Morning: Guided Tour of Almudena Cathedral & Royal Palace
Begin your day with a guided tour of Almudena Cathedral, Madrid’s most important church. This striking cathedral, with its blend of neoclassical, Gothic, and modern elements, stands opposite the Royal Palace. Inside, admire the stunning stained-glass windows, the colorful contemporary ceiling, and the grand altar, which beautifully combines tradition with modern artistry.
Next, explore the Royal Palace of Madrid, one of the largest and most opulent palaces in Europe. With your entrance included, you'll step into a world of royal grandeur, walking through lavishly decorated halls, the grand throne room, and the impressive Royal Armory.
AFTERNOON: VIsit Madrid's Famous El RETiro Park
El Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro) is Madrid’s most iconic green space—a sprawling, historic park in the heart of the city that offers a peaceful retreat from the urban buzz. Once the royal gardens of a 17th-century palace, El Retiro now spans over 125 hectares, filled with tree-lined paths, manicured gardens, monuments, and fountains.
Highlights include the Crystal Palace (Palacio de Cristal), a glass-and-iron structure often used for art exhibitions, and the Great Pond (Estanque Grande), where visitors can rent rowboats and relax by the water. The park is also home to sculptures, street performers, and seasonal flower displays, including the beautifully landscaped Rose Garden (La Rosaleda).
El Retiro is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to walk, picnic, read, or just enjoy the atmosphere—offering a blend of history, nature, and everyday Madrid life.
or visit one of the underground locations described below
After your morning of history and architecture, enjoy free time to explore Gran Vía, Madrid’s famous shopping boulevard. This vibrant street is lined with a mix of high-end fashion boutiques, international brands, and Spanish department stores like El Corte Inglés and Zara. Whether you're looking for trendy clothing, souvenirs, or local artisan goods, Gran Vía offers a shopping experience for all tastes.
Or visit Madrid Underground: (cost to be determined)
- Catacombs of the Collegiate Church of San Isidro
- Crypt of Almudena Cathedral
- Madrid Underground and Cemeteries Tour
Evening: Dinner & Reina Sofía Museum (7-9 PM, On Your Own)
After dinner, head to the Reina Sofía Museum, one of Spain’s premier modern art museums, for an evening visit between 7-9 PM. Here, you’ll find an impressive collection of 20th-century Spanish art, including masterpieces by Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Joan Miró. The highlight is undoubtedly Picasso’s "Guernica," a powerful anti-war painting that stands as one of the most significant artworks of the 20th century.
Wander through the museum’s galleries at your own pace, taking in a mix of surrealism, cubism, and contemporary works that showcase Spain’s artistic evolution. This evening visit offers a quieter, more reflective experience, perfect for ending your day immersed in Madrid’s rich cultural heritage.
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Overnight Madrid.