Itinerary

Madrid is a vibrant city filled with art, culture, and delicious food. Here’s a fun and engaging 4-day itinerary that will help you soak in the best of what Madrid has to offer, especially with the excitement of Espana 2024 around the corner!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Heart of Madrid

Morning:

• Arrival in Madrid: Check into your hotel and freshen up. If you’re staying in the city center, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore!
• Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Spanish breakfast at Chocolatería San Ginés. Their churros with thick hot chocolate are a must-try!

Midday:

• Puerta del Sol: Head to this iconic square, the heart of Madrid. Snap a photo with the famous "El Oso y El Madroño" statue.
• Plaza Mayor: Just a short walk away, this grand square is perfect for people-watching. Grab a coffee at one of the outdoor terraces.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy some tapas at Casa Lucio or Taberna El Sur. Try the classic Spanish tortilla and patatas bravas!
• Royal Palace of Madrid: After lunch, visit the stunning Royal Palace. Don’t miss the beautiful gardens and the impressive architecture.

Evening:

• Dinner: Head to La Latina for a lively atmosphere. Try Sangria and sample more tapas at El Viajero.
• Nightlife: If you’re up for it, explore the nightlife in Malasaña or Chueca. Enjoy some live music or a cozy bar!

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## Day 2: Art and Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start with a light breakfast at Café de Oriente with views of the Royal Palace.
• Prado Museum: Spend your morning at the world-renowned Prado Museum. Don’t miss works by Velázquez and Goya!

Midday:

• Retiro Park: After the museum, take a leisurely stroll through Retiro Park. Rent a rowboat on the lake or just relax in the gardens.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Grab a bite at La Finca de Susana, known for its delicious Spanish cuisine.
• Reina Sofia Museum: Head to the Reina Sofia to see Picasso’s Guernica and other modern masterpieces.

Evening:

• Dinner: Try Sobrino de Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world, for some cochinillo (roast suckling pig).
• Flamenco Show: End your day with an authentic flamenco show at Casa Patas or Corral de la Morería. The passion of the dancers is unforgettable!

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## Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo

Morning:

• Breakfast: Have a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café.
• Toledo ## Day Trip: Take a short train ride (about 30 minutes) to Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Midday:

• Explore Toledo: Visit the stunning Toledo Cathedral and the Alcázar. Wander through the narrow streets and admire the mix of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish architecture.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy a traditional meal at Restaurante La Orza. Try the marzipan, a local specialty!
• More Sightseeing: Visit the El Greco Museum and take in the views from the Mirador del Valle.

Evening:

• Return to Madrid: Head back to Madrid in the evening.
• Dinner: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Mercado de San Miguel, where you can sample various dishes from different stalls.

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## Day 4: Local Life and Shopping

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at Café Comercial, a historic café with a lovely atmosphere.
• Malasaña District: Explore this trendy neighborhood filled with vintage shops, street art, and quirky cafes.

Midday:

• Shopping: Head to Gran Vía for some shopping. You’ll find everything from high-street brands to unique boutiques.
• Lunch: Stop for lunch at El Mercado de San Antón in Chueca, where you can enjoy a variety of local foods.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Temple of Debod: This ancient Egyptian temple offers stunning views of the sunset over the city.
• Explore Lavapiés: This multicultural neighborhood is great for street art and unique shops.

Evening:

• Dinner: For your last night, treat yourself to a meal at DiverXO, Madrid’s only three-Michelin-star restaurant (make sure to book in advance!).
• Nightcap: End your trip with a drink at a rooftop bar like Círculo de Bellas Artes for breathtaking views of the city skyline.

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And there you have it! A delightful 4-day itinerary that balances culture, history, and the vibrant life of Madrid. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to soak in the atmosphere and the excitement of Espana 2024! Safe travels! 🌍✈️