What to do in Madrid in 48 hours: the definitive guide so you don't miss a thing

What to do in Madrid in 48 hours? More than a quick visit, it’s the perfect opportunity to live an experience that transforms you. The city welcomes you with its unique energy, blending tradition and modernity, history and avant-garde, calm and unstoppable rhythm. If you’re wondering what to do in Madrid in two days, this guide is designed so that in a short time you can breathe its essence, get lost in its vibrant streets, enjoy its art and gastronomy, and feel that pulse that only comes alive here.

And because every trip needs a refuge that lives up to the destination, nothing better than accompanying your getaway with the style, hospitality, and unrivaled locations of Vincci Hoteles, with six options in Madrid designed for you to enjoy the city with all the comfort and charm you deserve.

Day 1: History, art, and Madrid’s classic views

The first day is dedicated to the city’s must-sees: historic squares, majestic monuments, world-renowned museums, and unforgettable sunsets — all within walking distance.

Puerta del Sol, the square that never sleeps

Start your itinerary at Puerta del Sol, the perfect meeting point to begin exploring the city. Don’t miss the iconic Bear and the Strawberry Tree statue, the kilometer zero plaque, or the legendary Tío Pepe sign. From here, Madrid opens up before you: all major avenues start from this square.

From Plaza Mayor to the Royal Palace

Continue your walk to the Plaza Mayor, one of the most beautiful in Europe. Surrounded by arcades, it’s perfect for a coffee or the classic calamari sandwich. Just steps away, the San Miguel Market offers a gourmet stop to enjoy creative tapas, Iberian ham, and a good vermouth.

From there, head to the Almudena Cathedral and the Royal Palace. Even without entering, strolling through the Sabatini Gardens and admiring the palace façade is worth it, especially at sunset.

Art Walk: museums to visit in Madrid in 2 days

One of Madrid’s treasures is its "Art Triangle": at the Prado, you’ll find Velázquez and Goya; at the Reina Sofía, Picasso’s powerful Guernica; and at the Thyssen, a journey through European painting from the 13th to the 20th centuries. Many museums in the city offer free entry in the evenings.

Sunset at the Temple of Debod and evening on Gran Vía

End the day with one of the city’s best sunsets. The Temple of Debod, a gift from Egypt, sits in a park overlooking the Casa de Campo and the Sierra de Guadarrama. A magical spot to relax after a full day.



As night falls, Gran Vía comes alive with its theaters, bright shopfronts, and lively bars. It’s the perfect finale for your first day in Madrid.

And at the end of the day, nothing beats resting in a hotel with the soul of Madrid, like the ones you’ll find at Vincci Hoteles.

Day 2: Neighborhoods with soul, parks, and stylish shopping

On the second day, discover Madrid’s most authentic side: historic neighborhoods, open-air art, vibrant parks, and shopping areas where tradition meets modernity.

Literary Quarter and Plaza de Santa Ana

Start your day in the Literary Quarter, where history and literature meet the city’s castizo charm. Streets are lined with quotes on the pavement, colorful façades, and centuries-old taverns. Famous figures like Cervantes, Lope de Vega, and Quevedo once walked these corners.

The Plaza de Santa Ana is the epicenter of tapas: lively terraces, classic bars, and lots of local flavor — the ideal place to soak up authentic Madrid life.

Retiro Park, Madrid’s green lung

After the urban bustle, it’s time to breathe fresh air. Retiro Park is ideal for strolling among fountains, statues, and gardens. You can row a boat on the lake or visit the Crystal Palace, one of the city’s most photogenic spots. It’s the perfect oasis to disconnect without leaving Madrid.

Here, you don’t just walk: you breathe calm, listen to the fountains, and feel Madrid pause for a moment.

From Cibeles to Puerta de Alcalá: icons and architecture

Continue your route from the emblematic Cibeles Fountain, flanked by the Post Office Palace, to the Puerta de Alcalá, one of Madrid’s most photographed (and sung about) landmarks. This stretch is perfect for a leisurely walk admiring neoclassical architecture.

Shopping in Madrid: Gran Vía, Fuencarral, and Salamanca

The afternoon is made for shopping. On Gran Vía you’ll find international brands, in Fuencarral all the urban and alternative fashion, and in the Salamanca district the Golden Mile with high-end boutiques and designer labels.

Practical tips for enjoying Madrid in 48 hours

A few tips will make the difference between a good visit and an unforgettable one. Here’s when to come, how to get around, and how to make the most of every minute.

When to visit Madrid and how to get around

Madrid is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer the perfect climate for walking at leisure. The metro is your best ally for quick travel, though many areas are best explored on foot. Travel apps like Citymapper, Moovit, or Madrid’s official app help plan routes, check schedules, and find where to eat or book activities.

Experience Madrid from within: your hotel, your experience

Choosing where to stay can make the difference between just another visit and an unforgettable experience. At Vincci Hoteles, we offer not only privileged locations but also gastronomic options in tune with the city’s rhythm and the best views from our rooftops.



- Imagine waking up in the heart of Madrid, with the great museums just steps away and the city literally at your feet. Vincci Soho 4* rises in the Literary Quarter. Just across Prado Street is the Art Triangle, with Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol nearby.

- On Gran Vía, our Vincci Capitol 4* is housed in the iconic Capitol Cinema building, right where the city’s pulse meets its theater scene. Callao, San Miguel Market, and the Royal Palace are all just a short walk away.

- If you want to live Gran Vía in true Broadway style, Vincci Vía 66 4* places you at the heart of Madrid’s musicals, between Plaza de España and Puerta del Sol, with easy access to Fuencarral and Princesa streets.

- On Cedaceros Street, our boutique Vincci Centrum 4* captures the dynamism of authentic Madrid: close to Gran Vía, museum routes, and the literary walks of the Literary Quarter.

- And if you’re drawn to the elegance of Salamanca and its Golden Mile shopping, Vincci Soma 4* on Goya Street is your hotel. You’ll be as close to Retiro Park as you are to Velázquez Street, with direct access to the city’s cultural arteries.

We also recommend you enjoy our podcast about Madrid. You can listen to it on both Youtube and Spotify.



Ready for your getaway?

In just two days, Madrid will gift you memories to last a lifetime: strolling among palaces and museums, tapas in historic squares, soaking up the magic of its neighborhoods, or losing track of time watching the sunset from a rooftop.

Madrid is waiting to offer you unique moments. Make them yours, choose your Vincci hotel, and start living your getaway now.

Book your escape with Vincci Hoteles and let Madrid surprise you from your very first morning coffee.

"Come. Be surprised. Discover more than 40 four- and five-star hotels where every experience is unique. Open your eyes. Look out. Enjoy the most privileged locations. See. Touch. Feel a design and style that can be appreciated in every detail. Rest. Relax. Let yourself be taken care of by a service where you are the center. Dream. Smile. Live. You are at a Vincci"

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