It’s true that two days may not be enough to explore all of Madrid’s attractions, but with a well-planned itinerary, you can enjoy a truly special and unforgettable two-day trip focused on top sights, delightful street walks, and romantic restaurants.
🕘 8:30 AM – Budget breakfast at 100 Montaditos
Coffee + toast or a small sandwich at a very affordable price (under €4)
🕘 9:30 AM – Free visit to the Royal Palace (Palacio Real)
If you go from Monday to Thursday after 4 PM, it’s free for EU citizens and residents. If not, enjoy the view from the outside and the surrounding area.
🕚 11:00 AM – Walk through Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol & surrounding streets
Take photos, explore local markets, and stroll through charming old streets
🕐 1:00 PM – Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel
Taste a variety of tapas – for €10 to €15 you can try many delicious bites 🍢🥖
🕑 2:30 PM – Free entry to the Reina Sofía Museum (Museo Reina Sofía)
Free from Monday to Saturday between 7 PM and 9 PM
🕓 4:30 PM – Relax and stroll through Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro)
Trees, a lake, the Crystal Palace – all free and perfect for relaxing or taking photos 📸
🕗 7:30 PM – Light dinner at a local bar (Cervecería La Sureña or similar)
Drink + food combo at a good price (around €10)
🕘 9:00 PM – Night stroll along Gran Vía
Enjoy the lights, shops, and the vibrant nightlife of Madrid
🕘 8:30 AM – Breakfast at chain cafés like Panaria or Rodilla
Affordable breakfast sets with coffee and bread or a sandwich (€3 to €5)
🕘 9:30 AM – Visit the exterior of Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
If the full tour is too pricey, at least stop by, take photos, and soak in the football vibes ⚽
(The full tour costs around €25 if you’re interested)
🕚 11:30 AM – Explore the colorful neighborhoods of Malasaña & Chueca
Walk around, enjoy street art, and discover unique boutiques – all for free!
🕐 1:00 PM – Lunch at El Tigre or La Casa de las Tortillas
Great spots where you get free tapas with every drink 🍻
🕑 3:00 PM – Budget souvenir shopping at Tiger or Ale-Hop
Creative and affordable gifts and keepsakes 🎁
🕓 4:30 PM – Sunset view at the Temple of Debod
Enjoy a beautiful drink while watching the sunset 🌇
🕗 7:00 PM – Dinner at a low-cost restaurant or grab pizza/falafel in Lavapiés
A wide variety of food options at great prices
