate

Violet-flavored sugar candies from La Violeta, a Madrid shop that opened in 1915. They are a classic sweet of the city.

Where: La Violeta, Plaza de Canalejas

Buy a small bag first, since the box sizes are fixed and you can add more later.

Vermouth

EUR 10–18750ml–1L · estimate

A fortified wine flavored with herbs, popular in Madrid as a pre-lunch drink. Zarro and Zecchini are local brands from the city.

Where: Mariano Madrueño liquor shop

Check that the bottle is sealed and packed well, since glass bottles can break in your luggage.

Espadrilles

EUR 15–351 pair · estimate

Traditional Spanish canvas shoes with rope soles. This long-running Madrid shop is a good place to find them.

Where: Casa Hernanz, Calle Toledo

Try them on first, because sizing can run differently from shoes at home.

Flights

Hotels

Search all Madrid hotelsHotels.com

Popular hotels

eSIM

Get an eSIM for MadridStay connected in Spain from day one · Airalo

1 GB3 days$4 USDSelect plan →5 GB30 days$10 USDSelect plan →10 GB30 days$15.5 USDSelect plan →

Compare all 5 plans · choose data and duration

Check that your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Data-use estimates are a guide; verify coverage, activation rules and the final price on Airalo.

Luggage storage

Store your bags in MadridDrop luggage at nearby shops and hotels · Bounce

Cost of a day

Exchange rate

Getting in

Getting around

Weather by month

Climate

Landmarks 24

Must-see · 8

Prado Museum

Royal Palace of Madrid

Plaza Mayor

Retiro Park

Reina Sofia Museum

Puerta del Sol

Temple of Debod

Gran Vía

Cultural

Christian 1

University 1

Urban Hub 2

Historical Square 2

Museum 3

Gate 1

Park 1

Palace 1

Ancient Site 1

Activities

Football Stadium 2

Painting 5

Amusement Park 2

Theater 1

Cable Car 1

Day trips from Madrid

Toledo · 34 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Segovia · 25 min by train

What to see

Good to know

San Lorenzo de El Escorial · 41 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Aranjuez · 33 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Plans

Prado Museum Landmark quest

Las Meninas (Velázquez) Landmark quest

The Garden of Earthly Delights (Bosch) Landmark quest

Retiro Park Landmark quest

Reina Sofia Museum Landmark quest

Guernica (Picasso) Landmark quest

Churros con chocolate at a classic café

Plaza Mayor Landmark quest

Mercado de San Miguel

La Latina and Cava Baja tapas walk

Telepizza Landmark quest

Royal Palace of Madrid Landmark quest

Almudena Cathedral Landmark quest

Plaza Mayor Landmark quest

Puerta del Sol Landmark quest

Temple of Debod Landmark quest

Prado Museum Landmark quest

Las Meninas (Velázquez) Landmark quest

The Garden of Earthly Delights (Bosch) Landmark quest

Churros con chocolate at a classic café

Reina Sofia Museum Landmark quest

Guernica (Picasso) Landmark quest

Retiro Park Landmark quest

Puerta de Alcalá Landmark quest

Plaza de Cibeles Landmark quest

Mercado de San Miguel

Churros con chocolate at a classic café

Plaza Mayor Landmark quest

Mercado de San Miguel

La Latina and Cava Baja tapas walk

Puerta del Sol Landmark quest

Malasaña neighbourhood walk

Gran Vía Landmark quest

Telepizza Landmark quest