Madrid

Day 1:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Retiro Park, one of Madrid's most famous green spaces. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the park, rent a rowboat on the lake, or simply relax and people-watch. For a budget-friendly breakfast, grab some churros with chocolate from a local café.

After exploring the park, head to the historic neighborhood of La Latina for some authentic Spanish tapas. Many bars in this area offer "tapas y cañas" deals, where you can enjoy small plates of delicious food with a beer for a reasonable price. Don't miss trying classics like patatas bravas, croquetas, and tortilla española.

In the afternoon, visit the iconic Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, two of Madrid's most famous squares. Take in the lively atmosphere, street performers, and historic architecture. For dinner, head to Mercado de San Miguel, a popular food market where you can sample a variety of Spanish dishes at affordable prices.

Day 2:

Start your day with a visit to Casa de Campo, Madrid's largest public park. You can rent a bike or simply explore the park on foot, enjoying the natural beauty and fresh air. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park to save money.

Afterwards, visit the Templo de Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple located in the heart of Madrid. Entrance is free, and the temple offers stunning views of the city skyline. For dinner, head to Malasaña, a trendy neighborhood known for its hipster vibe and affordable eateries. Try a bocadillo de calamares (fried squid sandwich) or a hearty cocido madrileño (Madrid-style stew).

Day 3:

Start your day with a visit to El Retiro Park again, this time exploring different areas you may have missed on the first day. Consider renting a bike to cover more ground and discover hidden gems within the park. For breakfast, grab some pastries from a local bakery.

In the afternoon, visit the Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish royal family. While entrance to the palace itself may be a bit pricey, you can admire the stunning architecture from the outside and explore the nearby gardens for free. For a budget-friendly dinner, head to Mercado de San Ildefonso, a trendy food market in the Malasaña neighborhood offering a variety of affordable dining options.

Throughout your stay in Madrid, be sure to try local specialties like jamón ibérico, Spanish omelette, and churros con chocolate. Look out for "menú del día" deals at restaurants, which offer a set menu for a fixed price and are a great way to enjoy a full meal at a reasonable cost. Enjoy your time in Madrid!