Madrid runs on a later clock than most European capitals — lunch after 2pm, dinner after 9pm — and this itinerary leaves room for that rhythm alongside its major museums and a classic day trip.
Madrid runs on a later clock than most European capitals — lunch after 2pm, dinner after 9pm — and this itinerary leaves room for that rhythm alongside its major museums and a classic day trip.
Tour the Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real) in the morning, then walk to Plaza Mayor and browse the surrounding streets. Continue to Puerta del Sol, the symbolic center of Spain, and spend the evening on a Tapas & Wine Tasting Tour through La Latina.
Madrid's three great museums — Museo del Prado, Museo Reina Sofía (home to Picasso's Guernica), and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum — sit within walking distance of each other; pick two rather than rushing all three. Recover in Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro) afterward, Madrid's grandest green space.
Toledo, a walled medieval city that was once Spain's capital, is a half-hour high-speed train from Madrid and one of the best day trips in the country. Segovia, with its Roman aqueduct and fairy-tale castle, is an equally strong alternative if you prefer mountains to a walled city.