This plan mixes Madrid’s grand art and architecture with lively neighbourhoods, relaxed meals and a flamenco evening. Each day stays within one main area, with short walks between stops.
Budget
About €160–€300 per person for the listed activities and meals, excluding accommodation and transport.
Best time to visit
March–May or September–October for pleasant walking weather and comfortable sightseeing.
Art and grand boulevards
Explore the Paseo del Arte, then stroll through leafy Retiro Park nearby.
Morning
See the highlights at
Give yourself a few hours for Velázquez, Goya and the museum’s other Spanish masters. Arrive early to make the most of your visit.
About €15Afternoon
Wander through
Walk about 10 minutes from the Prado to the park. Enjoy the gardens and Crystal Palace area; the park is a lovely breather after the galleries.
FreeEvening
Dinner in
Walk about 15 minutes from Retiro’s western edge to this atmospheric literary quarter. Choose a nearby restaurant for dinner and an easy evening stroll.
About €25–€45
Royal Madrid and the old centre
Pair the Royal Palace with nearby historic squares, then enjoy tapas around .
Morning
Tour the
Explore the state rooms and palace grounds; booking a timed ticket ahead can save time at the entrance.
About €14Afternoon
Walk through Plaza Mayor and
It’s about a 12-minute walk from the palace to Plaza Mayor, then just a few minutes to the market. Browse the stalls or stop for a snack before continuing on foot.
About €10–€20Evening
Tapas around
Walk about 10 minutes from the market into . Settle in for tapas and a relaxed wander along its lively streets.
About €25–€45
Malasaña and Chueca
Spend the day around two lively central neighbourhoods, finishing with a flamenco performance.
Morning
Browse independent shops and cafés in
Explore the neighbourhood’s boutiques and street life at an easy pace. The compact streets make it simple to wander without a set route.
FreeAfternoon
Stroll around Chueca and
Walk about 10 minutes from central to Chueca. Stop at the market for lunch, then enjoy the neighbourhood’s shops and plazas.
About €15–€30Evening
See a flamenco show at
Take a taxi or public transport for about 15–20 minutes from Chueca to the venue. Book ahead, and check whether your ticket includes dinner.
About €50–€100
Good to know
Museum tickets
Reserve timed entry for the Prado and Royal Palace, especially on weekends and holidays.
Getting around
Central Madrid is very walkable; use the Metro or a taxi for longer hops, such as getting to the flamenco venue.
Meal times
Lunch and dinner often start later than visitors expect, so plan for a leisurely schedule.