How to Spend the Perfect Three Days in Madrid (Hidden Gems)

Planning to spend three days in Madrid? First things first, I could not be more excited for you! Second, you’re in the right place. As someone who is clinically obsessed with this city, and has visited several times, I’m ready to share everything with you – from the perfect itinerary, to Madrid hidden gems, essential tips, and more!

Madrid, the splendid capital of Spain, is a city you will quickly fall in love with. From world-renowned museums to mesmerizing gardens, and incredible culinary scene, Madrid offers so much to enjoy that you’ll be planning your second trip before you even leave.

Without further ado, here is the perfect 3 day itinerary for Madrid!😍👇

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Table of Contents

How to Spend the Perfect 3 Days in Madrid

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Day 1 | Dive Deep into the City Center + Royal Palace

Welcome to your first day in Madrid! Today you will focus on enjoying the heart of the city, the incredible city center.

Morning | Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Mercado de San Miguel

View of Puerta del Sol in Madrid, featuring the iconic Tío Pepe sign atop a building. A statue stands prominently in the foreground, surrounded by classic European architecture under a partly cloudy sky. This plaza / square is a must visit during your three days in Madrid

The best way to start your first day in Madrid is by visiting Puerta del Sol – the city’s most iconic and largest square. Two things to admire when you arrive in Puerta del Sol are the iconic Tio Pepe sign, and the statue of the bear and orange tree, Madrid’s symbol.

Once you’ve visited Puerta del Sol, you’ll head to the nearby Plaza Mayor, another of Madrid’s most famous and important squares. Plaza Mayor is a beautiful square that is enclosed in a rectangular outline of red-painted buildings with frescoes.

If you haven’t grabbed breakfast yet, or want a pick me up, head to Mercado de San Miguel, Madrid’s famous food market. Dating back to 1916, Mercado de San Miguel is Madrid first food market and has over 30 food stalls to eat from. Due to its popularity, this market’s prices are higher than others, but it’s a must-visit regardless!

Late Morning | Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral

A wide-angle view of a neoclassical cathedral with two tall towers and ornate details. People sit on steps leading up to the entrance. The sky is clear, and banners are displayed on either side of the plaza.

Now that you’ve said “good morning” to Madrid, make your way to the Royal Palace – one of the most famous attractions in Madrid.

With almost 3,500 rooms, the Palacio Real de Madrid is one of the largest palaces in all of Europe. The Royal Family doesn’t live here anymore, but continues to use the palace for functions and work. Whether you visit solo or with a guide, you can expect to spend about 2 hours in the Royal Palace.

Once you’re done with your visit, head to the cathedral that sits right in front of the palace, the Almudena Cathedral. This is the first cathedral to have been consecrated outside of Rome, and is the resting place for many of Spain’s royals. The cathedral is free to enter, but is closed during religious services.

The Royal Palace is one of the fastest selling attractions in Madrid, meaning you need to book ASAP to secure your spot. Grab your entry tickets here!👇

Lunch Time

Three pizzas on a wooden table: one with pepperoni and cheese, another with various cheeses and a basil garnish, and the third with mushrooms and cheese. A water bottle and glass are in the background. This restaurant is a must-eat-at during your three days in Madrid. — Gluten Free Pizza 📍Senza Glutine di Grosso Napoletano

A gray plate with sliced beef schnitzel filled with melted cheese and a green pepper on top. Served alongside crispy golden fries and blistered green peppers. The background features a wooden table and another plate of food. During your three days in Madrid, cachopo is a dish you cannot miss out on. — Gluten Free Cachopo 📍Casa San Juan

If you’re celiac or gluten intolerant, I got some great news for you… Madrid is the foodie heaven for everyone, including us!💃🥳

Discover 12 of Madrid’s Best Gluten Restaurants!😍🇪🇸

Two great options for lunch time today are gluten free pizza at Grosso Napoletano, or traditional Spanish food at Casa San Juan. Both these restaurants are roughly a 15-minute-walk away from the Royal Palace.

Grosso Napoletano is a chain of pizza restaurants and is strongly beloved amongst the locals. This chain has some regular (gluten containing) restaurants, and other locations that are completely gluten free.

Casa San Juan, on the other hand, is one location and is 100% gluten free. If you eat here, I strongly recommend trying the Cachopo – Spain’s version of Cordon Bleu.

Important Tips. In Madrid, it’s always best to book your restaurant reservations a day in advance! But if the restaurant says it’s fully booked, it never hurts to ask at the restaurant, as they tend to overestimate how long people take with their meals.

Afternoon | Hidden Gem and Merienda

Now that you’ve eaten up and rested up for a bit, you have 2 options: 1) Siesta or 2) Keep Adventuring. Let me know your choice in the comments!😆👇

No matter which one you pick, your next destination is a hidden gem and a local favorite, Campo del Moro. Campo del Moro is a large park that sits right behind the Royal Palace, and is the most perfect oasis and city-escape. When you walk here, you will be surrounded by endless greenery, including tall trees and ivy growing on both trees and buildings.

Strolling around Campo del Moro allows you to slow down and take in all the beauty you’ve seen so far in the day. Here you will find few people, some of which will also be on peaceful strolls, others relaxing on benches, or catching up with loved ones.

The Royal Palace of Madrid stands majestically under a clear blue sky, surrounded by lush gardens with people strolling on the path. Autumn trees with golden leaves frame the scene. Visiting Campo del Moro is a must when you're spending three days in Madrid.

A decorative two-tiered stone fountain with intricate sculptures stands in a park. Figures support the tiers, and additional statues sit around its base. Tall trees with autumn foliage surround the fountain against a clear blue sky. Visiting Campo del Moro is a must when you're spending 3 days in Madrid.

Once you’re done walking around this hidden gem of Madrid, it’ll be time to enjoy merienda – snack time! For merienda, you can head to any cafe of your choice and enjoy some churros with hot chocolate, tea, basque cheesecake, and so forth.

If you’re celiac, I highly recommend Pastelería La Oriental Sin Gluten, a 100% gluten free bakery. It’s a bit out of the way, but also right next to the final destination of the day.

Evening | Sunset at Temple de Debod

Templo de Debod is an authentic, over 2,200 years old, Egyptian Temple that Egypt donated to Spain back in 1968. Temple of Debod is free to visit, but it’s recommended to book a time slot as visits are limited.

Once you’ve admired the Templo de Debod, whether by visiting or admiring from a distance, head to the Mirador de Templo de Debod. This viewpoint is famous amongst locals and tourists alike, as people gather for the sunset.

Around this area there are people having picnic, taking peaceful strolls, others are singing and/or dancing to the street musicians performing. It’s a magical time of the day where you see a beautiful and fun side of humanity.

Sunset time changes a lot based on the month you’re visiting, so I recommend taking that into consideration before you visit.

Day 2 | Culture, City-Breaks and More

Morning | Museo del Prado

The image shows the front entrance of the Museo del Prado, a renowned art museum in Madrid. The facade features a large advertisement for an exhibition titled "Darse la Mano." Visitors are gathered around the entrance.

Rise and shine, it’s time for your second day in Madrid!

Once you’ve grabbed a nice breakfast, head to your first adventure of the day – Museo del Prado. With over 8,600 paintings and 700 statues, including work from world-renowned artists, this is one of the most important museums in the world.

Museo del Prado is such an immense museum that 2 hours will fly by, and you will have barely scratched the surface. Something really neat is that the museum put together itineraries based on how much time you have – 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours.

Important Thing to Know. Photos and videos here are strictly prohibited, and the people who work here are constantly checking for anyone who disrespects this rule. While it may seem annoying, this rule actually benefits you, as it forces you to give all your attention to the art surrounding you and dive deep.

Check out all my Museo Del Prado Tips & Things To Know Before Visiting ✨

Important Tip. Out of all the best things to do in Madrid, this is the one that sells out the fastest. Book your tickets now, or ASAP, to save your spot!👇

Afternoon | Lunch & Parque del Retiro

People are enjoying a sunny day on a lake in front of the Monument to Alfonso XII in Retiro Park, Madrid. Small boats float on the water of Estanque Grande de El Retiro and lush trees surround the area under a clear blue sky. Visiting Parque del Retiro (Retiro Park) is a must when you're spending three days in Madrid.

Once you’re done with Museo del Prado and your eyes have feasted on views, it’s time for your tummy to do the same and eat!

After lunch, head to Madrid’s most beloved and famous park – Parque del Retiro. This immense park is nothing short of magical, for the beauties surrounding you and the vibes that radiate off of locals and tourists alike.

Parque del Retiro acts as an oasis, where people go to slow down. You’ll see people running, others by taking peaceful strolls, or laying down in the grass. Some things to admire in the Retiro park are the Rose Garden, beautiful nature, architecture such as the Crystal Palace, and the Estanque Grande de El Retiro, where you can go rowing.

My biggest tip for visiting this park is to keep your eyes open, and soak in all the magical moments that surround you. Let yourself get lost as you stroll around, and stay for as long as you wish.

Evening | Merienda, Salamanca, and the Barrio de las Letras

Time for a delicious merienda, and visiting two beautiful neighborhoods!

First up, just a nine minute walk from the Retiro Park, is the Salamanca neighborhood and a famous bakery. Salamanca is a quiet and luxurious neighborhood where you’ll find yourself surrounded by beautiful architecture and high-end stores. As you walk through here to reach the bakery, make sure to look up and admire the buildings.

The famous bakery is Chök, where you find the craziest cookies, pastries, and chocolate. This beloved bakery has several locations, and their Salamanca location on Calle de Goya 49 is 100% gluten free. While I wasn’t a fan of their small pizzas, their cookies were incredible – I strongly recommend the Peanut Butter & Jelly one!😍

Storefront of "chök," featuring a glass door flanked by stone walls. Inside, a glimpse of the interior shows tables and what appears to be a counter. A sign on the wall indicates gluten-free options are available.

A display of desserts including chocolate cakes topped with cream and cherries, and cookies with jam and almond slices. A sign in the foreground reads "Cookie Vegana 4,15€". The sweets are arranged on a marble counter.

Once you’re done with Merienda, head to Barrio de las Letras, “Literary Quarter”, one of the most culturally important quarters of Madrid. During the Golden Age of Spanish literature, in the 17th century, this quarter was home to many prominent Spanish writers, including Quevedo. Some things to do and admire in this quarter include the Lope de Vega House Museum, Calle Huertas,and Plaza de Santa Ana.

Day 3 | Hidden Gems, Markets, and Neighborhoods

It’s the last of your 3 days in Madrid— are you ready?!💃

If your third day happens to be on a Sunday, you are in luck because you get to visit Madrid’s famous Sunday Market – Mercado El Rastro. Plus, spending a Sunday in Madrid is a great time!

With the first 2 days in Madrid you have already seen the very main attractions, and some hidden gems. With that said, today is your free day where you get to pick what to do.

Walk Around Chamberí and Malasaña

Chamberí and Malasaña are two other great neighborhoods worth visiting.

Chamberí is a charming, lesser-known neighborhood that allows you to dive deeper into the local side of Madrid. This neighborhood is particularly known for its tapas scene, especially on Calle Ponzano.

Malasaña, on the other hand, is famous for its movida and night scene, so this could be a great neighborhood to save for your last night adventures! Similarly to Chamberí, Malasaña allows you to experience the local side of Madrid.

When comparing the two Chamberí is more quiet and refined, while Malasaña is more exciting.

Revisit the City Center and Madrid’s Icons

A grand, historic building with ornate architectural details and towers, set against a clear sky. Trees and people are near the entrance, while a wide street with streetlights and a few vehicles runs in front of it.

The city center can never be visited enough! From Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, to Gran Via and Palacio de Cibeles, endless food markets and shops – there is so much to see and enjoy.😍

Visit the Reina Sofía Museum

Another of Madrid’s most important museums is Museo Reina Sofía. This museum hosts the most important collection of contemporary art, and is famous for being the home of one of Picasso’s masterpieces – Guernica.

Book your tickets today!👇

Bernabéu Stadium for the Football Lovers

If you are a football fan, or are traveling with one, the Bernabéu Stadium is something you simply cannot miss out on!

By visiting this stadium, you will enter the second-largest stadium in Spain and dive into the history of the incredible team of Real Madrid. You will also get to admire club memorabilia, watch videos of iconic moments, learn about the cups Real Madrid won, and so much more.😍

Important Note. Unlike most activities on Get Your Guide, this experience is non-refundable! You can buy a flexible ticket for an additional 5 euros, that allows you to visit at any time of the day you booked for.

If this is right up your alley, book your entry tickets before they sell out!👇

Attend a Flamenco Show

If you’re not planning to visit Granada or Sevilla, where Flamenco is born, then attending a Flamenco show in Madrid is certainly worth it! This best-rated show in Madrid lasts one hour, and introduces you to the magic of Andalusia.💃

Book your tickets, before they sell out!👇

Are 3 days enough for Madrid?

Madrid is an immense city full of incredible things to do and see. With that said, 3 days is enough to see the highlights and explore some hidden gems – allowing you to see the local side of things. If this is your first time visiting Madrid, 3 full days is a great first trip!

Where to Stay in Madrid

Madrid has many wonderful neighborhoods to pick from. If this is your first time in Madrid, I suggest staying as central as possible – this allows you to easily reach all the must-sees and hidden gems. Two central areas to look into are Sol-Granvia and Madrid de los Austrias.

If you don’t want to be too central, and find yourself in a more quiet area, Barrio de las Letras could be perfect for you. This neighborhood is close to the center, and is fairly quiet. Then there’s also Salamanca, which is a luxurious and quiet neighborhood, and is the least central.

Finally, if you’re on a budget but still want to be as central as possible, Lavapies and La Latina are your best options. People online tend to say that La Latina is best to avoid at night, but I personally felt comfortable walking around there.

Best time to Visit Madrid

The best time to visit Madrid is in the Spring and Fall, as in these seasons you have the best weather and you avoid the summer crowds.

If you don’t mind the cold and want a less-crowded Madrid, the months January, February, and March are a great time to visit!

One month I personally loved visiting in was November, because of the foliage and weather. The center was ridiculously crowded, but as soon as you moved away from the center everything was fairly quiet.

How to Get to Madrid City Center from Airport

Getting to the Madrid city center from the airport is really simple! Within the airport, you can access the Cercanías (commuter rail) that brings you all the way to Sol. The airport has endless signs scattered around to guide you easily to the commuter.

If you’re not a budget, you can also get a taxi. However, it’s good to note that the commuter rail is just as fast as the taxi, with an average 35 minute ride. The taxi is around 30 minutes ride.

Madrid FAQs

Is Madrid a walkable city?

It does not get more walkable than Madrid! Something I love about this city is that a 20 minute walk, even 30-minute, flies by due to how much there is to admire.

What is the number one attraction in Madrid?

It’s hard to give a number one attraction in Madrid, because there is just so much to see and visit! The two most famous attractions are certainly the Museo del Prado and the Palacio Real de Madrid, “Royal Palace”. If you can, I’d visit both – if you can’t, your choice comes down to incredible art vs. architecture.

Important Tip. These two, especially Museo del Prado, sell out really quickly and well in advance. Book your tickets today, or ASAP, to save your spot before its too late!👇

Besides the famous squares, the number one free attraction in Madrid is Parque del Retiro. This immense park acts a city-oasis, where locals and tourists alike go to slow down and enjoy simple, quiet moments.

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I have to ask…

Are you excited for your three days in Madrid? Which of these days are you most excited for – 1, 2, or 3? Let me know in the comments!😊

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How to Spend Three Days in Madrid | The Perfect Itinerary

How to Spend the Perfect 3 Days in Madrid