Madrid 3-Day Itinerary: A City of Ham & Art

🏰【Must-Visit Attractions】
• Prado Museum (free after 6pm on Fridays) – Don't miss Velázquez's "Las Meninas"
• Royal Palace of Madrid (spectacular changing of the guard)
• Puerta del Sol (Bear and the Strawberry Tree statue)
• Retiro Park (Crystal Palace is perfect for photos)
• Temple of Debod (sunset views over the pyramid)

🚇【Transport Tips】
From airport to city:
✈ Express train (€8/person)
🚕 Uber to downtown (~€30)
In the city:
• 10-ride metro pass (40% cheaper than single tickets)
• Walk in the old town (attractions are very concentrated)

🛍【Shopping Guide】
Luxury: Salamanca District (local elite's favorite)
Local specialties:
• Vacuum-packed jamón ibérico (Museo del Jamón)
• Handmade leather shoes (Calle de Toledo)
• Real Madrid merchandise for football fans

🍽【Foodie Map】
Trendy spots:
• Sobrino de Botín (world's oldest restaurant)
• Mercado de San Miguel (tapas market)
Authentic experiences:
• Churros con chocolate (San Ginés)
• Paella (ask for "al dente" rice)
• €1 tapas bars (La Latina district)

🏨【Accommodation Picks】
Luxury:
• Hotel Único (with Michelin-starred restaurant)
• Four Seasons (rooftop bar with panoramic views)
Budget-friendly:
• Apartments near Puerta del Sol
• Design hotels in La Latina (full of artistic flair)

💫【Travel Notes】
Madrid is way more fun than expected! Walk 20,000 steps daily from museums to taverns. Pro tips:
• Get an Art Pass (3 major museums)
• Learn "Hola" and "Gracias"
• Save an evening for flamenco shows!