What to Do for 4 Days in Madrid, Spain ? A Perfect Itinerary
Day 1
Puerta del Sol,
Plaza Mayor,
Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel,
Royal Palace of Madrid,
Sabatini Gardens,
Dinner at Casa Mono
Puerta del Sol
🌟 Must-sees: Don't forget to take a picture with the iconic Bear and the Strawberry Tree statue (El Oso y el Madroño), the symbol of Madrid.
Begin your day at Puerta del Sol, the heart of Madrid and a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike. This bustling square is home to several iconic landmarks, including the famous TÃo Pepe sign, the equestrian statue of King Carlos III, and the Kilometer Zero stone slab, which marks the starting point of Spain's radial roads.
Plaza Mayor
🌟 Must-sees: Look out for the bronze statue of King Philip III on horseback in the center of the square. It's a popular spot for photos!
A short walk from Puerta del Sol is Plaza Mayor, one of Madrid's most famous squares. This impressive square is surrounded by beautiful buildings with intricate facades, including the Casa de la PanaderÃa, which features stunning frescoes. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the square and take in the atmosphere of this historic site.
Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel
🌟 Must-sees: Try the famous jamón ibérico (Iberian ham) and croquetas (croquettes) for an authentic Spanish experience.
For lunch, head to the nearby Mercado de San Miguel, a lively market offering a wide variety of Spanish cuisine. Sample tapas, fresh seafood, and traditional dishes like paella while enjoying the bustling atmosphere of this popular foodie destination.
Royal Palace of Madrid
🌟 Must-sees: Don't miss the Stradivarius Room, which houses a unique collection of five Stradivarius instruments.
Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish royal family. This magnificent palace boasts over 3,000 rooms, beautiful gardens, and an extensive art collection. Explore the lavish interiors, including the Throne Room, the Royal Chapel, and the Hall of Mirrors.
Sabatini Gardens
🌟 Must-sees: Take a leisurely stroll along the manicured paths and enjoy the symmetrical design and beautiful fountains.
Relax and unwind at the Sabatini Gardens, located next to the Royal Palace. These beautiful, French-style gardens are an oasis of calm in the bustling city and offer stunning views of the palace.
Dinner at Casa Mono
🌟 Must-sees: Try the patatas bravas and the grilled octopus for a true taste of Spanish flavors.
Enjoy a delicious dinner at Casa Mono, a cozy restaurant offering a modern twist on traditional Spanish cuisine. The menu features a variety of tapas and larger dishes, perfect for sharing.
Day 2
Museo del Prado,
Lunch at Estado Puro,
El Retiro,
Gran Via,
Dinner at StreetXO
Museo del Prado
🌟 Must-sees: Don't miss Velázquez's 'Las Meninas' and Goya's 'The Third of May 1808', two of the museum's most famous works.
Start your day at the Museo del Prado, one of the world's most renowned art museums. Home to an extensive collection of European art, the museum features works by masters such as Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Spend a few hours exploring the vast galleries and admiring the incredible art on display.
Lunch at Estado Puro
🌟 Must-sees: Try the tortilla de patatas (Spanish omelette) with a modern twist, served in a glass.
After your museum visit, enjoy lunch at Estado Puro, a contemporary tapas bar located near the Prado. The menu offers a creative twist on traditional Spanish dishes, making for a unique dining experience.
El Retiro
🌟 Must-sees: Visit the stunning Crystal Palace, a beautiful glass and iron structure that often hosts art exhibitions.
Spend a relaxing afternoon at El Retiro, Madrid's most famous park. This expansive green space offers beautiful gardens, picturesque fountains, and numerous sculptures. Rent a rowboat and enjoy the tranquil waters of the park's large pond, or simply stroll through the beautiful surroundings.
Gran Via
🌟 Must-sees: Pay attention to the iconic Telefonica Building, an impressive example of early 20th-century architecture.
Take a leisurely walk along Gran Via, one of Madrid's most famous streets. This bustling thoroughfare is lined with impressive architecture, shops, theaters, and restaurants. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and take in the stunning views of the city.
Dinner at StreetXO
🌟 Must-sees: Try the Dim Sum of Suckling Pig or the Steamed Club Sandwich for a truly memorable meal.
Experience a unique fusion of Spanish and Asian cuisine at StreetXO, a trendy restaurant located near Gran Via. The menu offers a range of inventive dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Day 3
Toledo,
Dinner at La Vaca y La Huerta
Toledo
🌟 Must-sees: Don't miss the stunning panoramic views of the city from the Mirador del Valle.
Take a day trip to the historic city of Toledo, just a 30-minute train ride from Madrid. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its rich history and stunning architecture. Explore the narrow, winding streets and visit landmarks such as the Alcázar, the Cathedral of Toledo, and the El Greco Museum.
Dinner at La Vaca y La Huerta
🌟 Must-sees: Try the slow-cooked beef cheek and the vegetable tempura for a delicious and satisfying meal.
After your day in Toledo, enjoy a delicious dinner at La Vaca y La Huerta, a charming restaurant offering farm-to-table Spanish cuisine. The menu features a variety of tapas and larger dishes, perfect for sharing.
Day 4
Reina Sofia Museum,
Lunch at El Imparcial,
El Rastro,
Dinner at La TasquerÃa
Reina Sofia Museum
🌟 Must-sees: Don't miss Picasso's powerful 'Guernica', one of the most famous and moving anti-war paintings in history.
Start your final day in Madrid with a visit to the Reina Sofia Museum, home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. The museum features works by artists such as Picasso, DalÃ, and Miró.
Lunch at El Imparcial
🌟 Must-sees: Try the grilled artichokes and the risotto with mushrooms and truffle oil for a delicious meal.
Enjoy lunch at El Imparcial, a stylish restaurant located in a former newspaper building. The menu offers a variety of Mediterranean and international dishes, perfect for a leisurely lunch.
El Rastro
🌟 Must-sees: Haggle with the vendors for unique souvenirs and gifts to take home.
Spend your last afternoon in Madrid exploring El Rastro, the city's famous open-air flea market. Held every Sunday, this lively market offers a wide variety of goods, from vintage clothing and antiques to handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Dinner at La TasquerÃa
🌟 Must-sees: Be adventurous and try the crispy sweetbreads or the braised pig's ear for a truly unique dining experience.
End your trip with a memorable dinner at La TasquerÃa, a modern tapas bar that specializes in offal dishes. The menu offers a variety of innovative and delicious dishes that showcase the versatility of these often-overlooked ingredients.