Madrid in 5 Days: Ultimate Solo Female Travel Itinerary
You'll absolutely love visiting Madrid in 5 days! It's perfect for exploring Spain's capital city, taking your time in iconic neighborhoods... and even two short day trips outside Madrid for a change of scenery without going far.
A perfect day-by-day itinerary with all the must-sees: palaces, museums, parks, markets, and tapas breaks on sunny terraces.
Madrid solo travel, whether for break in Spain or a stop in the middle of a European road trip, is an ideal destination for female travelers.
Got less time?
Day 1: Wandering and Culture
Barrio de las Letras and Lavapiés
Start with a literary stroll through the Barrio de las Letras, where every street pays homage to great Spanish authors. On Calle de las Huertas, the cobblestones are engraved with quotes.
Head to see the famous distorting mirrors at Callejón del Gato in front of Las Bravas bar: they inspired Valle-Inclán's esperpento, that grotesque and satirical way of representing the world. A wry nod to the human condition, Madrid-style.
From there, head to Lavapiés. In just a few streets, the atmosphere changes dramatically: it's Madrid's most cosmopolitan neighborhood, a real melting pot where cultures, colors, and spices from around the world coexist.
Every corner overflows with life and the unexpected: from street art to alternative markets, African cafés, feminist bookstores, and galleries hidden in old warehouses.
Antón Martín Market
Walk north, passing through Glorieta de Embajadores. Between Lavapiés and Barrio de las Letras, this Madrid market blends fresh produce with international cuisine. Less touristy than San Miguel, it's perfect for tasting Iberian tostas and artisanal vermouth.
And upstairs, surprise: the Amor de Dios flamenco school sets the rhythm. A true concentrate of Madrid.
Retiro Park Break
In the afternoon, stroll according to your mood through Retiro Park:
- The grand pond with its rowboats
- The Crystal Palace
Make a detour through the former Casa de Fieras, the old Retiro zoo transformed into a library. A place steeped in history, both strange and poetic.
Reina Sofía Museum at Sunset
Just steps from Retiro, the Reina Sofía Museum is open until 9 PM certain evenings (often free late in the day). Perfect for seeing Picasso's Guernica in peace, or wandering the galleries in the golden evening light.
To end the day gently, settle in at Casa Hernández, a typical little restaurant in the Retiro neighborhood. Local atmosphere, unpretentious Madrid dishes.
Day 2: Madrid Between Masterpieces and Elegance
The Prado Museum
You can't visit Madrid without a stop at the Prado. It's the city's flagship museum.
Plan 1.5 to 2 hours - Entry around €15.
Alternatively, you can opt for the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, which offers a superb panorama of European painting. Choose according to your mood of the day.
Break in Los Jerónimos Neighborhood
Just behind the museum, this elegant neighborhood is perfect for a calm stroll, between embassies and historic buildings.
Take advantage to sit down and taste Spanish pastries in a chic local bakery. I recommend the tea salon Misión Café or El Perro y la Galleta, refined atmosphere and good cuisine.
Shopping or Galleries in Salamanca
In early afternoon, head to the chic Salamanca neighborhood. If you enjoy browsing shops, it's the ideal spot: Spanish fashion, décor, modern crafts...
Window shopping option: Calle Serrano, Calle Jorge Juan, or the small streets around Velázquez.
Círculo de Bellas Artes Rooftop
Late afternoon, go up to the famous Círculo de Bellas Artes rooftop: a huge terrace with 360° views over Madrid and Gran Vía. It's one of the most beautiful spots for drinks with a view, and the golden light is magical.
Entry around €5 to €8.
Puerta del Sol, Madrid's Beating Heart
After the rooftop, head down to the center and pass through Puerta del Sol, always lively, then go to Plaza Mayor, magnificent at night with its illuminated facades.
In the adjacent alleys, you'll find several traditional mesones, these charming Madrid taverns, perfect for dinner in a local atmosphere, between hanging hams, azulejos, and Castilian stews. You absolutely must try the famous calamari sandwich.
Day 3: Artistic, Creative and Engaged Madrid
Malasaña, Bohemian Excellence
Here, every wall is a work of art, every shop window has something to tell.
Stroll among the frescoes, thrift stores, bookshops. If you want to do some ethical shopping or bring back a cool souvenir (other than a flamenco magnet), this is the place.
Breakfast break: try Café de la Luz or HanSo Café for stylish coffee and a golden croissant.
Spots to explore:
- Calle del Espíritu Santo (fashion and décor)
- Magpie Vintage or El Templo de Susu for second-hand finds
- Plaza del Dos de Mayo, gathering point for all styles
Chueca, LGBTQ+ Neighborhood
Ultra-lively neighborhood full of gourmet addresses like the Mercado de San Antón where you can compose a menu to your taste.
Royal Afternoon: Palace and Cathedral
Royal Palace of Madrid, official residence (but uninhabited) of Spanish kings. The interior is sumptuous, gilding, state rooms, and armory gallery. The visit lasts about 1.5 hours - entry €12.
Almudena Cathedral, with its neo-classical architecture outside and surprisingly modern colored vaults inside. Free entry, but a donation of €1 to €2 is suggested.
I recommend the Almudena Cathedral crypt, with over 400 sculpted columns, magnificent vaults, it's really worth it. The entrance is separate from the main cathedral (just to the right when facing the facade).
Relaxing or Unusual End of Day
Rooftop - Test one of these rooftops, it's a bit pricey, but it's trendy:
- The Hat Madrid, chic hostel atmosphere with a great view
Pestana CR7 Gran Vía, Cristiano Ronaldo's hotel, with its 360° rooftop
Temple of Debod - Another option to end the day, this small ancient temple stands facing a park, and at dusk, the light there is superb.
Temple of Debod - Another option to end the day, this small ancient temple stands facing a park, and at dusk, the light there is superb.
Day 4: The Cathedral Like No Other
A break outside Madrid: head to Mejorada del Campo, 20 km east.
How to Get There
I went by car, it's simple and quick from Madrid: plan about 30 minutes taking the A-3 then the M-208.
You can also go by bus from Avenida de América or other city bus stations. There are about fifty departures per day, for about €2.60 one way.
"Justo's Cathedral"
An incredible building built almost entirely by hand by Justo Gallego between 1961 and his death in 2021, using recycled materials (cans, tires, broken glass...).
You'll be struck by the improvised architecture. It's a place full of emotion, halfway between architectural carefree and spiritual gesture. It's a unique, touching, powerful work.
Plan 1 to 1.5 hours.
Plan 1 to 1.5 hours.
Cerro de los Ángeles
If you're traveling by car, like me on my last trip, I recommend making a detour about twenty kilometers from Madrid to discover Spain's geographical center. There you'll find mainly a religious sanctuary, dominated by an imposing monument dedicated to the Sacred Heart.
Day 5: El Pardo, Castellana and Flamenco to Finish Beautifully
How to Get There
You can go by car, it's quick (about 20 minutes from central Madrid) taking the M-30 toward Fuencarral-El Pardo.
There's also bus 601, departing from Moncloa station. It runs every 15 to 20 minutes and the journey is pleasant.
Royal Palace of El Pardo
It's a former royal winter residence, quite sober on the outside, but rich inside.
- Less flashy than Madrid's, but very historically interesting
- Winter residence of Spanish kings, then seat of power under Franco
- Muted atmosphere, Goya tapestries, painted ceilings...
Plan 1 to 1.5 hours - entry €9
Faro de Moncloa
On the way back, go up the Faro de Moncloa, a 110-meter tower with panoramic elevator. Up there, the 360° view over Madrid is spectacular.
Entry costs about €4, varies by season.
Coming down, sweet break at Los Alpes, a historic ice cream parlor in the neighborhood. Their artisanal ice creams are a real delight.
Going Down the Castellana Royally
After El Pardo, you can join the Cuatro Torres, north of Madrid, and Paseo de la Castellana, this great artery that crosses Madrid from north to south.
Walking to the center is a bit long, but doable. I did it once. By car, it's pleasant. You pass through Plaza Castilla with its leaning towers, then the mythical Santiago-Bernabéu stadium, Real Madrid's home; the elegant neighborhoods of Nuevos Ministerios and Salamanca, the archaeological museum, until reaching the majestic Plaza de Cibeles, with its white palace, fountain, and the Banco de España.
Tapas, Guitar and Heel Clicking
You can't leave Madrid without attending a flamenco show. Choose a reputable tablao like Casa Patas or Cardamomo.
Practical Info for 5 Days in Madrid
Where to Stay to Make the Most of the City?
Barrio de las Letras (also called Huertas) is ideal: central, lively, but peaceful, perfect for discovering Madrid on foot.
Another nice option: Chueca, a dynamic neighborhood, well connected, welcoming for solo female travelers.
Getting Around Madrid
No need for a car here. The city is very walkable, with great metro and bus connections. Get a rechargeable Tarjeta Multi card.
Budget and Tips
Plan between €45 and €70 per day (excluding accommodation). Although Madrid is not the cheapest city in Europe, it remains affordable.
At lunch, look for restaurants with menus del día: starter, main course, dessert, and drink for about €12 to €15, in most local restaurants.
In the evening, La Latina or Chueca remains ideal for a tapas tour on terraces. For sweets, stop by San Ginés chocolate shop, a Madrid institution for churros with chocolate since 1894.
When to Visit Madrid?
Spring and autumn for milder temperatures, it's the best time to walk and enjoy terraces.
What Activities or Tours to Do in Madrid?
You can follow my itinerary designed for solo female travelers, or choose a guided tour according to your preferences. All the circuits, plans, and itinerary advice I offer are thoughtfully designed, tested, and carefully planned.
On Sundays, the city stays lively. El Rastro market sets the mood from morning... but not only. Cafés overflowing onto terraces, open exhibitions.
About the Author:
A graphic web designer and photographer by passion, I have a genuine love for travel. My extended stays in Latin America, particularly in Venezuela and the Dominican Republic, have fueled my appreciation for discovery and meaningful encounters. Writing allows me to share these emotionally rich and enlightening experiences while prolonging the joy of reliving each journey.
Maria Orea
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