Madrid itinerary — 3 days

Barrio de La Latina in Madrid is a vibrant neighborhood with narrow lanes filled with tapas bars and cantinas. It's home to landmarks like the San Francisco el Grande Basilica, known for its Goya paintings, and the towering Moorish San Pedro el Real church. On Sundays, El Rastro flea market draws crowds seeking out lunch at cafes and street-food stalls. The district offers arguably the best tapas in the world and lively terraces for enjoying mojitos.

Tonala is home to a bustling outdoor market that draws in hundreds of vendors selling folk art and home goods. The labyrinthine market offers a wide selection of items, making it an ideal place for shopping. Visitors can take a break from exploring the market by indulging in delicious tortas and tacos from numerous food stands. It's recommended to arrive early to avoid the crowds of tourists that gather around lunchtime, but despite the large number of people, it's definitely worth a visit.

Parque de la Quinta de los Molinos is a former estate transformed into a 25-hectare park in the heart of Madrid. It's known for its stunning display of blooming almond trees, which number around 6,000 and create a beautiful spectacle of pink and white hues during spring. The park offers various amenities such as running paths, a botanical trail, and sports areas.

Real Jardín Botánico, also known as the Royal Botanical Garden, is a historic botanical garden located next to the Prado Museum in Madrid. Established in the 18th century, it features three terraces showcasing around 6,000 plant species from around the world. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that delve into the garden's history and cultivation techniques. The garden includes various themed zones such as a Mediterranean garden, tropical garden, and medicinal plant garden.

Nestled to the east of central Madrid, the Las Ventas Bullring stands as a monumental testament to Spain's rich cultural heritage. Constructed in the 1920s, this iconic arena showcases stunning Neo-Mudéjar architecture that captivates visitors, even those who may not be fans of bullfighting. As the most prestigious bullring globally, it offers an authentic glimpse into this traditional spectacle with regular events held from mid-May to September.

The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is a vast museum showcasing an impressive collection of Spanish 20th-century art, featuring renowned works by artists such as Gris, Dali, Picasso, and Miro. Located near the Atocha train station in Madrid, the museum offers free admission during specific hours on weekdays and weekends.

Malasaña, a vibrant and student-friendly neighborhood in Madrid, is known for its bustling streets filled with cozy coffee shops, charming bakeries, and vintage clothing stores. The historic Plaza del 2 de Mayo is a popular gathering place surrounded by lively bars and weekend market stalls. At night, the area comes alive with edgy dance clubs and rock venues hosting live bands and DJs.

Plaza de España is a renowned square crafted by Aníbal González in 1929, known for its cinematic appeal and a picturesque canal where visitors can take boat rides. The area surrounding Plaza de España, including Mercado Mostenses and the plaza itself, offers an array of affordable Asian eateries, particularly Chinese cuisine. Among the favorites in this vicinity is Xiongzai located at Calle San Leonardo, 3.

If you're wandering through Madrid, a visit to Doña Castiza Churros y Bocadillos Calamares is an absolute must. This charming little eatery specializes in the iconic bocadillo de calamares, a delightful sandwich filled with crispy fried squid rings that’s both affordable and satisfying. The space may be small, but it offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying breakfast or coffee.

Parque Madrid Río is a modern linear green space that stretches along the Manzanares River in Madrid. It was created through the burial of Calle 30, a motorway that used to run alongside the river. The park is one of the largest ecological rebalancing projects in the city and features cultural events, sports fields, and various recreational areas.

Campo del Moro Park is a historic garden located on 20 acres with steep slopes, streams, paths, and trees. The park features two monumental fountains and is inspired by the royal gardens of England. Its name translates to 'The Field of the Moor,' referencing the Moors' historical attempt to capture Madrid in the 12th century. Visitors can experience a sprawling English estate atmosphere while exploring this expansive space.