3 day itinerary for Madrid

Itinerary

Madrid is a fantastic city for a romantic getaway, and you can definitely enjoy it on a budget while still having a great time. Here’s a fun and budget-friendly 3-day itinerary that balances romance, culture, and a bit of nightlife. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Explore the Heart of Madrid

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try some churros with chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés—it’s a classic!
• Stroll through Retiro Park: After breakfast, take a leisurely walk in Parque del Retiro. Rent a rowboat on the lake for a romantic touch, or just enjoy the beautiful gardens and sculptures.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Prado Museum: Head to the Prado Museum to admire some world-class art. If you go on a weekday, entry is free from 6 PM to 8 PM, so plan accordingly!
• Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel: Grab a casual lunch at this vibrant market. You can sample a variety of tapas without breaking the bank.

Evening:

• Dinner in La Latina: Head to the La Latina neighborhood for dinner. It’s known for its tapas bars. Try Casa Lucio for their famous huevos rotos (broken eggs) or Taberna El Sur for a cozy atmosphere.
• Night Out in Malasaña: After dinner, explore the Malasaña district, known for its lively nightlife. Check out some local bars like La Vía Láctea or Tupperware for a fun, budget-friendly night out.

## Day 2: Culture and Romance

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Bakery: Grab some pastries and coffee at a local bakery. Pastelería Mallorca is a great choice!
• Royal Palace of Madrid: Visit the stunning Royal Palace. While the entry fee is around €12, the beautiful gardens are free to explore and perfect for a romantic stroll.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in the Austrias District: Enjoy lunch at a local eatery in the Austrias district. Try El MiniBar for some affordable tapas.
• Explore the Plaza Mayor: After lunch, wander around the iconic Plaza Mayor. It’s a great spot for people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere.

Evening:

• Sunset at Templo de Debod: Head to the Templo de Debod for a stunning sunset view. It’s a beautiful ancient Egyptian temple, and the park surrounding it is perfect for a romantic picnic.
• Dinner in Chueca: For dinner, explore the Chueca neighborhood, known for its vibrant atmosphere. Try La Cocina de San Antón for a mix of traditional and modern dishes.
• Cocktails at a Rooftop Bar: End your night with cocktails at a rooftop bar like Círculo de Bellas Artes for breathtaking views of the city.

## Day 3: Art and Local Vibes

Morning:

• Brunch at a Trendy Café: Treat yourselves to a leisurely brunch at a trendy café like Café de Oriente, where you can enjoy views of the Royal Palace.
• Visit Reina Sofia Museum: Spend your morning at the Reina Sofia Museum, home to Picasso’s Guernica. Entry is free on certain days, so check the schedule!

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Lavapiés: Head to the multicultural Lavapiés neighborhood for lunch. Try Taberna La Concha for some affordable and delicious Spanish dishes.
• Explore Local Markets: Visit El Rastro, Madrid’s famous flea market (only on Sundays), or check out local artisan shops in the area.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Flamenco Show: For your last night, enjoy a budget-friendly flamenco show at Casa Patas. You can often find dinner and show packages that won’t break the bank.
• Stroll through the Streets: After the show, take a romantic evening stroll through the streets of Madrid, perhaps stopping for a gelato or a nightcap at a cozy bar.

Tips for a Budget-Friendly Trip:

• Use public transport (Metro) to get around; it’s efficient and affordable.
• Look for free walking tours to learn more about the city without spending much.
• Enjoy tapas during happy hour for great deals!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful, romantic, and budget-friendly time in Madrid! Enjoy every moment! 🌹✨