Madrid itineraries

Palace to Prado in a Day

Palace in the morning, a calamari sandwich for lunch, the Prado and Retiro in the afternoon, a rooftop at sunset. The most Madrid you can fit into one day.

Sol Base: Flamenco and Museums

Drop bags next to Puerta del Sol. Day one is the old Habsburg quarter and a flamenco show, day two the museum mile and Retiro. Everything is on foot.

Gran Vía Base, Toledo Included

Base yourself behind Gran Vía in Chueca. Day one is the museum mile and a rooftop, day two the palace, a La Latina cocido and the Bernabéu, day three a Toledo day trip. Madrid and what lies beyond, in one go.

Festivals & seasons

• 1 — Three Kings Parade (Cabalgata de Reyes)
• 2 — ARCOmadrid Art Fair
• 4 — Spring, the best season
• 5 — San Isidro Festivities
• 5 — San Isidro Bullfighting Fair
• 6 — Madrid Book Fair (Feria del Libro)
• 7 — Madrid Pride (MADO)
• 7 — High-summer heat
• 10 — National Day Parade and Suma Flamenca
• 11 — Autumn colour in Retiro
• 12 — Christmas Lights and the Twelve Grapes at Sol

Souvenirs

• Violetas (violet sweets)
• Turrón and marzipan
• Espadrilles
• Real Madrid shirts and merchandise
• Olive oil, saffron and smoked paprika
• Ceramic tiles and plates
• Fans and official Madrid souvenirs
• El Rastro vintage and antiques