3 days in Madrid: a day-by-day itinerary
Updated October 4, 2026
Three days is the right amount of time for Madrid: two days for the big museums, the royal centre and the old squares, and a third for a day trip to Toledo, half an hour away by high-speed train. Everything below is walkable or a short metro ride apart.
Opens the planner with Madrid and 3 days ready — change anything you like.
Hotels in MadridDay 1 · Art and the Retiro
Start early at the Prado, then cross into the Retiro park for the Crystal Palace and a rowing boat on the lake. Finish at the Puerta de Alcalá, one of the city's old gates.
- 1
Museo del Prado
Attractions
Velázquez, Goya and El Greco in one of the world's great art museums.
- 2
- 3
Crystal Palace
Attractions
- 4
Puerta de Alcala
Attractions
Day 2 · Royal Madrid and the old centre
Tour the Royal Palace in the morning, walk to the arcaded Plaza Mayor, graze at the Mercado de San Miguel and cross the Puerta del Sol. End at the Temple of Debod for sunset.
- 1
Palacio Real
Historic
Western Europe's largest royal palace, with lavish state rooms.
- 2
- 3
Mercado de San Miguel
Attractions
- 4
Puerta del Sol
Attractions
- 5
Day 3 · Day trip to Toledo
High-speed trains leave Atocha station often and take about 30 minutes. Toledo's cathedral, the Alcázar and the view from the Mirador del Valle fill a full, unforgettable day.
- 1
Catedral Primada
Historic
Spain's great Gothic cathedral, full of El Greco paintings.
- 2
- 3
Good to know
- The Prado is usually free for the last two hours before closing — expect a queue, so arrive early.
- A 10-trip metro card (Multi card) is the cheapest way to get around; the airport needs an extra supplement.
- Madrid eats late: lunch around 14:00, dinner from 21:00. Many kitchens close between 16:00 and 20:00.
- Book the Royal Palace and Toledo train tickets online a few days ahead in spring and autumn.
Questions
Are 3 days enough for Madrid?
Yes. Two days cover the main museums and the historic centre, and the third day fits a trip to Toledo or Segovia.
How do I get from Madrid to Toledo?
Take the high-speed train from Atocha station (about 30 minutes) or a bus from Plaza Elíptica (about an hour).
Which area is best to stay in?
Sol, Ópera and the streets around the Prado (Las Letras) keep you within walking distance of most sights.
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