How to plan your Madrid weekend break

Planning a weekend in Madrid may seem tricky, but with good organisation, you can enjoy the city's highlights in just two days.

What should you do on your first day?

First day, get an early start. From our door, you're at Puerta del Sol in 5 minutes on foot. From there, it's a straight shot to Plaza Mayor for hot chocolate and churros—budget €4-6. Next up is Mercado de San Miguel. Guests ask us this every week: yes, it's touristy, but the tapas range is one of the best. If you're just looking, walk through and then head to the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral. That's another 10-minute walk.

For the afternoon, head to Retiro Park. From the Royal Palace, it's a 20-minute trip on metro line 2 or 5. It's the city's main green space, good for a break from the streets. You can rent a rowing boat on the lake for €8 (it gets you 40 minutes). To finish the day, we point people towards Barrio de Las Letras. It has solid options for food and drinks at every price point.

If you have extra time in the evening, consider catching a flamenco show. Madrid has several renowned tablaos, such as Corral de la Morería or Cardamomo, where you can experience this passionate art form. Prices typically range from €25-50 depending on the venue and whether drinks or dinner are included. It's a unique way to immerse yourself in Spanish culture.

For those who enjoy nightlife, Madrid's vibrant club scene is worth exploring. Head to Kapital, a seven-floor nightclub near Atocha, or Joy Eslava, a historic theatre-turned-club close to Sol. Entry fees range from €15-25 and often include a drink. These venues offer a mix of music styles, ensuring a memorable night out.

If you prefer a quieter evening, consider a leisurely dinner at a rooftop restaurant. Places like Azotea del Círculo or Ginkgo Sky Bar offer stunning views of the city skyline alongside delicious Spanish cuisine. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, and prices for a meal typically start at €25 per person.

How to make the most of your second day?

Day two is for the Art Triangle. Here are the options: The Prado Museum opens at 10:00, and general admission is €15. If you prefer contemporary art, the Reina Sofía is €12. Both are a straightforward 15-minute metro ride from Gran Vía station. Easy.

After the museum, walk over to Lavapiés. It's the most multicultural neighbourhood, which means the food options are broad. Look for a 'menú del día' (set lunch menu) for around €12-15. For the afternoon, the Temple of Debod is the place to go for sunset views. It's a solid way to wrap up the weekend.

If museums aren't your thing, consider spending your morning exploring the vibrant Rastro flea market (Sundays only). Located in the La Latina neighbourhood, it’s a 15-minute walk from Gran Vía. Here, you can browse antiques, vintage clothing, and unique souvenirs. Afterward, grab some traditional tapas at nearby bars like Casa Lucio or El Viajero.

Another option for the afternoon is to visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid. Guided tours cost around €25 and offer a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most famous football clubs in the world. It's a great choice for sports fans and easily accessible via metro line 10.

For a more relaxed afternoon, consider taking a stroll through Madrid Río Park. This linear park follows the Manzanares River and offers walking and cycling paths, playgrounds, and even a beach area in summer. It's a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle and is easily reachable by metro line 5.

If you have time before heading back, stop by the Gran Vía area for some last-minute shopping or a quick coffee at one of the many charming cafés. It's the perfect way to soak in the city's energy one last time.

What’s the best way to get around?

Get a Multi card for transport. It costs €2.50, and you load it with either single tickets or a 10-trip pass for €8.50. The Gran Vía metro station is right there, giving you direct access to lines 1 and 5. This connects you to pretty much everything. Honestly, for anything under 20 minutes, just walk. Our location is central, so most key spots are close.

For late-night travel, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber or Cabify are reliable options. A typical ride within the city center costs around €8-12. If you're planning to stay out late, especially in areas like Malasaña or Chueca, these services are a safe and convenient way to get back to your accommodation.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike or electric scooter. Companies like Lime and BiciMAD offer easy rentals via apps, and you can explore the city's bike-friendly routes. Prices start at €1 for a short ride, making it an affordable and eco-friendly way to see more of Madrid.

What to skip on a short weekend?

You can't do everything in two days, so don't try. We tell everyone to skip the day trips to places like El Escorial or Toledo. The travel time eats up your whole day. We'd also recommend not dedicating too much time to shopping. The main shops are on Gran Vía, right outside our door, so you can pop in and out if you really need something. Focus on the city itself.

Another activity to skip is visiting too many rooftop bars. While they offer great views, they can be time-consuming and pricey, with cocktails often costing €12-15. Instead, prioritize one or two, such as Círculo de Bellas Artes or the rooftop at Riu Plaza España, which are centrally located and offer stunning panoramas of Madrid.

If you're short on time, avoid spending hours in large department stores like El Corte Inglés. While they have everything you might need, they can be overwhelming and detract from your experience of the city's unique charm. Instead, focus on local markets or small boutiques for a more authentic shopping experience.

We're a minute's walk from Gran Vía. That's your starting point for everything. No time wasted.