Madrid is a city that mixes history, art, gastronomy and nightlife in a perfect cocktail. If you're preparing your next getaway and you're wondering what to see in Madrid in 3 dayshere you will find the answer. With this guide you will discover what to do, what to visit and what to see in Madrid in 3 days, without missing any of the essentials, returning home with a complete checklist of things you can't miss. From historic monuments to alternative neighbourhoods, rooftops with their own style and spectacular views, all designed to help you make the most of your trip to Madrid. Start taking notes!
Day 1: What to do in Madrid in 3 days. A bit of history and tradition
Royal Palace and Sabatini Gardens: history and elegance
Yes, we'll sweep the house under the carpet, but if you stay at Ocean Drive Madrid your first obligatory stop should be the imposing Royal PalaceThe official residence of the monarchy, just a short walk from the hotel. Visiting hours are usually from 10:00 to 18:00 (varies according to season) and general admission is €14 (€7 reduced). In addition, from Monday to Thursday, the last two opening hours are free for EU citizens and residents. Apart from touring the royal halls, you can also visit the viewpoint of the Armoury Square for one of the most spectacular views. The Sabatini GardensThe free, free of charge, are perfect for a break and offer very photogenic corners.
Fun fact: The Royal Palace is one of the largest in Western Europe, with more than 3,400 rooms - you read that right! The Royal Armoury preserves historic armour unique in the world, and every Wednesday a colourful changing of the guard takes place in the Armoury Square.
Almudena Cathedral: an essential cultural icon
Directly opposite stands the Almudena CathedralThe temple is a modern temple inaugurated in 1993. Access to the temple is free (recommended donation of €1). The museum and the climb to the dome cost €7 (€5 reduced). It's worth it for the panoramic views of the city. Don't forget to take a look at the contemporary stained glass windows and the bright interior.
A little about its historical context: the construction of the cathedral lasted more than a century, from 1883 until its consecration in 1993 by the Pope John Paul II. It combines neo-Gothic, neo-Romanesque and neoclassical styles, reflecting the different stages of its construction.
Plaza Mayor and Arco de Cuchilleros: a picture in itself
It runs through the Plaza MayorYou can also try the classic squid sandwiches in the bars under the arcades. Every Sunday, the square and its surroundings host a stamp and coin collecting market that attracts curious onlookers. From there, walk down the Knifemakers' ArchThe restaurant is very much photographed because of its inclination and its traditional atmosphere.
Curiosity: the Plaza Mayor was the scene of bullfights, Inquisition trials and even royal coronations. Today it is still the cultural heart of Hapsburg Madrid. There is always life in it and not visiting it is almost a crime.
Mercado de San Miguel: gourmet tapas with a cosmopolitan atmosphere
Near that area you will also find the San Miguel MarketOpen every day until midnight. Sample signature tapas, such as boletus croquettes, fresh oysters or acorn-fed Iberian ham. Although it is a touristy place, it is worth it for its variety and gastronomic quality.
Gastronomic tip: Also try the vermouth on tap (3-4 €), a classic Madrilenian drink that goes perfectly with olives or gildas.
Sunset at the Temple of Debod: a classic with unique views
To finish off your first day in Madrid, head to the Temple of DebodThe temple is an Egyptian temple that was moved stone by stone in 1968. It is open until dusk and is free to visit. The viewpoints near the Parque del Oeste offer views of the Royal Palace and the Madrid mountains. They are also worth a visit.
Day 2: What to visit in Madrid in 3 days. Art and urban life
A stroll through the Retiro Park and its Crystal Palace
Start the day at the Retiro ParkThe city's largest green lung. Here you can rent a boat on the Estanque Grande (about €8 for half an hour), or take a stroll to the Crystal Palacewhich usually hosts free exhibitions organised by the Reina Sofía Museum.
A curious fact: El Retiro was conceived as a place of recreation for the monarchy in the 17th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Prado Museum: great universal masters
This is a must. The Prado Museum It is open daily from 10:00 to 20:00 and general admission is €15 (€7.50 reduced). In addition, the last two opening hours are free, although they tend to be quite busy. Enjoy live performances of works such as Las Meninas by Velázquez or The Garden of Earthly Delights by El Bosco. If you are short on time and want to know what to visit in Madrid in 3 daysthe Prado is an unmissable stop.
Council: download the museum's official app to make the most of your visit, as it offers interactive audio guides and themed tours.
Barrio de las Letras: literary inspiration and bohemian atmosphere
After soaking up the art, walk along the Barrio de las Letraswhere they lived Cervantes, Lope de Vega and Quevedo. The streets have literary phrases engraved on the ground, and you can visit the Lope de Vega House-Museum. Today it is also an area with modern tapas bars and cocktail bars with history.
Local tip: Huertas street has a concentration of venues with live music, perfect for enjoying a more bohemian and even romantic atmosphere at night.
Gran Vía and Círculo de Bellas Artes: design and panoramic views
Stroll through the Gran VíaMadrid's commercial artery, ideal for shopping and art deco architecture (Primark, Zara, H&M, El Corte Inglés, etc.). For example, the entrance to the rooftop terrace of the Fine Arts Circle costs €5 (general price in 2025), and offers one of the most complete and beautiful panoramic views of the city.
Tapas in La Latina: Madrid tradition with style
In the evening, dinner in the La Latinaespecially on Calle Cava Baja, where you'll find taverns with centuries of history. Try tapas such as oxtail, homemade croquettes and accompany them with a vermouth on tap. Here you will understand even better what to do in Madrid in 3 days if you are looking for tradition and good atmosphere.
Day 3: What to visit in Madrid in 3 days: More museums and different experiences
Matadero Madrid: culture, urban art and alternative spirit
Start the third day exploring Madrid from Abattoira cultural centre in rehabilitated former slaughterhouses. Admission is usually free, although it all depends on the event taking place. It hosts exhibitions, open-air cinema in summer and a design market. On your visit you can check what events are scheduled to visit them according to your interests. It is well connected by metro (Legazpi).
The Sorolla Museum: Mediterranean beauty in the heart of Madrid
The Sorolla Museum Open from Tuesday to Sunday, general admission is €3 (€1.50 reduced). Admission is free on Saturdays from 14:00 and Sundays.
Important: at the time of writing this guide, we are aware that the museum is temporarily closed for refurbishment from October 2024, but is due to reopen in 2026.
Malasaña neighbourhood: trends and charming cafés
Stroll around Malasaña, full of vintage shops and urban art murals. One recommendation is to have a coffee in one of its speciality cafés, such as Toma Café. The young and alternative atmosphere makes this neighbourhood a must-visit for what to see in Madrid in 3 days with a more alternative vision.
Gastronomic recommendation: try tortilla de patatas in bars such as Joan the Mad or the homemade burgers of Burnouttwo classics of the area.
Chueca and the LGTB+ neighbourhood: an inclusive stroll
Shall we continue our tour of Madrid? After lunch, you can stroll around Chueca, the centre of Madrid's diversity. Here you'll find fusion restaurants, cocktail bars and designer shops. In the summer, the streets are filled with terraces and the Chueca Square vibrates with a festive atmosphere.
Sunset from a rooftop with a view
Say goodbye to the day on a Madrid rooftop with views over the rooftops. The Ocean Drive Madrid has its Sky Bar available and offers creative cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere to end your three-day tour of Madrid.
Extra: Practical tips to see Madrid in 3 days
- Best time to visit Madrid: spring and autumn, when the weather is more pleasant and not too crowded, although in winter the Christmas lights are an additional attraction.
- Where to sleep in Madrid: staying in the historic centre is the most convenient. A great option is the Ocean Drive Madrid, a modern hotel with its own style and a privileged location to explore on foot.
- How to get around: the metro is fast and efficient. Buy a 10-trip pass (€12.20) which is shared between several passengers. You can also use Bicimad, the city's electric bicycle system. For express sightseeing, there are also Madrid City Tour double-decker buses.
- Nearby excursions: if you have more time, take a half day trip to Toledo (30 minutes by AVE), Segovia (with its famous Roman aqueduct) or El Escorialwhere the monastery-pantheon of the kings of Spain is located.
- Nightlife in Madrid: the city never sleeps and offers something for everyone. At Huertas you'll find bars with live music, such as Café Central, one of the temples of jazz in Spain. At Malasaña Modern cocktail bars such as 1862 Dry Bar or Santos and Desamparados stand out, along with indie bars with live DJs. If you prefer theatre, the Gran Vía hosts internationally successful musicals and local proposals at the Teatro Lope de Vega or the Rialto. To experience flamenco, visit tablaos such as Casa Patas o Cardamomboth renowned for their authenticity. And if heights are your thing, the rooftops on Gran Vía and Plaza de España, such as Picalagartos Sky Bar, offer incomparable cocktails and panoramic views.
- Recommended Apps: download the transport app of the EMT o Cabify to help you get around, as well as digital guides such as GuruWalk to book free tours.
- Exclusive experiences: book a private tapas tour, a Spanish cooking class or a night-time guided tour of Madrid de los Austrias (old town).
In just three days you can discover the essentials of Madrid: its history, its art, its gastronomy and its cosmopolitan atmosphere. Following this itinerary you will know what to do in Madrid in 3 days, what to visit in Madrid in 3 days y what to see in Madrid in 3 daysalways enjoying the city. Whether it's your first visit or a repeat trip, Madrid never ceases to amaze. Adding all these practical tips and local experiences, this plan guarantees a complete and memorable itinerary.
If you still have doubts about what to see in Madrid in 3 days during your getaway, remember that this guide offers you the essential and the alternative, this itinerary is your best starting point, but you can improvise and change the plans as you wish.
Ready for your adventure? Book your stay in Madrid with us and experience the city like never before.
Note: the prices and times indicated in this guide on what to do in Madrid in 3 days are approximate and may vary, so it is advisable to confirm them before the visit.
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