Although Madrid, Spain 🇪🇸 is a city you could spend a week in and not have discovered everything there is to see; sometimes you just have a quick layover and want to get a quick tour. That's what I did:

After landing at MAD airport, you can easily take Line 8 until the "Nuevos Ministerios" station. From there you can take the metro C4 or C3b to station "Sol". The one-way trip should cost you less than 5 EUR.

From there I would recommend doing a rough circle of the following:

• Puerta del Sol: This square is considered the heart of Madrid and a great starting point for your tour. It's home to the iconic clock tower whose bells mark the new year for Spaniards and the "Kilometer Zero" stone, the symbolic center of Spain's road network. Maybe take a photo with the statue of the bear and the Madroño tree.
• Plaza Mayor: Just a short walk from Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor is a grand, enclosed square surrounded by beautiful 17th-century architecture. Historically a site for royal ceremonies, bullfights, and markets, today it's a lovely place to wander, and admire the statue of King Philip III in the center.
• San Miguel Market: The perfect stop for a quick lunch - indulge your senses at this vibrant food market. Sample a variety of Spanish delicacies, from tapas and Iberian ham to fresh seafood and local wines. It's the perfect place to experience the flavors of Madrid in a lively setting.
• Plaza de la Villa: This square, with its historic buildings and peaceful atmosphere, offers a glimpse into Madrid's past. Take a moment to appreciate the history and tranquility of this square.
• La Almudena Cathedral: This impressive cathedral, with its neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque styles, is a relatively modern addition to Madrid's skyline. Its grand interior features stained glass windows, intricate sculptures, and a beautiful dome.
• Palacio de Oriente: The Royal Palace of Madrid is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and one of the largest functioning royal palaces in Europe.
• Plaza de España: This large square is a popular meeting point and features a monument to Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote. Enjoy the views and the lively atmosphere of this central square.
• Paseo del Prado: This elegant boulevard, lined with trees and grand buildings, is home to some of Madrid's most famous museums, including the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Stroll along the Paseo del Prado to experience the city's cultural heart.
• Puerta de Alcalá: This iconic triumphal arch, once the main entrance to the city, is a symbol of Madrid. Admire its neoclassical architecture and its historical significance. It's a great photo opportunity and a landmark you won't want to miss.
• Plaza de Colón: This large square is a major transportation hub and features a monument to Christopher Columbus.

From station "Cibeles" you can then take bus 203 until the airport, or you could take metro 4 until "Mar de Cristal" and then switch to metro number 4 until the airport. Both options offer convenient ways to return to MAD airport.

Enjoy your Madrid layover!