4-Day Authentic Madrid Exploration: Spain's Heart and Soul
Madrid, Spain
4 days
About Madrid, Spain
Experience the vibrant culture of Madrid, Spain's capital city. Immerse yourself in its rich history by visiting the Royal Palace, Prado Museum, and Retiro Park. Enjoy Madrid's renowned culinary scene, from traditional tapas bars to Michelin-starred restaurants. Explore the lively nightlife in various districts like Malasaña and Chueca. Madrid offers a blend of modernity and tradition, with bustling shopping streets, flamenco shows, and world-class football at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Don't miss the city's numerous festivals, including the San Isidro Bullfighting Festival. With its sunny climate, Madrid is a year-round destination offering a warm welcome to every traveler.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Art and Nature in Madrid
Morning
Begin your day at Retiro Park, Madrid's most famous park. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, rent a rowboat, or simply relax by the lake.
Lunch
Have lunch in a local café, trying Madrid's famous bocadillo de calamares (squid sandwich).
Afternoon
Visit the Reina Sofia Museum, home to Picasso's Guernica and other modern art masterpieces.
Dinner
Dine in a traditional Spanish restaurant, trying Madrid's famous cocido madrileño, a hearty chickpea stew.
Evening
Take a leisurely stroll along Gran Via, Madrid's bustling main street, known for its nightlife, shopping, and theatres.
Day 3
Sports and Art in Madrid
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, home of Real Madrid. Take a tour and learn about the history of this legendary football club.
Lunch
Enjoy a leisurely lunch in a local restaurant, trying Madrid's famous tortilla española (Spanish omelette).
Afternoon
Visit the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art from the 13th to the 20th centuries.
Dinner
Have dinner in a local restaurant, trying Madrid's famous huevos rotos (broken eggs) over fried potatoes.
Evening
End your day with a visit to a local tablao for a live flamenco show. Experience the passion and intensity of this traditional Spanish dance.
Day 4
Food and Shopping in Madrid
Morning
Begin your day at the Mercado San Miguel, where you can sample a variety of Spanish foods and buy souvenirs.
Lunch
Have lunch in a local café, trying Madrid's famous bocadillo de calamares (squid sandwich).
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring the charming neighborhood of Malasaña, known for its vintage shops, trendy boutiques, and vibrant street art.
Dinner
Enjoy your last dinner in Madrid in a traditional Spanish restaurant. Try the famous tapas, paella, and a glass of sangria.
Evening
End your trip with a leisurely stroll along the Madrid Río, a park along the Manzanares River, offering stunning views of the city.
Attractions in Itinerary (10)
1Royal Palace of Madrid
The official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, known for its stunning architecture and beautifully decorated rooms.
2Prado Museum
Spain's main national art museum, featuring one of the world's finest collections of European art.
3Retiro Park
A large and popular park at the edge of the city center, filled with beautiful sculptures, monuments, and a peaceful lake.
4Reina Sofia Museum
Spain's national museum of 20th-century art, featuring works by Picasso and Dali.
5Gran Via
Madrid's most famous street, known for its shopping, theaters, and architecture.
6Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
Santiago Bernabeu Stadium is the home stadium of Real Madrid. It has a current capacity of 81,044 spectators. Tours are available that include panoramic views of the stadium, the pitch, presidential box, dressing rooms, players' tunnel, bench and technical area, press room and the official store.
7Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
An art museum that fills the historical gaps in its counterpart, the Prado Museum.
8Mercado San Miguel
One of the city's oldest and most beautiful markets, where you can taste a wide variety of Spanish and international food.
9Malasaña
Known for its bohemian vibes, vintage shops, and vibrant nightlife, Malasaña is a trendy neighborhood in Madrid.
10Madrid Río
Madrid Río is a huge recreational and cultural area both for its landmarks and leisure facilities and the culture it houses, which transformed a previously run-down area of the city.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Paella
A traditional Spanish dish originating from Valencia, but popular throughout Spain including Madrid. It's a rice dish often cooked with a variety of seafood, meat, and vegetables.
Churros con Chocolate
A popular sweet treat in Madrid, churros are fried dough pastries served with a cup of thick, rich hot chocolate for dipping.
Tapas
A variety of small, savory Spanish dishes, served as a snack with drinks, or with other tapas as a meal. To experience real Spanish culture in Madrid, you must try tapas.
Jamón Ibérico
A type of cured ham produced in Spain, known for its rich, savory flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It's a staple in Madrid's food scene.
Tortilla Española
Also known as Spanish omelette, it's a traditional dish from Spain and a staple food in Madrid. It's made with eggs, potatoes, and onions.
Gazpacho
A cold soup made of raw, blended vegetables. A classic of Andalusian cuisine, it's widely eaten in Madrid, especially during the hot summer months.
Cocido Madrileño
A traditional chickpea-based stew from Madrid. A hearty and comforting dish, typically served during the colder months.
Callos a la Madrileña
A traditional Madrid dish made from beef tripe, chorizo, and morcilla (blood sausage). It's a hearty and flavorful stew.
Sangria
A popular drink in Madrid, made with red wine and chopped fruit, often with other ingredients such as orange juice or brandy.
Tinto de Verano
A refreshing, wine-based drink similar to sangria. It's popular in Madrid, especially during the summer months.
Cava
A Spanish sparkling wine from Catalonia, but widely available and enjoyed in Madrid. It's often served at celebrations.
Horchata
A traditional Spanish beverage made from tigernuts, water, and sugar. It's a refreshing, sweet drink popular in Madrid, especially during the summer.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Madrid, Spain as a tourist is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Additionally, these seasons are less crowded compared to the summer months, allowing you to explore the city more comfortably. However, if you're interested in experiencing Madrid's vibrant festivals, consider visiting in May for the San Isidro Festival or in August for the La Paloma Festival.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 6 | Sat | Epiphany |
February 13 | Tue | Carnival Tuesday (Extremadura) |
February 28 | Wed | Day of Andalucía (Andalusia) |
March 1 | Fri | Day of the Balearic Islands (Balearic Islands) |
March 28 | Thu | Maundy Thursday (regional holiday) |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday (regional holiday) |
April 10 | Wed | Eid al-Fitr (Melilla) |
April 23 | Tue | Castile and León Day (Castile-Leon) |
April 23 | Tue | Day of Aragón (Aragon) |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 2 | Thu | Day of Madrid (Madrid) |
May 17 | Fri | Galicia Literature Day (Galicia) |
May 30 | Thu | Day of the Canary Islands (Canary Islands) |
May 31 | Fri | Day of Castile-La Mancha (Castile-La Mancha) |
June 9 | Sun | Day of La Rioja (La Rioja) |
June 10 | Mon | Day off for Day of La Rioja (La Rioja) |
June 13 | Thu | San Antonio (Ceuta) |
June 17 | Mon | Eid al-Adha (regional holiday) |
June 24 | Mon | Saint John the Baptist Day (regional holiday) |
July 25 | Thu | Feast of Saint James the Apostle (regional holiday) |
August 5 | Mon | The Day of Our Lady of Africa (Ceuta) |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary |
September 2 | Mon | Day of the Independent City of Ceuta (Ceuta) |
September 8 | Sun | Virgin of the Victory (Melilla) |
September 8 | Sun | Day of Asturias (Asturias) |
September 9 | Mon | Virgin of the Victory observed (Melilla) |
September 9 | Mon | Day off for Day of Asturias (Asturias) |
September 11 | Wed | National Day of Catalonia (Catalonia) |
September 15 | Sun | Nuestra Señora de la Bien Aparecida (Cantabria) |
September 17 | Tue | Day of Melilla (Melilla) |
October 9 | Wed | Day of the Valencian Community (Valencia) |
October 12 | Sat | Hispanic Day |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
December 3 | Tue | Day of Navarre (Navarre) |
December 6 | Fri | Constitution Day |
December 9 | Mon | Immaculate Conception observed (regional holiday) |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | St Stephen's Day (Catalonia) |
How to get around
Madrid Metro
The Madrid Metro is a rapid transit system serving the city of Madrid. It is one of the most extensive and fastest-growing metro networks in the world. It operates from 6:00 AM to 1:30 AM.
Bus
Madrid's bus network is extensive and buses are a common way to travel around the city. The network is operated by EMT Madrid, which runs frequent services throughout the city and its suburbs.
Taxi
Taxis are plentiful in Madrid and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They are metered and offer a convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling with luggage or in a group.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Cabify operate in Madrid. These can be a convenient option, especially if you're familiar with these services from home. They can be booked via their respective apps.
Bike
Madrid has a bike sharing system called BiciMAD with stations throughout the city. It's a great way to get around, especially in the city center where distances between attractions are short.
Car Rental
Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore outside of Madrid, but it's not recommended for city travel due to traffic and parking difficulties.
Train
Madrid's train network, Cercanías, connects the city center with suburbs and nearby towns. It's a good option if you're staying outside the city or plan to visit places like Toledo or Segovia.
Walk
Madrid's city center is compact and most of the major sights are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and discover its many hidden gems.
Tram
Madrid has a single tram line, known as Metro Ligero, which serves the northwestern suburbs. It's not as useful for tourists unless you're staying in that area, but it's a modern and comfortable way to travel.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Madrid, Spain as a first time visitor
1
Madrid is the capital and largest city in Spain.
2
The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
3
The currency used in Madrid is the Euro (€).
4
Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments.
5
Madrid operates on Central European Time (CET) and observes daylight saving time.
6
The city has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers (average temperatures of 85°F/29°C) and mild winters (average temperatures of 41°F/5°C).
7
Tipping is not mandatory in Madrid, but it is customary to leave small change at bars and cafes, and 10% at restaurants if you are satisfied with the service.
8
Madrid is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
9
Public transportation in Madrid is excellent, with a comprehensive metro and bus system. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
10
Madrid is known for its late-night culture. Many restaurants don't open for dinner until 9pm, and the city's nightlife can go on until the early morning hours.
11
The city is famous for its culinary scene. Be sure to try local specialties like tapas, paella, and churros con chocolate.
12
Madrid has a smoking ban in all enclosed public places, but smoking is still common in outdoor areas.
13
The city has a dress code that leans towards the conservative side, especially in religious sites. It's best to avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless tops in these places.
14
Pharmacies in Madrid are marked by a green cross. They are well-stocked and pharmacists often speak English.
15
The city's tap water is safe to drink and of high quality.
16
Madrid is a walkable city with many pedestrian zones, but it's also quite hilly, so comfortable shoes are a must.
17
The city is in the same time zone as Central European Time (CET), which is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST).
18
If you're planning to visit several museums, consider purchasing a Madrid Card for unlimited access to over 50 attractions.
19
Madrid has a siesta culture, meaning many shops and businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon.
20
The city is very bike-friendly, with many bike rental shops and dedicated bike lanes throughout the city.
Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Hola | oh-la | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Adiós | ah-dee-os | Saying goodbye |
Please | Por favor | por fa-vor | Making a request |
Thank you | Gracias | gra-see-as | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Sí | see | Agreeing or confirming |
No | No | no | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Perdón | per-don | Getting attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | Lo siento | lo see-en-to | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | ¿Hablas inglés? | ab-las in-gles | Asking if someone speaks English |
I don't understand | No entiendo | no en-tee-en-do | When you don't understand what was said |
Where is...? | ¿Dónde está...? | don-de es-ta | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Baño | ban-yo | Looking for a restroom |
Help | Ayuda | a-yu-da | When you need assistance |
Food | Comida | co-mee-da | Talking about food |
Water | Agua | a-gwa | Asking for water |
Beer | Cerveza | ser-ve-za | Ordering a beer |
Wine | Vino | vee-no | Ordering wine |
How much does it cost? | ¿Cuánto cuesta? | quan-to cues-ta | Asking the price of something |
I would like... | Me gustaría... | me gus-ta-ree-a | Expressing a desire or making a request |
Good night | Buenas noches | bwe-nas no-ches | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear (4 pairs)
Socks (4 pairs)
T-shirts (4)
Long-sleeve shirts (2)
Jeans or trousers (2 pairs)
Shorts (1 pair)
Pajamas (1 set)
Sweater or jacket (1)
Swimsuit (1)
Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair)
Sandals or flip-flops (1 pair)
Hat or cap (1)
Sunglasses (1 pair)
Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Floss
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor
Shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Hand sanitizer
Travel-size first aid kit
Prescription medications
Contact lenses and solution (if needed)
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash (Euros)
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Emergency contacts and addresses
Map of Madrid
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Universal power adapter
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-reader for entertainment
Travel guide for Madrid
Spanish phrasebook or language app
Umbrella
Reusable shopping bag
Weather Conditions
When visiting Madrid, Spain, it's important to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions. The city experiences a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, which means hot summers and mild winters. During the summer months, from June to August, Madrid can get quite hot with temperatures often reaching up to 86°F (30°C). It's advisable to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Don't forget to stay hydrated, especially when sightseeing in the heat of the day. In contrast, winter months from December to February can be quite chilly with temperatures dropping to around 41°F (5°C). If you're planning a trip during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a coat, scarf, and gloves. Despite the cold, Madrid's winter is usually quite dry, with infrequent rain or snow. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). These seasons are a great time to visit Madrid as the weather is comfortable for exploring the city and its surroundings. Regardless of when you visit, remember that Madrid is a city with a high altitude, which can lead to intense sun and rapid weather changes. Always carry a light jacket or sweater with you, even in the summer, as evenings can get cool. Lastly, Madrid is known for its clear, blue skies. Even in winter, the city enjoys many sunny days, so don't forget your sunglasses at any time of the year. Enjoy your trip to this vibrant Spanish city!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 10° / 2° | January is the coldest month in Madrid, with occasional snowfall. Dress warmly and enjoy the beautiful, crisp winter days. |
February | 13° / 3° | February sees a slight increase in temperatures, but it's still quite cold. It's a great time to visit museums and indoor attractions. |
March | 17° / 5° | March marks the beginning of spring in Madrid. The weather is mild, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. |
April | 19° / 7° | April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to enjoy Madrid's parks and gardens. |
May | 22° / 11° | May is warm and sunny, with long daylight hours. It's an ideal time to explore the city and its surroundings. |
June | 27° / 15° | June is the start of summer in Madrid. Expect hot days, perfect for enjoying a cold drink at a terrace cafe. |
July | 30° / 18° | July is the hottest month in Madrid. Stay hydrated and take advantage of the city's many pools and air-conditioned spaces. |
August | 30° / 18° | August is equally hot, with many locals leaving the city for vacation. It's a good time to visit tourist attractions as they are less crowded. |
September | 25° / 15° | September sees a drop in temperatures, marking the start of autumn. It's a great time to visit, with fewer tourists and pleasant weather. |
October | 20° / 11° | October offers mild autumn weather, perfect for exploring the city. The changing leaves add a beautiful touch to the cityscape. |
November | 14° / 6° | November is a cooler month, with shorter days. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions like museums and galleries. |
December | 11° / 3° | December is a festive month in Madrid, with Christmas markets and lights. It's cold, so pack warm clothes and enjoy the holiday spirit. |
Did you know?
Places near by Madrid, Spain
Toledo
Historic city known for its medieval Arab, Jewish and Christian monuments in its walled old city.
Segovia
Famous for its magnificent Roman aqueduct and fairy-tale castle.
El Escorial
Historical residence of the King of Spain, featuring a vast library and stunning gardens.
Avila
Known for its intact medieval city walls, with 80-plus semicircular towers and 9 gates.
Salamanca
Renowned for its 13th-century University of Salamanca and the ornate Casa de las Conchas.
Cuenca
Famous for its hanging houses (Casas Colgadas), perched on the edge of a cliff.
Guadalajara
Known for its Mudejar-style buildings and the Palacio del Infantado.
Alcala de Henares
Birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote, with a museum in his honor.
Valencia
City with futuristic structures including a planetarium, an oceanarium and an interactive museum.
Zaragoza
Known for its Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, Roman ruins, and Renaissance palaces.
