Only 3 days in Madrid? You’re in for a treat. Spain’s capital is the kind of place where every corner bursts with culture, food, art, and life. Instead of squeezing your visit into a strict schedule, this guide rounds up the most essential experiences, from legendary landmarks to vibrant neighborhoods, all doable within 72 hours. Here’s what not to miss with just 3 days in Madrid.

3 Days in Madrid: The Perfect Itinerary and guide for First-Time Visitors

I visited Madrid probably 20 times and lived in the city for a few moths as well. Madrid never bores me- it’s full of hidden gems, cultural events and amazing atmosphere.

Once someone told me that Madrid is nothing special- just a city. I strongly disagree. Madrid needs to be experienced and slowly savored, so make sure to leave unplanned slots during your trip for walking and enjoying the vibe.

How to get to Madrid

Getting to Madrid is straightforward thanks to its well-connected transportation hubs. If you’re arriving by air, Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) is just 12 km from the city center and serves major international and low-cost airlines. From the airport, you can take the metro (Line 8), a direct airport express bus, or a taxi into central Madrid — all of which take around 20–40 minutes depending on traffic.

If you’re coming from another Spanish city or European destination, the Madrid Atocha and Chamartín train stations are major rail hubs offering high-speed AVE trains from cities like Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, and even international lines from France and Portugal. For budget travelers, long-distance buses also operate from stations like Estación Sur. Explore and book your trains or buses here.

How to move around Madrid

Madrid is incredibly walkable, but when your feet need a break, the city’s public transport system is one of the best in Europe. The metro is fast, clean, and covers most of the city with 12 lines — ideal for hopping between neighborhoods. You can also use the EMT buses and the Cercanías commuter trains if you’re heading to the suburbs or nearby towns.

A Multi Card (Tarjeta Multi) lets you load single or 10-trip tickets and works on all public transport. For short visits, consider a tourist travel pass (Abono Turístico) that gives unlimited rides for 1–7 days.

Prefer to see the city above ground? Madrid has electric bikes (BiciMAD), e-scooters, and plenty of taxis or ride apps like Free Now and Uber. Still, don’t underestimate the joy of simply walking ; it’s often the best way to take in the architecture, squares, and street life.

Where to stay in Madrid

Madrid has such a wide offer of amazing accommodation. Here are a few highly rated hotels in central Madrid with excellent locations and over 9 Booking.com review scores: across luxury, mid‑range, and budget options for you to choose from:

Luxury accommodation in Madrid

Four Seasons Hotel Madrid: Set in a beautifully restored former bank near Gran Vía and Palacio Real, this ultra‑luxury hotel features stunning modern decor, a rooftop terrace, and elegant dining.
CoolRooms Palacio de Atocha: This boutique hotel is located in Barrio de las Letras near Atocha station and Puerta del Sol and a walking distance to Retiro and museums.
Pestana Collection Plaza Mayor: This hotel is not only beautifully styled with Portuguese touches and has the best location, but it is also owned by Cristiano Ronaldo.

Medium range accommodation in Madrid

Room Mate Collection Alba: With Plaza Mayor just a few steps away, this stylish boutique hotel is praised for its warm service, thoughtful rooms, and free cancellation- great value in a prime central location.
NH Collection Gran Via: Located on the heart of Gran Vía and just minutes from Puerta del Sol, this sleek hotel offers rooftop access, comfortable rooms, and modern amenities. It is a perfect hotel for exploring Madrid on foot.

Budget accommodation in Madrid

Onefam Sungate: Located right next to Puerta del Sol and Gran Vía, this friendly hostel offers both private and shared rooms, organized social activities, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Central House Madrid Lavapies: In vibrant Lavapiés near Plaza Mayor and Puerta Toledo, this upscale hostel offers a rooftop terrace, co-working space, private and dorm rooms (all with high cleanliness and service standards).

Top things to see and do in 3 days in Madrid

Madrid is cheaper than most of European capitals, however, all the entrance fees to museums and other attractions quickly add up. My top tip would be to purchase a pass that can save you even 50%. Explore the options to see if that’s convenient for you.

Have a sunset or morning stroll in Retiro Park

You haven’t really been to Madrid until you’ve wandered through Retiro Park. From rowing a boat on the Grand Pond to visiting the Crystal Palace, it’s the city’s favorite green escape. Locals come here to nap under trees, rollerblade, or sip coffee at one of the tucked-away kiosks. It’s perfect for a slow morning or golden-hour stroll.

Don’t miss an authentic flamenco show

Madrid comes alive after dark. For something cultural, book a flamenco show. Of course, many flamenco shows are mainly for tourists, however, to avoid a tourist traps, make sure you’re choosing a good one. Many Spaniards enjoy watching flamenco or sevillana (another traditional dance in Spain that many foreigners confuse with flamenco) shows too. I gathered tips from my husband (who is from Madrid) for the best shows:

Visit world class museums

Madrid is a dream for art lovers. Start with the Prado Museum, home to iconic works by Goya, Velázquez, and Rubens. Right nearby is Museo Reina Sofía, where Picasso’s Guernica steals the show. Want something a little quieter and more charming? Head to the Thyssen-Bornemisza or the intimate Sorolla Museum (my personal favourite), set in the artist’s old mansion.

Tips for El Prado:

The Prado Museum isn’t just one of Madrid’s top attractions, it’s a cultural experience that brings you face-to-face with some of the greatest masterpieces in European art history. Here, you can stand before Velázquez’s “Las Meninas”, a painting that has fascinated scholars and artists for centuries, see El Greco or the raw realism of Goya’s “Black Paintings.” The museum’s vast collection spans the 12th to the early 20th centuries, and it’s particularly rich in Spanish, Italian, and Flemish works.

The Prado is a must-see highlight in Madrid (and knowing when and how to visit for free can make your trip both memorable and budget-friendly). Just remember: free means crowds (especially close to closing time), and access is limited to the permanent collection. Plan wisely, arrive early, and let the art speak for itself. If you don’t have the time to plan for free slots, make sure to book in advance as the waiting line can be between 30-45 minutes.

Monday to Saturday: Free entry to the permanent collection from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm; Sundays & Public Holidays: Free entry from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Special free nights: On the first Saturday of each month (double check which months as it is not always), the Prado opens for a free evening program from 8:30 pm to 11:30 pm, with access to select exhibition spaces. Entrance is through the Jerónimos door.

Plaza de Cibeles

Plaza de Cibeles is one of Madrid’s most iconic and photographed landmarks, known for its grand architecture and symbolic fountain. At the heart of the square stands the Cibeles Fountain, featuring the Roman goddess Cybele riding a chariot pulled by lions—a tribute to strength and fertility.

Surrounding the plaza are some of the city’s most majestic buildings, including the stunning Palacio de Cibeles, which now serves as Madrid’s City Hall and has a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city. This elegant square is not only a traffic hub but also a beloved gathering spot, especially when locals celebrate Real Madrid victories.

Plaza Mayor

Just in the heart of the historic centre of Madrid, Plaza Mayor is a big, open-air square that for centuries has been a place where iconic moment took place: from royal ceremonies and bullfights to markets and public trials.

Plaza Mayor is surrounded by elegant, uniform red-brick buildings with 237 balconies looking inward. Today, it’s a vibrant gathering point filled with cafés, street performers, and a timeless charm that invites you to sit back with a coffee and soak in the rhythm of the city.

Top tip: if you travel to Madrid in summer, avoid noon and afternoon hours for visiting Plaza Mayor as it gets extremely hot.

Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol is the center of Madrid and one of the busiest spots. On the square you can see the famous bear with a strawberry tree sculpture (El Oso y el Madroño).

Top tip: Puerta del Sol is the place where many pickpockets ”work”, so be extra vigilant there. The most popular scam include giving tourists a free gift like a bracelet or a rose or asking to sigh a petition while their team members steal your phone or wallet.

Royal Palace

Visiting the Royal Palace in Madrid is one of the main attractions. I suggest prebooking your tickets with skip the line option to save some time.

In the photo below, people are walking dressed up not because they wear these outfits on daily basis, but because 8it was a celebration of San Isidro- a patron of Madrid. The dress these women are wearing are called el vestido de chulapa (and for men el traje de chulapo).

Have a break with chocolate con churros

There’s no visit to Madrid without spotting for chocolate con churros. Locals often eat it in the morning, however, it’s a great dessert any time of the day. Here’s the list of top places to try authentic churros in Madrid (check the full post with more details):

Go for a stroll or shopping in Gran Vía

No trip to Madrid is complete without a stroll down Gran Vía, the city’s most iconic avenue. Lined with historic buildings, theaters, flagship stores, and vibrant cafes, it perfectly blends culture and commerce. If you only have 3 days in Madrid, Gran Vía is an ideal spot to dedicate a few hours, especially in the evening when the street lights up and the atmosphere becomes electric. Don’t forget to look up: the architectural details on the buildings are stunning.

Catch a sunset on a rooftop

Prefer to chill after a busy day of sightseeing? Watching the sunset from a rooftop bar in Madrid is one of the most relaxing and memorable ways to end your day.

Head to the rooftop of Círculo de Bellas Artes, one of the city’s best panoramic viewpoints. For just a small entrance fee (around €5), you’ll be treated to a 360º view of Madrid’s skyline, including Gran Vía, the Metropolis Building, and even the distant mountains on a clear day. Grab a cocktail, find a comfy seat, and watch the city glow golden as the sun dips behind the rooftops.

Another fantastic spot is Doña Luz, located above the El Corte Inglés building in Sol. This rooftop is free to enter, and its tropical vibe, creative drinks, and views over Puerta del Sol make it a favorite among locals and tourists. If you’re spending 3 days in Madrid, carving out time for a sunset on a rooftop is the perfect way to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere while unwinding in style.

Watch a sunset at Templo de Debot

Templo de Debod is a 2,200-year-old Egyptian temple gifted to Spain in the 1960s as a token of gratitude for helping save ancient monuments threatened by the Aswan Dam project. It now sits proudly in Parque del Oeste, just a short walk from Plaza de España, and has become one of Madrid’s most unique and picturesque spots. The temple is surrounded by reflecting pools that mirror its stone columns beautifully, especially at golden hour.

Watching the sunset from Templo de Debod is a classic Madrid experience, and the best part? It’s completely free.

Explore madrid’s neighbourhoods

Each barrio in Madrid has its own energy. Here’s where to go:

Malasaña – indie boutiques, graffiti, and vintage shops
Chueca – stylish and packed with cafes
Lavapiés – multicultural, edgy, and full of art and global food
Salamanca – upscale shopping and elegant architecture
Barrio de las Letras – literary history meets charming streets

If you only have 3 days in Madrid, mixing a few of these gives you a real sense of the city’s soul.

Visit Bernabeu stadium

Even if you’re not a die-hard football fan, visiting the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a must in Madrid. Home to Real Madrid, one of the most successful and storied football clubs in history, you can get behind-the-scenes experience that’s as much about culture and history as it is about sport.

The newly renovated Bernabéu Tour gives you access to the pitch, changing rooms, player tunnel, press room, and the incredible trophy gallery, where you can see dozens of La Liga and European trophies. A highlight is the 360º panoramic view from the upper stands. The modernized complex now also includes a high-tech museum, interactive experiences, and stunning architecture upgrades, making it one of the most futuristic stadiums in Europe.

Located on Paseo de la Castellana, the stadium is easy to reach by metro (Line 10 – Santiago Bernabéu station) and is surrounded by plenty of bars, restaurants, and Real Madrid shops.

Catch the changing of the guard

If you’re in Madrid on a Wednesday or Saturday, don’t miss the Changing of the Guard at the Royal Palace (Palacio Real). This free ceremonial event offers a glimpse into Spain’s royal traditions, complete with soldiers in historical uniforms, marching bands, and perfectly synchronized movements. It’s a fun and culturally rich experience, especially for first-time visitors.

The smaller version takes place every Wednesday and Saturday at 11:00 a.m. (except in July, August, and on rainy days), while the grander Solemn Changing of the Guard happens on the first Wednesday of each month at noon.

Eat like a local (not just tapas)

Yes, you’ll want to try tapas — but go deeper. Spend time in La Latina hopping from bar to bar, order a ración of croquetas or padrón peppers, and drink vermouth like the locals. For something trendier, Malasaña offers vegetarian options, cool brunch spots, and natural wine bars. And don’t leave without trying churros with chocolate at San Ginés or a market lunch at Mercado de San Miguel or Antón Martín.

One of the best ways to experience culinary Madrid, is by joining a food tour. This one is highly recommended.

Take a day trip from Madrid

If you’ve seen the main sights and want a breath of fresh air, use part of your third day to visit Toledo, Segovia, or El Escorial. All are under an hour away and full of medieval charm, Roman aqueducts, or royal grandeur — perfect if you’re craving a small-town vibe before heading back to Madrid’s buzz.

My top picks for day trip from Madrid:

Toledo is a former capital of Spain and it’s nice to visit for history and a lovely town. It’s only 1 hour by train from Madrid, so it’ll make an easy day trip. Once there, you can go to this amazing entertainment park (the original one is in France) Puy du Fou Spain with historical shows- perfect for the whole family.
Brihueaga Lavender Fields (super cute for photos and romantic) where you can also have a balloon flight over these beautiful lavender flowers.
Segovia is famous for Famous for its Roman aqueduct, fairytale-like Alcázar, and delicious roast suckling pig (cochinillo). It takes only 30 minutes by high-speed train from Madrid.
El Escorial is an impressive royal complex includes a monastery, palace, and library. It’s a peaceful and culturally rich getaway from the hustle of Madrid, nestled in the mountains. It takes around 1 hour by car or train. There are also tour options that are not too expensive.
Ávila is famed for its massive medieval walls that encircle the city. Inside, you’ll find a charming old town filled with Romanesque and Gothic churches, and great views from the top of the ramparts. I visited the town a couple of times and really recommend it. It takes around 1.5 hrs from Madrid by train or car.
You can also join a day tour that combines Segovia and Toledo with all the highlights. It costs sometimes as little as below 50$ (if you manage to get an offer), but no more than 100$. This tour has great reviews.

See also:

Please note that this post included affiliate links, when you decide to purchase anything through these links I get a small commission at NO extra cost to you, it helps me to keep running this blog! I only promote products and services I use or would use myself. All images are the property of Postcards from the World and cannot be used without permission.

Use my favourite travel resources to plan your dream trips

Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
Travel Payouts is my favourite platform for monetizing the blog.
Discover Cars is a great website as they search both local and international car hire services, so you can choose the best deal for yourself. Make sure though, that the company has a good reputation and reviews.
Get Your Guide is my place to go for searching and booking tours and excursions, especially when I travel solo.
World Nomads and EKTA travel insurance. I like them because they have quite extensive coverage of different activities.
WeGoTrip sends you audio guides to your mobile, so you can visit places while learning history and interesting facts easily and for little money.
Go City is a perfect site for booking bucket list experiences and attractions all in one to avoid paying for multiple tickets. Easy and saves money. You can even save 50%.
Trip Advisor– amazing for good quality recommendations.
Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.
Airalo is my eSim choice for alternative data abroad.

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3 Days in Madrid: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

3 Days in Madrid: The Perfect Itinerary and guide for First-Time Visitors

How to get to Madrid

How to move around Madrid