Staying in Madrid for 6 days to visit our son who's an exchange student. We have never been to Spain and want to make the most out of 6 days. We don't want to squeeze in too much and not enjoy our time. Home base will be Madrid, what are some good day trips? Also, I know there are a ton of museums but are some better than others? We want to explore the culture and food as well. Any suggestions appreciated. Thank you
Posted by
Massachusetts, USA
1700 posts
Are you planning on spending all 6 days in Madrid and looking for daytrip suggestions? Not sure exactly what you are looking for. My recommendation would be to spend 2 nights in Toledo and 4 nights in Madrid. There is lots to do in Madrid and Toledo, and I assume you want to spend time with your son.
Do you like art? Madrid has some outstanding art museums, such as the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen, amongst others. There is the Royal Palace, Retiro Park, and markets and neighborhoods to explore.
Toledo is a very historical city with Christian, Muslim, and Jewish heritage. There is the cathedral, art museums, and beautiful architecture.
I recommend reading some good guidebooks, such as Lonely Planet, Fodors, Rick Steves, and Michelin Green Guide.
Posted by
Olympia, WA, USA
6713 posts
Great art museums as noted above, also the Royal Palace, several other museums, Retiro Park, and lots of plazas and good walking areas. Toledo could be a day trip, better as an overnight if that works, I think two nights would be too many given the length of your trip and your other priorities. Another good day trip would be Segovia, whose Roman aqueduct is amazing.
Here are our host's suggestions for Madrid, and here for Toledo.
Posted by
Mid-Atlantic area
7157 posts
What to visit depends on what you like to see and do. Popular day trips are to Toledo, Segovia, Alcalá de Henares, and Salamanca. Other possible towns are San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Ávila, and Cuenca.
If you don’t like art museums, or museums in general, look at lesser visited sites in the city.
Posted by
Cape Ann, Massachusetts
3336 posts
Is your son an exchange student in Madrid? If so, I'd suggest letting him come up with the itinerary other than obvious places you want to see. That's what we did whenever my daughter was in a European location either as a student or working. You'll see much more interesting places through your son who lives there and get an interesting insight into his life there. Also, there might be some places he hasn't seen yet that he wants to see with you. Just enjoy this special time with your son. My opinion, yours could vary. Have a great visit!