Madrid Spain

Depends on where you are to stay. Most likely Gran Via or south as you will be taking the train (?) from Atocha Train Station to Sevilla, 2 1/2 hours. You can rest on the train. There are two, or three stops before you get to Sevilla. I suggest that you walk on Gran Via, the architecture is amazing, perhaps also to Puerta del Sol, own down to Plaza Mayor. Or over the Park Retrio and/or the Prado. Many good places to stop and grab a bite of food along the way. Take a taxi back to the hotel when you get tired.

On my first day, it took a good portion of the morning getting out of the airport and into town. I checked into my hotel and showered, then went out walking. I was staying near the Prado, and I walked to Sol to get a SIM for my phone, then on to the Plaza Mayor. I took the hop on, hop off bus for an overview of the city so I would know what I wanted to go back to, found a place for an early dinner, bought some snacks and drinks for back in my room - in general, just got acclimated and settled. The next day I did all of my actual sightseeing.

My wife and I always take an hour or so nap then get up and take a shower then go out and explore. I don't understand how anyone can just stay up until a normal bedtime, though plenty of folks including Rick recommend that. Assuming you are staying some place central, walking the corridor between the Prado and the Palacio Real is highly recommended. Definitely take the metro to get into town from the airport, nothing could be easier.

Thanks for your suggestions. I think if I can check into my hotel I will shower, but try to stay awake for awhile . I like the walk on Gran Via,Plaza Mayor, maybe to the Retiro Park. I'm afraid if I get on a bus ill fall asleep
The second day I want to go to the Royal Palace & the old quarter& the Prado Museum.

Shelly, I just arrived in Madrid this afternoon, so haven't seen to many of the sites yet. The answers to your questions will probably depend on what time your flight arrives, which part of the city you'll be staying in and what your interests are. If you have the time and interest, the Prado might be a good place to spend a few hours. If I arrive in mid-afternoon, I generally like to do a "walkabout" and familiarize myself with the neighborhood, have an early dinner, do some planning for the next day and then "crash" (by that time I'm usually ready for sleep). I have on occasion taken a short nap after arrival, and then had a look around until later in the evening. I didn't have to worry about that on this trip though, as I didn't arrive at my first hotel until about 23:00 and it was bed time (after about a 25 hour travel day and three flights). I agree with Shelley (Trenton). Hotel Europa is wonderful! I'm sitting there right now. Happy travels!

Hotel Europa is a great hotel near Plaza Mayor and all the sights you will have time for in 1.5 days. It is one of my favorite big cities (been twice).