7 day Madrid Intinerary

Day 1: Historic Madrid Morning: Start the day with a visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid. This stunning palace was once home to Spanish royalty and is now open to the public. Make sure to take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture. Afternoon: Head to the nearby Plaza Mayor for lunch. This historic square is lined with restaurants and cafes. Try Casa Botín, the world's oldest restaurant, which has been serving traditional Spanish cuisine since 1725. Evening: End the day with a visit to the iconic Puerta del Sol, a bustling square at the heart of Madrid. Here you'll find the clock tower that marks the New Year's Eve countdown and the statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree, a symbol of Madrid.

Day 2: Art and Culture Morning: Start the day with a visit to the Prado Museum, one of the world's largest and most important art museums. Here you'll find works by Spanish artists such as Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, as well as international masters like Rembrandt and Bosch. Afternoon: After lunch, head to the Reina Sofia Museum, which houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Don't miss Picasso's famous painting Guernica. Evening: Head to the Lavapiés neighborhood for dinner. This vibrant area is known for its multicultural vibe and delicious international cuisine. Try El Sur for some delicious tapas and wine.

Day 3: Parks and Markets Morning: Start the day with a visit to the Retiro Park, Madrid's most famous park. Rent a rowboat on the lake, visit the Crystal Palace, and stroll through the gardens. Afternoon: Head to the Mercado de San Miguel, a historic covered market filled with stalls selling gourmet food and drinks. Try some jamón ibérico, Spanish cheeses, and local wines. Evening: Head to the Malasaña neighborhood for dinner. This trendy area is known for its nightlife and edgy vibe. Try Taberna San Mamés for some delicious Basque-style pintxos.

Day 4: Day Trips from Madrid Morning: Take a day trip to Toledo, a historic city about an hour from Madrid. Explore the medieval streets, visit the cathedral, and see the famous El Greco paintings at the Santo Tomé church. Afternoon: After lunch in Toledo, head to the nearby town of Aranjuez. Visit the Royal Palace of Aranjuez and stroll through the beautiful gardens. Evening: Return to Madrid for dinner at Restaurante Botín. This historic restaurant is famous for its roast suckling pig and lamb.

Day 5: Food and Wine Morning: Take a food and wine tour of Madrid. Visit the traditional markets and sample local foods like churros with chocolate and cocido madrileño, a hearty stew. Afternoon: Take a wine tasting tour of the nearby wine region of Ribera del Duero. Visit vineyards and wineries and taste some of the region's best wines. Evening: Return to Madrid for dinner at DiverXO, one of the city's most famous restaurants. Chef David Muñoz serves innovative cuisine featuring Spanish and Asian flavors.

Day 6: Shopping and Nightlife Morning: Spend the morning shopping in the Salamanca neighborhood, known for its high-end boutiques and designer stores. Afternoon: Relax at the Hammam Al Ándalus, a beautiful Arabic-style spa. Enjoy a traditional hammam experience and relaxing massages. Evening: Head to the Chueca neighborhood for dinner and drinks. This trendy area is known for its lively nightlife, but there are also many traditional Spanish restaurants to choose from.

Day 7: Flamenco and History Morning: Visit the Almudena Cathedral, a stunning neoclassical cathedral that took over 100 years to build. Afternoon: Take a flamenco tour of Madrid. Visit a flamenco school and see a performance by professional dancers. Evening: End your trip with dinner and a flamenco show at Casa Patas, one of Madrid's most famous flamenco venues. Enjoy delicious Spanish cuisine while watching talented dancers and musicians perform.