Day 1: Royal Madrid – Palaces and Plazas
Morning: Kick off your Madrid adventure in the heart of the city with a walk through Plaza Mayor. This grand, rectangular square is surrounded by elegant arcaded buildings and has been the scene of everything from royal ceremonies to public executions and bullfights. It’s the perfect place to start, snap some photos, and take in the vibe.
From there, stroll down Calle Mayor to reach Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s symbolic center. Here you’ll find the famous Kilometer Zero plaque—marking the starting point of Spain’s national roads. It’s usually buzzing with energy, street performers, and locals rushing between metro lines.
Next up is the crown jewel: the Royal Palace of Madrid. It’s the largest functioning royal palace in Western Europe and packs a regal punch with its grand staircase, Throne Room, Royal Armory, and sweeping views from the gardens. Right next door is the Almudena Cathedral, striking from the outside and surprisingly modern inside—don’t skip the crypt or the rooftop lookout!
Afternoon: After a regal morning, slow things down in Plaza de la Villa, one of Madrid’s oldest squares, surrounded by historic buildings. From there, let yourself wander through the charming streets of Madrid de los Austrias, a maze of cobblestone alleys and architectural gems. If you enjoy lesser-known places, duck into the Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales, a former royal convent filled with hidden frescoes and tapestries.
Spend some time browsing through artisan shops before heading to Parc de la Ciutadella, one of Barcelona’s most beloved green spaces. Don’t miss the grand Cascada Monumental, an ornate fountain partially designed by Gaudí in his early days.
Evening: As the sun sets, head toward La Latina, a neighborhood known for its narrow medieval streets and authentic vibe. It’s perfect for a casual evening stroll or to grab some bites at a local tavern. The area has a lively yet laid-back feel, and it’s easy to fall in love with the rhythm of life here.
Save Tip:
Download free audio guides for the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral to explore them at your own pace without the cost of a tour.
Splurge Tip:
Opt for a private tour that includes hidden rooms in the palace and early access—it’s a whole different experience with fewer crowds and richer stories.
Day 2: Art and Nature
Morning: Today is all about art and green spaces. Begin your morning at the world-famous Museo del Prado. Home to one of the finest collections of European art, it’s packed with works by Goya, Velázquez, Rubens, and more. Even if you’re not a huge museum person, the sheer scale and beauty of this place are worth a visit.
Just across the street, take a break at the Real Jardín Botánico, a peaceful and beautifully landscaped botanical garden. It’s a serene space to decompress before diving back into more art.
Afternoon: Your next stop is the Museo Reina Sofía, Spain’s top modern art museum. Its biggest draw is Picasso’s Guernica, but you’ll also find works by Dalí, Miró, and many others. The museum’s mix of old and new architecture is a visual treat in itself.
Then it’s time to escape into the lungs of Madrid—El Retiro Park. This massive green space is a local favorite and has several highlights, including the Crystal Palace (Palacio de Cristal), a stunning glass building used for temporary art exhibitions. The nearby Velázquez Palace often features additional displays. Don’t miss a stroll around the Estanque Grande, where locals row boats and street performers play music along the banks.
Evening: Exit the park through Puerta de Alcalá, one of Madrid’s most iconic monuments. As daylight fades, walk along Paseo del Prado, which becomes even more picturesque under the golden glow of the evening sky. It’s the perfect end to a day of art and culture.
Save Tip: Most major museums have free entry in the evening, usually during the last two hours—perfect for budget travelers.
Splurge Tip: Buy a skip-the-line Art Walk Pass that gives you access to Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza, sometimes bundled with a guided tour.
Day 3: Trendy Neighborhood Scene
Morning: Start your day in Barrio de Salamanca, Madrid’s high-end shopping district. Walk along Calle de Serrano for some window shopping and take in the elegant architecture. Then visit the Museo Arqueológico Nacional—a true hidden gem. It covers Spain’s deep history from prehistoric times to the medieval period and is surprisingly modern and well-curated.
Afternoon: Shift gears and dive into Malasaña, the neighborhood where Madrid’s counterculture was born. Wander down graffiti-tagged lanes, pop into vintage shops, and relax in Plaza del Dos de Mayo—a favorite among locals for its indie vibe. The streets are colorful, the mood is artsy, and it’s easy to lose track of time here.
Afterward, head to Chueca, Madrid’s vibrant LGBTQ+ district. It’s chic, trendy, and full of character. Browse boutique shops, enjoy bold street art, or just sit in a sun-drenched plaza and soak up the atmosphere.
Evening: As the sun sets, these neighborhoods buzz with energy. Whether you’re up for a relaxed evening or ready to dive into nightlife, this is the place to be. Both Malasaña and Chueca offer everything from chill wine bars to thumping dance floors.
Save Tip: Skip shopping and instead explore the neighborhoods through free street art walks or visit quirky local galleries.
Splurge Tip: Book a local-led walking tour through Malasaña and Chueca to uncover hidden stories, rooftop views, and maybe a secret bar or two.
Day 4: Magical Day in Segovia
Morning: Time for a change of pace! Catch a high-speed train from Madrid Chamartín to Segovia, just 30 minutes away. When you arrive, prepare to be wowed by the Roman Aqueduct, an ancient engineering marvel made of 25,000 granite blocks—no mortar, just perfect precision.
From there, walk into the Old Town, a maze of medieval streets that wind up toward the Segovia Cathedral. It’s a stunning Gothic structure with an imposing tower and beautifully detailed chapels.
Afternoon: Save plenty of time for the fairytale Alcázar of Segovia, perched dramatically on a rocky cliff. This castle—believed to have inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle—features ornate ceilings, armor displays, and panoramic views from its tower. It’s every bit as magical as it sounds.
After the castle, enjoy a stroll through the Jewish Quarter, full of quiet courtyards and historic buildings. The town is walkable and compact, making it easy to explore at your own pace.
Evening: Grab a seat in the main square, Plaza Mayor, before catching your train back to Madrid. Segovia’s golden-hour light is spectacular, and it’s the perfect way to cap off your 4-day adventure.
Save Tip: Book round-trip train tickets in advance for the best fares, and walk everywhere once you arrive—Segovia is small and totally walkable.
Splurge Tip:
Hire a private guide in Segovia who can walk you through its Roman, Gothic, and medieval history with flair and insight.
Buy a Madrid Tourist Travel Pass for unlimited access to metro, bus, and suburban trains (including airport transfers). It’s not only budget-friendly, but also saves you time fumbling for tickets—especially if you’re zipping between neighborhoods or hopping on a quick train to Segovia.