Madrid in one day: an hour-by-hour walking itinerary
Quick answer
In one day in Madrid you can walk from the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral to Plaza Mayor, San Miguel Market and Puerta del Sol, lunch in the Barrio de las Letras and enter the Prado during its free slot (from 18:00) before ending in Retiro Park. Start at 9:30 and wear comfortable shoes.
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One-day itinerary
A linear route from west to east, from Habsburg and Bourbon Madrid to the Art Walk. Times are approximate and include walking.
- 1
09:30 · Plaza de Oriente
Royal Palace
Start at the official residence of the king, now used for state ceremonies. Built in the 18th century after the medieval alcázar burned down, it has over 3,000 rooms; the visit includes the Throne Room, the Royal Armoury and the Royal Pharmacy. Book ahead and allow 1 to 1.5 hours.
- 2
11:15 · Calle Bailén
Almudena Cathedral
Opposite the palace, a cathedral that is neoclassical outside and neo-Gothic inside, begun in 1883 and not consecrated until 1993. The neo-Romanesque crypt is worth a look and, if there is no service, climb the dome for a good view of the Royal Palace.
- 3
12:00 · Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor
A large arcaded rectangle laid out in the 17th century, once the stage for markets, festivals and executions. Look at the mural on the Casa de la Panadería and the equestrian statue of Philip III in the middle.
- 4
12:45 · Plaza de San Miguel
San Miguel Market
An early 20th-century iron-and-glass structure turned into a food hall. Ideal for a quick bite: croquettes, a vermouth or a plate of ham. It is touristy and prices reflect that.
- 5
13:30 · Calle Mayor · Puerta del Sol
Puerta del Sol
Cross the old town to Spain's kilometre zero, the bear and strawberry tree statue and the Casa de Correos clock that marks the New Year's Eve chimes. It is a pass-through spot; 15 minutes is enough.
- 6
14:15 · Calle de las Huertas
Lunch in the Barrio de las Letras
Sit down for a set lunch menu in the neighbourhood where Cervantes, Lope de Vega and Quevedo lived. Look for writers' verses set into the pavement of Calle de las Huertas.
- 7
16:00 · Barrio de las Letras
Literary stroll through Las Letras
Pass Lope de Vega's house and the Trinitarias convent, where Cervantes is buried. Then head down towards Plaza de Santa Ana and the Paseo del Prado.
- 8
17:15 · Paseo del Prado
Prado Museum
Arrive early for the free-slot line (Monday to Saturday 18:00–20:00, Sundays and holidays 17:00–19:00), or buy a €15 general ticket and go in sooner. In two hours you can see Las Meninas, the Goyas and Bosch following our 2-hour Prado route. The museum opens Monday to Saturday 10:00–20:00.
- 9
19:30 · Puerta de Alcalá
Retiro Park
After the Prado, walk ten minutes to Retiro, once the kings' pleasure garden. Circle the lake and the Crystal Palace and say goodbye in the evening light.
Tips to make it work
- Start early: the Royal Palace is much calmer first thing.
- If you do not care about the palace interior, swap it for the Sabatini Gardens and start later.
- Avoid double lines: buy the Royal Palace online and use the Prado's free slot.
- In summer, leave Retiro for last: it is the coolest part of the day.
- With the AnyArt app you can identify a statue, facade or Prado painting with your camera and hear its story as you walk.
Frequently asked questions
Can you see Madrid in one day?
Yes, the essentials. This walking route covers Habsburg Madrid, an essential museum like the Prado and Retiro. For the Reina Sofía and Thyssen you need at least a second day.
Where should I start with one day in Madrid?
At the Royal Palace first thing, heading down towards Sol and Las Letras. End at the Prado and Retiro, which are in the same area.
What to see in Madrid if it rains?
Spend longer in museums: the Prado easily fills an afternoon, and San Miguel Market and the cafés of Las Letras make good shelter.
How far do you walk on this route?
About 6–7 kilometres over the day, mostly flat. You can shorten it with the metro between Sol and the Prado.