How many days do you need in Madrid?

Madrid doesn’t always get the same attention as Barcelona, but it has just as much going on—just in a different way. Instead of a single historic center, Madrid grew from a collection of villages, each with its own plaza, market, and feel. Exploring the city means wandering through distinct neighborhoods — but how many days in Madrid should you plan for? Read on from tips from our travel experts. 

How many days do you need to see Madrid?

Madrid works for both quick visits and longer stays. If it’s your first time, three days is enough to get a feel for the city—hitting the major museums, royal landmarks, and key neighborhoods. But Madrid is best experienced at a slower pace. The real charm is in lingering at local markets, joining the evening paseo, and easing into the city’s later schedule. If it's your first time in Spain, be sure to see our guide to how to plan a trip to Spain.

If you’re into museums, plan an extra day. The “Golden Triangle” (Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza) deserves more than a rushed visit. Summer travelers might also want a little extra time to account for midday breaks when the heat is at its peak, Spain's weather can be intense during these months. And if you’re using Madrid as a base for day trips—there are plenty of good ones—you’ll probably want five to seven days.

2 days in Madrid

With just 48 hours, you'll want to be strategic, but Madrid's walkable center makes it easy to take in major landmarks. This two-day plan focuses on the city's historic heart and key museums, giving you a well-rounded introduction. See our weekend in Madrid itinerary for an alternative plan to what you see here!

Suggested itinerary

Day 1

I suggest starting your day at Puerta del Sol, the center of Madrid, marked by the Bear and Strawberry Tree statue (El Oso y El Madroño), a symbol of the city. It's also the geographic heart of Spain, where all major roads begin.

From there, head to the Royal Palace (Palacio Real), the largest functioning royal palace in Western Europe. While the royal family no longer lives here, the palace is still used for state ceremonies. Inside, you'll find grand halls, frescoed ceilings, and an impressive collection of tapestries and artwork.

Right next door, the Almudena Cathedral stands out from other European cathedrals. It took 110 years to complete, and it blends neoclassical and neo-Gothic styles in a way that feels both traditional and unexpected.

After a midday break, spend the afternoon at the Prado Museum, home to one of the world's most important art collections and one of the best art museums in Madrid. Alongside Velázquez's "Las Meninas", which plays with perspective in a way that still fascinates, and Goya's dark and unsettling "Black Paintings", be sure to see Bosch's surreal "Garden of Earthly Delights."

End the day in the Literary Quarter (Barrio de las Letras), once home to Spain's great writers like Cervantes and Lope de Vega. Keep an eye on the cobblestone streets—golden quotes from Spanish literary masterpieces are etched into the pavement. For dinner, Casa González is a great spot to try Spain's regional flavors, with carefully sourced cheeses and wines from small producers across the country.

Day 2

Start your day at Chocolatería San Ginés, a Madrid institution since 1894, known for thick, rich hot chocolate and crispy churros. Open nearly around the clock, it's a favorite for both early risers and late-night crowds looking for something sweet after a night out.

After breakfast, head to Retiro Park, once a royal retreat and now one of the city's most beloved green spaces and is one of the best things to do in Spain. The Crystal Palace, built in 1887 for a Philippine exposition, seems to float above a small lake. Made entirely of glass and iron, it now hosts contemporary art exhibitions.

By midday, make your way to the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Spain's most important collection of 20th-century art. Its standout piece, Picasso's Guernica, captures the devastation of the 1937 bombing of a Basque town that became an iconic anti-war statement. 

For lunch, explore La Latina, a neighborhood of winding medieval streets, and stop at Casa Salvador, where traditional Madrid cuisine has been served for generations. Their cocido madrileño (Madrid stew) follows the classic three-step ritual: first the broth, then chickpeas and vegetables, and finally the meats—just as it's been done for centuries.

In the afternoon, wander through Malasaña, Madrid's trendiest neighborhood. This is a great place to find trendy boutiques with traditional bars where elderly locals still gather for afternoon vermouth.

At night, climb to El Viajero's rooftop terrace for sunset views before dining at Casa Lastra, which brings Asturian cuisine from Spain's northern coast to Madrid. Their seafood pairs well with Asturian cider, which is traditionally poured from a height to enhance its flavor.

3 days in Madrid

A third day gives you the chance to step beyond the main sights and explore neighborhoods with a more local feel, as well as museums that highlight Madrid's creative side. 

Suggested itinerary

Day 3

For your third day, I would stop at the Sorolla Museum, once the home and studio of Joaquín Sorolla, often called "Spain's Impressionist." Unlike a typical museum, this villa feels like the artist just stepped away—his brushes are still in their jars, and the garden he designed himself is filled with colorful tilework and fountains that appear in many of his paintings. To me, it's one of the best places to visit in Spain.

For lunch, skip the tourist-heavy spots and head to Mercado de Maravillas in the Tetuán district. It's one of Madrid's biggest markets, with more than 200 stalls spread over two floors. The seafood section alone has varieties rarely seen outside Spain

In the afternoon, take in the city from the rooftop of Círculo de Bellas Artes, then make your way to Templo de Debod. This 2nd-century BCE Egyptian temple, a gift from Egypt in 1968, was carefully dismantled and rebuilt in Madrid. It's especially striking at sunset when the ancient stones glow against the city skyline.

For dinner, Casa Lucio on Cava Baja Street is known for huevos estrellados—fried eggs broken over hand-cut potatoes. It's a simple dish, but one that has drawn everyone from Spanish royals to Hollywood stars to its cozy, wood-paneled dining room.

The last thing I'd recommend on this day is to see a flamenco performance at Cardamomo. This intimate venue is known for showcasing top-tier flamenco artists, many of whom regularly compete in festivals across Spain. The small setting makes the experience all the more powerful.

4 days in Madrid

With four days, you can fit in a day trip without rushing through Madrid itself. Toledo, with its hilltop views and layers of history, is a great contrast to the capital's urban energy.

Suggested itinerary

Day 4

With an extra day, board a morning high-speed train to Toledo, just 30 minutes from Madrid Atocha station. This UNESCO World Heritage city is rather dramatically perched atop a gorge surrounded by the Tagus River.

Start at Toledo Cathedral, a towering example of Gothic architecture filled with an impressive collection of art. Its sacristy feels like a mini-museum, with works by El Greco, Goya, and Velázquez hanging just feet apart. The cathedral's transparent altar is a unique feature, giving visitors a direct view of El Greco's The Disrobing of Christ.

From there, make your way to the medieval Jewish Quarter and step inside the 14th-century Synagogue of El Tránsito. The interior blends Hebrew inscriptions with Islamic-inspired patterns—a rare surviving example of the artistic exchange between cultures in medieval Spain. The building now houses the Sephardic Museum, which offers insight into the lives of Spain's Jewish communities before their expulsion in 1492.

For lunch, Restaurante Adolfo serves regional dishes like perdiz estofada (partridge stew) in a 12th-century building with Roman ruins visible beneath glass floors. And don't skip Toledo's famous marzipan—a sweet treat perfected by local nuns since the Middle Ages. The historic Santo Tomé bakery is the best place to try it.

Head back to Madrid in the evening for a final dinner at Bodega de los Secretos, tucked inside 17th-century wine cellars that were once part of a monastery's hidden passageways. The curved brick ceilings and private alcoves are fittingly atmospheric.

Best area to stay in Madrid

Madrid has a mix of neighborhoods, each with its own character and appeal depending on what kind of trip you're planning. Here are some some quick suggestions, but see our guide to  where to stay in Madrid for a better overview.

Sol & Gran Vía: best for first-time visitors

Sol and Gran Vía put you right in the middle of everything. This is Madrid’s busiest area, packed with major landmarks like Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Royal Palace. Gran Vía’s grand boulevard is lined with shops, theaters, and restaurants, making it a lively place to stay. It’s easy to walk to most sights from here, and the metro connections are excellent. While the area can be crowded and hotel prices run higher, staying here makes it simple to dive straight into Madrid’s energy. 

Retiro: Best for families

Right next to Madrid’s famous Retiro Park, this quieter neighborhood is great for families. The park itself is a huge draw, with playgrounds, boat rentals, and plenty of space for kids to run around. The streets here are wide and calm, and the area has a safe, residential feel while still being close to the city center. Museums like the Railway Museum and the Natural Science Museum are nearby, and restaurants here tend to have earlier dining hours—something that can be rare in Madrid. Many accommodations are apartment-style, which makes it easier for families to settle in.

Malasaña: Best for nightlife

Malasaña has a long history as Madrid’s alternative hub, and it still carries that independent, creative spirit. At night, its bars, live music spots, and clubs come alive, drawing a mix of locals and visitors. During the day, the neighborhood’s streets are filled with vintage shops, record stores, and cafés where people linger over coffee. The crowd here skews younger and artsy, and the atmosphere is relaxed but always buzzing with energy. While you won’t find as many big hotels, there are plenty of boutique stays and stylish apartments that are more affordable than those in the city’s more tourist-heavy areas. 

Things to know before going to Madrid

There are few things you should know before you head out for your trip. Madrid runs on a later schedule than you might be used to. Dinner rarely happens before 9 PM, and the nightlife stretches well past midnight. Summers can be brutally hot, with temperatures often hitting 95°F (35°C) or more, so spring and fall are easier times to explore. Spanish is the main language, but you'll hear plenty of English in touristy spots and higher-end places. 

Siesta culture still exists in some neighborhoods, with smaller shops closing between 2-5 PM (more on that in our Spain travel advice guide). Tap water is safe to drink (and actually tastes great). And as in any major city, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.

Daily budget

Madrid is relatively affordable compared to other European capitals, but expenses can add up if you're not paying attention. 

• Budget (€60-€100 / $65-$110 per day): Hostels or budget hotels, meals at local taverns and markets, and unlimited public transport fit within this range. You can also save by visiting museums during their free hours and enjoying the city's excellent free tapas culture with a drink. See our guide to free things to do in Madrid.
• Mid-range (€100-€200 / $110-$220 per day): This budget covers comfortable three-star hotels, full meals at sit-down restaurants, and admission to major attractions, including guided tours. It's a solid choice for a well-rounded experience in Madrid.
• Luxury (€200+ / $220+ per day): Expect five-star stays near Retiro Park or Gran Vía, Michelin-starred dining, private guided tours, and premium experiences like flamenco shows or Real Madrid matches. You'll also have access to rooftop bars and high-end shopping.

How to get around

Getting around Spain is easy, and Madrid has one of Europe's best public transport systems, and it's easy to get around. The Metro has 12 lines and over 300 stations, running from 6 AM to 1:30 AM. A single ride costs €1.50-€2, but if you plan on using public transport frequently, the Tourist Travel Pass (€8.40 for one day, up to €35.40 for seven days) is worth it.

City buses fill in the gaps where the Metro doesn't reach, and hop-on-hop-off sightseeing buses (€22 for one day) give a good overview with audio guides. The historic center is very walkable—most major sights are within a 20-minute stroll of Puerta del Sol. Taxis are easy to find and affordable (€15-€20 for most trips across the city), while Uber and Cabify are also available. If you'd rather bike, BiciMAD has electric bike rentals, and Madrid's cycling infrastructure is growing. If you'd like to know more, check our guide to getting around Spain.

How to get to Madrid

Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) is Spain's main international gateway, with direct flights from all over the world, and is often how many get to Spain. The Metro Line 8 (€5, including an airport supplement) gets you to the city center in about 30 minutes, while the Airport Express Bus (€5) runs 24/7 to Atocha and Cibeles in around 40 minutes.

If you're arriving by train, Madrid is well connected to the rest of Spain. High-speed AVE trains from Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia take just 1.5 to 2.5 hours, arriving at Atocha or Chamartín stations. There are also international train routes from Lisbon and Paris, though these take around 10 hours. Long-distance buses, mostly run by ALSA, can give you affordable connections to cities across Spain and beyond, with most routes ending at Estación Sur.

Driving into Madrid is straightforward, but parking can be a challenge. The city has strict low-emission zone rules (Madrid Central), so check the regulations if you're bringing a car. For more information, be sure to see our guide to getting around Spain.

Plan your trip with Rough Guides

Planning your trip to Spain? You're in the right place. If you're making plans now, take a look at our sample Spain itineraries—they're a great starting point. Our Rough Guide to Spain is also packed with expert tips and solid recommendations. 

• 14 days in Spain itinerary: Two weeks in Spain gives you time to see a mix of cities and countryside. You can explore Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville, take in the Alhambra in Granada, and still have time for the beaches of the Costa del Sol or the vineyards of La Rioja.
• 10 days in Spain itinerary: Ten days is enough to cover Spain's highlights if you move at a steady pace. You can split your time between Madrid, Barcelona, and Andalusia, visiting Seville and Granada, or swap in Valencia or San Sebastián for a different experience.
• 7 days in Spain itinerary: A week in Spain means making some tough choices, but you can still see a lot. Focus on either Madrid and Andalusia, or Barcelona and the north. If you want a fast-paced trip, you can fit in Madrid, Seville, and Granada or Barcelona, Valencia, and the Costa Brava.

Or if planning a trip feels overwhelming, let us do it for you. Our tailor-made trips are designed by local travel experts who know Spain inside and out. Trips are customized to what you want to do, with 24/7 support along the way.