Madrid Spain 2 Day Itinerary

Madrid, Spain - 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the City Center

  1. Morning:

    • Start your day with a hearty Spanish breakfast at Café San Marcello, a charming café near Puerta del Sol. (Calle de la Libertad, 6, 28004 Madrid)
    • Visit Puerta del Sol, the center of Spain’s kilometer zero and home to the iconic bear and strawberry tree statue.
    • Explore the nearby Plaza Mayor and admire its beautiful architecture.

  2. Afternoon:

    • Head to the Royal Palace of Madrid for a guided tour. (Calle de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid)
    • Walk through the adjoining Sabatini Gardens.
    • Visit the Almudena Cathedral, an architectural blend of neo-Gothic and contemporary styles. (Plaza de la Almudena, s/n, 28013 Madrid)

  3. Evening:

    • Enjoy tapas and a drink at Botín, the world’s oldest restaurant, in the heart of the city. (Calle de Cuchilleros, 17, 28005 Madrid)
    • End your day with a flamenco show at Corral de la Morería. (Plaza de la Paja, 3, 28012 Madrid)

Day 2: Art and Leisure

  1. Morning:

    • Begin your day at the Prado Museum, home to works by Goya, Velázquez, and other Spanish masters. (Calle de Felipe IV, s/n, 28014 Madrid)
    • Next door, visit the Reina Sofia Museum, showcasing 20th-century art, including Picasso’s famous work “Guernica”. (Calle de Santa Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid)

  2. Afternoon:

    • Have lunch at Mercado San Miguel, a historic market with numerous food stalls offering traditional Spanish cuisine. (Plaza San Miguel, s/n, 28005 Madrid)
    • Take a stroll in the Retiro Park and visit the Crystal Palace.

  3. Evening:

    • Visit the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple overlooking the city. (Plaza de España, s/n, 28008 Madrid)
    • For dinner, head to Chueca neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse dining options. Try 100 Montaditos for a variety of mini sandwiches. (Calle Hortaleza, 64-66, 28004 Madrid)

Things to Know:

  • Madrid operates on Central European Time (CET).
  • Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Madrid’s public transportation system includes the Metro, buses, and trams. Get a travel card for unlimited travel during your stay.
  • Tapas are meant to be shared, so order a variety to try different dishes.
  • Spain observes a siesta culture, with many shops closing between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Plan accordingly.

Tips:

  • Purchase the Madrid Card for free entry to over 60 museums and attractions, as well as unlimited travel on public transport.
  • Avoid peak hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM) on the Metro to avoid crowds.
  • Try traditional Spanish dishes like paella, tortilla española, and churros con chocolate.
  • Enjoy your trip to Madrid!