The perfect 3 day Madrid itinerary

When people ask me which of Spain’s largest cities I prefer, Barcelona or Madrid, I always reply without hesitation: Madrid. I’ve been to the Spanish capital four times, and each visit reveals something new about this endlessly energetic city. My friend lived and worked there for years, so I’ve had the privilege of experiencing Madrid as the locals do, discovering hidden corners and favourite haunts that most visitors miss.

Madrid may lack Barcelona’s beaches and Gaudí’s whimsical architecture. Still, it more than compensates with its resplendent art scene, stunning Belle Époque buildings, and an infectious energy that pulses through the city 24 hours a day. If you’re planning your first visit, this 3-day Madrid itinerary will help you experience the best of Spain’s capital, with flexibility for those with just 2 days.

Quick essentials for your 3 day Madrid itinerary

Best time to visit: April to October, though spring (March-May) offers the most comfortable temperatures around 22°C

Getting from the airport: Around 25 minutes by taxi to central Madrid, or use the metro Line 8 to Nuevos Ministerios

Getting around: Madrid’s metro is efficient and affordable. Most central attractions are walkable from each other

Where to stay: Malasaña for nightlife and trendy bars, La Latina for traditional tapas, or near Gran Vía for easy access to everything

For a full guide on why Madrid is worth visiting, check out this post.

Day 1: Madrid’s historic heart and iconic art

Morning: Discover Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor

This 3 day Madrid itinerary begins in the historic centre, where you’ll discover the city’s most iconic plazas and world-class art. Puerta del Sol, the beating heart of Spain. This is the most central point in the entire country, marked by the famous Kilometre Zero plaque, from which all Spanish roads radiate. The square buzzes with street performers, locals rushing to work, and tourists photographing the iconic 20-ton statue of a bear eating fruits from a tree (El Oso y El Madroño).

According to legend, Madrid’s original name was ‘Ursaria,’ meaning ‘land of bears’ in Latin, due to the large number of these animals in the adjacent forests. The square also contains the famous clock whose bells mark the traditional eating of the Twelve Grapes and the beginning of each new year.

From Puerta del Sol, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to Plaza Mayor, Madrid’s grand central square. Grab a table at one of the cafes under the porticoes and sip a cold beer while watching vibrant street life pass by. The square is surrounded by ochre apartment buildings with 237 balconies, and the Casa de la Panadería (Bakery House) with its intricate painted facades dominates one side.

Plaza Mayor quick facts: Built in 1617-1619, the square has witnessed everything from bullfights to public executions. The statue of Philip III in the centre dates back to 1616. Several arches lead onto winding streets that you should absolutely get lost in.

Late morning: Mercado de San Miguel

You can’t visit Madrid without experiencing one of its most beautiful markets. Walk a few minutes from Plaza Mayor to Mercado de San Miguel, surrounded by stunning glass walls. During my last visit, we spent pretty much a whole afternoon here, wandering between the over-the-counter bars filled with tapas, treats, and delicious wines.

Take a seat at one of the tables situated amongst the stalls and take your time exploring different sections, wine glass in hand. The food is exquisite, from jamón to sweet delights, sherry to cider, and prices are surprisingly reasonable. Tip: This place gets packed by lunchtime, so arriving around 11am gives you more breathing room.

Mercado de San Miguel: Open Monday-Thursday 10am-midnight, Friday-Saturday 10am-1am, Sunday 10am-midnight.

Afternoon: Museo del Prado

After lunch, head to one of the world’s greatest art museums. The Prado Museum contains over 8,000 paintings, with masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and more. Madrid’s art scene is genuinely one of the best in Europe, and the Prado is the crown jewel.

Don’t try to see everything – you could spend days here. Instead, focus on the Spanish masters and iconic works that make the Prado world-famous.

Must-see masterpieces:

Velázquez’s Las Meninas (Room 12) – This 1656 painting is the Prado’s most famous work. Velázquez painted himself working on a large canvas while the Infanta Margarita and her ladies-in-waiting pose. The composition and use of perspective are revolutionary.

Goya’s Black Paintings (Room 67) – These fourteen dark, haunting works were painted directly on the walls of Goya’s house between 1819-1823. Saturn Devouring His Son is the most disturbing and memorable, reflecting Goya’s mental state after the Spanish War of Independence.

Bosch’s The Garden of Earthly Delights (Room 56A) – This triptych from around 1500 depicts paradise, earthly pleasures, and hell in intricate, surreal detail. You could spend an hour examining all the bizarre creatures and scenes.

El Greco’s The Knight with His Hand on His Chest (Room 9B) – One of El Greco’s most celebrated portraits, showcasing his distinctive elongated style.

Rubens’ The Three Graces (Room 29) – Three life-sized nude figures representing beauty, painted around 1635. The models were inspired by Rubens’ wives.

Titian’s Emperor Charles V on Horseback (Room 27 or nearby) – A powerful portrait of the Holy Roman Emperor that influenced centuries of royal portraiture.

If you’re short on time, the museum’s website offers suggested itineraries: 1 hour (15 essential works), 2 hours (major Spanish masterpieces), or 3 hours (comprehensive tour including Flemish and Italian collections).

Prado Museum opening hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday and holidays 10am-7pm. Closed 1 January, 1 May, 25 December

Tickets: €15 general admission, free for students 18-25 with valid ID

Free entry: Monday-Saturday 6pm-8pm, Sunday and holidays 5pm-7pm (arrive at least 30 minutes early as queues form quickly)

Pro tip: Book tickets online to skip the ticket office queue. Arrive right at 10am for the quietest experience, or visit weekday afternoons when tour groups have moved on.

Evening: Wander Gran Vía

As the sun sets, stroll along Gran Vía, one of Madrid’s most famous streets. Not only is it bursting with shops, cinemas, restaurants, and bars, but the architecture is breathtaking. Marvel at the Belle Époque facades along this grand boulevard, including the French-designed Edificio Metrópolis (built in 1905) and the 1920s Telefónica building, which was the city’s tallest for years.

Over 13,000 people work along this street, and up to 55,000 vehicles pass through daily. The energy is electrifying, especially as the evening lights illuminate the stunning buildings.

Day 2: Royal splendour and neighbourhood wandering

Morning: Palacio Real and surrounding gardens

Start day two at the Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real), one of the largest royal palaces in Western Europe. Built under King Felipe V in 1738, who wanted a palace that would surpass all other European counterparts, this sublime building boasts 2,800 rooms, though the official tour takes you through about 50 of them.

While the Spanish Royal Family no longer lives here (they reside at the smaller Palacio de la Zarzuela), it remains their official residence for state ceremonies and events. During my visits, I didn’t have time for the full interior tour, but exploring the surrounding grounds was magnificent enough. The Plaza de Oriente and Sabatini Gardens offer spectacular views and peaceful green spaces away from the bustling city.

If you do go inside, highlights include the Throne Room with its Tiepolo ceiling fresco, the opulent Banquet Hall capable of seating 145 guests, and the Royal Armoury collection (currently closed for renovation in 2026).

Royal Palace opening hours:

• April-September: 10am-7pm daily
• October-March: 10am-6pm daily
• Ticket office closes 1 hour before palace closing
• Closed 1 January, 6 January, 1 May, 25 December

Tickets: Around €13 general admission

Free entry: Monday-Thursday in the final 2 hours (April-September 5pm-7pm, October-March 4pm-6pm) for EU citizens and residents with a valid ID

Changing of the Guard: Wednesdays and Saturdays, with a Solemn Changing of the Guard on the first Wednesday of each month (not January, August, September)

Walk across to the Almudena Cathedral directly opposite the palace for spectacular views of the building’s facade, then stroll down to the Temple of Debod (Templo de Debod), an authentic ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain in 1968.

Afternoon: Tapas crawl in La Latina

For lunch and afternoon drinking, head to La Latina, one of Madrid’s oldest neighbourhoods and home to the biggest concentration of tapas bars in the city. This is where locals come to eat, drink, and socialise, especially on Sundays.

Start from one end of Calle de la Cava Baja and work your way up the street. It’s busy, popular, and loud, but incredibly fun. Wear loose-fitting clothes because you’ll be grazing your way through multiple bars, sampling everything from patatas bravas to gambas al ajillo to croquetas.

Some of my favourite spots include Juana La Loca (famous for its creative tortillas), La Chata (traditional Madrid cuisine), and El Viajero (great rooftop terrace). Each bar has its speciality, so don’t be afraid to ask what they’re known for.

La Latina tips:

• Go on a Sunday when the El Rastro flea market is on (9am-3pm)
• Most bars open around noon
• Order a caña (small beer) or tinto de verano (summer wine) with each tapa
• Budget around €3-5 per tapas

Late afternoon: Retiro Park

After all that eating, you’ll need a walk. Head to El Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro), Madrid’s most famous green space and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This enormous park (125 hectares) offers tree-lined pathways, a large lake where you can rent rowing boats, and several notable structures.

Don’t miss the Crystal Palace (Palacio de Cristal), a stunning glass pavilion that often houses contemporary art installations. The Rose Garden is beautiful in spring, and the lake by the Monument to Alfonso XII is perfect for people-watching. When I visited in July, the park provided welcome shade and a calm atmosphere away from the urban buzz.

Crystal Palace: Open April-September 10am-9pm, October and March 10am-7pm, November-February 10am-6pm. Free entry. Closed Tuesdays

El Retiro Park: Open daily from 6am. Closing times vary by season (10pm in winter, midnight April-September). Free entry

Evening: Plaza de Santa Ana and Huertas

One of my favourite squares in Madrid is Plaza de Santa Ana, a calming open space in the heart of the city. What makes it so appealing is the timeless elegance it exudes, overlooked by the famous ME Madrid Reina Victoria Hotel with its swanky rooftop bar (well worth a cocktail or two for the views).

Two statues of 17th-century writers Calderón de la Barca and Federico García Lorca watch over the square. Take a seat at one of the cafes and drink in the atmosphere from passers-by and families with children before heading off to enjoy the nightlife in the nearby Huertas neighbourhood (also called Barrio de las Letras).

Day 3: More museums or day trip options

Option A: Museum morning (for culture lovers)

If you’re passionate about art, dedicate your third morning to Madrid’s other world-class museums. The Reina Sofía Museum houses Spain’s finest collection of modern and contemporary art, including Picasso’s Guernica and works by Dalí and Miró.

Reina Sofía Museum: Monday and Wednesday-Saturday 10am-9pm, Sunday 10am-2:30pm. Closed Tuesdays. General admission around €12, free Monday and Wednesday-Saturday 7pm-9pm, Sunday 12:30pm-2:30pm

Alternatively, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum fills gaps in the Prado’s collection with works spanning seven centuries, from medieval to contemporary art. The three museums together form the famous Golden Triangle of Art (Paseo del Arte).

Pro tip: Purchase the Paseo del Arte Card (€32) for one visit to all three museums at a 20% discount.

Option B: Day trip to Toledo

If museums aren’t your priority, take a day trip to Toledo, Spain’s former capital, just 30 minutes by train from Madrid. This medieval hilltop city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often called the “City of Three Cultures” because Christians, Muslims, and Jews lived here together for centuries.

Toledo feels like stepping back in time. The entire old town is encircled by ancient walls, with narrow cobbled streets winding between Gothic churches, medieval synagogues, and Moorish architecture. El Greco, the famous painter, lived and worked here, and his presence is felt throughout the city.

Getting there: High-speed AVE trains depart from Madrid’s Puerta de Atocha station regularly from 7am. The journey takes just 30-33 minutes. Round-trip tickets cost €12-28 depending on time and advance booking. Book on the Renfe website or app.

Toledo train station to old town: The station is outside the historic centre. Take bus L61 or L62 (€1.50) to Plaza Zocodover in the old town, or it’s a 20-minute walk uphill.

What to see in Toledo:

Toledo Cathedral – One of Spain’s greatest Gothic cathedrals, built between 1226-1493. Don’t miss the incredible choir stalls, the baroque altarpiece, and the Sacristy with paintings by El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya. Entry €12.50.

Alcázar of Toledo – Massive fortress on the city’s highest point, now housing the Army Museum. The views from the outside are impressive, even if you don’t go in.

Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca – Built in 1180, this beautiful synagogue has Moorish horseshoe arches and was later converted to a church. Combined ticket with other synagogues available.

Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes – Stunning late-Gothic monastery with an elaborate cloister. Entry €3.

El Greco Museum – See works by Toledo’s most famous resident artist in this small museum near the Jewish Quarter. Entry €3.

Mirador del Valle – For the famous postcard view of Toledo, head to this viewpoint south of the old town. You can take a bus or taxi, but the walk (about 30 minutes from the centre) is pleasant.

How long to spend: A full day is ideal, but you can see the main highlights in 5-6 hours. Most visitors arrive mid-morning, have lunch in Toledo, and return to Madrid late afternoon.

Toledo tips:

• Buy a Toledo Tourist Bracelet (€10) for entry to 7 monuments
• The city is very hilly – wear comfortable shoes
• Lunch at Adolfo Restaurante (modern, high-end Castilian) or La Orza (traditional)
• Buy mazapán (marzipan) – Toledo is famous for it
• If you have time, visit the Damasquinado workshops where craftsmen create traditional damascene metalwork

Option C: Day trip to Segovia

Another excellent day trip option is Segovia (30 minutes by high-speed train), famous for its spectacular Roman aqueduct, fairy-tale castle, and cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig).

What to see: The Roman Aqueduct (built around 100 AD) is incredibly well-preserved with 167 arches. The Alcázar of Segovia reportedly inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle. The Gothic cathedral sits in the historic plaza.

Getting there: AVE trains from Chamartín station (30 minutes, €12-14 each way. €24-28 round-trip). Note the station is outside town – take bus 11 to the centre.

Segovia’s speciality: Mesón de Cándido and José María are legendary restaurants for roast suckling pig, though expensive. Expect to pay €20-25 per person for the pig.

Option D: Day trip to Ávila

Ávila (1 hour 30 minutes by train) is famous for its perfectly preserved medieval walls – you can walk along sections of them for incredible views. This UNESCO World Heritage city is also the birthplace of Saint Teresa of Ávila.

What to see: The city walls (entry €5 to walk on them), Ávila Cathedral (part of the wall system), Convent of Santa Teresa built on her birthplace, and the Basílica de San Vicente.

Getting there: Regular trains from Chamartín station (1.5 hours, €11-14 each way).

Ávila’s speciality: Yemas de Santa Teresa (candied egg yolks) and chuletón de Ávila (massive T-bone steaks from local cattle).

Option C: Explore Madrid’s trendy neighbourhoods

If you prefer staying in Madrid, spend your third day neighbourhood hopping. Start in Malasaña, the hip district where I stayed in a fantastic penthouse apartment. This is Madrid’s coolest neighbourhood, full of vintage shops, record stores, independent boutiques, and fantastic brunch spots.

The atmosphere is bohemian and welcoming, with street art covering building facades and locals spilling out of bars onto cobbled streets. Plaza del Dos de Mayo is the heart of Malasaña, surrounded by cafes and bars where you can easily spend hours people-watching.

Next door is Chueca, officially Madrid’s gay district, but really a neighbourhood filled with open-minded people who want to enjoy their city to the fullest and treat it and others with respect. Both areas have a brilliant party atmosphere. If the bars get crowded, locals just chill on the street with beers from passing hawkers.

Malasaña and Chueca tips:

• Best for nightlife and going out late
• Many bars don’t get busy until after 10pm
• Great brunch spots: Toma Café, Ojala
• Vintage shopping along Calle del Pez
• Metro stop: Tribunal (Line 1 and 10)

Afternoon and evening: Your choice

Depending on how you spent your morning, use the afternoon to revisit favourite spots, do some shopping along Calle de Fuencarral (Madrid’s best shopping street), or relax at a rooftop bar. Madrid has dozens of rooftop terraces with spectacular city views.

Some top rooftop bars:

• Círculo de Bellas Artes – Classic terrace with panoramic views, €5 entry
• Ginkgo Sky Bar – Modern vibe, great cocktails
• Picalagartos Sky Bar – Santo Mauro Hotel, sophisticated atmosphere
• Azotea del Círculo – 360-degree views over Gran Vía

For your final evening, consider catching a flamenco show. While flamenco originates in Andalusia, Madrid has excellent tablaos (flamenco venues). Corral de la Morería and Casa Patas are two of the most respected venues offering authentic performances with dinner options.

2 day Madrid itinerary (if you’re short on time)

Short on time? Here’s how to condense this 3 day Madrid itinerary into just 48 hours:

Day 1: Follow the morning and afternoon of Day 1 above (Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, Mercado de San Miguel, Prado Museum), then add Gran Vía in the evening. If you arrive in Madrid in the evening, skip the Prado and do the neighbourhoods instead.

Day 2: Morning at the Royal Palace and gardens, afternoon tapas crawl in La Latina, evening at Plaza de Santa Ana and Huertas. If time permits, squeeze in a quick walk through Retiro Park.

What to skip: The third museum (Reina Sofía or Thyssen), day trips, and extensive neighbourhood wandering. Focus on the historic centre and one great neighbourhood experience.

Where to stay in Madrid

Madrid’s neighbourhoods each have distinct personalities. Where you stay significantly impacts your experience.

Malasaña (my recommendation for first-timers)

I stayed in Malasaña in an Airbnb penthouse apartment right on the main square, and the location was perfect. This trendy neighbourhood puts you in the thick of Madrid’s nightlife while still being a comfortable 25-minute walk to the city centre. The metro stop Tribunal makes getting anywhere easy.

Malasaña attracts a mix of locals and visitors who want to experience authentic Madrid. The streets are lined with graffiti art, vintage shops, and bars that don’t get going until late. It’s where hipsters hang out alongside old-timers who remember the neighbourhood’s punk rock past.

Malasaña is perfect if you want: Cool bars and restaurants, vintage shopping, a local vibe, easy metro access

Not ideal if: You want quiet early nights, prefer luxury hotels, or want to be right next to major tourist sites

La Latina (for foodies and culture)

If eating and drinking is your priority, La Latina puts you in the heart of Madrid’s best tapas scene. The medieval streets are charming, and you’re walking distance from Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace.

La Latina is perfect if you want: Traditional tapas bars, Sunday market (El Rastro), historic atmosphere, and authentic experiences

Not ideal if: You’re not into late-night eating and drinking, or you want more upscale surroundings

Sol or Gran Vía (for convenience)

Staying near Puerta del Sol or Gran Vía means you’re in the absolute centre with everything walkable. You’ll pay more, and these areas are tourist-heavy, but the convenience is unbeatable for short trips.

Sol/Gran Vía is perfect if you want: Maximum convenience, lots of hotel options, easy access to everything

Not ideal if: You want a local neighbourhood feel, or you’re on a tight budget

Salamanca (for luxury and shopping)

If you prefer upscale surroundings, Barrio Salamanca is Madrid’s most elegant neighbourhood, home to designer boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, and beautiful architecture. It’s quieter and more residential than central Madrid.

Salamanca is perfect if you want: Luxury hotels, high-end shopping, sophisticated restaurants, quieter streets

Not ideal if: You’re on a budget, or you want the buzzy central Madrid atmosphere

Practical tips for visiting Madrid

When to visit

Best months: April, May, June, September, October – comfortable temperatures and lots of sunshine

Summer (July-August): Hot (often exceeding 35°C), many locals leave the city, but there are fewer tourists at museums

Winter (December-February): Cold but rarely below freezing, fewer crowds, Christmas markets in December

Spring (March-May): My favourite time – warm sunny days around 20-22°C, terraces open, parks in bloom

Getting around Madrid

Metro: Efficient, affordable, and extensive. A 10-journey ticket costs around €12.20. Download the official Metro de Madrid app.

Walking: Most central attractions are walkable from each other. Madrid is a very walkable city.

Taxis and Uber: White taxis with red diagonal stripes are official. Uber also operates in Madrid.

Tourist Travel Pass: Available for 1, 2, 3, 5, or 7 days, includes unlimited metro, bus, and train travel in Zone A. Around €8.40 for 1 day, €14.20 for 2 days.

Money and tipping

Currency: Euro (€)

Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated. Round up for drinks/coffee, leave 5-10% for good restaurant service

ATMs: Widely available, though some charge fees. Use bank ATMs rather than standalone machines when possible

Language

Spanish is the language, though many people in tourist areas speak English. Learn a few basic phrases – locals appreciate the effort:

• Buenos días (good morning)
• Gracias (thank you)
• Por favor (please)
• La cuenta, por favor (the bill, please)
• ¿Habla inglés? (Do you speak English?)

Eating times

Madrid operates on Spanish time, which means:

• Lunch: 2pm-4pm (restaurants may close between lunch and dinner)
• Dinner: 9pm-11pm or later
• Tapas: Any time, but especially 8pm-10pm

Don’t expect to eat dinner at 6pm – restaurants won’t even be open. Embrace the late dining culture.

Safety

Madrid is generally very safe, but watch for pickpockets in crowded tourist areas (Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, metro). Keep valuables secure and stay aware of your surroundings, especially after dark in crowded nightlife areas.

What to eat and drink in Madrid

Madrid’s food scene is extraordinary. The city takes its eating and drinking seriously, and you’ll find everything from century-old taverns to modern gastronomic temples.

Must-try Madrid dishes

Cocido madrileño: Madrid’s signature dish is a hearty chickpea stew with meat and vegetables, traditionally served in three courses. First the broth, then the chickpeas and vegetables, and finally the meat. It’s perfect for cold winter days. Try it at La Bola (Calle de la Bola, 5), a restaurant that’s been serving cocido since 1870.

Bocadillo de calamares: Don’t laugh – fried squid sandwich is a Madrid institution. The best are found at bars around Plaza Mayor. Bar La Campana is famous for theirs that are crispy and grease-free.

Churros con chocolate: Thick hot chocolate with fried dough sticks for dipping is a Madrid obsession. Chocolatería San Ginés (Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5) has been open since 1894 and serves them 24 hours Thurs-Sat, limited hours other days. Go after a night out or for mid-afternoon merienda.

Huevos rotos (broken eggs): My ultimate favourite dish – and great for hangovers! Fried eggs over crispy fried potatoes with jamón, the eggs ‘broken’ so the yolk runs through. Every bar makes them slightly differently, but Lucio (Calle Cava Baja, 35) is legendary for theirs.

Besugo a la madrileña: Sea bream baked with tomatoes and peppers, a traditional Christmas dish but available year-round at classic restaurants.

Callos a la madrileña: Tripe stew – not for everyone, but loved by locals. Very traditional Madrid.

Tapas essentials

Patatas bravas: Fried potato cubes with spicy tomato sauce and aioli. Every bar has their own sauce recipe.

Croquetas: Creamy béchamel fritters, usually jamón (ham) or bacalao (cod). The coating should be perfectly crispy. Casa Julio (Calle Madera, 37) is famous for theirs.

Gambas al ajillo: Prawns sizzling in garlic and olive oil, served in a small clay dish. Mop up the garlicky oil with bread.

Tortilla española: Spanish omelette with potatoes and onions. Served at room temperature, cut into wedges.

Pimientos de Padrón: Small green peppers fried in olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt. Most are mild, but occasionally you get a spicy one.

Where to eat by neighbourhood

La Latina (tapas crawl):

Start on Calle de la Cava Baja. Juana La Loca does creative tortillas, La Chata serves traditional Madrid cuisine, El Viajero has a great rooftop. On Sundays, the street is packed with locals doing the vermouth hour.

Malasaña (modern and trendy):

Ojalá for its beach-themed interior and good cocktails, Bodega de la Ardosa for vermouth and traditional tapas. Yakitoro (Japanese-Spanish fusion) if you want something different.

Chueca (stylish dining):

Bazaar for modern Spanish in a buzzy atmosphere, Mama Framboise for French-inspired food, La Carmencita is Madrid’s oldest tavern (1854), recently renovated.

Salamanca (upscale dining):

La Maruca for Cantabrian dishes, Salamanca Grill for great steaks

Note: Restaurant availability and opening hours can change – verify before visiting

Drinks culture

Tinto de verano: Summer wine drink made with red wine and lemon soda – lighter and more refreshing than sangria. Order it at any bar or terrace.

Vermouth (vermut): Madrileños love vermouth on tap, especially on Sunday mornings. It’s served over ice with an olive and an orange slice. Casa Camacho (still the original bar from 1929) and La Ardosa are vermouth temples.

Gin and tonics: Madrid takes G&Ts seriously with premium gins served in huge glasses with elaborate garnishes – everything from pink peppercorns to fresh rosemary. Expect to pay €10-15 for a good one.

Cerveza (beer): Order a caña (small draft beer, about 200ml) or doble (double caña). Spanish beer is light lager-style – Mahou is Madrid’s local brew.

Clara (a favourite of mine): Beer mixed with lemonade, refreshing in summer.

Coffee: Café con leche (coffee with milk) is standard. After meals, order a cortado (espresso with a splash of milk). Coffee is strong and always served in small cups.

When and how to eat

Breakfast (desayuno): 8am-11am. Usually a coffee and a tostada (toasted bread with tomato, olive oil, or butter and jam).

Lunch (comida): 2pm-4pm. The main meal of the day. Look for menú del día (set lunch menu) at neighbourhood restaurants – three courses plus drink for €12-18.

Tapas: 7pm-10pm. The Spanish don’t just have dinner – they go for tapas first, moving between bars.

Dinner (cena): 9:30pm-midnight. Lighter than lunch for most Spaniards, but restaurants serve full menus. Don’t expect restaurants to be open before 8:30pm.

Merienda: Afternoon snack around 5pm-6pm. Often churros and chocolate or a slice of cake with coffee.

Last thoughts on Madrid

Madrid may not be as immediately pretty as Barcelona, but it’s a city you fall in love with slowly. The energy is addictive, the people are welcoming, and there’s always something happening. It has been said that there is no other city on Earth that feels as alive as Madrid, and after four visits, I completely agree.

Whether you have 2 days or 3 days in Madrid, don’t try to cram in too much. Leave time to wander, get lost in medieval streets, linger over long lunches, and soak up the atmosphere. That’s when Madrid reveals its true character.

Most importantly, embrace the Spanish schedule. Eat late, stay out late, sleep in late. Madrid doesn’t really get going until after dark, and some of the best experiences happen after midnight in a crowded bar in Malasaña or over tapas at 11pm in La Latina.

Madrid will leave you wanting to return again and again.

More Spain travel guides:

Is Madrid worth visiting – a complete guide

Where to eat in San Sebastian – the best pintxos bars and restaurants

Is Granada worth visiting? Essential guide to the city

Top tips for visiting Alhambra – from booking to what to do

Best things to do in Palma with kids – top attractions

The best beaches in Costa Brava – essential guide

The top things to do with kids in Tenerife – experiences and activities