A week exploring the vibrant, artistic spirit of Madrid

For city escapes, it’s clear why Madrid captivates visitors time and again. This sun-drenched capital of Spain is among the largest and liveliest cities in Europe, featuring lush parks, a dynamic art scene, and charming winding streets perfect for evening strolls.

This week-long itinerary guides you through historic, hidden plazas alive with local chatter, immersing you in cultural hotspots and quirky bodegas. Start with an exhilarating tapas tour (including the oldest restaurant in the world and Hemingway’s former haunts), then hop from renowned art venues to Egyptian temples and vibrant rooftop bars in a snap. Come with an appetite and a desire for adventure – Madrid offers it all.

Day 1

Begin your journey at the intersection of art, architecture, and history in the vast Royal Palace, the largest working palace in Europe. Used for ceremonies by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, the palace showcases lavish opulence, from its grand staircase carved from a single piece of San Agustin marble to stunning masterpieces by Goya and Caravaggio, along with exquisite 18th-century tapestries. Visit in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Just a stone's throw away, Almudena Cathedral draws visitors with its soaring vaulted ceilings, vibrant stained glass, and gold-capped turrets. Enjoy the tranquility of cool granite sourced from Colmenar Viejo and Alicante stone. Completed in 1993, this architectural marvel involved the collaboration of six architects. Be sure to explore the crypt, a hidden Romanesque Revival treasure adorned with 400 unique columns, each featuring lush leaf patterns and biblical figures.

Another essential stop near the Royal Palace is the Galeria Colecciones Reales. This groundbreaking gallery won ten architectural awards even before its grand opening. Step inside to marvel at the intricately detailed 16th-century tapestries, ancient gold crowns, ornately carved walnut carriages, and paintings by masters such as El Greco, Ribera, Velázquez, and Caravaggio. Be sure to check out the original blueprints for the Royal Palace on the second floor, commissioned by the King following a devastating fire in 1734.

Conclude your exploration of this captivating neighborhood with a brief walk to Mercado de San Miguel. Although it has been around for over a century, it recently underwent an elegant restoration. This vibrant market is the ideal place to enjoy a meal, offering everything from jamón to artisanal tinned fish to Flintstone-sized txuleta steaks from traditional Galician cattle.

Day 2

Immerse yourself in the arts, where there's much to explore. The Museo del Prado boasts such an extensive collection that only about one-seventh of it is on display at any given moment. Short on time? Seek out the works of Francisco Goya, a cornerstone of the Prado’s permanent exhibits. His Black Paintings series is both enchanting and chilling, with Perro Semihundido painted directly on the walls of his home. Goya had great admiration for Diego Velázquez, whose iconic Las Meninas is also featured here. This masterpiece is so rich in meaning that it has been analyzed extensively since its creation in 1656.

For another artistic experience, head to the remarkable Museo Reina Sofía, home to Picasso’s powerful Guernica. Get close enough to observe the cracks and texture, and don’t overlook the museum’s regular free talks that delve into the stories behind the art.

Wrap up your day with a shopping adventure on Gran Vía, a stretch of over 4,000 feet filled with brands and boutiques frequented by more than 10 million visitors annually. Prefer a quieter atmosphere? Galería Canalejas is an upscale covered mall featuring luxury fashion and exquisite jewelry. Even if your budget doesn’t allow for purchases from Hermès or Chanel, the food hall is a must-visit with its 13 restaurants, many operated by Michelin-starred chefs.

Experiencing Flamenco is essential in Madrid. This passionate music and dance form has its origins in Arab, Jewish, and traveler cultures, evolving into a globally celebrated art. Reservations at Corral de la Moreria are highly coveted and often booked months ahead. Since its opening in 1956, the venue has hosted intense and poetic performances nearly every night, showcasing the depth of this art form.

For a more intense and fiery experience, head to Tablao de la Villa, located in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion. Here, guests savor delectable jamón ibérico and tender oxtail while watching dancers perform with passion. The thoughtfully arranged seating ensures that everyone enjoys a great view of the action. Just across the street, Las Tablas offers a contemporary vibe, operated by two flamenco dancers who enhance the shows with theatrical elements like innovative lighting and stage design.

Day 3

Immerse yourself in one of Madrid's trendiest barrios, Lavapiés. Spend the day wandering its narrow streets, lined with vibrant houses and the enticing aromas of bustling restaurants. Explore contemporary art at the cultural hub La Casa Encendida, and enjoy unique wines while grooving to records at Bendito Vinos y Vinilos.

Madrid boasts an exceptional food and drink scene, so embark on an exciting tour of its renowned tapas bars. The best way to savor these delightful small plates is to order the restaurant's specialty – the especialidad de la casa – and quickly move to the next spot. This traditional approach is not only enjoyable but also a fantastic way to experience the city's culinary diversity.

Your first destination: La Ardosa. Established in 1892, this bar features tiled walls, weathered wooden decor, and antique shelves filled with vintage vermouth bottles. Grab a spot at the bar and indulge in a slice of creamy-centered tortilla alongside a refreshing salmorejo.

Next up is Casa Labra, where the timeless marble tables, rich coffee-colored wood paneling, and stunning gold lettering have remained unchanged for over a century. Inside, newcomers mingle shoulder to shoulder with regulars, indulging in croquetas with crusts that crumble like glass.

Dinner awaits at Restaurante Botín, serving patrons since 1725. Its secret? The ever-burning wood-fired ovens that fill the air with a tantalizing smokiness. Be sure to order charred peppers, artichokes, and their renowned whole roast suckling pig. Hemingway was an admirer, even referencing its cochinillo asado in his writings.

Day 4

Madrid may be expansive, but it's far from a chaotic urban jungle. The alluringly named Landscape of Light is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the city’s finest parks, avenues, and monuments. This area emerged from the progressive belief that everyone should have access to culture and knowledge, leading to a wealth of public museums and galleries.

Begin your journey with a stroll down Paseo del Prado – established in the 16th century, it was one of Europe’s first tree-lined boulevards open to all, regardless of class. Marvel at the splendor of Plaza de la Cibeles, featuring the iconic fountain adorned with the goddess Cybele, then meander through Retiro Park to the tranquil yet magnificent Real Jardín Botánico, where you can admire deep purple irises and delicate peach-hued waterlilies among 5,500 plant varieties.

After soaking up the sun, it's time to embrace the nightlife. Madrid’s cocktail scene encapsulates the city’s passion and artistry in every sip. Experience some of the best bars just like Ernest Hemingway did during his visits (though perhaps with a touch more moderation).

With a bar adorned in shimmering silver scales and a ceiling rippling like a river’s surface, Salmon Guru is a wild and captivating experience, even without its famed craft cocktails. Argentine mixologist Diego Cabrera masterminds this space and frequently serves behind the bar. The menu showcases unique concoctions like the Manhattan from the Barrel; a burnt butter rum delight blended with dry vermouth and sherry cream, or the Chipotle Chillon featuring mezcal and a spicy chipotle syrup.

Sophisticated yet simple, the beloved 1862 Dry Bar in Malasaña excels in cocktail classics. Named after the year the first cocktail recipe book was published by the legendary Jerry Thomas, they pride themselves on the history of each drink. Their Gin Fizz, crafted with small-batch Gin Xoriguer from Menorca, lemon, egg white, and soda, is particularly renowned.

A visit to the restroom at Hotel NH Collection Madrid Suecia offers an unexpected twist. The nondescript lavatory door leads to a hidden cocktail lounge called Clandestine. This speakeasy boasts a concise menu, perfect for escaping the crowd and losing track of time. In the dimly lit bar, couples settle on plush red velvet stools, raising glasses filled with dry martinis and the signature Suecia 76, made with gin, lime, and champagne. The hotel’s restaurant features a lovely terrace with stunning city views.

Day 5

One of Madrid’s hidden gems is the former residence of Spain‘s renowned artist Joaquín Sorolla. This is where he crafted many of his masterpieces, and the house has been gifted to the public to inspire future generations of artists. Museo Sorolla is a tranquil retreat featuring a serene courtyard, luminous paintings, and a beautifully preserved studio complete with the artist’s brushes still in their holders.

Another extraordinary house museum is the Palacio de Liria. Descended from 12th-century nobility, the Alba family has opened their grand residence to the public, allowing visitors to admire its lavish décor and impressive art collection accumulated over centuries. Each room is adorned with exquisite porcelain, iconic artworks, silk wallpaper, and crystal chandeliers. A thoughtfully curated playlist of classical music enhances each visit, with selections tied to the home’s rich history and family. Be sure to see Goya's celebrated portrait of the Duchess of Alba, dressed in a flowing white and red gown.

Madrid has a deep appreciation for theater, especially at Teatro Real. Since its opening in 1738, it has undergone a remarkable €100 million renovation. With its complex, layered staging, the theatre can shift dramatically in an instant, creating stunning set designs. Located just a short stroll from Puerta del Sol, the vibrant central square of Madrid, it's an ideal spot to conclude your evening.

Day 6

Three of the city's most enchanting neighborhoods—Chueca, Malasaña, and Salesas—are conveniently close together, making them perfect for a morning walking tour. These areas are home to the trendiest bars, most atmospheric restaurants, and coolest cafes; simply wander through the charming, winding streets to uncover them all.

Explore a blend of avant-garde eateries and traditional tapas bars in Malasaña. Discover quirky bookshops and vintage stores on Calle del Espíritu Santo, then meander along Calle Fuencarral, lined with major brands and local boutiques. Chueca enchants with its romantic architecture and vibrant backstreet bars, attracting thousands annually for its incredible Pride Festival.

Wander through the always-sunny streets to stylish Salesas, known for its design-focused cafes. Here, an eclectic mix of shops awaits, featuring everything from trendy new designers to age-old artisans. Just a short distance from the heart of Madrid, this area is a living gallery of elegant Madrileñan architecture, perfect for getting lost in.

It's time to soak up some sun. Spanning 292 acres, Retiro Park offers numerous quiet spots to spread out a blanket. Here, you'll find many attractions, including the city's oldest tree, a vast rose garden, and even a manmade lake with rental boats (two of which are wheelchair accessible).

As dusk descends, the ultimate way to take in the city is from above, especially from a lavish rooftop like the Hyatt Centric Gran Vía Madrid or La Terraza at the elegant The Principal Madrid. This is the go-to spot for couples sipping gin and tonics beneath rose-hued umbrellas and potted olive trees, gazing down at the lively Gran Vía below. For more stunning views, check out the Ginkgo Sky Bar on Plaza de España, a secret haven for refreshing cocktails, tacos, and sushi, allowing you to savor every last moment of the day.

Day 7

It's your final opportunity to indulge in Madrid’s renowned tapas. Countless gems await in the vibrant neighborhood of La Latina. Don’t miss Juana La Loca, known for its delectable tortilla, rich with caramelized onions, while Taberna La Concha offers a cozy, bustling atmosphere. If you find a spot at the marble bar, order some salty anchovies alongside a glass of vermouth.

While exploring La Latina, be sure to check out the tiny wicker shop Espartaria. Owned by Juan, a third-generation craftsman, this family-run business has been hand-weaving baskets and bottle holders since 1927. Looking for something special? Consider a merino wool cape from Capas Seseña, a striking ruby-red store established in 1901 that has dressed the shoulders of legends from Picasso to Bruce Springsteen.

Just a 20-minute walk away lies an Egyptian treasure. Templo de Debod, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, was gifted to Spain by the Egyptian government. It's an enchanting location for watching the sunset, offering stunning panoramic views of the city.

Madrid is a city brimming with passion, evident in its warm-hearted people, vibrant arts scene, infectious rhythms, bold culinary creations, stunning architecture, lush green spaces, and lively nightlife. What makes travelers fall head over heels for this city? It’s simple—it’s one of the coolest places on earth.