Madrid, Spain
Madrid, Spain's capital city, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich culture, architecture, museums, and gastronomy. It's a perfect destination for art lovers, history buffs, and foodies who want to experience the best of what Spain has to offer.
Trip to Madrid, Spain
Day 1: Arrival and Acquaintance
Arrive at Madrid-Barajas Airport and check into your hotel. After you settle in and freshen up, take a stroll around the nearby neighborhoods in downtown Madrid. This will give you the opportunity to get a feel for the city and familiarize yourself with the surroundings. The Puerta del Sol is an excellent place to begin your journey, the city’s main square located in the heart of Madrid. You can wander around and admire the spectacular architecture of the buildings while taking in the lively atmosphere.
Day 2: Art Museums and Retiro Park
Visit the Prado Museum today- a museum that houses an impressive collection of European art spanning across more than 5 centuries. Works from famous artists such as Van Gogh, El Greco and Francisco Goya can be seen here. After you have experienced the art museums, head to Retiro Park, known as one of the most extensive parks in Madrid. There is a great variety of things to do, green open spaces to relax, gardens, statues and ponds, where you can rent a small boat and paddle around with your friends.
Day 3: Shopping at Gran Via
Now that you have eased into the city, let’s take a break from sightseeing and head shopping on the Gran Via - one of the most popular high streets in Madrid. Here you’ll find everything from local brands to luxury shops like El Corte Ingles, which caters to all of your shopping needs. Check out different food offerings and dining experiences in nearby cafes, restaurants and bars.
Day 4: Toledo Excursion
Toledo, a small but enchanting medieval town located about 70 km south of Madrid is today’s destination. It served as the capital of Spain until the 16th century and is now known as the city of three cultures- Jewish, Christian and Muslim. Toledo is surrounded by walls and features a quaint old town square that transports you to a different time. Don’t forget to visit the Catedral Primada (Toledo Cathedral) which contains a great collection of Spanish art.
Day 5: Royal Palace and Tapas Experience
This morning head to the Royal Palace of Madrid, which is the official residence of the royal family of Spain. You can opt for a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the palace. Afterward, indulge in a quick bite in one of the many tapas bars dotted around the palace. Tapas is a staple of Spanish cuisine, consisting of small savory dishes traditionally served in bars.
Day 6: El Rastro Flea Market
El Rastro flea market takes place every Sunday in Madrid’s traditional La Latina neighborhood. The market offers a true taste of local Spanish culture, including antique shops and street vendors selling crafts and souvenirs in the streets. Be sure to try out some traditional Spanish food while here.
Day 7: Farewell
On the last day, spend the morning doing last-minute purchases and packing. You can use the remainder of your time to visit the city and see the places you may have missed throughout the week. Before you leave, have one last dinner with some of the fabulous cuisine the city has to offer.
