Madrid is a vibrant city full of activities for all tastes. Whether you love history, gastronomy, art, or simply getting lost in its lively streets, there is always something interesting to do. In this guide, we will take you through a morning, afternoon, and evening itinerary with the best plans to enjoy Madrid like a true local.
Morning in Madrid: Breakfast and a Historical Walk
1. Traditional Madrid Breakfast: Flavor and Tradition
To start your day with energy, the first thing is to enjoy a good Madrid-style breakfast. Unlike other countries, breakfast in Spain is usually light but delicious. Some typical options you can try are:
✅ Toast with tomato and Iberian ham: Crispy bread with olive oil, grated tomato, and Iberian ham—an unbeatable classic.
✅ Tortilla pincho: A portion of Spanish omelet, known for its fluffy texture and unmistakable flavor.
✅ Churros with chocolate: If you prefer something sweet, nothing beats churros with hot chocolate at the iconic Chocolatería San Ginés.
✅ Coffee and orange juice: An espresso (solo), a cortado, or a classic café con leche, accompanied by freshly squeezed orange juice.
If you’re looking for an authentic breakfast spot, try:
- Café de la Luz (Calle de la Puebla, 8) – Cozy atmosphere and great coffee.
- El Riojano (Calle Mayor, 10) – Founded in 1855, ideal for tasting traditional pastries.
- Chocolatería San Ginés (Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5) – Famous for its churros with chocolate.
2. Plaza Mayor and Its Secrets
After breakfast, a great place to start your tour is Plaza Mayor, one of Madrid’s most iconic spots. Built in the 17th century, this square has been the setting for markets, performances, and even executions during the Inquisition.
📍 Fun fact: Look for the Balcón de Marizápalos, a secret window built by King Philip IV to watch his lover during events in the square—without the queen finding out.
Strolling through this square is an experience in itself. You can take a photo with the statue of Philip III or sit on one of the terraces to enjoy the lively atmosphere.
3. Plaza de la Puerta Cerrada: A Corner Full of History
Just a few minutes from Plaza Mayor is Plaza de la Puerta Cerrada, named after an old medieval wall. Although today it’s filled with bars and terraces, it hides an interesting message:
“Fui sobre agua edificada, mis muros de fuego son.”
This phrase refers to the aquifers beneath Madrid and the sparks that flew when arrows struck its flint walls during medieval attacks.
4. A Toast with Madroño Liqueur
Before continuing your exploration, stop by Taberna El Madroño, a place where you can try the famous licor de madroño. This sweet liqueur is served in a wafer cup, making it a unique experience.
📍 Curious fact: Madrid’s coat of arms features a bear leaning on a madroño tree, but this tree doesn’t grow strawberries—it produces fruits that ferment and can become alcoholic.

Afternoon in Madrid: Culture, Art, and Stunning Views
5. A Walk Through Madrid de los Austrias
To continue exploring Madrid, head to Madrid de los Austrias, one of the city’s oldest areas. Here, you’ll find:
- The Royal Palace: Although no longer the royal family’s residence, it remains one of Europe’s most impressive palaces.
- The Almudena Cathedral: Located right in front of the Royal Palace, this cathedral combines different architectural styles and offers a spectacular view from its dome.
- The San Miguel Market: A perfect place to try gourmet tapas in a lively setting.
6. Sunset at a Rooftop with Views of Madrid
Madrid has some of the best rooftop bars in Europe, ideal for relaxing with a drink while enjoying a spectacular sunset. Some recommended options are:
- Azotea del Círculo de Bellas Artes: One of the most iconic views of Gran Vía.
- Riu Plaza España: From here, you can see the entire city from above Plaza de España.
- Ginkgo Sky Bar: A modern venue with an incredible terrace.
Night in Madrid: Tapas, Music, and Fun
7. Tapas and Drinks in La Latina
When night falls, it’s the perfect time to go for tapas. La Latina is one of the best neighborhoods for this. Some must-visit spots include:
- Casa Lucio (Calle Cava Baja, 35) – Famous for its huevos rotos (broken eggs).
- El Viajero (Plaza de la Cebada, 11) – A bar with a terrace, perfect for soaking in the nighttime atmosphere.
- Juana La Loca (Plaza de Puerta de Moros, 4) – Home to one of the best Spanish omelets in Madrid.
8. Flamenco Show
For a 100% Spanish experience, you can’t miss a flamenco show. Some of the best tablaos in the city are:
- Corral de la Morería – One of Madrid’s most prestigious tablaos.
- Cardamomo – Recommended by UNESCO for the quality of its performances.
- Las Tablas – An intimate and cozy place to experience authentic flamenco.
9. Party in Malasaña or Chueca
For those who still have energy, Madrid has one of the best nightlife scenes in Europe. The neighborhoods of Malasaña and Chueca are perfect for partying:
- Ojalá (Calle de San Andrés, 1) – A bar with sand on the floor and a beach-like vibe.
- El Penta (Calle de la Palma, 4) – A classic of the Movida Madrileña.
- Delirio (Calle de Pelayo, 59) – A must-visit in Chueca’s nightlife scene.
Madrid is a city full of plans to enjoy at any time of the day. From traditional breakfasts and historical tours to art-filled afternoons, sunset views from rooftops, and nights of flamenco and partying—there’s something for everyone!
If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, make sure to try some of these experiences to live the Spanish capital to the fullest.
📌 Which of these plans would you like to try first? Let us know in the comments!
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