The New York Times travel section has their famous 36 hours in ..., where they give readers a possible itinerary of culture, eating, drinking, partying, etc. in a given city. Since I can't compete with the NY Times, I went with 8 hours, the time someone might have in Madrid between flights.
12 Noon. Find the left luggage (consigna) at your terminal. If you are coming from an international destination, it is most likely terminal 4, but there are similar places in terminal 1 and maybe 2. Deposit all your stuff in the large cabinets (5 Euros for 24 hours). Take your computer with you, though.
12:30 PM. Find your way to the rail and bus terminal. Take either the Metro bus or train (renfe) to Madrid, Atocha Station.
13:45 PM. Step outside, go the the McDonald's across the station, order a cafe bombón (espresso shot served over sweetened condensed milk) and a macaron, or whatever other drink and pastry that tempts you, and while you are sipping use the free wireless service to call your significant others, check the news or mail.
1:30 PM Proceed to cross the street parallel the train station and go to El Brillante (next to Starbucks). Sit at the bar, order their famous Bocadillo de Calamares, and enjoy it with a Spanish beer available on tap.
2:00 PM Return in the direction of McDonald's, and continue towards El Prado museum. You actually have to cross the boulevard towards the green (grass and trees) side. Do it sooner rather than later. Enjoy the magnificent collection. As the ushers what to watch first (1st floor a collection of large scale paintings), as there is enough famous art to last you a week of walking. At 6 PM entrance is free, and you'll notice the crowd pouring in. This may be a time to sit down and enjoy some people watching.
7:00 Visit the Prado cafe for dinner or bocas.
8:00 Catch the train/Metro bus back. Your next destination awaits.
Note: if the classics are not your flavor, visit the Real Madrid football museum, in their stadium. Just don't ask me for direction...
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