Can You See Madrid in 2 Days?

By Anna Duncan

Are you planning a quick trip to Madrid and wondering if it’s possible to explore the city in just two days? The answer is yes, you can see Madrid in 2 days. Here’s how:

Day 1

Morning

Start your day early with a visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid. This stunning palace is one of the top attractions in the city and is known for its impressive architecture and rich history. Be sure to book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.

After exploring the palace, head over to the nearby Almudena Cathedral. This beautiful cathedral took over a century to build and features a unique combination of Gothic and Baroque architecture.

TIP: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking throughout the day.

Afternoon

For lunch, head over to Mercado de San Miguel, one of Madrid’s most popular food markets. Sample some traditional Spanish dishes such as paella, tortilla, and churros while soaking up the lively atmosphere.

After lunch, take a stroll through Retiro Park. This park is known for its beautiful gardens, sculptures, and boating lake. You can also visit Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace), an iconic glass building that often hosts art exhibitions.

Evening

As evening approaches, make your way to Plaza Mayor, one of Madrid’s most famous squares. Here you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars where you can enjoy some tapas and drinks while people-watching.

After dinner, catch a flamenco show at one of Madrid’s many tablaos (flamenco venues). Flamenco is an integral part of Spanish culture and watching a performance is an unforgettable experience.

Day 2

Start your second day in Madrid with a visit to the Prado Museum, one of the world’s greatest art galleries. The museum houses an impressive collection of European art, including works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.

For lunch, head over to Mercado de San Anton in the trendy Chueca neighborhood. This market offers a wide range of cuisine from around the world and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

After lunch, take a walk down Gran Vía, Madrid’s main shopping street. Here you’ll find plenty of shops selling everything from high-end fashion to souvenirs.

As your time in Madrid comes to an end, make your way to Puerta del Sol, another one of Madrid’s most famous squares. Here you’ll find the iconic clock tower and statue of the bear and strawberry tree.

End your trip on a high note by watching the sunset from one of Madrid’s rooftop bars. There are plenty of options to choose from but our top picks are Circulo de Bellas Artes and The Hat Rooftop bar.

With this itinerary, you can see all the top attractions in Madrid in just 2 days. However, if you have more time to spare, we highly recommend extending your stay as there is so much more to see and do in this vibrant city!

  • Remember to book tickets for popular attractions online in advance
  • Wear comfortable shoes for all the walking you’ll be doing
  • Try traditional Spanish dishes like paella and churros at food markets
  • Catch a flamenco show for an unforgettable experience
  • Watch the sunset from one of Madrid’s rooftop bars for stunning views

Happy travels!