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Sunset

Golden Hour at San Fernando

Start with a sweet treat, watch the light hit the museum, and end with a classic Madrid nightcap.

Best time: 15 JanAbout 90 min

Timeline

  1. 16:00

    La Mallorquina

    Grab a chocolate croissant and coffee at La Mallorquina. The upstairs room is peaceful and perfect for lingering before the rush.

  2. 16:42

    Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando

    Walk to the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando. Arrive early to see the Goya masterpieces in the quiet morning light. The museum closes at 15:00, so this visit must happen before the afternoon window.

  3. 17:42

    Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando

    Stay inside or in the immediate vicinity as the light shifts. The late afternoon sun casts a warm glow on the historic building’s facade, creating a perfect backdrop for your photos before heading out.

  4. 18:12

    Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando

    Step outside as the sun sets toward the WSW. The golden hour light bathes the plaza in a soft, amber hue, marking the transition from day to night in the city.

  5. 18:57

    Museo Chicote

    End the evening at Museo Chicote. This historic bar, voted Best European Bar in 2004, offers an extensive cocktail list and a legendary atmosphere. It is open until 03:00 on weekdays, making it a perfect late-night stop.

Local tip

The Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando is closed on Mondays and in August. Check the route for public transport if you are coming from further away, as the area around Puerta del Sol can be busy.

Check before you go

  • La Mallorquina is open 08:30-21:00.
  • Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando is open Tue-Sun 10:00-15:00.
  • Museo Chicote is open Mo-Th 19:00-03:00.

Worth knowing

  • Museo Chicote is open at 18:57 only on Su

Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Madrid (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).

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