How to Spend a 2 Days in Madrid: Your Perfect Itinerary and Guide!
Many travelers would consider two days to be too short of a time to explore a new destination fully. And, I’m with you there, I prefer to spend more time in each city to get a better feel for it! However, I found that spending 2 days in Madrid was just enough to get a taste of the city’s vibrant culture, its centuries-long history, and everything else it has to offer.
With efficient planning, you will be able to see all the important landmarks and experience the most popular attractions, so if you only have 48 hours to spare, do not worry; you can still do it!
I have prepared a short weekend itinerary in Madrid that you can use as inspiration to make the most of your limited time in the city! I have provided alternative options for some of the attractions so you can mix and match to your preferences, making sure you can choose activities that you would enjoy most!
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About Madrid
Madrid is quite a big city, sprawling over 233 square miles, so it’s important to plan your time efficiently. It is also quite populous and often experiences crowded streets and busy public transportation, especially in spring and summer, when the tourist season is at its peak. Be sure to book tickets and accommodations in advance!
Getting Around Madrid for 2 Days
You will not need to rent a car to move around the city, as Madrid has an extensive public transportation system that can easily take you to all the major attractions.
Getting the Madrid Card is a great option if you want to enjoy discounts and benefits while also having a universal travel pass in the urban area. For a two-day trip, it will cost you less than 15 euros.
Where to Stay in Madrid
With such a short itinerary, you should find a hotel in the city center, near the majority of Madrid’s landmarks. This way, you will spend less time commuting between places and more time enjoying all that Madrid has to offer!
Look for a hotel in either Centro, Retiro, or La Latina, as these are the best neighborhoods for a short trip to have easy access to public transportation and things to do! Here are my top recommendations for hotels in Madrid that fit each budget!
Luxury:
Mid-range budget:
Budget-friendly:
2 Day Itinerary for Madrid
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get into the 2 day Madrid itinerary!
Day 1 in Madrid
1. Visit a café for a pastry and coffee
The best way to start your day in Madrid would, of course, be to grab some traditional Spanish breakfast at a local café. Spain is famous for its delicious pastries, so why not try one with your morning coffee? Some of the best cafés in Madrid’s city center include Café Central and ABONAVIDA.
2. Plaza de Cibeles
Once you’ve eaten and are full of energy for the day of exploration, I recommend you to head to Plaza de Cibeles, a square that has become a symbol of the city.
Around the square, you can see the Cybele Palace, the Bank of Spain building, and the Palace of Linares. In the middle stands the iconic Cybele Fountain, which is a must-see landmark here.
If you are interested in museums, the Museo del Prado is just a short walk away from Plaza de Cibeles and houses an impressive collection of Spanish art. Next to the museum, you can take a stroll in a beautiful botanical garden, and the Parque de El Retiro is also nearby.
Through the park, you can reach the Puerta de Alcalá, a massive Neoclassical gate that has become another symbol of the city. If you are not in the mood for parks or the weather does not permit taking a stroll, you can visit the Archeological Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to modern times, including highly valuable examples of Islamic art.
3. Palacio Real Madrid
In the afternoon, head to the Palacio Real Madrid, the biggest royal palace in Europe. It has been the official residence of the Spanish monarchs since the mid-18th century and includes over 3000 rooms! Some of them are open to visitors, but make sure you book tickets in advance, as the place can get crowded.
Some say the palace is even more impressive than Versailles – but I will leave the final judgment up to you once you see it in person!
When around the palace, make sure to also wander around the surrounding gardens. They are truly amazing, with intricate landscaping and beautifully maintained foliage. A short walk away, you will find the gorgeous Almudena Cathedral, a stunning example of Spanish neoclassical architecture that is definitely worth a visit.
4. Lunch-Mercado De La Cebada
If you feel hungry, consider grabbing something to eat in one of Madrid’s markets, like Mercado De La Cebada, where you can sample a variety of Spanish tapas and drinks. Don’t forget to try some local specialties like jamón ibérico and patatas bravas while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the market!
5. Evening- Flamenco show or more attractions
If you are not tired yet, you can go to a traditional Spanish flamenco show to experience the beautiful passion and energy of this traditional dance. The Corral de la Morería is a popular spot to see flamenco performances, so make sure to visit!
You can also book a table at the restaurant there for an authentic Spanish dinner accompanied by live flamenco music.
Or, for dinner, why not book a tapas and wine tasting tour! Through a tapas tour, you will get to experience the best tapas that Madrid has to offer, all with a local guide who will show you the hidden gem spots!
📍Recommended Tour: Madrid Tapas and Wine Tasting Tour
Not in the mood to sit in a restaurant? How about taking in a scenic view of the city from the Madrid cable car? At Rosales station, you can board a cable car that will take you on a picturesque ride over the city; just make sure it is working on the day you want to take it, as depending on the season, it might be closed for renovations.
Check out the nearby Temple of Debod, which is an authentic Egyptian temple that was dismantled, moved to Spain, and rebuilt in Madrid as an attraction. You can’t find anything like that anywhere else!
Once you’re all done with the attractions, head back to your hotel and relax, as you have another exciting day of exploring Madrid ahead of you!
Day 2 in Madrid
1. Café for churros and hot chocolate
In the morning, I encourage you to get some churros and hot chocolate – the Spanish know how to make it extra delicious! Madrid’s most famous café serving the combo is Chocolatería San Ginés, located on Pasadizo de San Ginés Street.
2. La Latina
After the sweet breakfast, take a stroll through the historic neighborhood of La Latina, known for its charming streets and colorful buildings. The streets were originally planned and built in the Middle Ages, and nowadays, they are packed with pubs, bistros, and traditional restaurants.
The area is also home to the famous El Rastro market. The market is a great spot if you’re looking for souvenirs and art, just walk around, and you’re sure to find something unique to take home with you. It is usually filled with booths and stands selling handmade crafts and antiques.
El Rastro market is only open on Sundays and public holidays, so keep that in mind when planning your visit!
3. Plaza Mayor
Your visit to Madrid would not be complete without visiting the Plaza Mayor, where you can see rows upon rows of beautiful balconies overlooking the bustling square.
Take some time to explore the surrounding streets, as plenty of the buildings in the area are architectural gems, some even featuring centuries-old frescoes! If you want to spend some time socializing, you can join one of the many pub crawls that are frequently organized in the area.
4. Lunch- San Miguel Market
Then, you can go to the San Miguel Market, where over 20 stalls offering classic Spanish food await you. Among the options are traditional tapas, Iberian ham, fresh seafood, and delicious local cheeses.
While most are rather affordable, some are more gourmet and expensive, so make sure you check the price before telling the vendor what you’d like!
5. Lavapiés
Then, you can take a short walk to Lavapiés, a trendy neighborhood full of eclectic bars, restaurants, and shops. It’s also a great place to see examples of Madrid’s street art, as the walls are covered in colorful murals and graffiti that showcase the city’s artistic side.
The district is known for its multicultural atmosphere, with a diverse range of cultural influences, so you can find shops and restaurants selling some of the best international food in Spain.
6. Gran Via or Salamanca Neighborhood
If you want to visit the shopping hub that is like Madrid’s version of Broadway before leaving, head to the Gran Via. You will quickly notice the Telefónica Building, a historic skyscraper that stands out among all the other buildings in the area. It’s a great place to shop, dine, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of Madrid.
There is plenty to choose from – cinemas, restaurants, fashion stores… Whatever your heart desires! If you’re more interested in high-end shopping, get to the Salamanca neighborhood, where the rich and famous shop at designer boutiques like Gucci and Prada.
7. Dinner- Plaza de España
Do not be sad that your Madrid itinerary is coming to an end! Enjoy your last evening there at one of the many excellent restaurants on Plaza de España, where a statue of Cervantes watches the passersby.
Or, how about catching a Spanish movie in one of Madrid’s many cinemas? You can also take a farewell look at the Madrid skyline in the sunset from the rooftop terrace of the Circulo de Bellas Artes.
As the night falls, wave goodbye to the centuries-old city and get some much-needed rest before you travel further.
Is 2 days in Madrid enough?
People often wonder if a weekend or two weekdays are enough for Madrid and I can assure you, in 48 hours you can definitely get the highlights of the city. With the reliable public transportation system and many of the attractions being quite close to each other, you can easily fit all the basics into your itinerary!
Of course, the more you stay in the city, the more you can learn and see! If you are happening to stay longer (or are looking for a day trip from Madrid), I highly recommend you checking out one of the quaint towns near Madrid! My favorite is Toledo, as it is highly accessible by Spain’s train system, and there is so much to do!
Madrid Itinerary FAQ
I know how many answers you need before embarking on a trip, so I have made a short list of the most commonly asked questions for you to get all the information you need for your 2-day Madrid getaway!
Do I need a visa to go to Madrid?
If you are not a European Union citizen, you may need a visa to go to Spain. Check the requirements for travelers from your country before planning your trip to Madrid. If you’re from the United States, you do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days, but make sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure!
Is Madrid expensive?
Spain is among the more expensive European destinations (not as cheap as, say, Greece or Portugal), but compared to other major European cities, Madrid is relatively affordable. Budget-friendly accommodations and affordable dining options can be found in every part of the city. Public transport is not expensive, and with tourist cards, you can also save some money on museum tickets and other attractions.
Is Madrid safe?
Madrid is generally considered a safe city, and crime rates are quite low in comparison with other big European capitals. However, like in any major tourist city, pickpocketing and petty theft can still occur, so it’s important to stay vigilant and keep your bag or backpack secure while exploring the city. Additionally, it is recommended not to wander around poorly lit areas at night, especially if you are alone.
What month is best for Madrid?
Honestly, Madrid is beautiful all year long. You can also find a lot of interesting things to do there regardless of the season. During summer and around Christmas, the city gets more crowded with tourists, so if you prefer a quieter experience, visit during the shoulder season, in months like April or October.
Do they speak English in Madrid?
Many Spanish people speak good English, and in tourist areas and places like restaurants and hotels, you can be sure to find someone who can communicate with you. I encourage you to learn a few basic phrases in Spanish, though, to enhance your experience and make it easier to ask for directions or time when needed. Locals always appreciate it when tourists make an effort to speak their language!
How to get to the center of Madrid from the airport?
The easiest and most convenient way would be to take the local bus or a metro. They are inexpensive (around 5 euros) and will get you to the city center in about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. If you want to save some time, you can also grab a taxi, but be aware this will cost you significantly more than public transportation. Shuttle services are usually not worth the hassle unless your hotel provides one.
