Top 12 things to do in Madrid in 3 days. The Ultimate Backpacker’s Guide + A Local Secret…

Introduction and TL;DR

Madrid is a vibrant city with a population of 3.2 million people. It is a sprawling city with a variety of neighborhoods and attractions. The city offers a range of cultural activities like art galleries, museums, and monuments. It also has a lively nightlife and diverse culinary scene. Madrid is an ideal destination for a short break, with plenty of things to do in three days. This guide will provide an overview of the top attractions and activities in Madrid, from iconic landmarks and museums to parks, restaurants, and nightlife. It will also provide tips on how to make the most of the three days in the city.

City Highlights

1. Prado Museum: Prado Museum is one of the most iconic attractions in Madrid. It is renowned for its vast collection of European art from the 12th to 19th centuries. It is worth visiting to admire the masterpieces of Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.

2. Royal Palace: Royal Palace is another must-visit attraction in Madrid. It was built in the 18th century and is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. The palace is filled with amazing art, furniture, and sculptures.

3. Puerta del Sol: Puerta del Sol is a lively square in the heart of Madrid. It is a popular spot for tourists to hang out and people-watch. There are many restaurants, shops, and cafes to explore in the area.

4. Retiro Park: Retiro Park is a beautiful oasis in the city. It is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and admire the lush gardens and stunning monuments. There are also boat rides and pedal boats available in the park.

5. Plaza Mayor: Plaza Mayor is a large plaza in the center of Madrid. It is surrounded by beautiful buildings and is a great place to take pictures. There are also many restaurants and cafes to explore in the area.

About Madrid

Madrid is the capital of Spain and is located in the center of the country. It is known for its warm and dry climate, with temperatures ranging from mild winters to hot summers.

The city is steeped in history and was the center of the Spanish Empire in the 16th century. It is home to many historical sites, including the Royal Palace and the Prado Museum.

The best time to visit Madrid is in the spring and autumn when temperatures are mild and the city is less crowded.

Madrid is also known for its vibrant nightlife and its unique cuisine. Tapas bars are a popular tourist attraction, as well as flamenco performances. The city also has a vibrant art scene, with many galleries and museums.

How to Spend 3 Days in Madrid:
The Best Itinerary + Where to Stay

Spend three days in Madrid and make the most of your time by avoiding lines at tourist attractions.

You can fast track tickets to Madrid tourist attractions by pre-booking online. This will save you time and ensure you get to experience all the amazing sights Madrid has to offer.

You can also use a Madrid City Pass to get fast track entry to some of the city’s most popular attractions. This will help you make the most of your time and get the most out of your visit.

Where to stay in Madrid is also important. Look for a hotel or Airbnb in the city centre to be close to all the best attractions and restaurants.

With the right planning and preparation, you can make the most of your three days in Madrid. Pre-book tickets and use a city pass to fast track your way to some of the city’s top attractions. Find the perfect place to stay in the city centre to make the most of your visit.

Madrid Itinerary: Day 1
The Historic Centre

Prado Museum is one of the most iconic attractions in Madrid and an absolute must-see for any traveler. The museum houses a huge collection of artworks from the 12th century to the early 19th century, including masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco. It’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid queues. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of Spanish art and to appreciate some of the most famous paintings in the world.

Royal Palace of Madrid is one of the most impressive buildings in the city, and a great place to explore the history of Spain and the Spanish Royal Family. The palace is open to the public, and the best time to visit is early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Inside, you’ll find a huge collection of artwork, including paintings by Velázquez and Goya, as well as a number of beautiful tapestries and frescoes.

Plaza Mayor is one of the most famous squares in Madrid and a great place to people-watch. The square is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, and it’s a great place to sit and relax with a drink. The best time to visit is during the day, when it’s full of people and the atmosphere is buzzing. The square is also home to a number of events and festivals throughout the year, making it a great place to get a taste of local culture.

Retiro Park is one of the most beautiful places in Madrid and a great place to spend an afternoon. The park is full of lush greenery and tranquil lakes, and is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon, when the sun is setting and the park is illuminated by the golden light. The park is also home to a number of monuments and sculptures, making it a great place to explore. As one of the top things to do in Madrid in 3 days, Retiro Park should not be missed.

Madrid Itinerary: Day 2
Things to See and Do

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is one of the most famous stadiums in the world and the home of the legendary Real Madrid football team. It is a must-see for any football fan visiting Madrid and is a great attraction for all ages. The stadium has a capacity of over 80,000 and is a great place to watch a game or take a tour of the facilities. The best time to visit is during the week, when the crowds are smaller and the queues are shorter.

El Rastro Flea Market is one of the most vibrant and popular destinations in Madrid and is a great way to experience the local culture. Every Sunday morning, the streets around the market are packed with vendors selling everything from antiques to vintage clothing. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and bargains, but be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is one of Madrid’s most important art galleries and is home to a vast collection of masterpieces from the 13th to the 20th centuries. The museum is renowned for its collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, and its impressive selection of Impressionist and Modern works. The best time to visit is during the week when the crowds are smaller and the queues are shorter.

Gran Vía is Madrid’s most famous street and is home to some of the city’s most iconic buildings. It is lined with shops, restaurants, and theatres, and is a great place to explore and experience the city’s vibrant culture. The best time to visit is in the evening, when the street is lit up with colourful lights and bustling with people.

Puerta del Sol is one of the most iconic squares in Madrid and is the perfect place to start exploring the city. It is surrounded by some of the city’s most important landmarks, including the Royal Palace, and is a great spot to people watch and take in the atmosphere. The best time to visit is during the day, when the square is full of life and the streets are lined with street performers.

For those looking for things to do in Madrid in 3 days, these five attractions are all must-sees. From the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium to El Rastro Flea Market

Madrid Itinerary: Day 3
Where to Go?

Puerta del Sol is one of the most iconic landmarks in Madrid and is a must-see for any tourist. It is located in the heart of the city and is the main meeting point for locals and tourists alike. It is the official center of Madrid, and the kilometer zero marker for the Spanish road network is located there. The Puerta del Sol is a great place to people watch and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city. It is also home to the famous clock tower, which chimes each day at midnight. To avoid queues, it is best to visit the Puerta del Sol in the early morning or late afternoon. It is definitely worth visiting as it is one of the most iconic things to do in Madrid in 3 days.

Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple that was gifted to Spain in the 1960s. It is located in the Parque del Oeste, and it is one of the most unique attractions in Madrid. It is a great place to take in the incredible views of the city, and the temple itself is quite impressive. The best time to visit the Temple of Debod is in the morning or late afternoon, when the crowds are smaller. It is definitely worth visiting for its unique history and incredible views.

Reina Sofía Museum is one of the most important art galleries in Madrid. It is home to some of the most famous works of art in the world, including Picasso’s “Guernica”. The museum also has a great collection of contemporary art, and the building itself is an impressive piece of architecture. To avoid queues, it is best to visit the Reina Sofía Museum in the morning or late afternoon. It is definitely worth visiting for its incredible collection of art and its unique architecture.

Plaza de Cibeles is one of the most beautiful and iconic squares in Madrid. It is home to the famous Cibeles Fountain, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The square also has a number of impressive buildings, including the Bank of Spain and the City Council. To avoid queues, it is best to visit Plaza de Cibeles in the morning or late afternoon. It is definitely worth visiting for its beautiful architecture and its iconic fountain. It is also one of the

Where to Stay in Madrid

Hostel One Paralelo is located in the heart of Barcelona and is a great choice if you’re looking for a hostel in a great location. It is close to the beach and many of the city’s attractions, making it a great base for exploring the city. The hostel offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, bar, and restaurant. It is also close to many of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and shops. It is a great option for those who want to explore the city and experience all the things to do in Madrid in 3 days.

Generator Madrid is a great hostel located in the heart of Madrid. It is close to many of the city’s attractions, including the Prado Museum, Royal Palace, and El Retiro Park. The hostel offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, bar, and restaurant. It is also close to many of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and shops. It is a great option for those who want to explore the city and experience all the things to do in Madrid in 3 days.

Bastardo Hostel A journey does not begin at the gate, on the platform of the train or when you get into the car. It starts the moment you begin fantasizing about it. When you’re obsessively looking at a point on the map, while you read as much as you can about a destination on the internet, consulting books, guides even chatting with other travelers or natives about that dreamed-of place, you’re actually on your way.

MuchMadrid MuchoMadrid has spacious rooms right on Gran V. an in the centre of Madrid, close to the opera house, the Royal Palace and Puerta del Sol. Many Hostelworld visitors have said their favourite feature of this hostel is its location. in the middle of a major part of Madrid?, within walking distance of popular bars and clubs where ? both tourists and locals hang out.

Pack more into your 3 days in Madrid

Try Hosteworld Linkups!

Don’t miss out on these special events

Ask at your hostel’s front desk for the week’s itinerary and sign up to mix, mingle, and make unforgettable memories.

Hostels around the city frequently plan activities ranging from walking tours that delve deep into Madrid’s rich history to spirited pub crawls that introduce you to the city’s lively nightlife.

Whether you’re a solo traveller looking to make new friends or a group eager for a collective adventure, these linkups add a dynamic and enriching layer to your experience.

5 Insider Tips for Visitors Traveling to Madrid from
Other Solo Travelers and Backpackers

1. Madrid is a great city for solo travelers and backpackers. It’s easy to get around and there are plenty of things to do in Madrid in 3 days. Make sure to use public transportation, as it is very affordable and efficient.

2. Eating out in Madrid can be a bit pricey, so look for lunch specials at restaurants or visit a local market for a delicious and affordable meal.

3. Take advantage of Madrid’s many free attractions, such as the Royal Palace, Retiro Park, and the Prado Museum.

4. Visit the city’s many historical sites, such as the Plaza Mayor or the Puerta del Sol. There are also plenty of things to do in Madrid in 3 days, such as exploring the city’s nightlife or visiting the nearby towns of Toledo or Segovia.

5. Take advantage of the city’s many discounts and deals, such as the Madrid Card, which gives you access to discounts on attractions, restaurants, and transportation.

FAQs

Q: How can I get around Madrid?
A: Madrid has an extensive public transportation system including buses, metro, and regional trains. You can purchase a Metrobús card which allows you to use all three types of transportation.

Q: What is the best way to find cheap and good food in Madrid?
A: Madrid has a variety of restaurants, tapas bars, and food markets. You can find cheap and good food by exploring the city’s local markets, trying out different tapas bars, and taking advantage of daily lunch specials.

Q: What are some free activities to do in Madrid?
A: There are plenty of free activities to do in Madrid. You can explore the city’s many parks, visit the Royal Palace, take a free walking tour, and visit some of the city’s many museums and galleries.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Madrid is a vibrant and exciting city with a lot to offer. It is an ideal destination for those looking to experience the culture, nightlife and cuisine of Spain.

The city has a range of attractions, from the historic Royal Palace to the modern art of the Reina Sofia Museum. There is something for everyone, whether you are a culture vulture, a foodie or a night owl.

The city has a great range of accommodation, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. The public transport system is excellent, making it easy to get around.

Overall, Madrid is a great destination for a holiday. With a wide range of attractions, accommodation and transport options, it is an ideal place to explore and enjoy.