Visiting Madrid in 3 Days: Itinerary for an Unforgettable City Trip
Visiting Madrid in 3 days is absolutely doable with a perfect itinerary to discover the best of Spain's capital. From royal grandeur to alternative neighborhoods, Madrid welcomes you with warmth, creativity, and that sweet Spanish way of life.
I've crafted a day-by-day circuit featuring the must-sees, plus some hidden gems. With this tailored plan, you can explore at your own pace...
Solo female travel in Madrid is easy and enjoyable. Whether you're in Spain for a few days or on a grand European adventure, the capital is an unmissable destination for women travelers.
Day 1: First Steps Between Parks and Culture
All these routes are walkable.
Retiro District
Start with Retiro Park, Madrid's green lung. Open from 6am to midnight (10pm in winter). Rent a rowboat on the grand pond or visit the Palacio de Cristal, a stunning glass pavilion.
The park is filled with statues, including an equestrian one overlooking the lake that you can visit. If you're hungry, head to Florida Park, an iconic spot to eat and soak up the lively atmosphere.
You could spend the whole day here, but don't forget - you only have three days to visit Madrid!
Plaza de la Independencia
An elegant square dominated by the majestic Puerta de Alcalá, an 18th-century triumphal arch. Around it, the chic Salamanca district with its upscale buildings, embassies, and refined boutiques.
Lunch break at Magasand - A cool café steps from the park: salads, gourmet sandwiches. Perfect for a solo pause. If you prefer a foodie break, I recommend El Perro y la Galleta restaurant. Vintage décor, chic atmosphere. Budget 15-20€.
Prado Museum
The Prado Museum showcases masterpieces by Spanish and European painting masters: Velázquez, Goya, Hieronymus Bosch, Rubens, Titian... Average entrance fee: 15€. Plan 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your interest level.
Right nearby, you'll find the other two museums of Madrid's famous "Golden Triangle of Art":
- Reina Sofía Museum, national modern art museum
- Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, focused on figurative painting
Barrio de las Letras (Literary Quarter)
Just behind the Prado Museum, the literary district perfect for solo wandering.
You'll see quotes from great Spanish authors engraved in the ground as you walk along Calle de las Huertas! A true open-air literary treasure hunt.
Don't miss Callejón del Gato and Las Bravas, a legendary bar to savor patatas bravas. Its facade is decorated with famous distorting mirrors that inspired Valle-Inclán's concept of the esperpento. Literature and tapas: winning combo!
Western Park
Late afternoon, if you still have some energy, head to an unusual spot perched on the heights of Western Park, especially when the sun begins to set: the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain.
Day 2: Habsburg Quarter and Neighborhood Charm
Plaza Mayor and San Miguel Market
Start your day in Habsburg Madrid. Stroll under the arcades of Plaza Mayor, then head up to Madrid's center: Puerta del Sol, another iconic historical monument of the city. Right nearby, take a tour of the San Miguel market. I found it a bit too touristy and expensive, but it's an emblematic Madrid spot worth seeing at least once.
Almudena Cathedral, Royal Palace and Sabatini Gardens
Cross the small streets of the center to reach the majestic Almudena Cathedral. The visit is free (suggested donation).
Right across, visit Madrid's Royal Palace (plan about 1.5 hours) or simply wander through the Sabatini Gardens, elegant and peaceful, with a lovely view of the palace facades.
La Latina District
The La Latina district, with its sloping alleys around Cava Baja, its small squares and typical bodegas, is perfect for tasting Madrid cuisine on a terrace.
Lavapiés
More bohemian, more colorful, perfect for a change of pace. You'll find street art, original cafés, independent bookstores, and community spaces.
End of day: Local shopping around Tirso de Molina. And if you love urban art, take a guided street-art tour in Lavapiés (or explore freely).
Day 3: Bohemian and Creative Madrid
Malasaña Stroll
Dive into the bohemian atmosphere of Malasaña, a top neighborhood with its street art murals, vintage shops, and trendy cafés.
To start well, have breakfast at a local cafetería around Plaza del Dos de Mayo, then lose yourself in charming alleys like Calle del Espíritu Santo or Corredera Alta de San Pablo.
And if you're a fan of second-hand or local creations, Magpie, Flamingos Vintage Kilo, and used bookstores are must-visit spots to find a unique souvenir.
Lunch in Chueca
For lunch, head to Chueca, a lively and welcoming neighborhood, perfect for dining alone, with its vibrant terraces and the San Antón Market.
Late Day at CaixaForum or the Vertical Garden
In the afternoon, head to the museum district for a final cultural touch. CaixaForum offers original temporary exhibitions, and its living wall is worth the detour (and the photo!)
Aperitif with Views Over Madrid's Rooftops
End your stay in style with an aperitif on a rooftop. Two perfect options: Círculo de Bellas Artes with views over Gran Vía, or a more discreet rooftop at Dear Hotel or Picalagartos. The atmosphere is ideal for sipping a drink at sunset, alone or with company, with Madrid at your feet.
Practical Tips for Visiting Madrid in 3 Days
Where to Stay for a Central and Serene Stay?
For a good balance between culture, walks, and local life, look at the Huertas district (or Barrio de las Letras): central and charming, it allows you to do everything on foot.
Chueca is also a beautiful option. Very well connected, lively without being noisy, it's a welcoming area, perfect when traveling alone as a woman.
Experience local life, 100% female-focused, is possible by choosing to stay with a local female host via NomadSister.
Getting Around Madrid Easily
No need for a car in Madrid: almost everything can be done on foot.
But if you want to save time or avoid too much walking, Madrid's metro is one of the most practical in Europe. Clean, frequent, and well-signposted. Get a rechargeable Multi Card (Tarjeta Multi), ideal for a 3-day stay (also valid for buses).
And if you're coming back late or are loaded with bags, ride-hailing services like Uber, Bolt, or Cabify work very well at reasonable prices.
Budget and Solo Female Traveler Tips
On average, for a 3-day stay, you can manage between 40-70€ per day, excluding accommodation. Madrid isn't necessarily the best destination in Europe for budget travel, but the cost of living is gentler than Paris or London.
To eat and discover local gastronomy at moderate prices, think about the daily menus (menús del día) served at lunch in most restaurants.
Chocolatería San Ginés, near Puerta del Sol, is a must-visit for its delicious churros con chocolate!
Is Madrid Dead on Sundays?
Not at all! Sunday is actually super lively with the El Rastro market.
What's the Best Time to Visit Madrid?
Without doubt, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). The climate is mild and pleasant, with ideal temperatures for walking and enjoying the terraces.
Madrid is gentle, vibrant, and full of possible encounters – a city where you can walk alone, dine alone... and feel perfectly comfortable.
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
ADVENTURE| ROAD TRIP| TRAVEL
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