What to Do in Madrid: Must-See Attractions and Hidden Gems

Spain’s dynamic capital, Madrid is an enchanting blend of a glorious royal history, world-famous art, vibrant neighbourhoods, and delicious cuisine. No matter whether you are visiting the city for a short trip or planning a longer stay to fully immerse yourself in its beauty, Madrid will leave you enchanted with its vibrant energy and warm hospitality. This comprehensive guide will cover iconic landmarks and hidden gems, and give you a detailed idea of what to do in Madrid especially if you have to spend only 3 days in Madrid. Keep reading ahead if you want to plan a trip that will stay with you for a lifetime. 

Day 1: Madrid’s Historic and Cultural Heart

Start your trip with a visit to Puerta del Sol. It is one of the most bustling and iconic squares in Madrid, and is where the world-famous  “El Oso y El Madroño” (The Bear and the Strawberry Tree) statue is located. In addition to being the symbolic centre of Spain, it is a great spot to start your 3 days in Madrid trip. From here, you can easily access other attractions and shopping streets located nearby. 

Walk to Plaza Mayor

Just a few minutes and a short walk away is the stunning Plaza Mayor, which is a majestic grand square reflecting the magnificence of 17th century architecture. This is a historical place where once bullfights were organised and royal ceremonies were organised. It has now become a great spot for tourists and locals to unwind with a coffee or relish delicious and authentic Spanish cuisine. The amazing vibes of this place make it a fun stop in your 3 day itinerary in Madrid.

Tour the Royal Palace of Madrid

An important part of any trip to Madrid, is a visit to the Royal Palace, which is a remarkable example of baroque architecture. It is one of the largest palaces in Europe with a Royal Armory and a Throne Room. Once you step inside this majestic building, you will be left awestruck by the regal interiors with gilded ceilings and extravagant tapestries. Exploring this building will give you an insight into Madrid’s royal past. This experience is a must for those who want to explore Madrid in 3 days. 

Enjoy the Evening on Gran Vía

Visit Gran Vía to wrap up your first day of trip with some fun. It is the Spanish equivalent of Times Square. This place has grand theatres, chic stores and neon lights creating a vibrant atmosphere. If you love shopping or music, you should definitely visit the stores or catch a Spanish musical and an international play. This is a famous boulevard and is a must-visit attraction in your 3 day itinerary in Madrid. 

Day 2: Art, Parks, and Authentic Neighborhood Vibes

Begin day two of your trip by enjoying the vibes of Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art, which is home to these world-famous museums: 

• Prado Museum: It has classic pieces by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco on display.
• Reina Sofía Museum: Explore Visit Picasso’s striking Guernica and masterpieces by Dalí and Miró.
• Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: A diverse set of exhibits ranging from the time of Renaissance to the 20th century.

These three museums offer an interesting glimpse into the European art history and is one of the best things to do in Madrid in 3 days.  

Relax at El Retiro Park

After taking in the beauty of exquisite art, relax at El Retiro Park. It used to be a retreat for the royal family but is now a peaceful oasis that has gardens, scupltures and a tranquil lake. You can either take a lesiurely walk here, row a boat on the pond or explore the Crystal Palace, which is a beautiful glass pavilion that frequently hosts temporary art exhibitions. It’s the perfect place to explore in the afternoon or midday during your 3 days in Madrid. 

Explore the Hidden Gem of Lavapiés

Head to Lavapiés, one of Madrid’s most dynamic and multicultural neighbourhoods. It is known for its exquisite colorful street art, exotic restaurants serving delicious fusion dishes, and indie galleries. If you want something unique, offbeat, and different from the usual touristy attractions, this is the place that you should definitely have in your 3 day itinerary in Madrid.

Enjoy Tapas and a Flamenco Show

Sign off the second day of your visit like a local Madrileño. Head to La Latina, treat your taste buds to its exotic tapas bars and enjoy its lively nightlife scene. Make sure you try dishes like patatas bravas, croquetas, and jamón ibérico, and sip on Spanish wine or vermouth for an authentic culinary experience. After that, watch a flamenco show which is a great cultural experience and will add a richness to your Madrid in 3 days trip.

Day 3: Markets, Hidden Spots, and Skyline Views

In case one of these three days falls on a Sunday, begin your last day in Madrid with a visit to El Rastro. It is the most famous and stunning open-air flea market. You can shop antiques, clothes, vinyl records, and some unique souvenirs. It is a great way to experience the real local life of Madrid, and should definitely grab a spot in your 3 day itinerary in Madrid.

Visit the Temple of Debod

Next up, head to the Temple of Debod – a magnificent 20th-century Egyptian temple which was gifted to Spain. If you love nature, this is especially a great place to explore for you since it has a beautiful park and offers spectacular views especially at sunset. The fusion of nature and ancient history in a modern city is a one-of-a-kind experience. This place offers a serene retreat in a bustling city, and would definitely charm you if you want spend time at a tranquil spot during your  3 days in Madrid.

Hidden Gem: Chamberí Ghost Station

If you love adventure, visit the Chamberí Ghost Station, which is a part of the old metro system. It has been taken care of and has been preserved as a museum that offers a unique glimpse into Madrid’s transport history. The museum has vintage advertisements on display, while its tiled walls offer a nostalgic walk back in time. It is a magnificent place to explore for those who want to do something different in Madrid in 3 days.

Rooftop Sunset Views

Say a goodbye to Madrid with the promise to come back again for a longer trip by sipping on an exotic drink and soaking in the views of the city at one of its exotic rooftop bars. Two of our top choices are:

• Círculo de Bellas Artes: Offers panoramic views of Madrid
• Hotel Riu Plaza España: Popular for its walkway that is built with glass offers stunning 360° views of the city.

As you end each day of your trip with bags full of memories, you will understand why so many travelers from around the world fall in love with this city.

Conclusion

Madrid is a city of dreams. It’s a living, breathing cultural mosaic. The city has a diverse range of iconic attractions to explore. From majestic palaces to attractive hidden neighbourhoods, every street in Madrid has an interesting tale to tell. If you follow this guide on your next trip, rest assured, your 3 days in Madrid will be unforgettable.With history, beauty and flavour, Madrid has a way of mesmerizing its tourists, and whether you’re following a well-curated 3 day itinerary in Madrid or planning on exploring the city spontaneously, Madrid in 3 days is a trip that will make you fall in love with this incredible city.