Madrid Classics for First-Timers
The Royal Palace and old town, Plaza Mayor, the Prado and the Retiro: Madrid's core landmarks in three days.
Organized by area: on the afternoon of day one, the heart of the old town around Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor; day two is devoted to the Royal Palace, the cathedral and sunset at the Temple of Debod; on day three, the Prado in the morning and Retiro Park in the afternoon before departure. Mostly on foot, it suits first-time visitors short on time. Day trips and the Reina Sofía are left out; if you want to see Guernica, swap it for the Retiro on day three.
In July and August, afternoons often exceed 35°C, so plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening.
Day by day
Day 1 · Arrival and the Old Town Center
Madrid（Puerta del Sol、Plaza Mayor、Mercado de San Miguel、Chocolatería San Ginés）
From the airport, take Metro Line 8 with a transfer, or the airport express, to the center in about 40 minutes. Explore the old town on foot in the afternoon.
Stay: Puerta del Sol Area
Day 2 · The Royal Palace and Plaza de España
Madrid（Royal Palace of Madrid、Almudena Cathedral、Plaza de España、Temple of Debod、Gran Vía）
Walk about 15 minutes from Puerta del Sol to the Royal Palace, then continue along Plaza de España to the Temple of Debod, returning to Gran Vía in the evening.
Buy Royal Palace tickets online in advance; it closes at short notice for state events.
Stay: Puerta del Sol Area
Day 3 · The Prado and Retiro Park
Madrid（Prado Museum、El Retiro Park、Puerta de Alcalá）
Walk about 20 minutes to the Prado, then on to Retiro Park after the museum. In the afternoon, take the Metro or express train from the city to the airport.
Entering when the Prado opens means fewer people. A visit takes about 3 hours, so leave time to get to the airport.