Three Days in Madrid: From Royal Palaces to Tapas Bars
Madrid is a city that pulses with energy, where grand history and modern culture collide in the best way possible. Whether you’re admiring regal architecture, wandering through world-famous museums, or indulging in endless plates of tapas, Spain’s capital has something for every traveler. Three days might not seem like enough, but with the right itinerary, you’ll experience the perfect mix of art, history, and local flavors.
Get ready to explore the Royal Palace, the Prado Museum, the buzzing neighborhoods of Malasaña and La Latina, and, of course, some of Madrid’s best tapas bars. Here’s how to make the most of your time in this dynamic city.
Day 1: Royal Madrid & Historic Landmarks
Start your Madrid adventure in Plaza Mayor, the city’s historic heart. Grab a churro con chocolate from the famous Chocolatería San Ginés, a local institution since 1894. Then, make your way to the Royal Palace of Madrid, the largest royal palace in Western Europe. Even if you don’t go inside, the stunning exterior and the nearby Almudena Cathedral are worth admiring.
Next, head to Puerta del Sol, the city’s busiest square, home to the famous Tío Pepe sign and the Kilometer Zero marker, the starting point of Spain’s national roads. For lunch, find a table at Sobrino de Botín, the world’s oldest restaurant, and try their legendary cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig).
Day 2: Art, Parks & Local Life
Begin your second day at the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Arrive early to avoid crowds and take your time exploring its vast collection. Just a short walk away, El Retiro Park offers a perfect escape from the city buzz. Stroll through its tree-lined paths, visit the Crystal Palace, and rent a boat on the park’s central pond.
For lunch, head to Barrio de Las Letras, Madrid’s literary quarter, and stop by Casa Alberto, a historic tavern famous for its tapas and vermouth. In the afternoon, visit the Reina Sofía Museum to see Picasso’s powerful painting Guernica. End the day in Malasaña, Madrid’s trendy neighborhood, where you can sip a cocktail at 1862 Dry Bar, one of the best classic cocktail bars in the city.
Day 3: Markets, Tapas & Flamenco
Your final day in Madrid should start with a visit to Mercado de San Miguel, where you can sample everything from jamón ibérico to gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp). Then, explore the La Latina district, a neighborhood packed with charming streets, historic churches, and some of the best tapas bars in Madrid. Stop at Casa Lucio for their famous huevos rotos (fried eggs over potatoes).
In the afternoon, explore the Rastro flea market (if it’s Sunday) or check out the alternative art scene at Matadero Madrid, a former slaughterhouse turned cultural hub. As night falls, experience an authentic flamenco show at Corral de la Morería, one of the most prestigious venues in Spain. End your trip with a late-night tapa crawl in Cava Baja, where locals and travelers alike hop from bar to bar, enjoying patatas bravas, croquetas, and Spanish wine.
