2 Days in Madrid: The Perfect Itinerary for an Unforgettable City Break

Planning to see Madrid in just 2 days? No problem! This lively European capital is packed with charm, history, and energy — ideal for a quick getaway. With our stress-free itinerary, you’ll make the most of your 2 days in Madrid, discovering iconic landmarks, lush parks, world-class art, and the unbeatable local atmosphere.

Want to kick off your adventure the right way? Join this walking tour of Madrid — the perfect way to learn fun facts about the historic centre and get your bearings before exploring the city on your own.

Put on your comfiest shoes and get ready to fall in love with Madrid.

Day 1: Classic Madrid and its must-see highlights

Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol is the true heart of Madrid and the starting point of many main shopping streets. But beyond being a place you’ll pass through, it’s filled with iconic landmarks every traveler should see at least once.

• The famous Kilometer Zero – the point from which all of Spain’s radial roads begin.
• The equestrian statue of Charles III, known as “the best mayor Madrid ever had.”
• The iconic Tío Pepe sign, a true classic of the Madrid skyline.
• The Bear and the Strawberry Tree, the symbol of the city and featured on Madrid’s official coat of arms.
• And the Casa de Correos, with its tower and the clock that rings in the New Year every December 31st — a beloved Madrid tradition.

Take your time to soak in the lively buzz of Madrid.

Plaza Mayor

Just a five-minute walk from Puerta del Sol will take you to the impressive Plaza Mayor — one of the most historic spots in Madrid. This arcaded square has witnessed centuries of events, from bustling traditional markets and royal celebrations to old bullfights held right in the center.

Today, Plaza Mayor remains one of the most visited and photographed places in the city, drawing travelers with its elegant architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and undeniable charm.

Always lively and full of energy, Plaza Mayor is also a popular starting point for many walking tours that explore the most iconic neighborhoods of Madrid’s historic center. If you’re following our itinerary for 2 days in Madrid, this is a must-stop to immerse yourself in the city’s charm and history.

If you prefer a broader overview or want to take a break from walking, we recommend hopping on the City Sightseeing bus — a fun and easy way to cover more ground in less time. And of course, sitting at one of the square’s terraces to enjoy the local vibe is the perfect plan to soak up the spirit of Madrid.

San Miguel Market

Just a few steps from Plaza Mayor, you’ll find the San Miguel Market — the perfect spot for a quick break, a bite to eat, or simply to stroll through its vibrant stalls filled with tapas and gourmet delights.

Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral

Continue your route to the impressive Royal Palace of Madrid. You can admire it from the outside or, if you have time, book a ticket to explore the interior. Right across from it, the Almudena Cathedral is also worth a stop for its modern interior and the views from its dome.

If you’d like to explore both landmarks, consider joining this combined guided tour of the Royal Palace and the Cathedral — a perfect way to discover all their secrets without missing a thing.

Sabatini Gardens

After soaking up so much history, there’s nothing better than a peaceful break in the Sabatini Gardens, located along the north façade of the Royal Palace. Designed in a neoclassical style and inspired by traditional French gardens, this elegant green space features fountains, sculpted hedges, and postcard-worthy views of the palace.

It’s a quiet, often-overlooked spot—especially compared to Madrid’s busier parks—making it perfect for a short rest, a breath of fresh air, or a few serene moments away from the crowds. If you have the time, take a stroll along the side paths to uncover some beautifully photogenic corners.

Temple of Debod

ust a short walk from the Royal Palace, nestled in Parque del Oeste, you’ll find the unique Temple of Debod—a genuine piece of ancient Egypt in the heart of Madrid. This temple, over 2,000 years old, was a gift from Egypt to Spain in recognition of its help in preserving the monuments of Nubia. Its presence here is both unexpected and unforgettable.

Although you can visit the interior (be sure to check the schedule, as capacity is limited), what truly makes this site special is its peaceful setting. The temple is surrounded by a reflecting pool, and the contrast between its ancient stones and the surrounding modern city creates a remarkable scene.

But the real magic happens at sunset. From this spot, you’ll enjoy panoramic views over Casa de Campo and the distant mountains. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky bursts into color and reflects off the water, making the Temple of Debod one of the most enchanting places in Madrid to pause and take it all in.

Gran Vía

As evening falls, make your way to the lively Gran Vía, one of Madrid’s most iconic avenues. Stretching from Plaza de España to Calle de Alcalá, it’s the city’s vibrant spine—lined with theaters, musicals, flagship stores, historic bookshops, and stunning architecture that makes every step feel like a scene from a movie.

As you stroll along, you’ll pass by some of Madrid’s most photographed landmarks, such as the Metropolis Building, the Carrión Building with its iconic Schweppes sign, and the historic Telefónica Building. Gran Vía never sleeps—it’s the perfect place for a lively evening walk, a relaxed dinner, or a drink on one of its rooftop terraces.

If you’re in the mood for something more traditional and laid-back, take a short detour to La Latina. This charming neighborhood is one of Madrid’s most authentic areas, ideal for enjoying tapas in its cozy squares and local taverns.

Map of day 1

Day 2: Art, Parks & Local Life

Paseo del Prado

If you’re spending 2 days in Madrid, start your second day with a stroll along the elegant Paseo del Prado, one of the city’s most iconic boulevards. As you walk beneath its leafy trees, you’ll pass by some of the capital’s most famous fountains, including Neptune and Apollo, while immersing yourself in the cultural heart of the city.

Madrid is synonymous with art, and nowhere captures that better than the so-called Art Triangle or Golden Triangle of Art, located between Neptune Fountain and El Retiro Park. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021 under the name Landscape of Light, this area blends culture, history, and green space in perfect harmony.

Here you’ll find three of the most important museums in Europe: the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. For art and history lovers, this cultural hub is a must—everything within walking distance.

Prado Museum

If you’re a fan of fine art, don’t miss the Prado Museum, one of the most prestigious art galleries in the world. Even if you only have an hour or two, it’s worth stepping inside to admire masterpieces such as Velázquez’s Las Meninas, The Garden of Earthly Delights by Bosch, or Goya’s The Third of May 1808.

The building itself is also steeped in history—it was designed by Juan de Villanueva in the 18th century and became a museum in 1819. Today, it stands as a cornerstone of the Art Triangle and is essential for understanding Madrid’s rich cultural identity.

Skip the lines and save time — book your ticket here.

Plaza de Cibeles & Cibeles Palace

Next, head over to the stunning Plaza de Cibeles, dominated by the famous Fountain of Cibeles, a beloved symbol of Madrid and the epicenter of Real Madrid celebrations. This grand square is also a crossroads of the city’s major arteries, linking Paseo del Prado, Calle de Alcalá, and Paseo de Recoletos.

Here you’ll also find the Cibeles Palace, currently the City Hall of Madrid. Its rooftop viewpoint offers fantastic panoramic views over the city—perfect for taking a break and enjoying the skyline. You’ll also find a stylish ground-floor café offering gluten-free options.

Puerta de Alcalá

Just a few steps from Cibeles, you’ll find one of Madrid’s most iconic landmarks: the Puerta de Alcalá. Inaugurated in 1778 during the reign of Charles III, it was once one of the five royal gateways into the city — and actually the first triumphal arch of its kind built in Europe after the Roman Empire.

With its elegant neoclassical style and perfectly balanced proportions, it’s easy to see why it remains one of the most photographed spots in Madrid. A quick photo stop here is the perfect prelude before stepping into the peaceful beauty of El Retiro Park.

El Retiro Park

El Retiro is so much more than just a green space — it’s a peaceful, beautiful escape right in the heart of Madrid. Here you can rent a rowboat on the iconic Estanque Grande, step inside the stunning Crystal Palace (often home to free art exhibitions), or stumble upon hidden gems like the Fallen Angel statue or the lovely Rose Garden.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside the Paseo del Prado, El Retiro is the perfect place to unwind, soak up the sun, or wander beneath the shade of ancient trees. Take your time, get lost in its paths — there’s always something magical waiting to be discovered.

Literary District (Barrio de las Letras)

When lunchtime rolls around, head to Madrid’s charming Literary District — once home to legendary writers like Cervantes, Lope de Vega, and Quevedo. Today, this pedestrian-friendly neighborhood is filled with cozy cafés, bookshops, art galleries, and character-filled restaurants.

As you stroll its quaint streets, look down — you’ll spot literary quotes engraved in bronze on the pavement, a tribute to Spain’s Golden Age of literature. It’s the perfect area to enjoy some leisurely tapas, sip a drink on a terrace, and soak up the city’s cultural heartbeat.

Evening in Malasaña: The Perfect End to Your 2 Days in Madrid

To wrap up your time in Madrid, head to Malasaña, one of the city’s most vibrant and character-filled neighborhoods. Once the epicenter of the famous “Movida Madrileña,” today it’s a lively mix of creativity, street art, vintage shops, quirky cafés, and bars full of charm.

Strolling through its colorful streets is a plan in itself — you’ll find bold murals, unique storefronts, and a relaxed, alternative vibe that makes it the perfect spot to enjoy your final evening in the city.

Map of day 2

Two Days Not Enough? We Feel You!

Exploring Madrid in 2 days may sound ambitious — and honestly, it is. This city is bursting with history, charming neighborhoods, lush parks, iconic landmarks, and magical sunsets. There’s just too much to fit into one weekend!

Still, we hope this itinerary has given you a solid introduction to the Spanish capital — one filled with unforgettable moments and local flavor.

Craving more Madrid?

👉 Check out our full guide to the 26 best things to see in Madrid, where we dive even deeper into everything this amazing city has to offer.

Madrid never really ends… every extra day opens the door to a new adventure.

If you’ve recently visited the capital or are planning your first trip soon, we’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment and let us know what you thought of this itinerary or which spots you’d add to your own route.

And if you found this guide helpful, don’t hesitate to share it with fellow travelers. Help us grow the Glutendtrotters community — where gluten-free travel is easier, tastier… and so much better when shared! 💛

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