Art and Culture in Madrid: A 5-Day Itinerary Itinerary

Enjoy a relaxing morning at the serene Retiro Park (Parque de El Retiro). You can rent a boat on the lake or simply take a stroll through the gardens. Afterward, visit the nearby Alcalá Gate (Puerta de Alcalá) and the Cibeles Fountain (Fuente de Cibeles).

For a late lunch, head to the iconic Mercado de San Miguel and sample a variety of Spanish tapas. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Estadio Santiago Bernabéu) for a glimpse into the history of Real Madrid.

In the evening, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Gran Vía, Madrid's famous shopping street. Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Ramón Freixa Madrid, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant.

Start your day with a visit to the Reina Sofia Museum (Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia) to admire its collection of contemporary art, including Picasso's "Guernica." Afterward, take a leisurely walk to the nearby Atocha Railway Station, a stunning example of 19th-century architecture.

For a unique dining experience, have lunch at DiverXO, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its avant-garde cuisine. Afterward, explore the historic Lope de Vega House Museum (Casa Museo Lope de Vega), the former home of the famous Spanish playwright.

In the evening, attend a flamenco show at Corral de la Morería, one of the oldest and most renowned tablaos in Madrid. Enjoy a late-night dinner at La Terraza del Casino, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant.

Explore the historic neighborhood of La Latina and visit the San Francisco El Grande Basilica, known for its stunning architecture and artworks. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming Sabatini Gardens (Jardines de Sabatini).

For lunch, indulge in the creative cuisine of DSTAgE, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant. Afterward, visit the Cybele Palace (Palacio de Cibeles) and enjoy the panoramic views from its rooftop terrace.

Discover the vibrant street art scene in the Malasaña neighborhood and enjoy dinner at Punto MX, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving contemporary Mexican cuisine.

Spend your last morning in Madrid visiting the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum (Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza), which houses a unique collection of European art. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Retiro Park (Parque de El Retiro).

For a memorable farewell lunch, dine at Santceloni, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exquisite cuisine. Afterward, visit the Valley of Cuelgamuros (Valley of the Fallen), a controversial but historically significant site.

Conclude your trip with a sunset visit to the Temple of Debod (Templo de Debod), an ancient Egyptian temple in the heart of Madrid. Enjoy a farewell dinner at Casa Lucio, a beloved restaurant famous for its traditional Spanish dishes.