Hello! Today, I’ll be sharing the first day of our Madrid trip itinerary with some helpful links for your convenience. Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, art, and delicious food. On this first day, we’ll visit the Royal Palace of Madrid, the Prado Museum, and enjoy delightful tapas.
Travel Tips: Essentials and Local Precautions
- European electrical adaptor needed
- Purchase Madrid Card for easy access to attractions and public transport
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking
Morning: A Royal Start at the Royal Palace of Madrid
Begin your day with a breakfast of “tostada con tomate” (toast with tomato) and a cafe con leche (coffee with milk) at a traditional Spanish cafe like El Cafetín de la Abuela located near the city center. This cafe offers a true Madrid experience with delicious food and a cozy atmosphere.
After breakfast, head to the Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real de Madrid). The Royal Palace, a magnificent symbol of Spanish history, is one of the largest royal palaces in Europe. You can tour the palace and learn about its history, or simply marvel at its beautiful architecture from the outside. The nearby Almudena Cathedral and Sabatini Gardens are also worth a visit.
- Tip: You can avoid long lines by purchasing a skip-the-line ticket online for the Royal Palace tour.
Afternoon: Discover Famous Art at the Prado Museum
For lunch, try an authentic Spanish dish like paella at Restaurante La Barraca located near the Prado Museum. This restaurant offers a variety of paella options as well as a selection of tapas and other traditional Spanish dishes.
After lunch, make your way to the Prado Museum (Museo del Prado), one of the most renowned art museums in the world. Home to Spanish and European masterpieces by artists such as Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, the Prado is a must-visit destination for art lovers.
- Tip: Take a guided tour (reservations available online) or download the museum’s app to learn more about the artworks and their history.
Evening: Sample Tapas and Experience Madrid’s Lively Atmosphere
In the evening, visit the vibrant Mercado de San Miguel to enjoy a variety of Spanish tapas. This historic market is filled with food stalls and bars offering delicious tapas, wine, and beer. Sample dishes from various regions of Spain and soak up the lively atmosphere.
After experiencing the food and culture of Madrid, end the day by taking a moonlit stroll through Plaza Mayor, one of the city’s most famous squares. Surrounded by historical buildings and featuring a beautiful statue of King Philip III, the plaza is a perfect place to unwind and reflect on your first day in Madrid.
We hope you enjoy your first day in Madrid and look forward to sharing the next day’s adventure in the upcoming blog entry! ¡Hasta luego!
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