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!