Madrid on a Budget: History, Art & Culture
A trip to Madrid on a limited budget is still possible! You can find affordable hostels, street food and free activities. Explore museums, parks and the city's vibrant nightlife without breaking the bank.
Escape for a Romantic Long Weekend in Madrid
Experience love in the heart of Spain's capital city.
22 April 2023
Madrid, the bustling capital of Spain, provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic trip. Explore the city's stunning architecture, traditional cuisine, and rich culture hand in hand with your significant other. From strolling through the picturesque Retiro Park to enjoying a cozy night out in the charming neighborhood of Malasaña, there's no shortage of romantic experiences for couples in Madrid.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check-in at the Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques, a luxury hotel with an outdoor pool and stunning views of the Royal Palace.
- Head to the nearby Mercado de San Miguel for some tapas and sangria. Try the famous Iberico ham croquettes and seafood paella.
- Walk around the historical center of Madrid, including Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol.
- Visit the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco.
- Enjoy some drinks and live music at the rooftop bar of the Circulo de Bellas Artes, overlooking the city.
- Start with a traditional Spanish breakfast of churros with chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés.
- Take a guided tour of the Royal Palace and its beautiful gardens.
- Grab lunch at Casa Ciriaco, a century-old restaurant famous for its cocido madrileño, a hearty chickpea-based stew.
- Visit the Reina Sofía Museum to see Picasso's iconic Guernica and other modern art pieces.
- Watch the sunset at the Temple of Debod, a beautiful Egyptian temple relocated to Madrid.
- Take a day trip to Toledo, a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture.
- Visit the impressive Cathedral of Toledo and El Greco's Museum.
- Enjoy a traditional Castilian lunch at Adolfo, featuring roasted lamb and other regional specialties.
- Walk around the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter and admire the stunning views from the Alcázar fortress.
- Catch the last train back to Madrid and enjoy some late-night cocktails at the stylish trendy bar, Le Cabrera.
- Have a lazy morning and enjoy breakfast in bed at the Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques.
- Visit the Sabatini Gardens and then head to the Parque del Retiro, a beautiful park with a boating lake and the famous Crystal Palace.
- Spend the afternoon at the Hammam Al Ándalus, a luxurious Arab bath with hot springs and massages.
- Have dinner at Ramón Freixa Madrid, a Michelin-starred restaurant with contemporary cuisine and romantic ambiance.
- End the night stargazing with your partner at the rooftop observatory of the Centro Cultural Conde Duque.
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Madrid, Spain by plane is to fly into Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD) from your nearest major airport. Many airlines offer direct flights to Madrid from around the world, so check with your preferred carrier for availability and pricing.
Car
If you are traveling to Madrid by car, the A-6 is the major highway that links Madrid with northwest Spain, while the A-4 links Madrid with southern Spain. Other routes may also be available depending on your starting location. Be sure to check for tolls and plan your route accordingly.
Train
While there are train routes to Madrid from other European cities, the best option will depend on your starting location. The most popular national railway company in Spain is Renfe, which offers high-speed trains that run to Madrid from several cities throughout the country.
Boat
While there are no direct boat routes to Madrid, some cruise lines offer packages that include a stop in the nearby port city of Valencia. Once there, you can take a train or bus to Madrid. The port of Valencia is serviced by several major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises.
Bus
Buses are a popular and affordable way to get to Madrid from other Spanish cities. Several companies, such as ALSA and Avanza, offer daily bus service to Madrid from cities like Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville. The main bus station in Madrid is Estación Sur de Autobuses.
