Madrid

Madrid suits a trip built around art, neighbourhood walks and football. Start with the Prado and Retiro, then leave a separate visit for the Reina Sofía or Thyssen-Bornemisza instead of trying to see every collection in one afternoon. The Paseo del Prado and El Retiro cultural landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Museum tickets and temporary exhibitions have their own conditions.

For a first stay, compare hotels around Sol and Gran Vía with options near Retiro or a convenient metro station. Sol and Plaza Mayor work together as a walking route; the Royal Palace adds another substantial visit. La Latina and Cava Baja are useful areas for a meal afterwards. Chueca, Malasaña and Lavapiés offer different restaurants and streets to explore, without needing to rank one neighbourhood as more authentic than another.

A suggested four-day plan is Prado and Retiro on day one, the Royal Palace and the old centre on day two, another museum and a neighbourhood walk on day three, and either football or a day trip on day four. This is an itinerary suggestion, not a minimum stay. For a Bernabéu visit, check the official tour route and match-day restrictions: pitch access is not a universal inclusion. Buy match tickets only after confirming the fixture date and admission conditions.

Toledo can be a separate day trip. Check the exact departure station, train type and return service with Renfe before booking. A Madrid tourist transport pass does not include high-speed trains to Toledo. Keep the day before your flight flexible if you plan to travel outside Madrid.

When comparing flights, include the arrival terminal, connection, checked baggage and the cost of reaching your hotel. A late arrival may change your transport choice. For meals and museums, check opening hours for the actual day instead of assuming every restaurant closes or every attraction is quieter in a particular season.