5-Day Cultural and Culinary Exploration of Madrid Itinerary

Start your day at the iconic Puerta del Sol, the heart of Madrid, and then enjoy a delightful breakfast at Bodega de la Ardosa, a classic tavern known for its Iberian ham and vermouth. Afterward, visit the impressive Almudena Cathedral (Catedral de la Almudena) and the adjacent Sabatini Gardens (Jardines de Sabatini) for a serene morning walk.

Explore the historical Plaza Mayor and its surrounding area, then have lunch at Entre Santos Madrid, offering a modern twist on traditional Spanish cuisine. Afterward, continue to the lively La Latina neighborhood, known for its narrow streets and vibrant atmosphere. You can also visit the nearby Lope de Vega House Museum (Casa Museo Lope de Vega) to learn about the life of the famous Spanish playwright.

Enjoy an evening of flamenco at Corral de la Morería, one of the most renowned flamenco venues in the city. For dinner, indulge in the innovative dishes at El Minibar, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a unique culinary experience. Afterward, take a leisurely walk to the beautiful Palacio De Cristal in Retiro Park (Parque de El Retiro) and admire the stunning glass structure.

Begin with a visit to the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Estadio Santiago Bernabéu), home of Real Madrid, where you can take a tour of the stadium and learn about the club's history. For breakfast, enjoy the modern atmosphere and delicious pastries at Nice To Meet You Restaurant & Lounge. After the stadium, take a walk along the upscale Serrano Street and Velázquez Street for some luxury shopping.

Have a leisurely lunch at Matador, a restaurant with a bullfighting theme, and then visit the Metropolitano Stadium (Wanda Metropolitano), the home of Atlético Madrid. Take a guided tour to explore the stadium and the club's museum. Afterward, relax at the Valley of the Fallen (Valle de los Caídos), a monumental memorial and basilica located in the nearby mountains.

Enjoy the panoramic views of the city from Azotea del Círculo, a rooftop terrace with a sophisticated ambiance, while sipping on cocktails. For dinner, head to Taberna el Sur de Huertas, a charming tavern with a selection of traditional Spanish dishes. End your evening with a visit to the vibrant Plaza de Colón and the nearby Columbus Square (Plaza de Colón).

Take a day trip to the Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial (El Escorial), a historical residence of the King of Spain, located about an hour from Madrid. Explore the impressive palace, the royal monastery, and the surrounding gardens. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Mas Al Sur, known for its Spanish-Mediterranean fusion cuisine, before you depart for El Escorial.

After returning from El Escorial, spend a relaxing afternoon at the Royal Botanical Garden (Real Jardín Botánico) in Madrid. The garden is a peaceful oasis with a wide variety of plant species. For lunch, visit Malaspina, a traditional Spanish tavern with a cozy atmosphere and a selection of tapas and local dishes.

Dine at Picalagartos Sky Bar & Restaurant, located on the top floor of the NH Collection Gran Vía hotel, offering stunning views of the city skyline. Enjoy a mix of international and Spanish cuisine. After dinner, take a walk along the lively Gran Vía and explore the vibrant nightlife of Madrid.

Begin your day with a visit to the Reina Sofia Museum (Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia), home to an extensive collection of 20th-century art, including masterpieces by Picasso and Dalí. For breakfast, enjoy the elegant setting and a selection of pastries at East 47 Restaurant-Bar. After the museum, take a short walk to the nearby Neptune Fountain (Fuente de Neptuno) and the Paseo del Prado, known for its beautiful architecture and museums.

Explore the lesser-known gems of Madrid, starting with the Temple of Debod (Templo de Debod), an ancient Egyptian temple located in a peaceful park. Then, visit the Basílica de San Francisco El Grande, a stunning church with impressive frescoes and a majestic dome. For lunch, head to Restaurante-Coctelería Inclán Brutal Bar, a trendy spot with a mix of culinary and cocktail delights.

Spend your final evening in Madrid at the Radio Rooftop Madrid, a stylish rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a sophisticated atmosphere and a selection of drinks. For dinner, indulge in the creative dishes at Mas Al Sur, where the menu is inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean. Reflect on your trip as you take in the skyline and the vibrant energy of the Spanish capital.