Hola from Madrid! This amazing Spanish city stole my heart with its delicious food, rich history, and friendly neighborhoods. Here’s a peek at our (a girlfriend and I) perfect 3-day adventure, perfect for anyone who loves good eats and exploring new places.
Stay in Madrid: DoubleTree Hilton Prado
The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Madrid-Prado is one of those places that make your stay in Madrid special. It’s in the city center, a short 5 minute walk to the Prado Museum, which is one of the most famous art museums in the world. So, if you love seeing beautiful paintings and art, you’re going to be very happy here.
One of the best things about this hotel is how they welcome you. When you first get there, they give you a warm chocolate chip cookie. It’s a small thing, but it makes you feel really welcome and starts your visit off right. It’s like they’re saying, “We’re glad you’re here!” This is something unique about staying at DoubleTree.
The hotel itself is modern and comfortable. It has big rooms where you can stretch out and relax. After a long day of walking around Madrid and seeing all the sights, you’ll appreciate having a nice, comfortable place to come back to. The beds are cozy, and you’ll have a good night’s sleep.
What’s really great about the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Madrid-Prado is its location. Being in the city center means you’re close to everything. Madrid is a city with lots of history, beautiful buildings, and great food. From this hotel, you can easily walk to many of these places. If something is a bit further away, no problem. The hotel is near many bus and train stops, so you can get around the city easily.
Besides the Prado Museum, there are other places nearby that you’ll want to visit. For example, the Royal Palace of Madrid is not far. It’s a huge and beautiful building where the Spanish royal family used to live. Even if you just walk around outside, it’s impressive. But you can also go inside and see how grand it is.
Madrid is also known for its food. There are many restaurants and cafes near the hotel. Trying Spanish food is a must when you’re in Madrid. There are dishes like paella, which is a rice dish with seafood or meat, and tapas, which are small plates of different foods you can share. You can find these and many other delicious things to eat close to the hotel.
Lastly, staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Madrid-Prado means you’re in a good spot to explore Madrid. You’re close to art, history, and delicious food. The hotel is comfortable and welcoming, making your trip to Madrid even better. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back to see more, this hotel is a great choice for your home away from home in Madrid. Now, let’s get into the itinerary!
Day 1: Tasty Start, Madrid’s Royal History & Unexpected Treats
Brunch at Eat My Trip
The day started with brunch at a trendy spot called Eat My Trip, known for its unique and delicious dishes. We tried the pavlova pancakes and the macho iberico benedict. The pavlova pancakes were sweet and fluffy, topped with fruits and cream, making every bite a delightful surprise. The macho iberico benedict was a creative twist on the classic eggs benedict, featuring Iberian ham on a soft muffin, all covered in a rich, savory sauce. Finally, the coffee there was simply amazing, perfectly brewed, it was the energy kick I needed to start my exploration of Madrid. They are walk-in only so I recommend showing up early.
Visit Palacio Real de Madrid (Royal Palace of Madrid)
After brunch, our next stop was the Royal Palace. The Royal Palace is a magnificent building, grand and elegant, a true testament to Madrid’s rich history. Walking through its vast halls and beautiful gardens, I felt like I was stepping back in time. The opulence and history surrounding me were overwhelming, in a good way. It’s amazing to think about all the people who have walked those same halls throughout the centuries. The palace is one of those places that everyone should visit when in Madrid; it’s not just a building, it’s a piece of history that tells the story of Spain’s royal past. Be sure to buy tickets in advance. Firstly, it saves you time at the entrance as you get to skip the long lines. Secondly, they sometimes sell out of tickets to buy the day of.
Mysterious Experience at the Corpus Christi Monastery
Strolling around the city after leaving the palace, we stumbled upon the Corpus Christi Monastery. There, cloistered nuns sell cookies they’ve made, which is a unique tradition. Undoubtedly, the idea of buying cookies from nuns hidden from view adds a layer of mystery and excitement to the experience. However, I have to be honest, the cookies themselves weren’t that great. Despite that, visiting the monastery and buying the cookies was a fun and interesting experience, something a bit different that you don’t get to do every day. To find it, put this in Google Maps and look for the door with a flyer on it saying “Venta de Dulce”. They sell either 1/2 a kilo for €13 or 1 kilo for €26. It’s much easier to pay with cash. Lastly, they’re open from 09:30-13:00 and from 16:30-18:15.
Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel
For lunch, we headed to the Mercado de San Miguel, a bustling market filled with stalls selling all sorts of Spanish delicacies. I made it my mission to try something from almost every stall, and I wasn’t disappointed. Each stall offered something unique and delicious, from cheeses and meats to sweets and pastries. Unfortunately, I’m allergic to seafood, so I had to skip those stalls, but everything else I tried was fantastic. If you go with friends, it’s easier to have someone save a table for you while other get food for everyone. It gets pretty busy. The market is a foodie’s dream, a place where you can taste the best of what Madrid has to offer, all under one roof.
Dinner at LOS 33
Finally, dinner was at a restaurant called LOS 33. We indulged in some of the best dishes I’ve had in a long time. The choripan, a type of sandwich made with chorizo, was mouthwateringly good, and the chamizo, a fried pastry, was unlike anything I’d ever tasted. Both dishes were bursting with flavors, and the cocktails we tried there were the perfect complement to the meal. It’s walk in only and it’s a small intimate space so, either get there before the dinner rush or go for a late dinner – say around 10pm. You might go on an off day at 8pm and find a table but based on our experience, the chances aren’t that high. The atmosphere in LOS 33 was lively and inviting. This made it the perfect end to a day full of exploring and eating.
Day 2: From Bustling Streets to Paella Power!
Brunch at LILO
The adventure continued with an incredible start at LILO for brunch. LILO had an amazing vibe, and their coffee was just out of this world. We decided to try the acai bowl and the ‘salty one,’ along with something intriguingly named ‘the brunch in Bali.’ Each dish was a delight, combining flavors and textures in a way that made every bite memorable. The acai bowl was fresh and full of fruity goodness. The ‘salty one’ offered a perfect balance of savory flavors. And, the ‘brunch in Bali’ transported me to the shores of Bali with its exotic taste.
Stroll down Gran Via
After a satisfying start to the day, we took a leisurely walk down two of Madrid’s most famous streets: Gran Via and C. de Alcalá. This part of the city buzzes with energy, and the architecture is stunning. Doing some window shopping along the way, we admired the beautiful displays and the wide variety of shops. It’s easy to lose track of time looking at all the interesting items, from high fashion to unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of Madrid. If you’re like me and you like “nicer” things, definitely stop by the Hérmes store. My experience at Hérmes in Spain is by far the best of any country I’ve been to.
Cooking Class at The Cooking Clubhouse
The highlight of the day was definitely the paella cooking class at The Cooking Clubhouse. It was not only educational but also a lot of fun. We learned to make four different types of paella: chicken, pork, mushroom (for a vegetarian option), and seafood. Each version had its own unique set of flavors and techniques, and the instructors made sure everyone was involved and enjoying the process. Cooking alongside others and sharing the experience was truly special. Moreover, tasting our creations at the end was the perfect reward for our efforts. Additionally, it was fascinating to delve into this significant part of Spanish cuisine. Also, getting to learn from locals who shared their passion and knowledge with us was the icing on the cake.
El Retiro Park
Afterwards, we visited El Retiro Park. It is like a peaceful haven in the midst of the city’s hustle and bustle. This park is huge with so many hidden corners to discover. From beautiful fountains and statues to quiet, shaded areas perfect for relaxing, you’ll find a corner you love. Walking through El Retiro, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of Madrid’s treasures. It’s a place where both locals and visitors come to enjoy nature, exercise, or simply take a break from the city life.
National Library
Lastly (or so we thought), we made our way to the National Library, an impressive building with a vast collection of works. It’s a place of knowledge and history. You can literally feel the weight of centuries of literature and learning surrounding you. The architecture of the library itself is awe-inspiring, making it a worthwhile visit for anyone interested in books, history or even just stunning architecture.
Pleasant Random Find
We stumbled upon a cozy cafe called Fénix Resto-Bar, which turned out to be a fantastic find. Located just around the corner from Puerta de Alcalà, Fénix offered the most delicious chai latte I’ve had in a long time. The warm, spiced flavor of the chai was the perfect pick-me-up after a day full of activities. It’s one of those places you’re glad to discover. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the drinks are made with care. Obviously, I added it to my Madrid Google list right after!
We planned to have dinner after a short break at the hotel. However, we were so tired from all the walking that we ended up napping for almost 4 hours! We called it a night after that.
Day 3: Artistic Inspiration & Farewell Feast
Our last day was a bit shorter because we had to catch a train to Barcelona. The half day started with a lovely brunch at Zenith, a place that’s known for its trendy vibes and delicious food. Zenith was the perfect spot to fuel up for the day ahead with a menu that offered a variety of dishes to suit every taste. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy, making it an enjoyable place to be. We had the acai bowl, banana bread and the Zenith Bagel. The food was so good we nearly went to their location in Barcelona as well.
Visit Museo del Prado Madrid
Afterwards, we went to Museo del Prado, one of the most famous art museums in the world. The Prado Museum houses an incredible collection of artworks, but I was particularly excited to see the works of Francisco Goya, one of Spain’s most renowned artists. Walking through the museum, surrounded by centuries of art, was an inspiring experience. Goya’s paintings, with their depth and emotion, were definitely a highlight. It’s amazing to think about the history and stories behind each piece displayed in the museum.
Reflecting on my time in Madrid as we traveled to Barcelona, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the incredible days spent there. From the delicious brunches, to the cultural experiences at the museum and cooking class, Madrid offered an unforgettable adventure that left a smile on our faces.
My Secret Weapon in Madrid: Google Maps!
Throughout my trip, Google Maps was my best friend. One tip I found incredibly useful during my trip was saving all the locations I wanted to visit to Google Maps. This little bit of planning ahead made a huge difference in how we spent our time in Madrid. By having all the places marked on the map, we could easily see what was closest to us at any given time, which helped us make the most of our days. Also, it meant we weren’t just wandering around aimlessly or going in circles. Instead, we could efficiently plan our route each day, making sure we didn’t miss anything we wanted to see and that we were making our trip as enjoyable and as rich in experiences as possible.
It’s a simple tip but one that I highly recommend to anyone traveling, whether you’re exploring the busy streets of Madrid or any other city in the world. It helps you to be more present in the moment, enjoying each experience without worrying about what comes next, because you’ve already laid out a plan that guides you smoothly through your adventure.
Beyond the Itinerary: A Few Extra Bites in Madrid
This itinerary provides a starting point, but Madrid has so much more to offer. Here are a few additional recommendations to consider:
- Tapas Hopping: Immerse yourself in the local culture by going on a tapas crawl. Explore the lively bars of La Latina or Malasaña neighborhoods, enjoying a variety of small plates and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. Imagine hopping from bar to bar, trying different tapas like patatas bravas (spicy potatoes), tortilla Española (Spanish omelet), and croquetas (fried croquettes) all filled with different delicious things. Further, you might even stumble upon some hidden gems with unique tapas creations!
- Flamenco Show: Enjoy the passion and artistry of flamenco, a traditional Spanish dance known for its rhythmic footwork and expressive movements. Many tablaos (flamenco venues) offer dinner and a show, making for a truly immersive experience. Imagine the energy and fire of flamenco dancers in colorful costumes, accompanied by rhythmic music and passionate singing. Overall, it’s a feast for the senses and a true taste of Spanish culture.
- Day Trips: If you have extra time, consider exploring nearby cities like Toledo, known for its medieval architecture, or Segovia, famous for its Roman aqueduct. These charming towns offer a glimpse into Spain’s rich history and a chance to experience a different pace of life. Imagine strolling through narrow cobbled streets in Toledo, surrounded by ancient buildings and towering cathedrals. Or picture yourself marveling at the impressive Roman aqueduct in Segovia, a testament to the engineering skills of a bygone era.
All in all, Madrid is a fantastic city with something for everyone. Whether you’re into history, food, or just walking around and taking in the sights, you’ll find plenty to do. I hope my trip gives you some ideas for your own adventure in Madrid!
P.S. Book all your tickets in advance. You have higher chances of getting them at a discount. Also, during the peak months (i.e. spring – summer), everything sells out weeks in advance.