visit the city madrid

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The capital city with a thousand options

Buen Retiro Park

Royal Palace

Puerta de Alcalá Gate

Plaza Mayor square in Madrid

Casa de la Villa City Hall and Casa de Cisneros House

Teatro Real

Reina Sofía National Art Centre

Gallery of the Royal Collections

Prado Museum

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

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How to get there - transport information

Select the means of transport to see how to get there or how to get around at your destination.

How to get to aeroplane

Madrid Airport is 12 kilometres from the city centre, which can easily be reached by public transport.

By metro , take line 8. The trip costs an additional 3 euros on top of the cost of any ticket, and the journey is just over 30 minutes.

By train , you can take the C-1 and C-10 Cercanías lines, which take around half an hour to reach the city centre.

By bus, you can get to the centre with the Exprés Aeropuerto , in about half an hour for 5 euros, or take the regular city bus routes 200 or 101.

By taxi , the journey between the airport and the city centre has a fixed price of 30 euros.

If travelling by night, take the airport express bus or a taxi.

By road , the most common route is along the M-40, and it takes just over 20 minutes.

More information

How to get to train

If you are travelling to Madrid by train, you can reach two main stations: Atocha and Chamartín.

Madrid Station - Puerta de Atocha - Almudena Grandes : In the city centre. You can easily leave the station by public transport: you can take the Metro (line 1), the train (all the Cercanías or local trains) and the bus (lines 001, 6, 10, 14, 19, 24, 26, 27, 32, 34, 36, 37, 41, 45, 47, 54, 55, 57, 59, 85, 86, 102, 119, 141, 203, E1, C1, C2, C03, SE766, N9, N10, N11, N12, N13, N14, N15, N17, N25) and taxi . International connections to Paris and Lisbon. High-speed trains to Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, Malaga, and more destinations.

Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor Station : In the north of the city. From the station, you can take the metro (lines 1 and 10), train (lines C-1, C-2, C-3, C3a, C-4, C-7, C-8 and C-10), bus (lines 5, 66, 67, 124, 129, 134, 135, 150, 147, 173, 174, 175, 176, 178, SE704, T62, N24) and taxi . International connections to Paris and Lisbon.

Ticket booking

How to get to bus

If you want to get to Madrid by bus, you have two options in terms of stations: the Méndez Álvaro station, also known as the Estación Sur, and the Avenida de América station.

Sur Station : Located in the southern part of the city of Madrid. Public transport connections: Metro (line 6), train (lines C1, C5, C10), bus (lines 8, 102, 113, 148, 152, 156, N11) and taxi .

Avenida de América Station : In the north of the city. Public transport connections: Metro (lines 4, 6, 7 and 9), bus (1, 12, 52, 72, 73, 114, 115, 122, 200, C1, C2, N2, N4) and taxi .

How to get there by road

The main roads leading to Madrid are the A-1 (from the Basque Country), A-2 (Barcelona), A-3 (Valencia), A-4 (Seville), A-5 (Extremadura) and A-6 (Galicia).

Please note that large parts of the city centre are Low-Emissions Zones, where driving and parking are restricted. If you arrive in Madrid by car or motorcycle, consult the website of the City Council to find out about these areas. These restrictions apply equally to vehicles with foreign registrations. If your vehicle has an environmental rating from France or Portugal, check DGT website the table of equivalences of environmental ratings in European Union countries to know what restrictions might affect you. You can also get information before travelling through your accommodation in Madrid.

Practical information

Most points of interest are concentrated in the centre, which makes it easy to explore them on foot.

Tourist pass : for just one person. Unlimited travel on the metro, bus and train network. There are five types: lasting one, two, three, four, five or seven calendar days and with two different levels of coverage: A (to travel within the city of Madrid) and T (to also travel in the surrounding areas, as this pass includes all the other zones).

How to get around in metro/tram

The Metro network covers the entire city of Madrid and connects it to other nearby towns within the region of Madrid .

It operates from 6:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. every day. 

You can buy single tickets, passes for 10 journeys, or special tickets to the airport.

How to get around in train

The Cercanías train network covers the entire city of Madrid and connects it to other nearby towns within the region of Madrid .

It runs from 5.30 am to 11.30 pm.

You can buy single or return tickets, or a pass for 10 journeys.

How to get around in bus

The city bus lines usually operate between 6:00 am and 11:30 pm.

Night buses, known as “búhos” (owls), run from 11.20 pm or 11.45 pm to 5.30 am or 6 am, and until 7 am on Saturday nights and before public holidays. Most lines start at Plaza de Cibeles. 

There are also intercity lines that connect the city of Madrid with other towns in the region.

Sightseeing bus around the most iconic spots with 1 or 2 day tickets.

How to get around in other means of transport

By taxi : Easily identifiable white vehicles with a red stripe. A green light on the roof shows they are available. You can get a taxi from a taxi rank, stop one in the street (the ones with their green light on) or book one on one of the different apps . Taxis from Madrid-Barajas airport to Madrid city centre have a set price of €30 each way.

A different, quick and ecological way to travel around Madrid is by bike, whether by hiring one from the different companies that provide this service or using the municipal bike hire service, Bicimad .

There is a cable car that crosses over the Casa de Campo park. 

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View some of the most relevant events you will be able to enjoy at the destination.

The feminine side of El Prado. Artistic promoters of the Museum's collections (1602-1700)

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Exhibition: The science of Pixar

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Exhibition: Art and social transformations in Spain (1885-1910)

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Choose between thousands of activities to live your best life on holiday.

Madrid   Travel Guide

Courtesy of pvicens | Getty Images

23 Top-Rated Things to Do in Madrid

The Spanish capital has its own brand of hustle and bustle, providing visitors with an authentic experience across an urban landscape of green spaces and fortress-palaces. Madrid can be enjoyed across tastes and budgets, whether it's dining at

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

El Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro) El Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro) free

To the east of central Madrid,  Parque del Buen Retiro (El Retiro Park) can be translated as "Garden of the Pleasant Retreat," and that's what it is – a sprawling swath of lush greenery filled with formal gardens, lakes, cafes, playgrounds and more. This 300-acre park previously housed Felipe IV's palace and gardens, and wasn't open to the public until the late 19th century. In 2021, it was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site along with Paseo del Prado as "a landscape of arts and sciences."

Today, you can still rent a rowboat before heading to the  Palacio de Cristal  (Crystal Palace), which holds regular art exhibitions. You can also stop and smell the roses in the  Rosaleda (Rose Garden), which boasts more than 4,000 roses; May and June are the best months to see them in full bloom. Plus, for those traveling with little ones, the Teatro de Titeres hosts puppet shows most weekends. To the south lies a fountain where uncannily, the angel Lucifer stands before his fall from grace. Madrileños claim that the Ángel Caído (Fallen Angel) statue is the only one in the world depicting the Prince of Darkness before his transformation.

Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado) Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado)

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Paseo del Arte Pass allows you to visit the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen- Bornemisza museums for 32 euros (about $35), saving 20% of the three tickets' combined prices. You can buy it online or at any of the three museums and it's valid for one year. – Julienne C. Raboca

One of Madrid's most famous museums, the elegant Museo Nacional del Prado, is consistently touted by travelers as a must-see. Opened in 1819 at the encouragement of Queen Maria Isabel de Braganza (King Ferdinand VII's wife), the museum contains more than 7,600 paintings and 1,000 sculptures featuring Spanish, Italian and Flemish styles of art. Among the most famous works featured include Velazquez's "Las Meninas," Bosch's "The Garden of Earthly Delights”, and El Greco's "The Nobleman with his hand on his Chest." Travelers note that sometimes it can be difficult to get close to the most famous paintings, recommending that visitors come during off-peak hours for the best chance of seeing these works without hordes of others.

Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real) Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Time your visit with the changing of the guard ceremony on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Every first Wednesday of most months, the Solemn Changing of the Guard is staged by 400 people and 100 horses as it was done in the 19th century. – Julienne C. Raboca

One of the largest palaces in the world, this royal residence housed the kings of Spain from the mid-1700s to the early 1900s. Although the royal family does not currently live in the palace, it is still considered their official residence. It is also thought to be the largest royal palace in Western Europe with a total of 3,418 rooms, only some of which are open to the public, including the popular armory room and royal pharmacy.

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Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum

The Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum is named for the family from which the collection was acquired by the Spanish state in 1993. Housed in the intimate Villahermosa Palace, the museum has nearly 1,000 works of art gathered from the 1920s to the 1980s by a Swiss baron and his father. Before being persuaded by his Spanish wife to accept her country's $350 million offer, Thyssen was reportedly courted by heads of state for the $2 billion private collection, which at the time was surpassed only by that of Queen Elizabeth II's. The collection traces the history of Western art with examples from every important movement, from German Expressionism to Russian Constructivism and 19th-century American art. Artists featured include Dürer, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, Rubens, Van Gogh and more. 

Recent visitors offer rave reviews of Thyssen-Bornemisza, praising its easily navigable layout, as well as the all-encompassing history of Western European art presented in the buildings. Travelers also commend the museum's gallery cafe for lunch. Mixed opinions were offered on which museum was superior – this one or the Prado – but many noted a more pleasant experience at Thyssen-Bornemisza due to fewer crowds, friendly staff and better natural light from which to see the more colorful artwork.

Gran Vía Gran Vía free

Madrid's bustling Gran Vía is at the heart of the city, a prime spot for shoppers and architecture buffs. Built in the early 1900s in an effort to decongest the city, Gran Vía spans nearly a mile and is packed with shops and restaurants. The avenue was home to Spain's first skyscrapers and marked the beginning of modernization in Madrid. Try a traditional bocadillo de calamares (calamari sandwich), buy a new outfit from the five-story Primark flagship store or catch a show at Teatro Lope de Vega. 

Start your journey where the street intersects Calle de Alcalá. There you'll find Círculo de Bellas Artes, a cultural center best known for its sweeping rooftop views. You'll have to pay 5 euros (about $5.35) to get to the top, but once there, you can enjoy a drink while soaking in the sunset. From this viewpoint, you can't miss the iconic Metrópolis Building presiding over the beginning of Gran Vía with a dome on which a winged Victoria statue rises. You may have to wait in line, but previous visitors agreed the views are worth it.

Plaza Mayor Plaza Mayor free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Take a breather from all the walking at Hammam Al Ándalus, an Arabic-style bathhouse a few steps from Plaza Mayor where you can dip into pools of varying temperatures, book a massage or get stretched on a hot stone bed. –  Julienne C. Raboca

This square, located in the heart of Madrid, is more a must-experience attraction than a must-see one. Surrounded by cafes and bars, Plaza Mayor practically begs passersby to take a seat, order a coffee or glass of wine (depending on the time of day) and people-watch. Not only do throngs of tourists pass through, but multiple street performers plant their feet here to entertain. The square starts getting busy around 2 p.m. and will grow increasingly lively as night falls.

Mercado de San Miguel Mercado de San Miguel free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For alternatives to the upmarket Mercado de San Miguel, visit Mercado San Antón or Mercado de San Ildefonso. These innovative food markets are popular social spaces in Madrid's Malasaña and Chueca neighborhoods. – Julienne C. Raboca

Mercado de San Miguel, a market built of beautifully ornate glass and cast iron, is a popular stop for tourists to Madrid, especially since it is located right outside of Plaza Mayor . Opened in May 1916 as a local food market, Mercado de San Miguel became the city's first gourmet market in 2009. Here, visitors can purchase wine, grab a cocktail, juice or coffee, snack on a variety of ready-to-eat tapas, or pick up ingredients for lunch or dinner from the fruit, seafood and meat stalls. San Miguel Market's most famous stands include Michelin-starred chef Jordi Roca's homemade and natural ice creams at Rocambolesc, and the traditional tapas at Madrí by Arzabal.

Lavapiés Lavapiés free

The neighborhood of Lavapiés boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. It is believed that Lavapiés was once the Jewish neighborhood of Madrid, with remnants of a Jewish cemetery on Salitre Street. After 1492, the area continued to attract waves of immigrants, becoming a popular district known for its corralas , small affordable houses that accommodated new residents. Today, Lavapiés showcases architectural gems, such as the Corrala de Sombrerete, and is home to the largest second-hand market in Madrid, the Rastro . The neighborhood is also adorned with historic buildings, like the Pías de San Fernando Schools and the old Inquisition Prison, alongside significant cultural centers like the Reina Sofía National Museum of Contemporary Art .

Lavapiés embraces its multicultural character, reflected in its diverse festivals, international influences, and support for emerging art, exemplified by the C.A.L.L.E. urban art festival. In the second week of August, the streets are adorned to celebrate the traditional Verbena de San Lorenzo, honoring the patron saint of the basilica located in the district. Another notable event in Lavapiés is Tapapiés, a food festival that showcases tapas and music and usually takes place during the month of June.

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Temple of Debod Temple of Debod free

The Temple of Debod, located in Parque de la Montaña, just behind the newly renovated Plaza de España, is a must-see attraction known for its historical significance and unique setting. Gifted to Spain from the Egyptian government, the temple dates back to the second century B.C. and was transported stone by stone to Madrid. Its preservation is a result of Spain's assistance in protecting the ancient sites of Abu Simbel from flooding caused by the construction of the Aswan Dam in Egypt. The temple's decorative motifs and projections help tell its fascinating story, and it is particularly enchanting when illuminated after sunset. Reconstructed on the hill of with its original orientation from east to west, visitors will be able to see scale models, videos and audiovisual material inside to enhance their understanding of its significance.

Reviews from travelers proffer mixed opinions. Some visitors mention long wait times to enter the temple, with only a few people allowed inside at a time. However, others acknowledge that the wait (and uphill climb) is worthwhile, admiring the hieroglyphics and mummy exhibits. Others, hesitant to endure the wait, chose to admire the temple from the outside, still appreciating the site's historical value, convivial atmosphere and beautiful views of the city. With luck, the moat around the temple will be filled with water when you go, creating a reflection pool that photographers love to capture.

Reina Sofía Museum Reina Sofía Museum

The  Museo Nacional   Centro de Arte Reina Sofía or Reina Sofia Museum is Madrid's modern, contemporary art gallery and – along with the Prado and the Thyssen-Bornemisza – makes up the city's "Golden Triangle of Art." The Reina Sofia displays almost 2,000 pieces from its vast collection, including art by Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró. However, probably the most famous work is found on the second floor: Pablo Picasso's "Guernica" is the museum's crowning jewel.

Reina Sofia Museum's main building, in front of the Atocha train station, is composed of two connected buildings. Located on the site of the former Hospital de San Carlos, the 18th-century Sabatini Building has been declared one of Spain's Historic-Artistic Monuments of National Interest. Opened in 2005, the Nouvel Building is a contemporary annex designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel, who also designed Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Barrio de Salamanca Barrio de Salamanca free

If you find yourself surrounded by designer stores and elegant restaurants, you've probably stumbled into Madrid's Salamanca neighborhood. Salamanca is one of the fanciest areas of the city, and its main streets – Calle de Serrano, Calle de Goya and Calle de Velázquez – are some of the most expensive. Often compared to New York City's Fifth Avenue or London's Bond Street, Calle Ortega y Gasset has been nicknamed the "Golden Mile" because it's studded with posh brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Cartier. The equally famous Calle de Serrano begins near the corner of Buen Retiro Park next to the Puerta de Alcalá monument and ends in Plaza de la República Argentina.

Even if you have no plans to purchase, Salamanca is a great place to spend a sunny afternoon strolling and window-shopping, according to previous visitors. There are many upscale hotels  in the area as well as unique dining experiences and museums. The National Archaeological Museum is Salamanca district's cultural gem, displaying artifacts from Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome along with a collection of Iberian sculptures. In the summer, its spacious terrace is open to enjoy.

Matadero Madrid Matadero Madrid free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Explore Madrid Río Park, a recreational area along the Manzanares River that has transformed this part of the city. Hop on a bicycle and discover the revitalized riverside admiring the newly built Arganzuela and Perrault bridges. – Julienne C. Raboca

What was once an old slaughterhouse is now a hub of art and culture in Madrid's Arganzuela neighborhood. Along the banks of Manzanares River, Matadero Madrid offers travelers a chance to see many creative facets of the city all in one place, including a theater complex, a film archive, citizens' laboratory and two restaurants.

Malasaña Malasaña free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Discover the hidden gem of Iglesia de los Alemanes. This Baroque church, founded by Felipe III in the 17th century, is like a lesser-known Sistine Chapel . Admire its unique elliptical design and breathtaking frescoes; guided tours are available. – Julienne C. Raboca

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Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Estadio Santiago Bernabéu) Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Estadio Santiago Bernabéu)

The Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, located north of central Madrid, is the city's main  fútbol  (soccer) stadium and the domain of the world's most successful club: Real Madrid. It was named after the legendary Madrid manager, who presided over the club for 35 years. After its opening in 1947, the stadium was completely refurbished leading up to the 1982 World Cup, which it hosted.  Fútbol  is an integral part of Spanish life, and the stadium's sheer size is an example of this (it can accommodate more than 80,000 fans).

In 2019, Real Madrid began remodeling Santiago Bernabéu. Among its new features are a retractable roof and a removable pitch that can be reassembled, which allows the stadium to be used for other events like concerts, conventions and other sports.

Casa de Campo Casa de Campo free

While Buen Retiro Park may be more famous, Casa de Campo is Madrid's largest public park and boasts almost 7 square miles of natural space. Originally used as hunting ground by the Spanish royal family, it was opened to the public in the 1930s and is now loved by outdoor enthusiasts as a more natural escape compared to the manicured lawns of El Retiro.

Many people enjoy simply strolling around the park or having picnics on the grass, but there are also plenty of activities in the sprawling grounds. In the southeast corner of Casa de Campo, there's a large lake with boat and kayak rentals available. When you work up an appetite from boating, there are restaurants located around the lake. The park also features a large outdoor pool perfect if you need to escape Spain's summer heat.

Sample tapas in Barrio de La Latina Sample tapas in Barrio de La Latina

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Immerse yourself in the tradition of Galician-inspired pintxos and beer by visiting La Latina's top restaurants. Sample  carrilleras  (beef cheeks) at La Musa Latina near Basilica de San Miguel, or freshly-made Spanish-style brie tortillas and craft beer at Pez Tortilla. –  Julienne C. Raboca

Famous for its tapas scene, Barrio de La Latina is a vibrant neighborhood in the heart of Madrid that offers a mix of history, tapas culture and lively atmosphere. With its narrow, winding streets dating back to the Middle Ages, this small area packs a punch when it comes to experiencing the city's essence. The neighborhood gets its name from Beatriz Galindo, a renowned writer and humanist known as "La Latina" due to her grasp of the Latin language. The area is steeped in history, with buildings that reflect its medieval origins. Plaza de la Cebada (Barley Square) and Plaza de la Paja (Straw Square), once bustling markets, still bear witness to the neighborhood's commercial heritage.

Gateway of the Sun (Puerta del Sol) Gateway of the Sun (Puerta del Sol) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: On a cooler day, head to one of the city's most historic restaurants, Lhardy. The place will take you back in time with its elegant decor; try Madrid's best cocido madrileño , a traditional stew of chickpeas, vegetables, pork and lamb. – Julienne C. Raboca

The true center of Madrid, Puerta del Sol has been the heart of Madrid since the 17th century. During King Felipe V’s reign in the early 18th century, six roads were built from the city, referenced by a brass plaque on the south side of Sol. The plaza's most recognizable feature is thus called "kilometer zero," the point from which all distances in Spain are measured. The renowned plaque is undergoing a 21st-century visual update, replacing its square tile with a compass rose design featuring metallic embellishments and border indications pointing toward major Spanish cities.

Segovia Segovia free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Rent bicycles from Segovia's Plaza Mayor to discover the city's green belt or to visit the small market that sets up on the square every Thursday morning. – Julienne C. Raboca

Accessible via an approximately 30-minute high-speed train ride is the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Segovia – a perfect daytrip from Madrid. The city's star attraction is the remarkably preserved Roman aqueduct, a stunning architectural feat dating back to A.D. 50. Explore the historic center, which showcases impressive landmarks like the Alcázar fortress, a 16th-century Gothic cathedral and several Romanesque churches. Wander through Plaza del Azoguejo to marvel at the aqueduct's majestic tiers of arches, and don't miss the chance to climb the tower of the Alcázar for breathtaking views; this 11th-century royal palace is rumored to have inspired Walt Disney's Cinderella castle. Charming restaurants near Plaza Mayor offer local specialties like roast suckling pig ( cochinillo ) or milk-fed lamb ( lechazo ). Segovia is also home to a green belt that will lead you to a leisurely stroll along the scenic riverbank. To learn more, stop by the visitor center, which offers guided tours and night walks to uncover Segovia's legends.

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Plaza de Cibeles (Cibeles Plaza) Plaza de Cibeles (Cibeles Plaza) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're in Madrid for the holidays and want to get into the winter wonderland spirit, head to the palace's magical Glass Gallery, which transforms into a 3,200-square-foot ice rink from December to January. – Julienne C. Raboca

Cibeles Plaza together with Cibeles Palace are in the heart of Madrid's tourist map. Declared a Cultural Heritage Monument in 1993, Palacio de Cibeles (or Cibeles Palace) was formerly the city's main post office, but now serves as Madrid's City Hall. Located at the intersection of Calle de Alcalá (which leads into Sol ) and adjacent to Paseo del Prado/Paseo de Recoletos, Plaza de Cibeles draws tourists for its stunning architecture. The plaza's fountain features the Roman goddess Cybele ("the Great Mother"), who represents fertility, driven in a chariot being pulled by two lions. The goddess has unofficially been adopted by the city's fútbol (soccer) team, Real Madrid. When Real Madrid, or the Spanish national team, win a title, the city holds a parade that ends in Plaza de Cibeles with one of the players fastening the team's flag to the goddess.

Take a daytrip to Toledo Take a daytrip to Toledo

U.S. News Insider Tip: For a breath of fresh air, hike the 4.4-mile El Tajo trail. It will take around two hours to complete this moderately challenging route, but it offers mountain views, historical landmarks, the Alcántara Bridge and panoramic vistas of Toledo along the Tagus River. – Julienne C. Raboca

Once you've soaked up Madrid's sights, consider escaping the bustling city with a daytrip to nearby Toledo. It takes just 30 minutes by train to reach the "City of Three Cultures" from downtown Madrid, and it's a worthwhile visit for anyone looking for history, world-renowned architecture or riverside hikes with views of heritage sites.

Catch a flamenco performance Catch a flamenco performance

An art form born in Andalucía around the 15th century, flamenco expresses the emotions of life through dance, guitar-playing and song. The rhythm of this classic Spanish dance pulses through the streets of Madrid and provides great entertainment for tourists and locals alike. Although flamenco originated in southern Spain, dancers from far and wide come to the capital city to showcase their talents. When you're visiting Madrid, you would be remiss if you didn't set aside time for a flamenco show.

The toughest part is deciding which Madrid tablao – or flamenco venue – to choose for your flamenco experience. The city is home to one of the oldest and most famous flamenco houses in the world, Corral de la Morería, which has held shows at its city center location since 1956. It's highly regarded as the best place to watch performances, and it's not rare to see celebrities, politicians and even the king of Spain in the audience. What's more, it's home to a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Chocolatería San Ginés Chocolatería San Ginés

Chocolatería San Ginés, located in a passageway within walking distance of Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol , is a renowned chocolate shop that has been serving hot chocolate with churros since its establishment in 1894. Steeped in history, it offers a glimpse into the tradition of enjoying chocolate as a restorative drink, a custom that dates back to the discovery of cacao in America. In the past, street chocolatiers in Madrid sold this beloved beverage, particularly in Puerta del Sol, where late-night revelers and early morning walkers would partake in hot chocolate to ward off the chill. Chocolatería San Ginés preserves this culinary heritage and continues to entice visitors with its delightful combination of crispy churros and rich hot chocolate.

Travelers' reviews of Chocolatería San Ginés highlight its popularity, which often leads to queues. However, visitors are impressed by the efficient and speedy service despite the crowd. The quality of the chocolate and churros receives praise, even from those who aren't typically chocolate lovers. The suggestion to try the fresh Spanish orange juice is also a recurring recommendation. While the seating inside the shop can be tight, many suggest opting for a takeaway order to enjoy the experience outside. During peak times, such as summer, visitors may need to wait for 15 to 20 minutes to secure a table to dining inside.

El Rastro Market El Rastro Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Head to nearby San Fernando Market for lunch afterward. The newly refurbished, covered market has craft beer and authentic Latin American eats alongside an excellent vermouth stall and the unique La Casquería, a bookstore selling books by weight.  – Julienne C. Raboca

Exit the La Latina metro station on a Sunday and wander down Calle de las Maldonadas to one of Spain's most popular open-air flea markets, El Rastro. Dating back to the 15th century, the market starts at Plaza de Cascorro and is primarily concentrated on Calle de la Ribera de Curtidores, ending at Ronda de Toledo. The streets, also including Calle San Cayetano, are lined with hundreds of merchants selling everything from leather goods and ceramics to art and antiques and even everyday household items.

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Get prepared for Madrid

Jun 12, 2023 • 5 min read

As long as you keep an eye on your valuables, you should be fine to walk Madrid's streets any time of day or night © F.J. Jimenez / Getty Images

So you’re thinking about visiting Madrid ? You’ve made an excellent choice. Spain’s capital is an extremely friendly destination that happily accommodates tourists while still retaining its unique identity.

Duck down any side street, away from the souvenir stalls selling magnets and flammable flamenco frocks, and you’ll discover pretty little squares, dusty 100-year-old artisanal shops and the somber doors of cloistered convents. 

Although I’ve been living here for 10 years, I continue to be surprised by the city, which, though small, seems to contain infinities. It’s particularly magical at sunset, when residents come out in force to walk their dogs, nip into the shops or have a caña – a small, chilled glass of beer with a good head of foam. 

While other cities might feel frenetic, Madrileños always take life at their own pace. This is particularly important to bear in mind when you’re waiting to order a drink! Service is invariably slow, yet delivered with a winning smile. Still, it’s nice to feel that in the heart of a busy metropolis, nobody is rushing things. Here's everything you need to know ahead of your trip to Madrid. 

1. Give yourself at least two days

Madrid is a compact, walkable city, but you’ll still need at least two or three days to get a proper handle on it. If you want to add in day trips to nearby Toledo , Segovia and Cuenca , give yourself at least a week. 

2. Know how to get into the city

While  the metro is the best way around town , it’s not necessarily the best way in, especially if you have a lot of luggage. From the Madrid airport's Terminal 4, you can catch the Cercanias train to Atocha via Chamartín and Nuevos Ministerios. From T1, T2 and T3, look out for the bus that takes you to Atocha. This will save you a long walk to the metro station. A taxi from the airport to the city center costs a fixed €30 rate. 

3. Be ready for all seasons

Outside of summer, Madrid’s weather is notoriously changeable. This is particularly true in autumn and spring, when you might find yourself in shorts and a T-shirt only to start shivering when the sun sets.

In terms of style, anything goes. Spaniards are easygoing about fashion, though they will have a good laugh at your expense if they spot you wearing short sleeves in winter. Men should be aware that going topless in the city is frowned upon, even in the hottest months.  

4. Pack some earplugs

Madrid is unapologetically noisy: conversations in bars are loud and dramatic, train carriages buzz to the beat of tinny speakers and on weekends citizens party way into the wee hours. 

The best way to cope is to bring earplugs and make sure you book a room facing away from busy roads. Check reviews to ensure your hotel isn’t right next to a bar. That being said, night owls will have a blast . 

5. Go exploring on foot

Madrid’s metro is efficient, clean and cheap. However, you can walk to most places within the center. It’s a great way to get to know the city, and you’ll find Spaniards more than happy to point you in the right direction. Unfortunately, many are so keen to show off their local knowledge that they might confidently give you incorrect information when unsure. If you spot a flicker of hesitation, take what they say with a pinch of salt!

6. Don’t stress about tips

Tipping is not the norm for most Spaniards, though some like to leave a euro or two. Understandably, this means that waiters don’t go the extra mile to please. If you are happy with the service, don’t be afraid to tip generously. When paying by card, you can ask taxi drivers and waiters to add the tip to the bill. 

7. Go ahead and bring the kids

Madrid is a child-friendly city. Restaurant owners go out of their way to accommodate children, and you’ll often be offered a high chair if you come with a toddler in tow. You can also find playgrounds scattered around the city beside bars with outdoor seating, where parents can have a grown-up drink while keeping an eye on their kids. Plaza de la Luna is particularly good for this. 

8. Spread the love

Spaniards love to gush over cute dogs and babies alike. So if you’re traveling with a child or a pooch, expect to get a lot of attention. Conversely, don’t be afraid to coo over other people’s adorable offspring/pets – part of the joy of visiting Madrid is striking up conversations with friendly locals. 

Madrileños are also really relaxed about PDA, and you’ll often see oblivious young lovers in intimate clinches. In the town center, gay couples can walk down the street hand in hand and kiss publicly without anyone batting an eyelid. 

9. Don’t take offense

Happily, Madrid doesn’t have the same problem with overtourism as Barcelona, though you might see angry graffiti railing against tourists in some areas. This is especially true in Lavapiés , which has been particularly badly hit by gentrification. If you’re worried about your impact on the local economy, avoid Airbnb. 

Generally you’ll find most businesses are pleased to deal with tourists. Don't be offended, however, if they don’t respond in English to your questions; while younger staff tend to be confident speakers, the older generation was not taught the language and can be shy to engage. They may well get over their reticence if you have a bash at some basic Spanish. 

10. Do take some safety precautions

Be wary of pickpockets on the metro: opportunistic thefts are common, and clueless tourists are a prime target.

As long as you keep an eye on your valuables, you should be fine to walk the city streets at any time of day or night. But be extra vigilant on the narrow sloping streets down towards Lavapiés, near Tirso de Molina metro and the tunnels by Plaza de los Cubos. There's been a spate of muggings targeting victims out alone and drunk late at night. 

Lastly, watch out for daylight robbery in restaurants and bars. Make sure you see a menu before going in. Bill padding is the most common scam here, and without a price list to check, you may find yourself losing out to unscrupulous establishments.  

11. Don't be afraid to drink the water

The first line of Madrid’s motto is, “I was built on water.” This is a reference to the abundant underground springs that used to bubble up underfoot. These may be long gone, but the excellent water pumped in from the nearby mountains is a source of pride to Madrileños. To me, it tastes much better than the bottled variety. 

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The 10 must-see attractions in Madrid

Need some sightseeing inspiration? These are the monuments, museums and attractions in Madrid you absolutely shouldn’t miss

With all the brilliant  things you can see and do in Madrid , it can be tough trying to plan your itinerary, so we're here to help you narrow down your quest. Want to ooh and ahh over palaces  both grand and humble? Appreciate great art in the city's best museums and galleries? Spend some time strolling around outdoors and relaxing in parks ? We've got you covered.

So, whether you live in the Spanish capital or are visiting for a few days, you simply have to visit these 10 must-see attractions in Madrid. Vamos!

RECOMMENDED: See our full guide to the best things to do in Madrid

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best Madrid attractions

1.  gran vía.

The most famous street in Madrid, and the main tourist and shopping artery, starts at C/Alcalá and runs 1.3 kilometres to its end at Plaza de España. Throughout over 100 years, Gran Vía has had various names depending on the incumbent government. In 1981, during the Spanish Transition, the iconic street was dubbed Gran Vía. Throughout its long history, Gran Vía has been home to Madrid ’ s first department stores and some of the best entertainment spots in the city.

Fun fact: During the Spanish Civil War, it was popularly referred to as the Avenue of Mortars because of the shells that ended up on the pavements and buildings. 

2.  Museo del Prado

• Art and design

Located in a spacious neo-classical building, the Prado is the most important art museum in Spain. Its construction began with Juan de Villanueva by the commission of King Carlos III in 1785. In recent years, the Prado has undergone a very ambitious expansion programme, and there ’ s a controversial new cube-shaped building designed by Rafael Moneo and mainly devoted to temporary exhibitions.

Fun fact: Among the most notable works within the Prado are ‘Las Meninas ’ by Diego Velázquez,  ‘ The Third of May 1808 ’  by Francisco de Goya, and  ‘ The Garden of Earthly Delights ’ by Hieronymus Bosch (aka El Bosco).

3.  Palacio Real (Royal Palace)

• Things to do

The residence of the Spanish monarchy from Carlos III to Alfonso XIII, this building now functions as a museum where you can learn about the glitz and luxury of the Spanish royal elite. Although Filippo Juvarra began working on the plans, it would be his protégé Juan Bautista Sachetti who eventually finished the formidable job. The décor inside the 3,000 rooms was changed with each shift in power to suit the specific tastes of each monarch. Our highlights include Sabatini's main staircase, the Throne Room, the Royal Chapel, and the Royal Apothecary.

Fun fact:  The architecture was inspired by sketches made by Bernini to build the Louvre in Paris.

4.  El Retiro Park

This 118-hectare park dates back to the construction of the Monasterio de los Jerónimos by the order of Catholic Monarchs. It’s one of the green spaces most used by locals in their leisure time. The park doesn't just boast expansive lawns and well-manicured trees – you can check out monuments that remain from previous centuries, including that of Alfonso XII, a colonnade work by José Grases Riera overlooking the pond; the Casón del Buen Retiro, once majestic ballroom that’s now part of the Prado Museum; and the Palacio de Cristal, built in 1887 for the Philippines Exposition. 

Fun fact:  El Retiro’s gardens boast even more beauty, including a rose garden, the Casa de Vacas cultural centre, and numerous fountains and statues, among which is the famous ‘Ángel Caído’ (‘Fallen Angel’) sculpture.

5.  Plaza Mayor

You’ll find this iconic spot in the heart of the city’s historic district. Once home to the most popular market of the late 15th century, these days the square is the headquarters of the Madrid Tourism Centre. The equestrian statue of Felipe III in the centre of the square was designed by Giambologna and completed by Pietro Tacca in 1616. Another important work in the area is the Arco de Cuchilleros, the most famous of the nine entrances to the square.

Fun fact: The archway is the work of Juan Villanueva, who, after the devastating fire of 1790, decided to reduce the façades by two levels, close off the square, and raise the nine arches, so the largest in size with an enormous stairway would give passage to C/Cuchilleros.

6.  Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

Don’t even think of leaving Madrid without a visit to this museum that, along with the Prado and the Thyssen Bornemisza, forms part of Madrid’s Art Triangle. The Reina Sofía’s impressive façade features three lift towers of glass and steel that give access to the largest contemporary art museum in the city. The extension on the back section was completed in 2005, adding 30,000 square metres, mainly used for temporary exhibition space.

Fun fact: The masterpiece of this museum is without question Pablo Picasso's ‘Guernica’, a painting commemorating the 1937 destruction of the Basque town of Guernica by German bombers who flew in support of Franco’s forces during the Spanish Civil War.

7.  Puerta de Alcalá

Located on a large roundabout in Plaza de la Independencia, this Neo-classical passageway was one of the five ancient entrances to the city. In fact, it got its name because it stands in the road that led to Alcalá de Henares. Its appearance is similar to the triumphal arches built by the Romans, and it was designed by the Italian architect Francesco Sabatini, who finished the construction in 1778. Since then, the statues, engravings and columns that decorate the five arches have undergone five restorations. It’s currently doing splendidly and is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Madrid. Our expert advice? Visit at night to admire its impressively illuminated façade.

Fun fact:  This gate was once used as a route for the seasonal migration of livestock. To honor this tradition, one fall Sunday each year, Madrid celebrates the Trashumancia Festival; 2,000 sheep are paraded through the center of Madrid and through this monument.

8.  Templo de Debod

This is the Nubian treasure of Madrid and the only Egyptian temple in Spain that is fully preserved. Brought stone by stone from Egypt and carefully reconstructed with regard to its original orientation, this monument was a gift from Egypt and UNESCO for Spain’s part in saving the Abu Simbel temples, which would have otherwise been submerged underwater after the construction of the Aswan Dam. When you visit, be sure to hang around to see the sunset, a spectacular sight from where the temple stands.

Fun fact: At the time of the dam’s construction, the temples comprised one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Africa, dedicated to the gods Amón and Isis with reliefs and carvings that decorate the inside of the sanctuary.

9.  El Rastro Market

• Markets and fairs

Every Sunday for decades the most famous flea market in Madrid is held around Plaza Cascorro. More than 1,000 street vendors set up first thing in the morning in C/Ribera de Curtidores and the surrounding streets. A necessary weekend activity for tourists and locals alike, the market ’ s stalls offer practically everything you could hope to find, including rare items that can be difficult to find in conventional shops. Set out early, as it can be a battle to get through the midday crowds. Once you ’ ve had your fill, the tradition is to go relax with a beer and a snack at any of the bars in the nearby neighbourhood of La Latina .

Fun fact:  Tienda Hípica El Valenciano  is the oldest leather shop in the Rastro, Opening more than 120 years ago by the current owner’s grandfather. 

10.  Puerta del Sol

The gate of the sun, or Puerta del Sol as it’s locally known, is located right in the very centre of Madrid. Named (unsurprisingly) for the sunlight that shines down on the area, Puerta del Sol began as  a  broad  crossing where  small traders set up to do business with those coming and going in the city center. Now, the most important building is the Casa de Correos, the government seat of the Community of Madrid.

Fun fact: The square is also home to one of the most famous statues in the city, ‘El Oso y el Madroño’ (‘The Bear and the Strawberry Tree’), which stands 4 metres high, weighs 20 tonnes and is understandably always surrounded by tourists.

More great Madrid attractions

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Need a Hotel in Madrid?

The 20 best hotels in madrid.

Looking for a top-notch place to stay? We’re here to help you narrow down your choices with our pick of the 20 best hotels in Madrid. Whatever you want, Madrid’s got it, from exclusive five-star luxury to boutique hotels and those with dreamy spas to the most affordable places to stay that don’t skimp on style and good taste. Don’t worry if you can’t find your dream bolthole on this list – there are literally hundreds of other brilliant places to stay here. This is just the crème de la crème.

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30 Best Things to Do in Madrid, From Palace Tours to Flamenco Shows

Tapas to try, art to see, the best neighborhoods to explore, and more, according to Madrid locals.

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Seated at the center of Spain, Madrid is a capital of culture. It's home to some of the world’s finest art, not to mention a slew of artsy neighborhoods brimming with creative types. The best way to experience Madrid is to bounce between the traditional and the alternative, so you can appreciate the city’s historic legacy alongside its contemporary creativity. For this list, we tapped locals and tourism experts from three of the city’s hotels for their top tips on visiting Madrid: Elena Maria Diaz, assistant manager at Gran Hotel Inglès , Javier Navarra, general manager at Ocean Drive Madrid , and Laura del Pozo, director of public relations at Rosewood Villa Magna .

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Enjoy delectable churros at one of Madrid's most popular cafés, San Ginés.

• See the unique architecture of Palacio de Cristal during a stroll in the park.

• Immerse yourself in the Barrio de las Letras to follow in the footsteps of Spain's notable authors.

• Shop for one-of-a-kind items and souvenirs at El Rastro, a flea market that's open every Sunday.

• Get tickets to a flamenco show to fully appreciate the iconic dance.

Whether you visit for a day or stay for a longer spell under the Spanish sun, here are our top picks for the best things to do in Madrid.

Try the churros at San Ginés.

Chelsea Loren/Travel + Leisure

When you arrive in Madrid , first things first — churros. Typically served with a side of devilishly thick dipping (and sipping) chocolate, this is a classic late-night snack found all over the city. We recommend you try the treat at Chocolateria San Ginés , which opened in 1894, one of the city's most popular churro spots.

Marvel at the beauty of Palacio de Cristal.

Located within Retiro Park, the Glass Palace, or Palacio de Cristal , is worth a dedicated visit. The iron-and-glass masterpiece was originally designed as a greenhouse, but now it is an off-site exhibition space for Museo Reina Sofia, so you never know what treasures you’ll find on display inside.

Visit Barrio de las Letras and Calle Cava Baja.

Paula Galindo Valle/Travel + Leisure

According to Javier Navarra, these neighborhoods are where you’ll find the most authentic version of Madrid, “where avant-garde and tradition create the perfect fusion.” In Barrio de las Letras, meaning "literary quarter," you'll find locations where some of Spain's most notable authors and writers have lived and worked. And in the most traditional area of the city, La Latina, is Calle Cava Baja, “full of bars and taverns reminiscent of the oldest Madrid.”

Shop for souvenirs at the El Rastro flea market.

Open every Sunday and on public holidays in the La Latina neighborhood, this open-air market attracts thousands of shoppers with vendors selling everything you can imagine, from clothes to souvenirs. Be sure to stop at the stalls offering secondhand items like vintage books, ceramics, and furniture.

See a flamenco show at Cafe Ziryab.

imantsu/Getty Images

The rhythmic steps of flamenco-style dancing may not come from Madrid — for that, you’ll need to travel south to Andalucia — but you can still catch a show while you’re in town. Cafe Ziryab hosts different dancers and a variety of flamenco acts in a cozy and traditionally-styled environment.

Admire Spanish classics at Museo Nacional del Prado.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Museo Nacional del Prado is one of Madrid’s largest cultural institutions, and it houses some of the most emblematic artworks of Spain, including Francisco de Goya’s "Black Paintings" and Velázquez’s "Las Meninas ." The collection does go beyond Spain, though. Art lovers will spot famous paintings from the likes of Caravaggio and Bosch.

Take advantage of the city’s free attractions.

According to Navarra, “Madrid offers a large number of free attractions, like museums with free entry days and parks and plazas where you can enjoy the atmosphere of the city without spending money.” For example, you can get free entry at Museo Nacional del Prado (and other state-owned museums) between 6 and 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and on Sundays and public holidays between 5 and 7 p.m.

Stroll through the rose garden of Retiro Park.

In this land-locked city, a massive green space is the place to go when you need a breath of fresh air. In Retiro Park , you can dawdle in the rose garden or rent a boat and go for a paddle on the Great Pond. This artificial lake has a surprisingly long history and was even used by the Spanish monarchy in the 17th century to stage mock naval battles.

Visit the Royal Palace.

One of the largest palaces in the world, the Royal Palace of Madrid has more than 3,400 rooms and is filled with the remarkable treasures of the Spanish crown. Although none of the Spanish royals currently reside in the palace, it is still an official Head of State residence and one of the only ones in the world open to the public.

Pop into Almudena Cathedral.

StockByM/Getty Images

Madrid’s most famous cathedral is La Almudena , located right next to the Royal Palace. Built in the 19th century, there’s no admission to enter, and its Neo-Gothic interior is certainly something to appreciate.

View Picasso's most famous work at Museo Reina Sofia.

Widely considered Pablo Picasso’s most famous painting, "Guernica" is a larger-than-life masterpiece — on a canvas that's 11 by 25 feet — that depicts the horrors of the Spanish Civil War. Alongside other Picasso pieces, the iconic painting is on permanent display at the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia , which also has a large collection of works by Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró.

Tap in for tapas.

Tapas bars fuel Madrid residents and visitors alike, but what should you be ordering? Lifelong local Elena Maria Diaz tells Travel + Leisure, “ Among the traditional foods that you cannot miss on your visit to this city, you must try different tapas, such as bocata de calamaras, chocolate with churros, Iberian ham, tortilla de patatas, croquettes, tripe, and different varieties of pickles. But if what you are looking for is a spoon dish, you cannot miss the traditional cocido madrileño, a dish composed of a homemade soup, chickpeas, sausages, meats, and vegetables."

The beauty of tapas is that you can order whatever you like, but no Madrileño will be satisfied until you try the bocadillo (or bocata) de calamares. “It’s a sandwich stuffed with fried calamari," Navarra explains. "You can find it in many bars, and it’s a flavorful and crunchy treat that represents the city’s cuisine.”

Eat at local markets.

Laura del Pozo suggests that visitors choose markets over restaurants for a more casual meal, telling T+L, “Madrid offers a variety of high and low dining options, so for those looking to save money, try visiting a local market like Mercado de la Paz , where you can sample local cheese, high-quality ham, or one of the best Spanish omelets. It's a great way to experience the local culture at a lower price.”

Shop in Salamanca.

The more upscale Salamanca neighborhood is the place to go if you’re in the mood for a shopping (or window-gazing) spree. As del Pozo tells us, “ It’s the best shopping destination in the city, home to both local purveyors like Mantequerías Bravo and major designers like Loewe (who even has its flagship shop in the area).”

Hang around Plaza Mayor.

The largest plaza in Madrid is an impressive public space surrounded by neoclassical architecture and home to a bevy of activities at its center. The scene is usually touristy, thank to its street performers and all-encompassing restaurants, but it’s so big that it still feels pretty spacious.

Center yourself in Sol.

Surrounding Puerta del Sol, one of Madrid’s busiest neighborhoods, Sol is at the center of Madrid and, more literally, the center of Spain. Look for the marker in the middle of the plaza that marks Spain's Kilometer Zero. This is the starting point for all the major roads that leave Madrid and head toward all corners of the country.

Get a reservation at one of the world’s oldest restaurants.

Founded in 1725, Casa Botín has been certified as one of the world’s oldest restaurants, serving traditional Castilian cuisine for three centuries. The four-floor establishment preserves the tavern-like atmosphere of its early days, as parts of the building date to 1590. Its most famous dishes are the roast lamb and suckling pig; the latter was a favorite order of frequent customer Ernest Hemingway.

Explore Madrid’s alternative neighborhoods.

In a big city like Madrid, the true spirit of the city is often in its most creative neighborhoods. Navarra recommends exploring Lavapiés, Malasaña, and La Latina for a more local experience and more affordable prices. Navarra adds that “Malasaña, due to its alternative atmosphere, its vibrant nightlife, diverse gastronomy, and rich history, is a place that offers an authentic experience in Madrid, full of creative and cultural energy.”

Look for street art in Lavapiés.

Hit the streets of Lavapiés to peruse the outdoor murals that add to this neighborhood’s alternative character. Sign up for a graffiti walking tour or check out Madrid Street Art Project to discover the latest murals in the area. Navarra adds, “Lavapiés deserves more visitors for its cultural diversity, art scene, and authentic and festive atmosphere.”

Salute the sunset at a swanky cocktail bar.

To end the day on a stylish note, head to one of Madrid’s many rooftop bars. The most well-known is 360° Rooftop Bar at Hotel Riu, loved for its sweeping views. If the crowds or admission fee are a turn off, you can try other chic hotel rooftops like Casa Suecia at the NH Collection Hotel , which also has a hidden speakeasy.

Visit the Temple of Debod.

vichie81/Getty Images

The Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple that now stands in Madrid’s Parque de la Montaña, surrounded by a beautiful reflecting pool. It was a gift from Egypt to Spain, dismantled and reassembled, and now houses a small museum about ancient Egypt. This is also an especially romantic spot for enjoying the sunset, with panoramic views that look out over the city.

Wander around Matadero Madrid.

Alberto Manuel Urosa Toledano/Getty Images

Formerly an industrial slaughterhouse, Matadero Madrid is now a massive cultural complex for the arts. In addition to its many rotating art exhibitions, guests will find a robust calendar of events, including film screenings, plays, and live music.

Discover Madrid’s Islamic past and origins.

Throughout Spain you will find reminders of its Muslim history, and in Madrid, you can visit remaining landmarks from when the city went by the name “Mayrit.” One such site is Parque del Emir Mohamed I, and another is Museo de San Isidro , where exhibits chronicle the entire history of Madrid.

Take home a piece of art from a historic ceramic shop.

Antigua Casa Talavera is a specialty shop that sells ceramics from all of Spain’s different regions. It’s a great place to appreciate the artistry of ceramics and to purchase a unique handcrafted piece from one of Madrid’s century-old shops.

Head to the top of Círculo de Bella Artes.

To get to the terrace at the top of Círculo de Belles Artes , you'll have to pay a small fee. (Tickets are available in the lobby between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. or after 9 p.m. every day.) The sunset views of Gran Via and beyond are worth it — and most days, the rooftop closes at 1 a.m. The Metropolis Building , a gorgeous Beaux-Arts icon, is also a sight to see from here.

Attend a service at the Duck Church.

It’s unlikely that you’ve ever been in a church like this before. On a quiet street in Lavapiés is La Iglesia Patólica , or the Duck Church. The puzzling project is helmed by Leo Bassi, the "duck priest" (and comedian) who puts on a humorous service every day at 1 p.m. During the service he might discuss anything from music to politics — and of course rubber ducks.

Cheer on the home team.

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Soccer fans won't want to miss out on the excitement of a Real Madrid CF match at the capital’s home stadium Santiago Bernabéu. Of course, the game could be doubly exciting if the team is playing long-time rival FC Barcelona. If you're in Madrid when there’s no game to attend, you can still sign up for a stadium tour.

Immerse yourself in Spanish history on a day trip to Toledo.

Take advantage of Madrid’s central location (and Spain’s train system) by making the one-hour trip out to this walled city on the River Tagus. It’s a must-visit place for history lovers, as you’ll find myriad buildings — from cathedrals and mosques to castles and monasteries — that tell the story of Spain’s multicultural history.

Marvel at Roman engineering on a day trip to Segovia.

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This is another easy day trip that can be done via an hour-long train journey from Madrid. Here, a 2,000-year-old aqueduct still stands and runs through the city center. But that’s not the only attraction to see — you can also visit Alcazár , a castle with incredible towers that is said to have partially inspired Cinderella Castle in Walt Disney World.

View Spanish fine art at Museo Lazaro Galdiano.

Housed in a former mansion, Museo Lazaro Galdiano features a number of Gothic works from artists such as El Greco and Hieronymus Bosch. The often-overlooked gallery contains masterpieces and sketches from Spain's foremost artists, but most notably Francisco Goya. As one of the Old Masters, Goya is credited as influencing many of the world's most renowned artists from the 20th century. Art enthusiasts will also find a roster of modern exhibits.

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60 Best Things to Do in Madrid, Spain + MAP

Home | Travel | Europe | Spain | Madrid | 60 Best Things to Do in Madrid, Spain + MAP

Being born and raised in the capital of Spain, I can assure you there are lots of  things to do in Madrid . To share all the amazing things this city has to offer, I’ve created this guide of 60 places to visit in Madrid.

This is the largest city and of the most beautiful places to visit in Spain , so I suggest spending at least three days here. This way, you’ll have time for all the top activities in Madrid , like museums, shops, nightlife, and restaurants. But, if you want to explore the places around the city center, you’ll need a few more days.

Also, if it’s your first time in this wonderful city, this  free tour  is a great introduction to Madrid. You may also like the  tourist bus , which passes through the main points of interest.

That said, if you want to get around on your own, the  tourist transportation card  (Zone A) is a good investment. You can select a duration between 1 and 7 days, so you’ll have unlimited access to the public transportation system.

My favorite month to walk around Madrid is May, although any time of year is a great time to experience this city. Now, let’s get to the best  attractions in Madrid, Spain !

1. Prado Museum, one of the best museums in Madrid, Spain

The  Prado Museum  is one of the most important museums in the world, and it’s a  must-see in Madrid  whether you love art or not.

It was inaugurated in 1819 and currently has more than 35,000 works. The museum is well known for its collection of 16th-19th-century paintings, such as  Las Meninas  by Velázquez,  The 3rd of May 1808 in Madrid  by Goya, and  The Knight with His Hand on His Chest  by El Greco.

1. Prado Museum, one of the best museums in Madrid

A visit to the Prado Museum is one of the  best things to do in Madrid , and I would set aside at least a few hours for it. Besides paintings, the museum houses decorative arts and sculptures, including Flemish tapestries and glass and porcelain from the Royal Glass Manufactory of La Granja.

For a short visit, you can access the Prado Museum for free from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday, or Sundays and holidays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. If you’re an art enthusiast, then you may prefer this guided tour  with skip-the-line admission.

2. Royal Palace of Madrid, a lovely place to visit in Madrid

The  Royal Palace , the official residence of the Spanish monarchy, is another  sight to see in Madrid, one of the best cities to visit in Spain . Funny enough, the royal family currently lives in the Zarzuela Palace, and the Royal Palace is for ceremonial use.

When you visit this building, you’ll get a better feel for its majesty and grandiosity. I recommend going inside to see the various treasures that are hidden there, such as artwork by Caravaggio, Goya, and Velázquez.

You can visit the Royal Palace via the Plaza de la Armería, which you’ll find in front of  Almudena Cathedral , another great  place to visit in Madrid . You could do a walkthrough on your own, although first-timers will benefit from this   guided tour . Also, European citizens can visit for free Monday-Thursday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. (4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in winter).

2. Royal Palace of Madrid, a lovely place to visit in Madrid, Spain

On the palace’s outskirts, you’ll find the Plaza de Oriente. The Solemn Relay of the Royal Guard takes place here on the first Wednesday of the month at noon. Don’t worry if you miss it because the gardens in the plaza are gorgeous. On the other side of the palace, you will find the Campo del Moro, a 19th-century English garden.

Just north of the Royal Palace are the  Sabatini Gardens , which were completed after the Civil War. Watching the sunset from the gardens is a romantic  thing to do in Madrid, Spain  with your special someone.

3. Plaza Mayor, the best free thing to do in Madrid

Plaza Mayor  is among the most popular squares in Madrid and practically in all of Spain. Located in the heart of the city, it’s close to other  must-dos in Madrid , such as Plaza del Sol and the Royal Palace.

Plaza Mayor has been the site of several important historical events, such as festivals, bullfights, San Isidro’s beatification, and even public executions. Today, it’s surrounded by old brick structures, including  Casa de la Panadería , the first building in the square.

Visiting Plaza Mayor is essential, as well as a free thing to do in Madrid. Enter through the  Arco de Los Cuchilleros , the famous stone arch entrance, and see the  Felipe III statue , which dates to 1616.

There is always something happening in Plaza Mayor, although it truly comes to life during the holidays. At the famous  Christmas Market , you can browse stalls full of nativity scenes, trinkets, food, toys, and more. If you’re here in December, it’s the perfect place to visit in Madrid at Christmas.

4. La Gran Via, a good place to go in Madrid at night

La Gran Vía  is the main artery in Madrid that connects the Salamanca and Argüelles districts. With all its shops, restaurants, theaters, and city landmarks, it’s an awesome  place to visit in Madrid, Spain  at night.

Some of the most famous buildings on La Gran Via are the Metropolis building at the Calle de Alcalá intersection, which stands out for the dome that crowns the roof; the Telefonica building , which was Spain’s first skyscraper; and the Carrion building , one of the most iconic  sights to see in Madrid . It’s famous for its neon Schweppes sign and the Callao cinema on the ground floor.

Don’t forget the incredible shopping and dining along La Gran Via. Here, you’ll find national and international retail brands and plenty of delicious places to eat.

If you like theater or musicals, you’re in the right place. There are several theaters in this area, including the popular  Lope de Vega Theater , which has staged  The Lion King  for several years. Seeing a show is a great  thing to do at night in Madrid , although you should book your tickets ahead of time. You can check musicals and showtimes online  here .

5. Puerta del Sol, an awesome place to see in Madrid

Puerta del Sol  is one of the most famous  places in Madrid  and perhaps the busiest area in the city. Many Spaniards come here to welcome the New Year at the  Casa de Correos  clock tower.

Visiting Puerta del Sol is one of the best  free things to do in Madrid  because there are several emblematic landmarks here. For example, you can see el Oso y el Madroño statue, as well as  Kilometer Zero , a plaque in the sidewalk marking the point where all of Spain’s national radial roads begin.

Another well-known image in Puerta del Sol is the  Tío Pepe neon sign . It sits atop the former Hotel Paris, in front of the Casa de Correos, and was a successful advertising strategy.

Walking around Puerta del Sol is a quintessential  thing to do in Madrid, Spain , so don’t miss it!

6. El Retiro Park, one of the best places to go in Madrid with kids

If you’re not sure  what to see in Madrid , start with  El Retiro Park , one of the most beautiful parks in the city. An expansive green space for people to relax and disconnect, the park once belonged to the Spanish monarchy. These days, it’s a common spot to rest and hang out with friends on the weekends.

El Retiro is full of interesting places, such as the famous  Crystal Palace . Made of crystal glass and iron. There is also a picturesque pond where you can take a boat ride. You can also visit the Artist’s Walk, a fun  thing to do in Madrid with kids . There are usually street magicians and jugglers here who entertain passersby.

Some other charming spots include the  Rosaleda , which has over 4,000 rose bushes, and the  Cecilio Rodríguez Gardens , where peacocks roam freely.

A visit to El Retiro Park is a  fun activity in Madrid , whether you want a leisurely afternoon by the pond, a romantic stroll among the fountains, or a carefree morning with friends.

7. Visit Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, another fun thing to do in Madrid, Spain

The  Santiago Bernabéu Stadium  is the official soccer stadium of Real Madrid, my favorite team. It’s also one of the  coolest places in Madrid , whether you’re a sports lover or not.

The stadium, which sits along Paseo de la Castellana , the huge avenue that goes from Plaza Colón north, was inaugurated in 1947. It’s one of the top  tourist attractions in Madrid  and overlooks the Chamartín district.

Inside the stadium, there is seating for over 81,000 spectators, making it the 2nd-largest sports stadium in Spain, after Camp Nou, one of the  best places to visit in Barcelona .

If you can, attend a match at the Bernabéu Stadium. The energy of this place is undeniable and will make for an unforgettable experience. However, if there is nothing going on, I still recommend checking it out since it’s considered a UEFA Elite Stadium and contains a museum that you can see with  this tour .

You’ll be able to visit exclusive parts of the stadium, such as the pitch, player benches, changing rooms, presidential box, and press room. It’s a cool  thing to see in Madrid  if you’re curious about the history of the football club and its players.

8. Free Tours, the best things to do in Madrid

Despite having lived in Madrid all my life, it took me a while to take advantage of the city’s  free tours . Now I can confidently say that they’re a perfect way  to see the sights in Madrid , especially if you’re new to the city.

If you’re not sure which  places to go to Madrid , check out this  free walking tour . It will take you to the most iconic spots in the city, such as Puerta del Sol, the Royal Palace, San Miguel Market, and Plaza Mayor. I’ve taken it a couple of times when my friends have visited from other cities.

There are more specific  things to do in Madrid, Spain , and some themed tours could be the perfect way to experience them if you understand some Spanish. This free Cervantes tour  takes you through Barrio de las Letras, and  this tour  goes through El Capricho Park.  This tour  of the beautiful Lavapiés and La Latina neighborhoods is also worthwhile, as is  this free tour  through Chueca and Malasaña, where Ascen lived when we met!

9. Temple of Debod, the best place to see the sunset in Madrid

The  Temple of Debod  is a hidden gem and a  must-see in Madrid . This ancient Egyptian temple is about 2,200 years old and was a gift to Spain. You’ll find it in Parque del Oeste, near Plaza de España.

Surrounding the temple are beautiful gardens and a shallow pool of water. You can walk through the shrines between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., and admission is free, so it’s a  must-do in Madrid .

9. Temple of Debod, the best place to see the sunset in Madrid, Spain

Inside the temple, you can learn about Egyptian mythology, society, and hieroglyphics. The hours vary throughout the year so I would check the temple’s official  website  to better plan your itinerary.

Visiting the Temple of Debod is one of the  best things to do in Madrid  at sunset, as the light creates a golden glow on the water. I was lucky enough to live near the temple for a year, and I spent many afternoons there to see the sunset. Without a doubt, it is one of the most unique places to see in the city.

10. Plaza de España, a must-visit in Madrid

Plaza de España  is in the heart of the city, right where La Gran Vía ends, and Calle Princesa begins. If there is any doubt about  what to do in Madrid , look no further than Plaza de España.

Amidst the lovely gardens and fountains, you’ll find the  Monument to Miguel de Cervantes . The statue depicts Cervantes sitting with Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. It’s a well-known landmark in the area, along with the  Torre de Madrid  and the  Edificio España . Those two buildings are on the outskirts of the plaza; the first is over 465 feet tall, and the latter houses the Hotel Riu.

If you’re looking for a moment of rest in the big city, Plaza de España is a good  place to visit in Madrid . Plus, you can find all kinds of shops and cafes on the periphery.

11. La Latina neighborhood, another place you don’t want to miss in Madrid

La Latina  is a historic neighborhood and one of the  coolest places in Madrid . This lively area is known for its narrow, labyrinthine streets, as well as being one of the best neighborhoods to get tapas.

Here, you can find  Plaza de la Paja , a vibrant bar with outdoor terraces, as well as  El Rastro , which I’ll talk about later. Next door to Plaza de la Paja is the  Prince of Anglona Garden , which once belonged to royalty and is now a beautifully landscaped public park.

Another  place to go in Madrid  that I recommend is  Plaza de la Cebada , where you’ll find the  Mercado de la Cebada . You should also check out  La Latina Theater , a concert hall where some of the greatest national artists have performed.

Finally, be sure to take a walk down Cava Baja Street and stop at  Casa Lucio , a restaurant with a rich history and a delicious menu. I recommend the huevos estrellados and arroz con leche !

12. Reina Sofia Museum, a spectacular place to go in Madrid

Along with the Prado Museum, the  Reina Sofía Museum  is among the best museums in Madrid.

The museum is considered the most important contemporary art museum in the city and even in the country, so it’s a  top place to visit in Madrid . Here, you can find works by the masters, such as Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, and Pablo Picasso.

In fact, one of the  best things to see in Madrid  is Picasso’s  Guernica  painting. An illustrated representation of the Spanish Civil War, it’s a national treasure for its historical and artistic significance.

The Reina Sofia Museum also houses the  Sabatini Garden , where you can look at sculptures by Alexander Calder, Joan Miró, and Eduardo Chillida. You can check the museum’s  website  to browse the permanent collection and temporary exhibits.

Visiting this museum is a  good thing to do in Madrid  in the morning or on a rainy day. If you go during the week between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., or on Sunday from 1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m., admission is free. However, if you are very into art and need more time, you can also book a skip-the-line ticket  here .

For art lovers, Madrid is the perfect city, and you can book this  guided tour  to explore both the Prado and Reina Sofia Museums. Just remember that the Reina Sofia Museum is closed on Tuesday!

13. Las Letras District, an extraordinary place to go in Madrid

The  Las Letras District  is the  place to go in Madrid, Spain  if you’re a bookworm. This literary neighborhood has been the home to some of the most outstanding late-Renaissance writers, such as Cervantes, Quevedo, Góngora, and Lope de Vega.

Huertas Street  is a must-visit in Madrid , as the sidewalks are engraved with famous verses and quotes from these writers. This area is also where you’ll find the Plaza de Santa Ana. The square was home to the first theaters and drama clubs in the city, although now the area is full of restaurants and bars. My favorite place to eat in Madrid, Terra Mundi, is here, too!

13. Las Letras District, an extraordinary place to go in Madrid, Spain

Besides being the perfect place to immerse yourself in literature and tapas, this neighborhood is known for its live music venues. If you’re looking for  fun things to do in Madrid at night , I recommend visiting one of the pubs or bars around here.

14. Lookout points in Madrid, the nicest views over Madrid, Spain

If you like Madrid now, wait until you see it from one of the  best viewpoints in Madrid .

Among the most popular lookout points in the city is the  Círculo de Bellas Artes , whose rooftop is open to the public. It’s at the intersection of Calle Alcalá and Gran Vía, so you will have incredible views of the Metropolis building. The rooftop deck offers 360° views, making it a  must-see in Madrid . You can get tickets to the terrace at the reception desk.

Nearby is the  Cybele Palace , a former telecommunications complex that also boasts beautiful city views. I also recommend the  Hotel Riu Plaza España  rooftop, which is open to the public. You’ll need a ticket, but it’s worth it because this is a  must-do in Madrid . The viewpoint is on the 27th floor and has a glass walkway.

Finally, if you’re looking for  things to do in Madrid on a budget , you can go to the  Corte Inglés in Callao . Go up to the 9th floor to see a lovely view of La Gran Via and the surrounding landmarks.

15. Almudena Cathedral, a tranquil place to go in Madrid

The  Almudena Cathedral  is one of the main tourist attractions in Madrid and the most important cathedral in the city. The church was completed in 1993 and consecrated by Pope John Paul II.

As you walk through this grandiose cathedral, you’ll be struck by the Neo-Gothic architecture and the colorful decorative motifs. The most noteworthy areas are the apse, altar, and stained-glass windows. The crypt is also essential and was one of the first parts to be built.

The cathedral also has a museum where you can look through historical objects from the church’s past, as well as pieces from the Diocese of Madrid. I also suggest going up to the dome and looking out at the city, it’s quite a sight to see in Madrid !

If you want to learn more about Almudena Cathedral, I suggest booking this  guided tour , which also goes to the Royal Palace. It’s an interesting  thing to do in Madrid on a rainy day .

16. Cybele Palace, a quiet place to visit in Madrid, Spain

Cybele Palace , formerly called the Palace of Communications, has become a popular  place in Madrid  in the past few years.

The Palace was completed in 1919 and functioned as a distribution center for the post office, telegraph, and telephone companies. It has several departments and, since 2007, has housed the Madrid City Council’s main offices.

Of all the different areas in the building, the  CentroCentro  is the most popular. This space hosts exhibitions, debates, and cultural activities throughout the year. Plus, it also has a bookstore, cafe, and a tourist information kiosk.

However, what makes this a popular  attraction in Madrid  is the  Glass Gallery . The gallery is a meeting space for exhibitions and cultural events, although it’s gorgeous when it’s empty, too.

17. Puerta de Alcala, an interesting place to go in Madrid

Puerta de Alcalá  is one of the most iconic  attractions in Madrid, Spain . You can find it at the beginning of  Calle Alcalá , the longest street in Madrid. It’s a huge Neo-Classical gate, so you can’t miss it!

More specifically, Puerta de Alcalá is in the Plaza de la Independencia, next to El Retiro Park. It is one of the original gates that granted entry into the city.

This magnificent gate was designed by Francesco Sabatini, who built it in the shape of a triumphal arch. However, unlike other arches in this style, Sabatini built five entrance gates, not just one.

Although Puerta de Alcalá is surrounded by lots of traffic, it’s a great  place to see in Madrid . On a typical day, you’ll see people photographing the famous monument, and you’re bound to see it if you’re walking between Cybele Palace and El Retiro.

18. Go to El Rastro market, an exciting thing to do in Madrid

Visiting  El Rastro market  is a  must-do in Madrid . This is the oldest and most famous open-air market in the city, with around 400 years of history.

You can visit El Rastro on Sundays and during holidays, typically between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. You’ll find all kinds of things at this market: clothes, crafts, kitchenware, antiques, books…anything! Besides being a unique  sight to see in Madrid , it’s a great place to buy second-hand items.

Moreover, the market has different areas, such as Fray Ceferino González Street. It’s also known as Bird Street because vendors could sell animals, but that’s now prohibited. You should also check out San Cayetano Street, also known as the street of painters.

Carnero Street and Carlos Arniches Street focus on old books, while Rodas Street, General Vara del Rey Square, and Campillo del Mundo Nuevo Square sell collectibles and games.

If you’re looking for  things to do in Madrid on Sunday , look no further than El Rastro! It’s the perfect blend of local culture and tourism.

19. Lavapiés neighborhood, the most multicultural district to visit in Madrid

Lavapiés  is one of the most traditional and multicultural neighborhoods to visit in Madrid. With its steep city streets, it’s known for preserving its traditional charm while building a multicultural identity.

This neighborhood is home to several popular  Madrid attractions , such as the  Reina Sofia Museum . There is also the  Mercado de San Fernando , the perfect place to go for craft beer and artisan cheese.

Lavapiés is also a great  place to go in Madrid  if you love cinema. Here you’ll find the  Spanish Film Library , which specializes in independent films. You can also check out  Casa Encendida , a cultural center that I’ll talk about later.

If you visit Madrid in August, you’ll be able to attend some of the best festivals in Lavapiés, such as the Fiestas de San Cayetano, the Fiestas de San Lorenzo, and the Fiestas de la Paloma. They’re celebrated on the 7th, 10th, and 15th respectively.

20. Atocha Railway Station, A popular place to see in Madrid

Atocha  is the most important railway station in Madrid and all of Spain. It’s a hub for all the other railways in the country, and besides being a transportation station, it’s also an interesting  place to see in Madrid .

Part of the Atocha Station has been converted into a shopping center with shops, bars, and restaurants. However, the highlight is the  tropical garden , which has more than 400 different plant species.

20. Atocha Railway Station, the perfect way to see in Madrid

You may have even heard of the  turtles  at Atocha Station. Until a few years ago, around 300 turtles lived in the tropical garden’s pond. However, the habitat wasn’t the healthiest, so they were moved to a new home.

Another  cool thing to do in Madrid  is to take the  Cervantes Train , which takes you to Alcalá de Henares, the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes. If you’re interested, you can get more information  here .

It’s worth noting that the Atocha Station was the site of an attack on March 11, 2004, known as 11-M. There is an  11-M memorial  inside the station, which has become a point of interest in Madrid.

21. Royal Botanical Garden, one of the most beautiful places to go in Madrid

The  Royal Botanical Garden  is one of the most important, and most beautiful,  attractions in Madrid . It holds more than two centuries of history and is next to the Prado Museum, so it’s a great place to spend some time.

In 1942, the garden was declared an Artistic Garden, a testament to its 5,000+ plant species. The grounds also include an herbarium, library, and an archive of about 10,000 botanical drawings.

At first, the garden was exclusively for scientific and medicinal purposes. Today, it’s still a research site, but it’s also open to the public, making it one of the most beautiful  places to go in Madrid .

There are four terraces to explore at the Royal Botanical Garden. The first has ornamental plants, rose bushes, and fruit trees. On the second terrace, you’ll see a statue of Carlos III surrounded by lush vegetation. The third section has a pond with chestnut and linden trees, and the last pavilion has a bonsai collection as well as temporary exhibits.

Without a doubt, a visit to this garden is the best  thing to do in Madrid  if you want to disconnect from the noise and traffic.

22. Malasaña neighborhood, a place to enjoy the nightlife in Madrid, Spain

If you ask me, the  Malasaña neighborhood is one of the best places to visit in Madrid. The lively nightlife scene here attracts locals and tourists. However, even if you’re not into partying, the neighborhood also has great museums, historic plazas, cafes, and vintage clothing stores.

Be sure to take a walk along  Fuencarral Street , which starts on Gran Vía and goes to the Chamberí neighborhood. It’s a  trendy place in Madrid,  full of alternative boutiques, the  San Ildefonso Market , and the  History Museum . The museum is in an old Baroque building and has over 60,000 objects. Another good museum in the area is the  Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art .

Malasaña is also home to the  Plaza Dos de Mayo , named for the uprisings of May 2, 1808. This square is where the War of Independence began between Spain and France. Now, the historical plaza is a lively meeting place for friends, as well as a focal point of the national holiday on May 2nd.

We must admit that we’re particularly fond of this neighborhood because it’s where we met! Yet, in addition to that, it offers plenty of fun  things to do at night in Madrid .

23. Chueca, the most popular neighborhood in Madrid

Chueca  is a  must-see in Madrid  because it has such a lively, friendly atmosphere. The neighborhood is the ultimate LGBTQ+ district in Madrid, as well as a good place to party.

Every year, Chueca hosts the LBGTQ+ Pride Festival, one of the most popular and colorful parties in the city. If you want to attend, plan your visit to Madrid  for the end of June to early July.

Due to its location in the heart of the city, Chueca boasts plenty of fun  Madrid attractions . One of them is the Museum of Romanticism, where you can explore the works of Goya, Madrazo, and their contemporaries. The museum also displays furniture that once belonged to the writers, as well as the gun that journalist Mariano José de Larra died by.

Another interesting place is the  Palace of Longoria , one of the few modernist structures in Madrid. The city is also home to the House of the Seven Chimneys, which serves as the Ministry of Culture headquarters.

As you can see, Chueca has a bit of everything, so it’s worth adding to your travel itinerary!

24. Eat a “Bocadillo de Calamares” & other local dishes in Madrid

If you want to look less like a  tourist in Madrid , you can try a delicious Bocadillo de Calamares  ( calamari baguette) . While there are more typical Madrid dishes, this one is very popular among locals.

You can find the calamari baguette in just about any bar, especially the ones around Plaza de España. However, my top recommendation is  El Brillante , which is in front of Atocha Station. For me, it’s  the  place to visit in Madrid if you want the best Bocadillo de Calamares.

24. Eat a “Bocadillo de Calamares” & other local dishes, the best thing to do in Madrid

Don’t worry if you don’t eat calamari because there are other traditional  platos Madrileños . You can try the Cocido Madrileño (chickpea stew), Callos (tripe), or huevos estrellados (fried eggs). Or go out for tapas and order croquetas, tortilla de patatas, patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo , and a cold Mahou beer.

Trying the local food is a  must-do in Madrid . If you’re a foodie, check out this  cooking class , where you’ll learn how to prepare some authentic dishes.

25. Eat at Sobrino del Botín Restaurant, the best thing to do in Madrid for date night

Sobrino de Botín Restaurant  is one of the most famous and delicious  places to go in Madrid . It’s a Guinness world record-holder as the oldest restaurant in the world, so you know you’ll get amazing authentic cuisine here.

The restaurant is over 300 years old and has fed internationally-renown writers like Ernest Hemingway and Benitos Perez Galdós. Many people consider Sobrino de Botín the best restaurant in the city to eat suckling pig and lamb since the cooks use a traditional recipe. The González family took charge of the dining spot in the early 1900s, and today it’s run by third-generation family members.

There’s nothing quite like dining at Sobrino de Botín, so I suggest reserving a table . The restaurant is on Cuchilleros Street, close to the San Miguel Market and Plaza Mayor.

Surely, dining here is a romantic  activity in Madrid , so if you’re visiting with your sweetheart, enjoy a date night here!

26. San Miguel market, the most popular place to go in Madrid, Spain

The  San Miguel Market , the city’s gastronomic hub, is one of the top  sights to see in Madrid . It’s a popular place for locals to meet up and for tourists to explore and try some new foods.

The market is in San Miguel Plaza, close to Plaza Mayor. It’s over 100 years old, so it’s a historical site as well as a marketplace. I encourage you to spend some time perusing the stalls of Iberian ham, seafood, rice, artisan cheeses, and desserts. It’s impossible to leave here hungry!

Of course, the typical  thing to do in Madrid  is to order small plates at the standing bar, amidst the shuffle of visitors.

Along with the San Miguel Market, there are a few nearby markets that locals like to frequent. The  San Antón Market , which is about 10 minutes from the Círculo de Bellas Artes, has three floors and dates to the 19th century. The  San Ildefonso Market  is also in the area and often hosts community events.

These last two markets are less popular with tourists, so they’re good alternatives if you want to immerse yourself among the locals.

27. Go out for tapas, another fun thing to do in Madrid

Going out for tapas  is one of the best  things to do in Madrid, Spain at night . Tapas are part of Spanish culture, and there is no better place to get them than Madrid.

If you’re not sure where to go, I suggest this  tapas tour , which will take you to some of the best tapas bars in the city. You can enjoy homemade paella, patatas bravas, Iberian ham, and other typical dishes.

There are some other old bars that I recommend for tapas, such as  Casa Labra  for traditional Castilian cuisine, and  Casa Alberto , a century-old tavern specializing in authentic Madrileño dishes.  Taberna de Antonio Sánchez  is another iconic pub, and  Casa Lucio  is a fine-dining spot with superb huevos estrellados .

Casa Camacho  is another tapas hotspot, and it’s known for its “yayos,” a special mixed drink with club soda, vermouth, and gin. You could also check out El Anciano Rey de los Vinos, Cervantes, and Casa Paco Restaurant.

Of all the tapas you can order, I highly recommend patatas bravas, calamari, tortilla de patatas, Iberian ham, paella, Madrid-style tripe, battered cod, and grilled ear.

28. Chocolatería San Ginés, something you must visit in Madrid, Spain

One of the best  activities in Madrid  is, without a doubt,  eating chocolate with churros at Chocolatería San Ginés . This traditional chocolate shop has been a staple in the city since it first opened its doors in 1894.

You can find the chocolatería between Puerta del Sol and Teatro Real. I recommend visiting for breakfast or stopping by later for a midday snack. Trust me when I say they serve the best churros with chocolate in the entire city.

The chocolatería began serving patrons of the theater after performances. It grew in popularity little by little, and nowadays you will find it in any of the Madrid tourist attraction guides. Besides, it appears in Bohemian Lights , a 1924 play written by Ramón de Valle-Inclán.

29. Enjoy the nightlife, something exciting to do in Madrid at night

If you’re looking for  things to do in Madrid at night , why not check out the club scene? Madrid’s city center is a safe area that has plenty of nightclubs and bars where locals and tourists have a good time.

There are several different places to party in Madrid, but if you want good music and cocktails, I suggest going to the Las Letras district. If you’re in the mood for dancing, check out  Kapital Theater , an old concert hall near the Royal Botanical Garden that was converted into a seven-story nightclub. Each floor has a unique theme and atmosphere, so you’re bound to find one that suits your style.

My  top places to visit in Madrid  are  La Chocita Sueca  in the Bilbao neighborhood,  Sala Barco  in Malasaña, Barceló Theater , and the  Independance Club , which plays lots of indie rock and pop music.

As you can see, there are plenty of  fun things to do in Madrid at night . If you’re not sure which one to choose, you can book  this tour  to see the most popular pubs and clubs.

30. Moncloa Lighthouse & Museum of the Americas, two awesome things to see in Madrid

Climbing to the top of the  Moncloa Lighthouse  is one of the  best things to do in Madrid, Spain  if you want spectacular city views. The lighthouse is a national monument and was built in 1992 to commemorate Madrid’s title as the European Capital of Culture.

The Moncloa Lighthouse is 361 feet tall, although the viewpoint is slightly lower, at 302 feet. From there, you’ll be able to see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Almudena Cathedral, La Gran Via, and the Royal Palace. Whenever my friends come  to visit Madrid , I take them here!

You can learn more about the Moncloa Lighthouse on its official  website , but general admission is less than $5, and even lower for kids, seniors, and people with disabilities. If you visit between 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., you can take the guided tour.

Next to the lighthouse is the  Museum of the Americas , which has a collection of over 25,000 Pre-Columbian artifacts. You can browse photographs, ethnographic objects, and other exhibits ranging from the Paleolithic era to the modern-day. You can learn more about the museum on its  website .

31. Cable car to Casa de Campo, the most stunning lookout in Madrid, Spain

Originally,  Casa de Campo  was an area reserved for the Spanish monarchy’s hunting and recreational activities. Today, it’s an interesting  place to visit in Madrid , a beautiful expanse of 3,780 acres.

To visit Casa de Campo, I recommend taking the  Madrid cable car , which leaves from Paseo del Pintor Rosales. As you glide over the park, you’ll get incredible views of Madrid’s green lung and its surroundings. It’s a great  thing to do in Madrid, Spain with family .

If you’re curious about this historic spot, you can book this  bike tour , which takes you to the most beautiful corners of Casa de Campo. The area is full of several cool attractions, such as an amusement park, a lovely lake, and Madrid Arena, a multipurpose pavilion that hosts events throughout the year.

32. Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, a place to visit in Madrid if it rains

The  Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum  is one of the most important museums to see in Madrid, along with the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofía Museum. Its permanent collection is the perfect complement to those two distinguished museums, so it’s worth adding to your  list of things to do in Madrid .

This museum has over 1,000 works of art ranging from the 13th to the 20th century, giving you a general overview of European painting. Among its collection, you’ll find works by Van Eyck, Caravaggio, Rubens, Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, Kandinsky, and Dalí, among many others.

There are also temporary exhibits and community activities, such as artist talks and children’s events, which are fun  family things to do in Madrid, Spain .

If you like art and you plan to visit the Prado and the Reina Sofía Museum, too, I recommend  this tour , which combines all three museums. Or you can purchase an advance ticket to the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum  here .

Visiting any of these museums is a good  thing to do in Madrid on a rainy day , so keep them in mind.

33. Stop by the National Library of Spain, one of the top free things to do in Madrid

The  National Library of Spain  is a worthwhile  attraction in Madrid because of its valuable collection. The library, which is over 300 years old, stores manuscripts, maps, recordings, music scores, and other materials.

It also has the largest and most important bibliographic heritage in the country. The building includes the National Newspaper Library, which has been digitizing its contents for years and can support online queries from anywhere in Spain.

It’s free to visit the library, so it’s a good  thing to do in Madrid on a budget . Inside, you’ll find exhibition rooms and the  Library Museum , where you can learn more about the history of the National Library of Spain. So, if you’ll be in Madrid for several days, consider checking out this historic place.

34. See the Metropolis Building, one of the top things to do in Madrid, Spain

I’ve mentioned the  Metropolis Building  a few times already, and it’s one of the most symbolic structures in the city. This monument is at the corner of La Gran Vía and Calle de Alcalá. You’ll recognize it for its slate dome and angel statue.

The building was designed in 1905 in the French Beaux-Arts style and called for the demolition of five neighboring homes. Today, it’s used for office space, so you can’t visit the inside. However, its exterior is well worth seeing and has become a  unique thing to do in Madrid among locals and tourists.

If you spend some time looking at the Metropolis Building, you’ll notice the Neo-Renaissance façade and Corinthian columns. Atop the structure is the popular angel statue, known as the Winged Victory. If you go to the Círculo de Bellas Artes, another  cool place in Madrid , you can get the best views of the Metropolis Building.

35. Madrid Rio Park, the best thing to do in Madrid for families

Along the Manzanares River, is  Madrid Río Park , one of the city’s most modern parks. Since opening in 2011, it has become a popular  place to go in Madrid , among locals and tourists.

The park has 17 areas for children, so spending a day here is a common  thing to do in Madrid with family . There is also the  Madrid Río Beach , which has water jets and hammocks and is the perfect place to cool off in the summer.

I also recommend checking out the architecture of this park, especially the monumental  Arganzuela Bridge . The park is also a public event space for all kinds of  activities in Madrid , such as exhibitions, plays, concerts, and festivals.

Ascen lived around Madrid Río Park for a bit, and it was her favorite place to walk around. The area is also a favorite among runners and cyclists. Best of all, visiting this beautiful park is  something to do in Madrid, Spain, for free .

36. Four Towers Business Area, a little-known area to visit in Madrid

The  Four Towers Business Area  is in Chamartín, the city’s administrative district. The complex is on the former site of the Real Madrid Sports City training arena and is worth seeing.

The four skyscrapers tower over the rest of the neighborhood and include the  Crystal Tower  (817 feet),  Cespa Tower  (814 feet),  PwC Tower  (774 feet), and the  Space Tower  (735 feet).

A fifth skyscraper,  Caleido Tower , is currently under construction, but it’ll be smaller than the rest. The collection of these magnificent structures has become one of the main  tourist attractions in Madrid .

Near the Four Towers area, you can find the  KIO Towers , also known as the Gate of Europe. The twin towers are 374 feet tall and famously slope over  Paseo de la Castellana . The name, Gate of Europe, comes from the fact that the towers lean towards each other, creating a sort of entryway, and they’re quite a unique  sight to see in Madrid .

37. Night tour, something fun to do in Madrid, Spain

If you’re not into partying, but you want  something to do in Madrid at night , I recommend a  night tour  of the city.

Madrid is a new world at night, and with  this tour , you will visit some of the most popular streets and city landmarks. You’ll get to see these  attractions in Madrid  in a new light, illuminated by the twinkling city lights.

The tour includes stops at La Gran Vía, the Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol, Puerta de Alcalá, and several others. Your guide will tell interesting stories and urban legends surrounding these monuments, giving you a newfound perspective of the city.

I can guarantee that this is a  fun thing to do in Madrid for young adults  or couples, so be sure to check it out!

38. Teatro de la Zarzuela, an unforgettable place to go in Madrid

The  Teatro de la Zarzuela  is one of the most famous theaters in Spain, so seeing an opera here is one of the best cultural  activities to do in Madrid . You can find the concert hall in the Justicia neighborhood, on Jovellanos Street.

The prestigious theater dates to 1856 and became a National Monument in 1998. It’s also on the city’s Goods of Cultural Interest list. While the original intention of the Teatro de la Zarzuela was to entertain the upper class, today, it has a more accessible atmosphere.

In Spanish,  zarzuela  refers to a Spanish genre of dramatic operatic elements and popular songs with dance. Besides zarzuela, the theater is one of the  coolest places in Madrid  to watch opera, flamenco, and other dance performances.

The theater also holds community conferences and educational programs to help bring the arts to more people. So, if you’re not sure  what to do in Madrid , check out the theater’s  website  to see the current performance lineup.

39. Go shopping, another thing to do in Madrid, Spain

It’s a good idea to think of some  things to do in Madrid on a rainy day , just in case the weather’s bad during your trip. If it rains, you can take the opportunity to  go shopping in Madrid . This city is a haven for shopaholics, particularly the areas of Fuencarral Street, Serrano Street, and Preciados Street.

On  Fuencarral Street,  you’ll find lots of vintage clothing stores and a few high-fashion retailers.  Serrano Street , on the other hand, is where to go if you want luxury brands like Versace, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci.

Preciados Street  has all the popular national and international fashion chains like Zara, H&M, Pull & Bear, and Desigual. There is also a Corte Inglés mall, FNAC department store, and specialty music and bookstores.

If you don’t mind going to the outskirts of the city, I recommend visiting  Las Rozas Village . This outdoor shopping outlet has lots of name brands at a steep discount. Without a doubt, it’s the best  place to go in Madrid  if you’re looking for a great deal on clothes, shoes, or accessories. And if you don’t have a car, you can book  this tour , which leaves from the city center.

40. Platform 0, an interesting attraction in Madrid, Spain

Platform 0 , located in the old Chamberí station, is one of the most interesting  attractions in Madrid . This exhibition project encompasses the historic railway station and has been restored to look like the original 1919 station.

To give some background, the city adopted a metro system in the early 1900s, which revolutionized mobility and accessibility. However, over the decades, the Chamberí station became obsolete and eventually closed in 1966. It remained a ghost town until 1998 when it was cleaned up and turned into a museum.

The goal of the   Chamberí Museum Station  was to portray the Madrid metro at its beginnings. So, the city restored old advertisements and furniture to achieve that authentic look. Visiting Platform 0 is a  unique thing to do in Madrid , and it’s like a time machine back to 1919.

Seeing the Chamberí Museum Station is a  free thing to do in Madrid  if you have time to spare. Just remember that it’s only open Thursday through Sunday.

41. El Capricho Park, another lovely place to go in Madrid

If you’re looking for lovely outdoor  places in Madrid , I highly recommend visiting  El Capricho Park . Considered one of the most beautiful parks in the city, El Capricho boasts landscaped lawns, historic gardens, and other natural elements.

The park was founded in 1784 at the request of the Duchess of Osuna. She loved art and desired a space where artists and intellectuals could gather in nature.

Her dream came true, and today, El Capricho is one of the  must-sees in Madrid , a magical blend of artistic vision and outdoor beauty. While it’s near the airport in the Barajas neighborhood, it’s a quiet place with hardly any tourists.

The landscaping and gardens reflect English, French, and Italian influences. Taking some time to stroll through the park is one of the most  relaxing things to do in Madrid . As you explore, you’ll find monuments, sculptures, a maze, and even a bunker from the Spanish Civil War. You can even take a free tour of the park on Saturdays and Sundays, but you have to  book in advance .

42. Parque Europa, another must-see in Madrid, Spain

Visiting  Parque Europa  is a  fun thing to do in Madrid for free . It’s in Torrejón de Ardoz, about 40 minutes from the city center, but you can get there by commuter train.

The park covers nearly 60 acres and stands out for its reproductions of famous European monuments. There are 18 in total, including the Eiffel Tower, Belém Tower, Brandenburg Gate, and a fragment of the Berlin Wall, among others.

Here, you’ll find picnic areas, restaurants, and lots of reactional activities like a zip-line, an archery range, and a laser maze. So, I think it’s a great  thing to do in Madrid with kids , or even as a date. Plus, admission is free, so why not spend a few hours here enjoying the sights and activities?

43. Madrid Amusement Park, a good thing to do in Madrid for families

Another great family  activity in Madrid  is a visit to  Madrid Amusement Park . Located in Casa de Campo, the park was the first of its kind in the city when it opened in 1969.

Of course, the park has stood the test of time and is a fun  thing to do in Madrid with kids . There is a variety of attractions here, ranging from kid-friendly to extremely thrilling. To appeal to the younger crowd, there are several rides inspired by Nickelodeon TV shows and characters.

Although lots of tourists prefer Warner Park, another  cool place in Madrid  I’ll talk about next, madrileños are loyal to the Madrid Parque de Atracciones. The park is usually quite crowded, especially on weekends, so I suggest booking your  ticket in advance .

44. Parque Warner Madrid, a place you can’t miss in Madrid

Parque Warner Madrid  is another  fun place in Madrid, Spain  for kids and families. It’s in San Martín de la Vega, so if you don’t have a car, I recommend taking the 40-minute bus ride from Méndez Álvaro.

It’s worth the trip because Parque Warner is a  top Madrid attraction  for all ages. There are over 40 rides and activities, and the entire park, which is divided into five themed areas, is based on Warner Bros. characters. So, you can walk through Cartoon Village and see Scooby-Doo and Tweety, then head to DC Super Heroes World to say hi to Batman and Superman.

Spending a day at the park is a  good thing to do in Madrid  as a family, as the attractions range in intensity level. One of the most popular rides is La Venganza del Enigma (Enigma’s Revenge), the highest free-fall in Europe, which plummets 377 feet at 50 mph.

Tickets to Parque Warner Madrid cost twice as much at the door, so buy them in advance  here .

45. Watch a flamenco show, the best thing to see in Madrid

While flamenco dance  is more popular in the south of Spain, it’s a  must-see in Madrid  if you’ve never seen it before.

Flamenco is a traditional art form that originated in Andalusia. It developed from several influences, including one-act plays, popular music, and theatrical Spanish songs. In 2016,  UNESCO  declared flamenco a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Watching a flamenco performance is a sensory experience, and an  activity in Madrid  I highly recommend to first-time visitors. The precise movements can range from sharp and intense to light and flowy. Regardless of the style, the show isn’t complete without a flamenco guitar. It’s a distinct sound that’s hard to hear anywhere else.

There are several places in Madrid to see a performance, but I recommend this  live flamenco show  at the historic Torres Bermejas. For a bit more, you can add on the dinner option and make a romantic date of it. In any case, this is a great  thing to do in Madrid at night , and it’s something you won’t forget!

46. Hammam Al Ándalus Baths, an awesome thing to experience in Madrid

One of the  top places to visit in Madrid  as a couple is the  Hammam Al Ándalus baths . Not only is this a historical place with a rich culture, but it’s also incredibly relaxing.

The baths imitate the ancient Arab baths of Al Ándalus, which was the name of the Iberian Peninsula when it was under Muslim rule around 1000 AD. While the baths today are restored to mimic the originals, they are just as soothing.

Without a doubt, this is the best  attraction in Madrid, Spain,  to escape the hustle and bustle. It’s also perfect for date night, as you and your sweetheart can relax by candlelight and enjoy a massage. After a long day of sightseeing, this will be just what you need!

The baths range in water temperature, with a cool 64°F pool and warmer hot tubs ranging from 96°F to 104°F. There is also a Turkish bath and clean changing facilities. To make it an extra special  activity in Madrid , book a massage or facial  here .

47. Matadero, Tabacalera, & Casa Encendida, three unique places to go in Madrid

If you’re wondering  where to hang out in Madrid  with the locals, I can recommend three cultural centers that may interest you. These places may not be in the typical Madrid tourism guides, but I find them quite interesting.

First,  La Tabacalera  is the best cultural center in the city. It’s an old tobacco factory that sat abandoned for years until 2010. Now, it hosts all kinds of exhibitions, workshops, performances, and talks, so check out the  website  for upcoming events.

Another  trend place in Madrid  is  Matadero , a center for contemporary arts and performances. The space has several pavilions, each designated for a specific activity such as film screenings, book clubs, TED Talks, exhibitions, and more. You can visit the official  website  to learn more about the schedule of events.

Finally, there is  Casa Encendida , which hots film sessions, exhibitions, and art-related activities. The venue also hosts children’s programming and competitions, so there is always something going on. It also has a  website  where you can learn more.

Again, if you’re looking for  things to do in Madrid that are not touristy , and you have several days in the city, check out these cultural venues.

48. Cerro del Tio Pio, one of the most beautiful views over Madrid, Spain

Cerro del Tío Pío , popularly known as  Parque de las Siete Tetas  (park of the seven boobs), is one of the most beautiful  places to go in Madrid , especially at sunset.

The park gets its nickname from its seven hills, and when the sun lowers on the horizon, the place looks like a postcard. This impressive green space provides sweeping views of the city, so it’s the perfect place to rest at the end of the day.

Inside the park, there is a small refreshment stand, a playground, and a path for cyclists. While the typical  tourist in Madrid  wouldn’t go here, it’s a unique attraction off the beaten path, one that you won’t regret visiting.

The area is popular with families and couples, as well as photographers who want to capture gorgeous panoramas of the city bathed in the glow of sunset. A visit to Cerro del Tío Pío is also a good  thing to do alone in Madrid , as you can take a relaxing walk along one of its trails.

The park is in the Numancia neighborhood, within the Puente de Vallecas district, so you can easily get there by subway.

49. Casino Torrelodones, the top-rated place for entertainment in Madrid, Spain

Visiting  Casino Torrelodones , also known as Gran Casino Madrid, is a  fun thing to do in Madrid at night , especially if you love slots and table games. The casino opened in 1978, just one year after Spain lifted General Franco’s ban on gambling.

Today, Casino Torrelodones is the busiest casino in the country. Located on the outskirts of Madrid, in Torrelodones, this place is about an hour away by bus. If that’s too far, you could visit  Casino Colón  on Paseo de Recoletos, which is managed by the same company.

Gran Casino Madrid is gigantic, with several large rooms full of all kinds of games. Here, you’ll find party rooms, table games, slots, games of chance, as well as bars and restaurants. Among them is Cubik Gastro Market, a popular dinner buffet.

Even if you don’t gamble, the casino has a fun atmosphere and could make for a nice  evening in Madrid  with friends.

50. Parque Quinta de los Molinos, one of the most beautiful places to go in Madrid

Parque Quinta de los Molinos  is one of those beautiful places in  Madrid you must see . The park is famous for its almond trees, which blossoms between February and March, creating a lovely pink-and-white landscape.

However, if you travel during any other time of year, don’t worry, because this park is a lively place worth visiting. The area is covered with olive trees, pines, cypresses, eucalyptus, and several other tree species. There is also a pond, a mill, and the Clock House, so there’s a relaxing atmosphere.

This  tourist attraction in Madrid  is over 100 years old and has been a recognized Historical Park since 1997. You can find it on Calle de Alcalá, not far from the airport, so it’s easy to get to. In fact, it’s one of my  top places to visit in Madrid , especially when the almond trees are in bloom.

51. Palace of Linares, another secret place to visit in Madrid

In the Plaza de Cibeles, you’ll find the  Palace of Linares , one of the most mysterious  attractions in Madrid . I say this because there are many legends involving this building. You can hear many of these ghost stories on the guided tours (only in Spanish) the palace holds every Saturday and Sunday.

It was built in 1872 for the Marquis de Linares, who lived here with his wife, Raimunda de Osorio.

Besides being an interesting architectural structure, the palace is also the Casa de América headquarters and hosts talks, debates, conferences, and other events.

This palace may not be the most popular attraction in the city, but if you’re wondering  what to do in Madrid  over several days, it’s worth checking out.

52. Valley of the Fallen & El Escorial, an interesting place to go in Madrid

El Escorial  is an important place to visit near Madrid. Here, you’ll find the Basilica of the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, a royal burial place requested by Felipe II.

Exploring the pantheons here is an  unusual thing to do in Madrid , but it’s quite fascinating. This is where the remains of princes, royal infants, queens, and kings were laid to rest. Also, there are chapter rooms once belonging to Felipe II and an impressive cloister.

El Escorial offers others  sights to see near Madrid , such as the  Jardines del Príncipe, Garden of the Friars , and the Cottage of the Infant, built for Infante Gabriel, the son of King Charles III.

Another nearby historical attraction is the  Valley of the Fallen , the burial place of over 33,800 soldiers from both sides of the Spanish Civil War. The area was one of the first projects under the Franco regime. While it commemorates fallen Republican and National soldiers, this place is not without controversy. Political prisoners built the burial site, which is loaded with Francoist symbolism.

Francisco Franco himself was buried here, but his body was exhumed in 2019 and relocated to his family’s burial plot at the Mingorrubio cemetery.

Along with El Escorial, this site is a unique  place to visit near Madrid . You can book a  tour  of El Escorial, or do this  half-day tour that also includes the Valley of the Fallen.

53. Visit the Enchanted Forest, one of the best things in Madrid for couples

Another  place to see near Madrid  is the  Enchanted Forest . While it’s a lovely attraction, it’s a bit far, so I only recommend it if you’re spending more than a week in the city.

The Enchanted Forest is in San Martín de las Iglesias, about 45 miles from the city center, or about an hour by car. If you have time, these beautiful botanical gardens are a  must-see around Madrid .

This garden has over 300 topiary sculptures and more than 500 plant species, creating a magical atmosphere. Its collection of cacti, bonsai, and other plants weave into a labyrinth that’s both relaxing and entertaining.

Most people spend about two or three hours here, although it could be nice to have a picnic and spend half a day here. You could also stay overnight at one of the Enchanted Forest bungalows. This is a fun  thing to do in Madrid, Spain with family , as you can go canoeing, take a hike, or practice archery. You can reserve a room on the Enchanted Forest  website .

54. Toledo, the best place to visit around Madrid

If you’re thinking about  what to see near Madrid , the city of  Toledo  is one of the best options. It’s less than an hour from the capital, and there are plenty of excursions that can take you there. My top recommendation is  this one  since it’s well-priced and makes the most of the day by leaving early in the morning.

Toledo is a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site for its stunning architecture and rich history, which you’ll notice as soon as you walk along its streets. The city also played a crucial role in the life and work of Miguel de Cervantes, so if you loved Barrio de las Letras, Toledo is a must-see.

This city stands out for its  Alcazar de Toledo , a stone fortification from the 2 nd century that was rebuilt after the Spanish Civil War. Toledo is also known for its narrow, medieval streets, which add a distinct character to the place. Walking through the town, you’ll notice the buildings’ facades reflect the Muslim, Jewish, and Christian influences of years past.

I promise that visiting Toledo is one of the  coolest things to do near Madrid . In addition to the tour I mentioned above, there is  this other excursion  that combines Toledo and  Segovia , another city I’ll talk about next.

55. Avila and Segovia, two of the best places to go near Madrid

Depending on how long you’ll be in Madrid, you may want to consider taking a  day trip to Ávila and Segovia . Both cities are beautiful, so I think they’re worth adding to the  list of things to do around Madrid .

You can book  this excursion , which leaves the capital at 9 a.m., and heads to  Ávila , a beautiful city full of historical architecture. The highlight of Ávila is the 8,200-foot wall surrounding the city. The 90 turrets on the wall served to protect the Gothic monuments inside, including the  Cathedral of Ávila , the  Basilica de San Vicente , and the  Convent of Saint Joseph .

The next stop on the tour is  Segovia , where you’ll find the most famous  Roman aqueduct  in Europe as well as historical medieval remains. The city is also home to the  Cathedral of Segovia and the  Alcázar castle , which will make you feel like you’re stepping back in time.

Ávila and Segovia are only about an hour from the capital, so taking a day trip to these cities is a  fun thing to do in Madrid, Spain  if you’ll be here for a week or so.

56. See Cuenca & the Ciudad Encantada, another unusual activity to do in Madrid

Another  thing to see in Madrid, Spain  is the city of  Cuenca . Located about an hour and a half from the capital, Cuenca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most geologically interesting towns in Spain. It’s also the hometown of my grandparents, so I know the area quite well and highly recommend it.

If you don’t have a car, you can book  this full-day excursion  from Madrid, which includes the most important places in Cuenca.

The day begins with a visit to the  Enchanted City , where you’ll find rock formations from around 90 million years ago. Among these are the “mushroom rocks” and a rock wall that looks as if it were sculpted by human hands.

Then, you’ll make a brief stop at the  Ventano del Diablo viewpoint , which boasts spectacular panoramic views. Finally, you’ll visit Cuenca’s city center, where you can enjoy the main tourist attractions like the  Cuenca Cathedral  and the  Hanging Houses , which are homes built into the cliffside.

If you’re looking for  fun places near Madrid, Spain , I can assure you that Cuenca and its surroundings won’t disappoint!

57. Salamanca, another one of the best places to go near Madrid

The best thing about Madrid is that it’s in the middle of the country, so it’s surrounded by all kinds of cool places. Two hours from the capital, you’ll find  Salamanca , Spain’s top university city. If you’re not sure  where to go in Madrid , Salamanca is a wonderful place to check out.

Plus,  this tour  includes transportation to and from Salamanca, as well as a visit to Ávila.

First, you’ll go to Salamanca and explore its Renaissance architecture and main tourist attractions. Check out the famous  University of Salamanca , the  New Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin , and the  Old Cathedral of Santa María .

Spend some time wandering through  Plaza Mayor , which is absolutely gorgeous at night. If you’re visiting in late December, you’ll get to experience  Nochevieja Universitaria , when all the University students gather in the plaza to celebrate the end of the school term.

The final part of the excursion goes to Ávila, which I described earlier. It makes for the perfect day, and you’ll get to see some of the most impressive sights in the country. Both Salamanca and Ávila are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so whenever anyone asks me  what to see near Madrid, Spain , I mention them!

58. Alcala de Henares, another beautiful place to go in Madrid

Alcalá de Henares  is just 45 minutes northwest of the capital, so it’s a great  place to visit near Madrid . Plus, it’s the hometown of Miguel de Cervantes, so if you’re a fan of his work, you’ll love this city.

To make the most of your time in Alcalá de Henares, I recommend  this half-day tour , which leaves from Madrid’s city center and returns to Atocha Station.

Being the city that inspired the life and work of Miguel de Cervantes, Alcalá offers plenty of interesting attractions. Here, you can visit the  Cervantes Birthplace Museum , which recreates the home and atmosphere in which the author grew up.

You can also see the  Corral de Comedias , the oldest working theater in Europe, which dates to 1601. Nearby is the old Student Hospice of the  University of Alcalá  and the auditorium that presents the Cervantes Prize, a prestigious literary award.

If you’re looking for  things to do in Madrid, Spain  for a few days, Alcalá de Henares is a perfect option. Spend some time getting to know the most iconic places here and their impact on Spanish literature.

59. Aranjuez, one of the top places to go in Madrid

Aranjuez , a popular vacation spot for former Spanish royalty, is one of the best  places to visit near Madrid . Located 45 minutes south of the capital, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural landscape and importance.

This  half-day tour  includes transportation and admission to the  Royal Palace  in Aranjuez. The palace has been the site of several treaty signings as well as royal deaths.

Besides the Royal Palace, you should spend time visiting the other outstanding attractions in Aranjuez, such as the  Parterre Garden  in front of the palace and  Saint Pascual’s Royal Convent . I also suggest the  Royal Barge Museum  in the Prince’s Garden, where you can see the boats that once transported royalty across the river. You can even  take a boat ride  to learn more about the history and landscape of Aranjuez.

Visiting this city is a great  thing to do near Madrid , so if you’ll be in the capital for more than a week, be sure to check it out.

60. Guadarrama & Manzanares el Real, a unique place to go in Madrid

Sierra de Guadarrama  is my final recommendation if you’re looking for  places to see in Madrid . It’s just 45 minutes from downtown, and the area offers plenty of things to explore, from hiking trails and ski slopes to architectural marvels. It’s one of the best national parks in Spain .

If you don’t have much time, I suggest booking  this excursion , which includes some of the highlights of Guadarrama. Perhaps the most impressive is the  Castillo de Manzanares , a 15th-century fortress with six floors, winding passageways, and a museum.

You’ll also pass through the port of La Morcuera, where you’ll get incredible views of the area. Then, enjoy some time at Miraflores de la Sierra and the ports of Cotos and Navacerrada. The spectacular scenery is part of the draw to Guadarrama, so spend some time enjoying the sights of this mountain range. It’s certainly worth the  visit !

And that’s it for this guide on  things to do in Madrid . I hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know my hometown and that now you’re better prepared to plan your trip! No matter when you come, there will always be something to see and do.

To help you organize your trip, here is a map of  places to visit in Madrid, Spain . This will make it easier to see which areas are close to each other so you can make the most of your itinerary.

As you can see, there are many activities and  attractions in Madrid, Spain . I’m sure you’ll fall in love with this city, but if you have any questions, leave me a comment. I’ll be happy to help you get to know my beloved city, Madrid!

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Madrid

Written by Michael Law , Lana Law , and Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Authors Michael and Lana Law last visited Madrid in the fall of 2022 while on assignment for PlanetWare.

Full of energy and packed with cultural attractions, Madrid is a modern metropolis that offers a taste of the real Spain. Wide avenues are congested with traffic, but beautiful parks break up the urban sprawl.

Madrid is a hub of social life with a happening café culture and bustling nightlife. Constantly buzzing with activity, the city offers so much to see and do that you will be spoiled for choice.

The world-class Prado Museum displays an endless array of masterpieces created during the Golden Age of Spain, and the 18th-century Royal Palace rivals the Château de Versailles in France.

Be sure to experience Madrid in the evening, when the city really comes to life. Madrileños love going out on the town, and the paseo por la noche (evening stroll) is a cherished ritual.

If possible, it's best to avoid visiting during summer when the heat is oppressive. Savvy travelers come to Madrid during the springtime or autumn to take advantage of more mild weather.

Spain's capital city, Madrid boasts an impressive array of historical monuments and art museums, as well as pleasant gardens and public plazas. Learn more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Madrid.

Museo Nacional del Prado

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A truly world-class museum, the Museo Nacional del Prado has a collection of more than 8,000 paintings and 700 sculptures. Among its extensive assortment of artworks are many masterpieces, including celebrated paintings that rival the most famous works of the Louvre Museum in Paris.

The Prado Museum displays around 2,300 pieces of the collection in more than 100 rooms on three floors. Trying to see it all in one visit can be daunting, but it's possible to focus on a specific itinerary of masterpieces. The Prado suggests "routes" (self-guided tours) of specific works.

Spanish paintings from the 12th century to the early 19th century form the majority of the collection. The assortment of paintings by Francisco de Goya comprises a remarkable 140 works. Also not-to-be-missed is Las Meninas , a depiction of the Spanish royal family of Felipe IV created by Velázquez in 1656.

Other must-see works in the Spanish Painting collection include The Annunciation by El Greco, Jacob's Dream by José de Ribera, The Third of May by Goya, The Virgin and Child by Luis de Morales, Christ Embracing Saint Bernard by Francisco Ribalta, and The Immaculate Conception by Murillo.

Part of the Prado Museum's exhibition space includes a contemporary building and the renovated 16th-century cloister of the San Jerónimo el Real monastery. These galleries display a noteworthy collection of 17th-century Spanish religious paintings.

Get the most out of your time at the Prado by joining a Skip the Line: Prado Museum Tour in Madrid , avoiding the long lines and going directly to the most interesting galleries. On the 90-minute tour, your knowledgeable guide provides an overview of the museum's must-see masterpieces, while providing historical context to help you understand the artworks.

After touring the art collection, tourists can relax at the Real Jardín Botánico (Royal Botanical Garden) located next to the Prado Museum. This lovely green space features shady pathways, benches, sculptures, greenhouses, a Kitchen Garden planted with vegetables, and a Rose Garden that blooms in May and early June. The Real Jardín Botánico is also home to the Museum of Natural History .

About a 10-minute walk from the Real Jardín Botánico is the popular Restaurante TriCiclo (28 Calle Santa María), which serves lunch and dinner in a contemporary-style dining room with a casual ambience. The restaurant specializes in international cuisine, prepared from seasonal market ingredients with gastronomic flair.

Address: Paseo del Prado, Madrid

The Buen Retiro Park ( Parque del Retiro ) is an oasis of peace in the heart of Madrid. This lush and beautifully manicured park offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park encompasses more than 125 hectares and is shaded by over 15,000 trees.

Created for the Count-Duke of Olivares in the 17th century, the historic park has an elegant ambiance with its variety of gardens and tree-lined paths. The Parque del Retiro was owned by the Spanish royal family until the 19th century; since then it has been a public park.

From the main entrance at the Plaza de Independencia, visitors arrive at the pool in the center of the park. From here, paths lead to the enchanting La Rosaleda ( Rose Garden ), the formal French Jardín de Don Cecilio , and the Andalusian-style Jardines de Cecilio Rodríguez .

Built in 1887, the Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace) is a splendid cast-iron and glass pavilion that presents exhibitions of contemporary art. The Crystal Palace looks out onto a graceful fountain and reflecting pool. Visitors will find other interesting fountains at Buen Retiro Park including Los Galápagos ( The Turtles ), El Ángel Caído ( The Fallen Angel ), and La Alcachofa ( The Artichoke ).

Locals and tourists alike enjoy boating on the park's tranquil lake. Other favorite things to do include taking the kids to puppet shows at the Teatro de Títeres, going for walks on the scenic tree-lined paths, and basking in the sun or relaxing in the shade at one of the park's outdoor cafés.

For stargazers, the park has an observatory that was built in 1790.

This grandiose palace is the Spanish version of Versailles, a royal court designed to impress. However, unlike Versailles, which is now just a museum, the Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real de Madrid) is still the official residence of a monarch (the King of Spain) and continues to be used for official State events.

The palace was commissioned by Philip V in the 18th century. The majestic Neoclassical facade is crafted entirely from granite and white Colmenar stone. The facade's Ionic columns and Doric pilasters are based on drawings that the sculptor Bernini originally intended for the Louvre in Paris. The balustrade features statues of Spanish kings.

The most striking aspect of the interior is the imposing staircase at the entrance hallway, with a fresco of The Triumph of Religion and the Church , that leads up to the main floor. Throughout the palace, masterpieces of art decorate the walls: paintings by Velázquez, Goya, Rubens, El Greco, and Caravaggio, and exquisite Flemish and French tapestries.

The King Charles III apartments are among the most beautiful rooms in the Royal Palace. These rooms are adorned with refined decor of the Enlightenment era.

A masterpiece of Rococo style, the Salón del Trono (Throne Room) is adorned with frescoes by Tiepolo including The Greatness of the Spanish Monarchy , one of his finest works. Still used for State ceremonies, the Throne Room is clad in sumptuous red velvet and decorated with valuable tapestries, mirrors, furniture, and chandeliers.

History buffs will want to visit the palace's Royal Armory (La Real Armería), which contains 3,000 exhibits dating back to the Middle Ages. On display are the armor and weapons that have been used by Spain's kings over the centuries.

Visitors should save time to explore the Jardines del Campo del Moro . These delightful historic gardens were created during the reign of Philip II and are landscaped in a formal French style with fountains and avenues. The 20-hectare green space provides a haven of tranquility in the center of Madrid. It's a wonderful place for relaxation and scenic strolls.

Address: Calle Bailén, Madrid

This elegant 17th-century plaza was built during the reign of Philip III and used as a center of commerce and municipal life, as well as the scene of ceremonial events such as the proclamation of a new king and the canonization of saints. The square also served as a venue for bullfights, dramatic performances, and knightly tournaments.

The Plaza Mayor took on its present appearance after a fire in 1790, when the corners were enclosed and the nine entrance arches were constructed, linking it to Calle de Toledo, Calle Mayor, Calle de Postas, and others.

Today, the Plaza Mayor continues to be an important gathering place in Madrid. The expansive cobblestone square is a pedestrian area, surrounded by outdoor cafés and atmospheric restaurants shaded by its arcades. In the evenings, the square is a lively place to visit for both tourists and Madrileños.

A short walk from the Plaza Mayor is the Chocolatería San Ginés (5 Pasadizo San Ginés), famous for its chocolate con churros (hot chocolate with deep-fried pastries), which has been a specialty since 1894. This inviting chocolate boutique and café features marble tables and refined decor. No need to rush, the Chocolatería San Ginés is open 24 hours a day Wednesday through Sunday, and until 11:30 pm Monday and Tuesday.

The Puerta del Sol was named after the sun emblem on the old city gate, which formerly stood here. This spacious town square aligns with the rising sun. Besides being a hub of public transportation (with several bus stops and Metro entrances), the Puerta del Sol is also the "Kilometer Zero" point from which all distances on the Spanish national road network are measured.

The Puerta del Sol has been the scene of many historic events, including the Spanish resistance to Napoleon on May 2nd, 1808, and in 1931, the Second Republic was proclaimed here.

Nowadays the square is a place to hang out and enjoy life. Lined with shops and cafés, the Puerta del Sol is still one of the most happening squares in Madrid.

The area around Puerta del Sol is packed with restaurants and shops. For tourists seeking special gifts to bring back home, La Violeta (6 Plaza de Canalejas) is the place to go. The shop is just steps away from the Puerta del Sol. Founded in 1915, this family-run boutique offers the Madrid specialty of violet candies, as well as chocolate bonbons and other old-fashioned confections.

Note: Puerto del Sol is undergoing major construction in 2023, and barricades and scaffolding dominate the scene.

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum presents an overview of European art from the 17th century to the late 20th century. With nearly 1,000 paintings on display, the collection covers medieval religious art, Renaissance-era portraits and biblical themes, the Baroque period, Rococo, Romanticism, Impressionism, Fauvism, Expressionism, modern art, and Pop Art. The museum also has an excellent collection of 19th-century American paintings.

This prestigious collection includes renowned masterpieces such as Christ and the Samaritan Woman by Duccio di Buoninsegna, V enus and Cupid by Peter Paul Rubens, The Annunciation by El Greco, Young Knight in a Landscape by Vittore Carpaccio, Jesus among the Doctors by Albrecht Dürer, The See-Saw by Jean-Honoré Fragonard, Dancer in Green by Edward Degas, Solitude by Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot, Route de Versailles by Camille Pissarro, Les Vessenots in Auvers by Vincent van Gogh, and The Harvesters by Pablo Picasso.

Since the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is located near the Prado, art lovers could easily combine a visit to both museums in the same day.

Address: 8 Paseo del Prado, Madrid

Not all of Madrid's tourist attractions revolve around art. One of its most-visited museums draws football (soccer) fans to the stadium known as Estadio Santiago Bernabéu , the home of the Real Madrid soccer club. The club boasts unapologetically that their stadium is the "Greatest Stadium in the World."

You can take a tour of the stadium, as well as the museum, which displays trophies, team artifacts, and temporary exhibits. Tours also give fans a chance to enjoy the view of the field from the top of the stadium.

Significant infrastructure improvements are planned over the next few years for the stadium. They include a retractable roof, digitization of the display screens, along with an underground car park.

Address: 1 Avenida de Concha Espina, 28036 Madrid

Opened by Queen Sofía in 1986, the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is Madrid's avant-garde center for contemporary art. The sleek modern building was created by the architect Antonio Fernández Alba and has features that recall the Pompidou Center in Paris, especially the three glass towers that house the elevators on the outside of the building.

Another wonderful surprise to visitors is the charming garden in the inner courtyard filled with imaginative sculptures.

The Museo Reina Sofía contains over 23,000 artworks in its collections. In its thorough representation of Spanish modern and contemporary art, the collection includes remarkable masterpieces such as works by Joan Miró, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Alexander Calder. The artworks are displayed in various rooms spread out in a vast exhibition space of 39,000 square meters.

Visitor amenities include a bookstore, gift shop , and audioguides. The museum also has a trendy café-restaurant, NuBel, which is open for brunch, lunch, afternoon refreshments, tapas, and dinner. Evening meals feature a lively ambience, with DJ music sets every night.

Address: 52 Calle de Santa Isabel, Madrid

Standing in a major traffic intersection, the Fuente de Cibeles (Cybele's Fountain) is one of the most emblematic monuments in Madrid. Lifelike statues depict the Roman Goddess Cybele riding a lion-drawn chariot. The fountain was created in 1782 by Francisco Gutiérrez and Roberto Michel with the original purpose of providing water for public use.

Behind the fountain is the Palacio de Cibeles , which houses the CentroCentro cultural center, which hosts art exhibitions and workshops, conferences, and concerts. The Centro Palacio de Cibeles has the Restaurante Palacio de Cibeles on the sixth floor, an elegant dining establishment with spectacular city views. Visitors can also admire panoramic vistas from the Mirador observation deck on the building's eighth floor.

Nearby (via Calle de Alcala) is one of Madrid's most popular shopping streets, the Gran Vía . Tourists will find many restaurants, hotels, and theaters on this bustling street.

Just off the Gran Vía on Calle de Jovellanos, the famous Teatro de la Zarzuela presents ballet performances and classical music concerts, including renowned performances of zarzuela - a unique type of satirical opera with songs accompanied by classical Spanish guitar music.

Address: Plaza de Cibeles, Madrid

Touring a city like Madrid with all its sights can bring on a fierce hunger. Fortunately, the Mercado de San Miguel has everything you need to recharge your natural batteries. Here, you'll find over 20 different vendors selling the freshest meats, cheeses, fruit, and tempting tapas.

Vendor stalls are piled high with taste-bud tempting items. Figuring out what to eat may be the toughest task you face all day. Pick a few things from each place and then sit at one of the tables and soak up the lively atmosphere.

The Mercado de San Miguel has been operating in the same location for over 100 years. You'll find it just to the west of Plaza Mayor.

Address: Plaza de San Miguel, Madrid

An ancient Egyptian temple in Madrid? Yes, such a thing does exist, and it can be found in La Montaña Park (close to the Plaza de España). A gift from Egypt, in thanks for Spain's help in saving the Abu Simbel temples during the building of the Aswan Dam, the Temple of Debod was brought to Madrid in 1968.

The temple was built for King Adikhalamani in the 2nd century BC and was dedicated to the Egyptian God and Goddess, Amun and Isis. Well-preserved original decorations are found inside the temple, which is rare for an archaeological site.

Originally the peaceful gardens surrounding the monument had reflective pools and a fountain; however, these features are no longer operating. Admission to the temple is limited, and the line moves very slowly. Sights inside are fairly limited, so if you see a long line, give it a pass.

Address: Parque de la Montaña, Calle de Ferraz, Madrid

Perhaps the least visited of Madrid's major art treasures are the stunning frescoes painted by Francesco Goya that decorate the vaults and ceiling of the chapel of the Hermitage of San Antonio de la Florida.

The little 18th-century chapel, along the banks of the Manzanares River behind the Royal Palace, hosts an annual festival in honor of Saint Anthony of Padua on June 13th, but it's the interior that has become a place of pilgrimage for art lovers.

Among Goya's finest works, the frescoes illustrate the theme of the miracle performed by Saint Anthony, while also depicting scenes of everyday life in Madrid. The frescoes reveal Goya's boldness of artistic style and revolutionary painting techniques. These works were painted at a turning point in Goya's career and are considered a precursor of modern painting.

The chapel is designated as a National Monument and is no longer used for religious services to protect the frescoes.

Address: 5 Glorieta de San Antonio de la Florida, Madrid

The Basílica de San Francisco el Grande was built by Carlos III in 1761 for a Franciscan friary. The church was designed by Francisco Cabezas, who modeled the Neoclassical architectural plan on the Church of Santa Maria in Campitelli in Rome. The construction was completed in 1784 by Francisco Sabatini.

The interior features an inspiring 58-meter-high dome that is larger than the dome of Saint Paul's Cathedral in London. Magnificent paintings adorn the chapels of the basilica, including masterpieces by the Spanish Old Masters.

In the first chapel on the left are Goya's Saint Bernardino , and Velázquez's Saint Bonaventure and The Appearance of the Virgin to Saint Anthony. The church also contains a painting of Saint Bonaventure by Zurbarán.

The church museum in the cloister displays a variety of religious art and artifacts.

Address: Plaza de San Francisco el Grande, Madrid

This charming museum is dedicated to the work of Joaquín Sorolla y Bastida, the most famous Spanish Impressionist painter. More than 1,200 paintings and drawings by Sorolla are displayed in the artist's house and studio, which has retained its original decor. The extensive collection includes a broad representation of Sorolla's works.

Visitors should be sure to see the museum's garden patio. Designed by Sorolla, this exquisite tree-shaded outdoor space is adorned with a gurgling fountain and Andalusian-style decorative tile work.

Address: 37 Paseo del General Martínez Campos, Madrid

The National Archaeological Museum (Museo Arqueológico Nacional) was founded by Queen Isabella II in 1867 and has a rich collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to the 19th century. Exhibits feature archaeological finds, ethnography, decorative arts from antiquity, and ancient coins.

Highlights of the permanent collection include Egyptian mummies, Hispano-Roman and Islamic archaeological finds, Visigothic crowns, and Mudéjar ceramics. One of the most prized possessions of the collection is the bust of the Lady of Elche and the ivory Pot from Zamora.

Address: 13 Calle de Serrano, Madrid

The Lázaro Galdiano Museum displays the exceptional private collection of 19th-century financier Lázaro Galdiano, housed in the mansion of Parque Florido , where he resided. The museum has an extensive collection of around 9,000 artworks exhibited in 30 rooms.

From armor, coins, and medals to jewelry, Baroque crystal, and tapestries, the collection is extremely diverse. Be sure to see the 16th- to 17th-century Spanish paintings by famous Old Masters, including El Greco, Goya, Velázquez, Zurbarán, Ribera, Pereda, and Murillo.

Among the masterpieces are El Aquelarre by Goya, San Francisco en éxtasis by El Greco, Meditaciones de San Juan Bautista by Hieronymus Bosch, Cabeza de Muchacha by Velázquez, El Salvador Adolescente by Giovanni Antonio Boltraffio, and La Tienda by Luis Paret y Alcázar.

Address: 122 Calle de Serrano, Madrid

This grand Neoclassical triumphal arch was commissioned by King Charles III to celebrate the arrival of the monarchs to Spain's capital city. The monument was designed by Francesco Sabatini and built between 1769 and 1778.

Nearly 30 meters high, the elegant granite entrance gate makes a grand impression. The facade is adorned with sculptures, capitals, and decorative reliefs.

Just below the monument, at 54 Calle Alcalá, is Madrid's fanciest patisserie shop VAIT Pastelerías , which offers exquisite cakes, cookies, pastries, chocolate candies, and hot chocolate.

Address: Plaza de la Independencia, Madrid

The National Museum of Romanticism (Museo del Romanticismo) presents a unique collection on the theme of Romanticism, the artistic and intellectual movement of the early 19th century. The museum occupies the Palacio del Marqués de Matallana , which dates to 1776 and features wonderful 19th-century decor and furnishings.

The eclectic collection includes jewelry, ceramics, furniture, and porcelain dolls. A highlight of the museum, the assortment of 19th-century paintings stands out for its exceptional quality, thanks to works by masters such as Goya.

The museum also has a splendid Magnolia Garden , landscaped in 18th-century formal French style with avenues, a fountain, and parterres. A café in the garden serves coffee and cakes to museum guests in need of refreshments.

Another cultural attraction nearby is the Museum of Contemporary Art (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo), located at 9 Calledel Conde Duque. This museum showcases avant-garde to present-day paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photography.

Just a 10-minute walk from the Museum of Contemporary Art is Madrid's largest department store, El Corte Inglés , which sells everything from clothes, shoes, and swimsuits to traditional Spanish fans.

Address: 13 Callede San Mateo, Madrid

Anywhere between the Royal Palace and Buen Retiro Park, an area that includes both the Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, is ideal for sightseeing. Most major tourist attractions lie in these neighborhoods, with the greatest concentration of art museums along Paseo del Prado, the famed Mile of Art, paralleling Buen Retiro Park. These highly rated hotels in Madrid are all in this central area:

Luxury Hotels :

• Catalonia Las Cortes is found between the Plaza Mayor and the Prado Museum. This four-star hotel occupies a renovated 18th-century palace with original architectural details. The spacious, elegant guest rooms feature modern amenities such as flat-screen televisions and coffee machines.
• The Hotel Atlantico is located on the Gran Via in the heart of Madrid's shopping district and an easy walk from all the major attractions. This four-star hotel has two cafés, one of which is on the rooftop terrace that affords superb views. Guest rooms feature classic décor and are outfitted with modern amenities.
• An emblematic landmark near Madrid's top museums, The Westin Palace Madrid occupies a Historic Monument dating to 1912 that was commissioned by Alfonso XIII. This opulent five-star hotel is one of the most luxurious places to stay in Spain. Services include three restaurants, a fitness center, spa treatments, and a hair salon.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The NH Madrid Nacional occupies a Historic Monument opposite the Real Jardín Botánico (botanical gardens) on Paseo del Prado, near the Atocha rail station. This modern four-star hotel is located in Madrid's "Art Triangle" just steps away from the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.
• Artrip Hotel gets rave reviews for its thoughtfully designed contemporary-style guest rooms, cozy atmosphere, and concierge service. The hotel is located about a 10-minute walk from the Reina Sofía Museum and a slightly farther walk to the Prado Museum.

Budget Hotels:

• Just a short walk away from the Prado Museum and the Plaza Mayor, the three-star Ibis Styles Madrid Prado offers comfortable guest rooms decorated in a whimsical style. Some rooms feature balconies; many rooms have city views. This modern hotel provides a 24-hour front reception desk.
• Between the Royal Palace and Puerta del Sol, the two-star Hotel Francisco I benefits from a quiet location on a pedestrian street. Tourists will appreciate that the area is brimming with shops and restaurants.
• Near the Plaza Mayor and the Puerta del Sol, the Mayerling Hotel offers comfortable guest rooms decorated in sleek minimalist style. This two-star hotel provides 24-hour front desk and concierge services.
• A stylish and fun addition to the budget scene and in a great location is the SLEEP'N Atocha . The hotel has small rooms, some with large windows that open to the square below. The highlight of the hotel is the sunny enclosed rooftop patio where it's easy to meet and chat with fellow travelers.

See the Highlights of Madrid in a Day:

• Many first-time visitors enjoy seeing the sights on the Hop-on Hop-off Madrid City Tour . This tourist-friendly experience offers 15 or 20 stops on two different routes, which include top attractions such as the Royal Palace, the Puerta del Sol, and the Cibeles Fountain.

Take a Spin around the City :

• For an exhilarating way to see the sights, consider the Madrid Segway Tour . This small-group excursion includes a safety briefing, a helmet, and an English-speaking guide. There is a choice of three different itineraries.

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites :

• The full-day Avila and Segovia Day Trip includes a tour of the two UNESCO World Heritage-listed cities near Madrid. More history and culture awaits on the Toledo Half-Day or Full-Day Trip , where you can admire masterpieces of painting by El Greco, stroll the city's medieval streets, and visit amazing historic monuments.

Experience a Serene Spiritual Site:

• Discover another remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site on the El Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen tour. This five-hour day trip from Madrid includes round-trip transportation, a guided tour of the 15th-century monastery, and a visit to a monument honoring fallen soldiers of the Spanish Civil War.

More on Spain

• The Best 10 Things to Do in the City Centre of Madrid

Looking to visit the City Centre of Madrid?

We know how overwhelming it can be to dive into this grand city with so much to explore.

We did a month-long Spanish road trip in 2023 and dedicated significant time to exploring Madrid’s city center . Madrid was especially memorable for us as we celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary there!

Whether you’re a solo wanderer, a family on the move, or anyone in between, we’ve got you covered.

Let us guide you through the maze of must-sees and hidden gems, making your visit as thrilling as it is effortless.

So, lace up your walking shoes, and let’s embark on this city centre of Madrid adventure together!

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City Centre of Madrid

What is the most central area in madrid.

Puerta del Sol square is the most central square of Madrid.

In fact, this square is designated as the center of all of Spain. You will find a plaque designating the center of Spain, Kilometre Zero, right in front of the Government Building in the Puerta del Sol .

In reality, the center of Spain is actually closer to Toledo , but the square maintains its designation.

Roughly 1 square kilometer around Puerta del Sol square is considered the city centre of Madrid.

From Puerta del Sol, you have less than a 15-minute walk to the major Madrid attractions.

What is Madrid City Centre called?

Puerta del Sol square is commonly referred to as Sol while the entire city centre of Madrid is referred to as centro or the “old town” .

City Centre of Madrid Map

The official tourism website of Madrid, www.esmadrid.com , has a good map of Madrid that is available for download on their website.

The area most commonly referred to as the city centre of Madrid, centro, is in the blue box below.

Centro has the majority of the main attractions but not all of them.

A few famous attractions that are slightly outside of centro are:

• Museo Nacional del Prado (Prado Museum) – If you love art, make sure to visit the Prado Museum. It is the primary national art museum in Spain and is renowned for having one of the best collections of European art in the world. Exploring with a tour guide is the best way to maximize your experience!

• Real Jardín Botánico (Royal Botanical Garden) – The Royal Botanical Garden in Madrid is a beautiful display of flora. In 1942, it was declared an Artistic Garden. The garden consists of a herbarium, a library with almost 10,000 drawings, and 5,500 species of live plants. 🌷
• Puerta de Alcalá – The Puerta de Alcalá is located in Plaza de la Independencia. Interestingly, the two sides of the gate are completely different from each other. This is because the architect, Francisco Sabatini, submitted two different sketches to Charles III, which were both approved. As a result, they used both designs on either side of the gate.
• Parque de El Retiro (El Retiro Park) – El Retiro Park is a massive (125 hectares) park just outside of Centro. In the park, you will find many stunning statues, landmarks, and locals living life with a game or a picnic. We loved taking a segway tour to see all of the park – it is huge!

• Plaza de España – Plaza de España, or “Spain’s Square” is located at the western end of the Gran Vía. The square is a hub for business as well as tourists due to the two iconic skyscrapers and the monument for Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra.
• Santiago Bernabéu Stadium – Home to Real Madrid, arguably the most famous football club in the world. The stadium is 2.5 miles north of the city centre of Madrid. If you want to see the stadium, the second largest in Spain, you can  book a stadium tour  and learn all about the history of the club or purchase tickets to a match! ️⚽️

Madrid City Centre Best Things to Do

There are so many fantastic things to do in Madrid, especially in the city center.

The best things to are:

Take a Walking Tour

Walking around Madrid, there are statues and squares at every corner – but what is their significance?

A walking tour is the perfect way to explore while listening to the epic history of Madrid.

A free walking tour is a great way to get this information in an inexpensive group setting. We always book free walking tours with GuruWalk .

In Madrid, there are several different tour offerings. Some just cover the old town, or centro, while others are in the new part of Madrid.

If you’d prefer to have a more 1:1 experience, booking a private walking tour is another fantastic option.

🚶 Picking a reputable company for a Madrid City Centre walking tour is so important! Below is the company we trust to give you the best experience: Babylon Tours Madrid

Madrid also has a number of tuk-tuk tour offerings if mobility or time is a concern!

Visit the Royal Palace

Typically, palaces are not our thing… The Royal Palace in Madrid is 1,000% the exception – it is stunning!

The detail in each room is truly jaw-dropping.

👉 The Royal Palace Fast-Access Admission Ticket is all you need.

We highly recommend getting the audio guide – it provides the right amount of detail and really helps bring the rooms to life!

By purchasing your ticket in advance, you can avoid the long queue of people who are buying tickets on the same day. The line can be a bit intimidating!

There is the option to get in for free during the last 2 hours of the day – we would NOT recommend doing this unless necessary.

Why? The line is really long and begins forming 2 hours before they let the first people in for free. Additionally, it is really crowded during the free hours and you will not have access to the fantastic audio guide.

Walk Around the Catedral de la Almudena

Right across from the Royal Palace is the Catedral de la Almudena . Construction on this cathedral began in 1883 and was finished in 1993 – it took 110 years to build!

The Cathedral has been the site of two significant events: it was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993 and was the venue for the wedding of Prince Felipe (now the King) and Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano.

It is a relatively modern-looking Cathedral with many interesting details throughout. Our favorite part was looking at the stained glass windows, which are absolutely breathtaking.

Going into the Cathedral is free , though they do ask for a donation. The door to enter is on the same side as the road C. de Bailén.

If you’d like, you can buy a ticket to go to the top as well for a good view of Madrid.

Grab a Picture in Plaza Mayor

Plaza Major is one of the most iconic places in Spain.

It is a large square that was originally the market for Madrid. Nowadays, it is home to restaurants and a hotel.

The architecture is really beautiful – there are nine entrance arches with giant lamps hanging from them, as well as a statue of King Philip III on horseback at the center of the square.

One side of the building has stunning paintings on its facade.

This used to be the location of the Casa de la Panaderia bakery. However, there were three separate fires caused by the bakery, resulting in multiple rebuilds of the building.

We recommend grabbing a local favorite, a bocadillo (calamari sandwich) from Bar La Campana instead of eating in the plaza where the quality of food can be lacking.

Grab a Snack at Mercado de San Miguel

Mercado de San Miguel is a beautiful iron building located just outside of Plaza Mayor.

It originally opened in 1916 as a local market and serviced the area for almost 80 years.

In 2009, the market was completely renovated and turned into a food hall with some of the best chefs from Madrid. Unlike most markets, you will find in Madrid, Mercado de San Miguel has few fresh meat and produce vendors.

Instead, the stalls are small restaurants and tapas locations.

It is the perfect place to jump around and try many different Madrid flavors. You will, however, pay more for the tapas than you would elsewhere in Madrid.

It is the busiest at lunch and dinner times , so try to swing by outside of the rush. It can be very crowded and an easy place to be pick-pocketed!

Eat at the Oldest Continuously Operated Restaurant in the World

Restaurante Botín is the oldest restaurant in the world and is located in the city centre of Madrid.

This place has been serving traditional dishes, such as cocido madrileño (chickpea stew) and roast suckling pig or lamb, since 1725.

The Guinness Book of World Records recognizes Restaurante Botín as the oldest operating restaurant in the world.

You must stop by to try their amazing Castilian cuisine in this historical restaurant!

You can also get your hair cut next door at the El Kinze de Cuchilleros: Cuchilleros, 15 , the oldest barbershop in Spain and second oldest in Europe!

See a Show at Teatro Real

The Teatro Real is the foremost opera house in Spain and one of the most significant cultural institutions in the country.

The teatro is home to three different orchestras and stages more than 100 performances every year. The theater is beautiful and worth seeing, but the real highlight is going to a show.

Teatro Real usually features operas, musicians, dance recitals, and the flamenco. Prices for tickets range from €15 to €200+ depending on what you want to see.

Going to a show at the Teatro Real is truly a magical experience!

Catch the Sunset at Plaza de Cibeles

Plaza de Cibeles is located in the heart of Madrid at the end of Gran Vía.

At the plaza, you can find a fountain that features a statue of Cybele , the Roman goddess of fertility and Great Mother of the gods, riding on a chariot pulled by two lions. ⛲️

The main building at Plaza de Cibeles is the Cybele Palace , also known as the Palace of Communication. It serves as the headquarters of the Madrid City Council.

The Paseo del Arte starts at Plaza de Cibeles and covers a little over a kilometer.

During this stretch, you can find attractions like the Prado Museum , the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum, the Royal Botanical Garden, and other remarkable art institutions that are worth exploring.

Eat Tapas like a Local

Tapas and Madrid go hand and hand – when in Madrid, do as the locals do and eat tapas!

What is a tapa? It is a small bite of food , typically served while enjoying Spanish beverages. Madrid is home to some of the best tapa restaurants in Spain!

They were originally started to help keep people a bit more sober while drinking in the thirteenth century. The tradition continues today!

💡 The streets leading just off of Sol and Gran Vía are home to some of the best tapas places. 😋

To get the best experience, we recommend taking a food tour . With the food tour, you will get to try local tapas and learn more about Madrid’s culinary history from a local.

Learn at Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum

Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum is a superb museum of art from the Middle Ages through to the late 20th century. It is located at the western end of the Gran Vía near Plaza de Cibeles.

The collection includes masterpieces from artists such as Monet, Rembrandt, Van Gogh , and much more. The museum also has a number of special exhibitions throughout the year.

Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum’s collection compliments the more commonly frequented, Prado Museum. It is a great place to explore to see inspired artwork with fewer crowds.

Madrid City Center Best Shopping Spots

In Madrid, the upscale shopping area is in the neighborhood of Salamanca. To reach this area from Centro, it is a 16 minute walk or 1.3 km from Plaza de Cibeles.

Luckily, there is also great shopping in the Madrid City Center. Starting in Puerto del Sol, there is an extra large and nice El Corte Inglés . El Corte Inglés is the equivalent of a Nordstrom in the United States.

On the square, you will also find large brands like Apple, Adidas, and Sephora.

On the 2 pedestrian streets going to the north from Puerto del Sol, C. de Preciados and C. del Carmen, are filled with shopping spots like Nike, Zara, Mango, Sfera, and Calzedonia.

Wandering the pedestrian streets between Puerto del Sol and Gran Vía is the perfect place to shop in Madrid’s city center.

Madrid City Center Best Places to Stay

We always stay in the Madrid city center and would recommend you do as well.

When looking for a place to stay, we would pay attention to any noise complaints in reviews. Madrid can be very crowded and the street noise can be loud .

We like to stay at B&B HOTEL Madrid Centro Puerta del Sol – it is right off of Puerta del Sol square which makes it extremely convenient to pop in and out between activities.

They have excellent noise insulation windows so that you barely hear any noise from the very busy street.

Plus, there is a rooftop restaurant that you have access to with a fantastic view of Madrid!

A few other places we recommend are:

• Room Mate Macarena Gran Vía – Room Mate Macarena is located on Gran Vía in a prime location. The unique and beautiful rooms are outfitted with air conditioning, flat-screen TV, soundproof walls, a mini-bar, a tea and coffee maker as well as a quiet street view.
• Hotel Regina – The Regina is an institution in Madrid and has modern, elegant rooms. It is located right off of Puerta del Sol and close to the art museums. The hotel restaurant, Restaurant Castizo, offers Mediterranean food that is made with locally-sourced ingredients and a fantastic wine list.
• Ocean Drive Madrid – Ocean Drive Madrid has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, private parking, a garden, and a terrace. The location is prime and the rooms are comfortable and clean.

There are plenty of accommodations in the city centre of Madrid. Our interactive map will help you find the best price:

FAQs for the City Centre of Madrid

Is madrid, spain worth visiting.

Absolutely! Madrid, Spain is definitely worth visiting.

Madrid has a rich cultural heritage with plenty of interesting monuments, historical sites, and attractions to explore.

The Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and Prado Museum are just a few of the many amazing places to explore in Madrid.

Additionally, Madrid is the land of Tapas! Trying the local cuisine is absolutely a must when visiting this vibrant city.

If you are deciding between Barcelona and Madrid, it is an easy trek between both cities , so you can enjoy both if you’d like!

What is the main plaza in Madrid called?

The main plaza in Madrid is called Plaza Major. Plaza Major is just a short walk from the main square, Puerto del Sol.

Does Madrid have a downtown?

In Madrid, the downtown is considered the entirety of the metropolitan area. This includes the Centro neighborhood as well as a few others.

What is the city centre of Madrid called?

Centro is the name of the city centre of Madrid that contains many of the city’s historical buildings.

So, is the City Centre of Madrid Worth Visiting?

Yes! The city centre of Madrid is absolutely worth visiting. This vibrant area is full of history and art, which makes it one of the best places to explore in Spain.

With its unique tapas restaurants, amazing shopping spots, and fantastic attractions like the Royal Palace and Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, you can easily spend 2-3 days exploring Madrid’s City Centre.

Be sure to book one of the fabulous hotels close to Sol or Gran Vía .

And, if you have time, take a food tour while in the city centre. There are so many amazing things to do and explore here that you won’t want to miss!

We wish you the best travels and don’t forget to set your “ Out of Office !” 

🌟 Loving our content? Support the journey — buy us a coffee! ☕️

Read More About the Best Things to Do In Spain

• Is Barcelona a Country? Answer + 7 Fun Things To Do
• Soccer Teams in Barcelona: 2024 Details + Game Day Tips
• What is Madrid Famous for? Top 10 Things
• Does it Snow in Madrid? 12 Best Madrid Wintertime Activities

Spain Travel Planning Guide

🚙💨  Is it safe to rent a car in Spain?

Yes  —  Renting a car  is a necessity in most of Spain if traveling between cities! If you want to go on day trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you can use public transportation, but we recommend renting a car. Discover Cars is our go-to choice for car rentals in Spain.

📲  Will my phone work in Spain?

Maybe, but it will be expensive — Depending on your provider, plans can charge you $10 per day while in Europe.

To use your phone in Spain and save money, we recommend an eSim with Airalo . Airalo simplifies the steps and provides you with all the necessary data for convenient travel. There is not a lot of free WIFI in Spain, so you’ll need your phone for navigating.

🌐 Do I need a VPN when on the internet in Spain?

While abroad, we consistently prioritize our online security by using a VPN to appear as if we’re streaming from the US and protect ourselves from cybercrime.

NordVPN serves as an incredibly convenient solution for both mobile phones and laptops, effortlessly ensuring our safety while browsing or streaming.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Spain accommodations?

Our go-to for Spanish hotels is  Booking.com . They offer the widest range of choices, and their filtering system simplifies the process of discovering the perfect accommodation for your needs.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy f lights to Spain?

For finding cheap flights to Spain, we recommend  Kayak . Their awesome multi-city flight search and handy price notifications help us save big, allowing us to splurge on other adventures once we arrive. Vueling is usually our airline of choice while in Spain.

🚐 Should I book tours in Spain? Do the guides speak English?

We LOVE taking tours in Spain. We prefer to book our tours on Viator and GetYourGuide for easy searching, trusted reviews, and transparent pricing. We always filter for the tours that are offered in English.

For free walking tours in English, we always book through GuruWalk .

🚑  Should I buy Spain travel insurance?

100% YES!  — Spain has a publicly funded healthcare system known as the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS), which provides universal healthcare coverage to all Spanish citizens and legal residents!

Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. We recommend  Safety Wing  – they provide general travel coverage as well as medical !

💧 Can you drink the water in Spain?

Sometimes  — In many areas of Spain, the water is safe to drink. However, there can be variations in water quality from one location to another. In some rural or remote areas, or in older buildings with outdated plumbing systems, water quality might not be as high.

For an extra layer of protection, we recommend always using a  LifeStraw Go Series to stay safe and hydrated.

🎫  Do I need a visa for Spain?

Likely Not  — US passport holders don’t need Spanish visas for travel less than 3 months . If you plan to stay for more than 3 months, you will be considered a resident and must have an entrance visa .

Meet Kelsea and Nicholas, the dynamic team behind Out of Office Mindset. They're on a thrilling quest to visit all 7 continents in 5 years, traveling non-stop. So far, they've had an epic year-long US road trip and visited 20 countries (and counting!). They're all about diving into different cultures and learning from their experiences. As avid explorers, they know how a well-planned trip can change you. Their mission? Helping every visitor to Out of Office Mindset plan their next awesome adventure with ease.

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Home » Europe » Spain » Madrid

21 BEST Places to Visit in Madrid (2024)

From the lavish facades of the royal palaces to the lush, tranquil gardens dotted throughout the city, Madrid is a fascinating, cultural destination in Spain. With a seemingly endless amount of attractions and activities, something is happening in around every corner, and in every plaza around the city.

Each neighborhood has its own distinct personality, including the quirky La Latina, the lively Literary Quarter, and the lavish boulevard of the Gran Via. It’s these neighborhoods that make Madrid a historic, melting pot of culture and diversity.

Not to mention that Madrid is a food lover’s paradise. You can spend the evening pincho hopping from one tapas bar to the next or sitting out in the sun drinking a glass of Sangria at one of the sun-filled cafes. The cuisine here is almost as famous as the iconic attractions and landmarks themselves.

There’s so much of Madrid to explore, and if you’re short on time, you might not know which places to check off your bucket list first. So we’ve put together this list of the best places to see in Madrid so that you can make the most of your trip!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Madrid:

These are the best places to visit in madrid, faq on the best places to visit in madrid, final thoughts.

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Centro Madrid is the heart of the city. This downtown neighbourhood is where you’ll find grand avenues, stunning architecture, delicious restaurants, and a constant buzz of excitement and activity.

• Stand at the centre of the expansive Plaza Mayor.
• Take a tour of the Palacio Real and the Spanish Royal Palace, one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.
• Snack on delectable and delicious churros and chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés.

If you’d like accommodation to go with the fine wine you’ll be drinking and have no idea where to start looking, we’ve got you covered. Be sure to check out where to stay in Madrid before scrolling any further down this list!

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#1 – Retiro Park – An awesome place to visit in Madrid for half a day!

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• Gardens, ponds, and fountains
• Home to the Crystal Palace
• Take a boat ride on the Retiro Pond
• 350 acres of beauty

Why it’s Awesome: Madrid is one of the best cities in Spain It’s also one of Europe’s busiest cities, but you can’t tell once you step foot on the grounds of Retiro Park! Filled with grassy fields, blooming gardens, and forested areas, Retiro Park is the perfect escape from the crowds. It once belonged to the Spanish monarchy, which is evident from the pristinely manicured and luxurious grounds. But now as a public park, it’s one of the most relaxing places in all of Madrid.

What to do there: On a clear day, there are plenty of outdoor activities to do in the park. Come for an afternoon stroll with a picnic lunch or a quiet boat ride on the Retiro Pond. However, one of the biggest attractions is the stunning Crystal Palace. This glass conservatory stands over 22-meters high and overlooks one of the park’s glistening ponds and fountains. And due to the park’s size, make sure to come prepared with comfortable shoes! Seeing as this park is so centrally located, you could even stay in a hostel nearby and come here every morning to soak in the vibes.

#2 – Plaza Mayor – One of the most incredible free places to visit in Madrid!

• Madrid’s largest public square
• Home to bullfights, soccer events, and beheadings
• Many restaurants and bars
• Perfect for people watching!

Why it’s awesome: During your trip to Madrid, you’ll inedibly visit the bustling, main square of Plaza Mayor. And while it’s now a lively place to visit, Plaza Mayor’s history has a dark and complicated past hosting a variety of bullfights and even executions. But don’t let its past influence your judgment! Plaza Mayor is now one of the most popular places to visit, whether you’re coming to watch one of the street performers, dine at an outdoor cafe, or simply relaxing and watching people go about their day.

What to do there: Plaza Mayor is one of the cultural centers of Spanish life, which means there is always something happening day and night. During the day, you’ll find locals and tourists admiring the art vendors or enjoying the variety of live entertainment. At night, the square remains a popular destination for happy hour enthusiasts and diners. And due to its central location, there are also plenty of bars and nightclubs keeping visitors entertain long into the night.

#3 – Templo de Debod – One of the more unique places in Madrid!

• 2nd century BC Egyptian temple
• One of the only Egyptian remains in Europe
• Reconstructed in the 1960s in Madrid
• Honors the Egyptian god, Amun

Why it’s awesome: Did you know there are Egyptian remains right in the middle of Madrid’s city center? This stone shrine was initially built in the 2nd century BC right along the coast of the Nile. But in the 1960s, the temple was dismantled and brought to Madrid where it stands today. It’s located in the middle of Parque del Oeste, and remains one of the only ancient Egyptian monuments in all of Madrid!

What to do there: The main chapel of the temple was initially built for the Egyptian god, Amun. This chapel is situated behind a long processional way with three smaller stone gateways leading up to it. Inside, you can see the offering table, which was used for religious sacrifices, and a staircase that leads to the room of the shrine. Although the materials and structure of the sanctuary is authentic, the positioning of the gates is different. They are placed in a different order compared to where they stood in Egypt.

#4 – MadrEAT

• Traveling food truck festival in Madrid
• Try international and Spanish foods
• Innovative dishes and menu
• Varying monthly schedule

Why it’s awesome: In such a big culinary city, there is definitely no shortage of food options in Madrid. But if you’re looking to try something different than your typical tapas restaurant, check out MadrEAT. This conceptual food market brings together the most innovative and delicious food trucks and stalls around the city. Their goal is to celebrate the gastronomy using fresh, creative, and new ingredients, and to bring these dishes to locals as well as visitors from around the world.

What to do there: Eat, eat, and eat! At MadrEAT, you’ll want to come with an empty stomach and a passion for food. But don’t just expect your run of the mill Spanish food. Here, you’ll sample international cuisine, unique ingredients, and dishes that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. Even the traditional Spanish dishes are crafted with a different flare! The location and times for each festival vary and change each month, so it’s always best to consult their website for an up-to-date schedule.

Want to save money on accommodation?

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#5 – The Golden Triangle – A must visit place in Madrid!

• Includes the Prado Museum for classic art
• Home to the Reina Sofia Museum for modern art
• Contains the Thyssen Museum for international and 20th-century art
• Located all next to each other

Why it’s awesome: Comprised if not one, or two, but three world-famous art galleries, the Golden Triangle is sure to delight every type of art lover. Each museum is located close by each other, which means you can easily spend an entire day hopping between each one. They are all located on Paseo del Prado, which is right in the middle of Madrid’s city center. Besides housing some of the most prominent works from around the world, the museums in the Golden Triangle each focus on a different time period of art.

What to do there: First, you have the Prado Museum, one of Madrid’s more prestigious art galleries. It houses a vast collection of classical, pre-20th century works from Goya, Bosch, El Greco, and Titian. The Reina Sofia Museum is next and contains Spain’s most extensive collection of modern art. Here, you’ll find paintings and drawings from some of the world’s most talented contemporary artists, including Picasso and Dali. Completing the trifecta is the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, which has artwork that doesn’t quite fit into the other two galleries. You’ll see paintings from Italian, American, German, and Dutch impressionists and expressionists from the 20th century onwards.

#6 – Palacio de Cibeles – A great place to see in Madrid for architecture lovers!

• Original home of Madrid’s postal system
• Stunning architecture and glass ceiling
• Free entry to visit the interior
• Don’t miss the observation deck

Why it’s awesome: From the outside, you might think this opulent building was home to the Spanish royalty. But quite the contrary! Until 2011, the Palacio de Cibeles was actually the headquarters of Madrid postal system! But this 1907 building is a beautiful piece of Spanish architecture. With its tall white spires and rectangular column windows, Palacio de Cibeles is one of the earliest examples of modern Neoplasteresque design. Although it’s no longer a post office, the Palacio de Cibeles is now the home of Madrid’s City Council.

What to do there: This imposing building sits on the corner of Plaza Cibeles, and can be seen from miles away! You can enter the building and walk around, admiring the white stone columns and arches from the inside. The stained glass ceiling is also a sight to see. During different times of the year, Palacio de Cibeles hosts a variety of art or photography exhibitions, that can visit for free. But the highlight is to purchase a ticket to the top of the observation deck, for sweeping views over Madrid.

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#7 – Mercado de los Motores – A great place in Madrid if you like to shop!

• Located in an antique train museum
• Occurs once a month
• High-quality vintage and antique items
• Food trucks and live music too

Why it’s awesome: For those die-hard shoppers looking to score a deal or two, head down to Mercado de los Motores, Madrid’s most famous vintage flea market. And while the main attraction is to shop, the building of the market is actually worth visiting on its own. And that’s because the market takes place in the Train Museum of Madrid! Hundreds of stalls and booths are nestled in between dozens of enormous, antique locomotive trains.

What to do there: Selling everything from crafts, furniture, jewelry, and clothing, the Mercado de los Motores has every sort of knick-knack that you can imagine. And we’re not talking cheap goods! Only the highest quality items can be sold here, and for a reasonable price if you can bargain! The market spills onto the streets outside, where there are several food trucks, coffee stands (some that sell out of the old train carriages), and plenty of live music and entertainment. The event only happens once a month, so check their website to find out the next scheduled date.

#8 – Calle de Cava Baja

• Colorful, lively street in the city center
• Dozens of tapas restaurants
• Perfect for bar and restaurant hopping
• Several coffee shops in the day

Why it’s awesome: Located in the bustling La Latina district, the winding, narrow street of Calle de Cava Baja is the perfect place for tapas hopping! The road dates back over 1,000 years, where Moorish people hid in the dark taverns and bars away from the Castilian Kingdom of Toledo. As you walk down the street, you can see row after row of colorful buildings, each with a different tapas bar and restaurant underneath.

What to do there: Busy at all hours of the day, Calle de Cava Baja is your one-stop shop for dining on delicious Spanish snacks. Many locals and tourists flock to the street to sample a small pincho and glass of sangria at one of the restaurants before continuing down the road to their next destination. And if you happen to get your fill of taps for the evening, know that you’ll also find coffee shops, wine bars, and even a pharmacy on Calle de Cava Baja.

#9 – Plaza Dos de Mayo

• The initial site of the Monteleón Artillery
• Iconic arch dedicated to the battle
• Now a bustling nightlife meetup spot
• Several restaurants and bars close by

Why it’s awesome: If you’re eager to check out Madrid’s infamous nightlife scene, start out at Plaza Dos de Mayo, located in the Malasaña neighborhood. Starting from the early evening, you’ll find students, locals, and partygoers congregating in the square having a glass of wine or beer. However, the square has a rich history and was the original site where the Monteleón Artillery barracks were in 1808. It was transformed into a landscaped park and garden 60 years later.

What to do there: In the evening, grab a couple of friends and some ice cold beers to enjoy a lively night out on Plaza Dos de Mayo. There are also a variety of bars, restaurants, and shops surrounding the plaza. But besides being a favorite meetup spot for young locals, Plaza Dos de Mayo also has several great sights within its iron gates. The most impressive is the grand arch, which is dedicated to Daoíz and Valarde, two soldiers who died in the battle against the French army in the early 1800s.

Wonder how to spend a weekend in Madrid? Head over to our  insider’s Weekend in Madrid guide!

#10 – Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

• Home to Real Madrid Football Club
• Seating for over 81,000 people
• Book a tour of the stadium and rooms
• Visit the Real Madrid Museum

Why it’s awesome: The iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is home to one of Europe’s most successful football (soccer) team, Real Madrid. And regardless of if you’re a Real Madrid supporter, you can still marvel at the gigantic stadium. Seating around 81,000 screaming fans, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium has been wowing sports fanatics for over 70 years. And since it’s hosted the European Cup, World Cup, and Copa Libertadores Final, it’s almost as famous as the football team itself!

What to do there: The best way to see Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in action is by attending a Real Madrid game. But if you’re not in Madrid during one of their home games, you can still book a tour of the stadium and neighboring Museum of Real Madrid. On the tour, you’ll be taken through the team locker rooms, dugouts, presidential box, and even on to the pitch! For an extra fee, you can also enjoy an interactive audio guidebook that dives into even more detail of this impressive building.

#11 – National Archaeological Museum – A fascinating educational place in Madrid!

• Thousands of Iberian archeological findings
• Prehistory to Modern Age
• Exhibits for Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece
• Must see the Treasure of Guarrazar

Why it’s awesome: Travel through years of Spanish history with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum of Madrid. Founded in 1867, the museum contains a vast collection of artifacts, paintings, and objects collected all around the country, some of which dates back before the Romans! But unlike most museums, the National Archaeological Museum focuses on the archeological influence and importance of its findings and aims to educate the public rather than acting purely as a decorative museum.

What to do there: With tickets to the National Archaeological Museum, you can see thousands of pieces dating from Prehistory to the Early Modern Age. And while many of the artifacts come from Spain and the Iberian Peninsula, there are also exhibits from Ancient Greece, Ancient Egypt, and the Near East. Don’t miss the Roman mosaic room from Hispania, the 500 BC Mausoleum of Pozo Moro, and the 7th century Treasure of Guarrazar. And after your visit, you can hop over to the National Library which is located in the same building as the National Archaeological Museum.

#12 – Gran Vía

• One of the busiest shopping and entertainment streets
• Movie theaters and nightclubs
• Diverse architecture styles
• See Madrid’s first skyscraper, the Telefónica Building

Why it’s awesome: Sitting at the center of Madrid’s heart is the Gran Vía, an exciting street filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Leading from Calle de Alcalá to Plaza de España, Gran Vía was once the home to many luxurious hotels and movie theaters, which explains it’s nickname as the “Spanish Broadway.” But throughout the years, it’s transformed into a bustling hub of shopping malls, nightclubs, and high-end brands.

What to do there: Gran Vía has something for every type of taste. Whether you’re spending the afternoon shopping or heading out to dinner and movie in the evening, Gran Vía has it all. And as one of the busiest streets in Madrid, you can also find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars here too. The buildings lining the street are also stunning, with many various buildings built in Secession, Plateresque, and Art Deco architecture. Some notable buildings include the Beaux-Art Edificio Metrópolis office, the upscale Edificio Grassy, and the 88-meter high Telefónica Building.

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#13 – Mercado San Miguel – A must-see for foodies!

• Largest food market in Madrid
• Dates back to 1916
• Produce, hot foods, and boozy beverages
• Beautiful glass, art nouveau building

Why it’s awesome: Calling all foodies! You won’t want to miss a mouth-watering afternoon at Madrid’s most famous market, the Mercado San Miguel. Situated inside a glamorous 1916 art nouveau building, the Mercado San Miguel has some of the freshest produce and foods available in all of Madrid. Due to its central location, it’s more touristy than other markets but still worth a visit for some delicious snacks. And with over 200 stalls, it’s also one of Europe’s largest public markets, so you’re guaranteed to find something delicious to eat!

What to do there: You need to come to the Mercado San Miguel with an empty stomach, because you’ll want to devour everything in sight! Act like a local and purchase your fresh produce and groceries at one of the stalls, or come to unwind with a glass of cava and a couple of hot tapas. There are several international foods available, but you can’t miss the traditional Spanish favorite like patatas bravas, croquettes, boquerones, and gambas al ajillo.

#14 – Almudena Cathedral

• Modern Catholic cathedral
• Filled with modern and contemporary art
• Opened in 2003 and consecrated by Pope John Paul
• Site of King Felipe and Queen Letizia’s wedding

Why it’s awesome: As the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdioceses of Madrid, the Almudena Cathedral is a beautiful Baroque cathedral that is sure to delight any architecture lover. Although parts of the cathedral were built in the mid-1800s, it was surprisingly not completed until 1993, when Pope John Paul consecrated it. And in 2004, King Felipe and Queen Letizia of Spain were married right here in the Almudena Cathedral.

What to do there: Unlike most Spanish cathedrals, the Almudena Cathedral has a uniquely modern Neo-Gothic interior. Contemporary artists designed most of the art and sculptures inside the temple. Almudena Cathedral might be one of the only places where you can find pop-art in a religious cathedral! Inside, you can also see a stunning pipe organ, grand nave, and brightly colored square cupola. And as you venture beneath the surface of the cathedral, you’ll find a Neo-Romanesque crypt with a 16th-century image of the  Virgen de la Almudena.

#15 – Barrio de Las Letras – Cool place to see in Madrid with friends!

• Bustling neighborhood in Madrid’s center
• Tons of bars, restaurants, and shops
• Home to the Golden Triangle of Museums
• Quirky literary quotes everywhere

Why it’s awesome: As one of Madrid’s most vibrant neighborhoods, the Barrio de Las Letras is teeming with life from the early morning until late in the evening. Its name translates to the Literary Quarter, which is made clear from the literary quotes that are plastered on the walls of the buildings and on the street grounds. Most notably, the Barrio de Las Letras was home to Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote. But besides the funky quotes and artwork, you’ll also find plenty of charming restaurants, quirky boutiques, and coffee houses.

What to do there: Not only are there tons of restaurants and bars, but Barrio de Las Letras is also home to Madrid’s most prestigious museums. Here, you’ll find the Golden Triangle, which includes the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museums. There is also Plaza Santa Ana, and the outdoor square filled with dozens of popular outdoor cafes, perfect for a light snack or for people watching. But the best way to explore the area is by wanding down the winding alleys and getting lost. You never know what you charming shop or bar awaits you around the corner!

#16 – Atocha train station – Quite the quirky place in Madrid!

• The biggest train station in Madrid
• Peaceful rainforest in the middle!
• Palm trees, lush foliage, and plants
• Perfect for a rest before your train ride

Why it’s awesome: This is not your average train station! And although it’s the largest station in Madrid, it has one unique feature that stands out from the rest. Standing in the middle of the industrial, glass building is a tropical oasis of lush palm trees and green foliage. This mini rainforest is a breath of fresh air for travelers coming back from work or jetting off on vacation. So if you’re heading to Barcelona, Alicante, or even Marseille in France, stop for a minute and enjoy the peaceful garden hidden inside the Atocha train station.

What to do there: Most train stations are not known for being peaceful. The booming intercom, the loud chatter of voices, and the roar of the locomotives can be overwhelming. But at the mini rainforest, you can spend a moment in tranquillity before the noise takes you back to reality. The rainforest was also home to hundreds of adorable turtles, many of whom were donated to the train station after their owners couldn’t care for them anymore. But unfortunately, these turtles were moved to a rescue center in May 2018.

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#17 – Palacio Real

• Official home of the Spanish monarchy
• Museum of opulent art and artifacts
• Over 3,000 individual rooms
• The largest palace in Europe

Why it’s awesome: This lavish building was once the residence of the Spanish monarchy, including Carlos III and Alfonso XIII. And although it is still considered the official home of Royalty, the current King Felipe does not live there. Instead, it opened to the public as a museum and is filled with luxurious riches, artifacts, and paintings. And with almost 3,500 individual rooms, it’s the largest palace in all of Europe!

What to do there: Each of the rooms has been decorated and designed to fit the different taste of the monarchs that ruled in Spain. The interior has some of the finest (and most expensive) porcelains, furniture, silverware in the country. And the artwork comes from prominent artists including Caravaggio, Tiepolo, Giaquinto, and Mengs. And while you aren’t able to visit all the rooms inside Palacio Real, you can still admire the iconic facade and lush gardens from the outside.

#18 – Puerta de Alcalá

• One of the five gates to Madrid
• First non-Roman arch in Europe
• At the entrance to Retiro Park
• Bring your camera for pictures!

Why it’s awesome: Not only is the Puerta de Alcalá the first modern arch in Europe, but it also serves as the passageway and entrance to Madrid. And although the architecture looks Roman, it was actually designed by the Italian architect Francesco Sabatini in 1778. Since then, it’s seen several refurbishments and restoration on its structure and columns. It’s now considered a Spanish Property of Cultural Interest and remains one of the biggest tourist attractions in all of Madrid, so make sure you add it to your Madrid itinerary!

What to do there: As one of Madrid’s most iconic monuments, the Puerta de Alcalá should be visited at least once during your trip to Madrid . The intricate stonework and sculpture are impressive, and many compare it’s designed to the Arch de Triumph in Paris. And although it’s in the middle of a busy road, you can still admire its beauty from afar (or from the top deck of a tour bus)! And the Puerta de Alcalá also sits at the entrance to Retiro Park, so you can easily combine a visit to both attractions in one day.

#19 – Puerta del Sol – A great place to visit in Madrid if you’re traveling solo

Why it’s awesome: Similar to the impressive Puerta de Alcalá, the Puerta del Sol is another 16th-century gate to the city of Madrid. Historically, the square of Puerta del Sol was used as a trader market, where locals did business with the many travelers and visitors who entered through the gate. You might recognize this famous square from TV, as it’s the location for Spain’s main New Year’s Eve celebration.

What to do there: As one of the busiest places in Madrid, there’s always a bustle of activity happening on Puerta del Sol. It’s home to some of the city’s most famous attractions , including the House of the Post Office (the office of the President), the statue of Charles III of Spain, and the illuminated Tio Pepe sign. But the most famous landmark is the Bear and the Strawberry Tree statue, which symbolizes the Madrid coat of arms. The Bear and the Strawberry Tree is a prominent landmark for tourists, who come from all over the world to photograph the bronze statue.

#20 – Casa del Campo

• Over 1,700-hectares in size
• Amusement park, zoo, and aquarium inside
• Lots of wildlife in the park
• Trails for walking and cycling

Why it’s awesome: Often overlooked for the beautiful Retiro Park, Casa del Campo is another slice of green paradise you can’t miss during your visit to Madrid. Which is surprising because it’s actually the largest park in all of Madrid and five times larger than New York’s Central Park! Located next to Madrid Rio and the Manzanares River, there are plenty of activities to do in Casa del Campo throughout the year.

What to do there: Although you can spend an afternoon strolling through the lush gardens and fields of Casa del Campo, there are actually tons of fun attractions to participate in! There are several trails that run through the hills and valleys which are perfect for running, walking, and cycling. The park is home to an amusement park, an aquarium, and even a zoo! But if you’re trying to stick to a budget, then you can see animals without booking a ticket. Casa del Campo is teeming with wildlife, and it’s not uncommon to see hawks, rabbits, and deer running around the park.

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#21 – Real Jardin Botanico – One of the nicer places in Madrid to sightsee!

• Herbs, flowers, and trees
• Five on-site greenhouses
• English style fountain and ponds
• Largest herbarium in all of Europe

Why it’s awesome: This historical, botanical garden was initially opened by King Ferdinand VI in 1755 and continues to please visitors with its vibrant roses and landscaped fields for centuries. Situated next to Paseo del Prado, Real Jardin Botanico is 8-hectares of peaceful, serene gardens. But it’s more than just a slice of beauty in the middle of the city. Real Jardin Botanico was actually funded in order to educate the public on botany, in order to sponsor future expeditions to collect new species.

What to do there: The garden is divided into seven sections, and contains over 90,000 plants and flowers and over 1,500 types of trees. Visi the Terraza de los Cuadros to see the garden’s collection of medicinal and herbal plants. Or stop by the Terraza del Plano de la Flor, which contains an English garden complete with ponds and greenhouses. The on-site herbarium is also the largest in Europe, and is overflowing with over a million specimens collected from the 18th century!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Madrid

What is the most beautiful place to visit in Madrid?

In my opinion, the Almudena Cathedral is the most beautiful place to visit in Madrid.

What is Madrid best known for?

Madrid is best known for its renaissance and contemporary architecture, art museums, and shopping facilities.

Is 3 days enough to visit Madrid?

Madrid has a lot to see and do, but three days is plenty of time to enjoy the main highlights.

Is Madrid a safe place to visit?

Madrid is generally a safe place to visit, but you should keep your eyes out for pick pockets, especailly in touristy areas.

As you wander through the streets of Madrid, you’ll want to soak in the lively atmosphere that makes the city so unique. From the vibrant markets and plaza squares to the historic palaces and 16th-century buildings, Madrid is a city full of natural beauty.

And while there are tons of attractions to see during the day, Madrid becomes even more colorful at night. Locals and visitors spill out into the streets while sipping wine, snacking on tapas, and listening to live entertainment. There really is something happening at every hour of the day in Madrid!

And if you’re still struggling to plan your day because there are so many options (we don’t judge you), you might want to consider booking a guided tour through the city. This tour takes you to the palace, gives you an insight of Madrid’s history, offers tapas and wine tasting and one of the best and most professional tour guides you can find – check it out yourself!

And while this list tells you the highlights and main attractions you must visit when in Madrid, feel free to venture and explore on your own. There’s nothing like getting off the beaten path and seeing the city for what it really is!

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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

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Qué ver en Madrid: los 10 imprescindibles de la capital

¿Por dónde empezar a conocer una ciudad? Los sitios que te mencionamos en este artículo son algunos de los lugares claves de Madrid, ya sea por su historia o por su belleza.

Entre las reglas básicas del turista está la de intentar priorizar el orden de icónos que ver, más aún, cuando se trata de una ciudad como Madrid. Como toda capital con mucha historia puede resultar abrumador elegir lo esencial entre tanto monumento y edificio relevante, e incluso cuando ya te sabes de oídas lo que hay que ir a ver tampoco sabes muy bien por qué.

Este es un listado en el que el orden no tiene especial relevancia porque antes o después vas a pasar por estos lugares, pero para que cuando lo hagas tengas una ligera idea de lo que estás viendo y ya de paso puedas hacerte el entendido (incluso ante algún madrileño).

1. La Gran Vía

La Gran Vía es «la espina dorsal de la ciudad» como decían el grupo Pereza. Esta calle que vertebra la ciudad es relativamente reciente. En 1910 comenzaron las obras inauguradas con piquete de plata en mano por Alfonso XIII. La idea era crear una gran avenida comercial y lujosa que acercara la capital al siglo XX.

Siguiendo la estela estética que se imponía en Estados Unidos con la corriente City Beautiful Movement, Madrid decidió estrenar siglo cambiando el mapa de la ciudad . Primero con la Puerta del Sol —que llevaba de obras casi todo el siglo XIX y prácticamente nunca han parado— y se estaban creando nuevas zonas residenciales más acomodadas como el barrio de Salamanca.

En este nuevo porvenir urbanístico hubo muchas propuestas y finalmente se decidió que el Proyecto Velasco era el más conveniente. Luego se tardó 20 años en finalizar las obras , pero para una explicación más gráfica, la del artista y experto en estudios urbanos Erik Harley en el vídeo de arriba.

2. Palacio Real de Madrid

La primera parada es una visita al Palacio Real de Madrid, ver la inmensa fachada desde la plaza de Oriente, impresiona, pero lo mejor está dentro. El palacio más grande de Europa occidental ya no es residencia oficial de la familia real desde los tiempos de Alfonso XIII. Ahora es un museo que se puede visitar y solo se utiliza esporádicamente para algún acto importante. Su arquitectura barroca y neoclásica irrumpe con su monumentalidad en medio de la ciudad.

Fue construido en el siglo XVIII, se erigió sobre las cenizas del antiguo alcázar de los Austrias , más pequeño y de madera, que no convencía a los Borbones. La nueva dinastía, que llegó con Felipe V, decidió levantar un palacio del gusto de su país de origen: Francia.

Está además rodeado de los jardines de Sabatini y el Campo del Moro, que en origen lo unían a la Casa de Campo, donde cazaban los monarcas.

Merece la pena la cola que suele haber para ver el verdadero esplendor y la opulencia que la monarquía española condensó aquí. Se exhibe una colección extraordinaria de arte, mobiliario, tapices, porcelanas y obras maestras de pintores como Velázquez, Goya o Caravaggio . Algunas de sus salas, como el Salón del Trono y el Salón de Gasparini, son el resumen de este poderío.

3. Museo del Prado

El museo más visitado de España es sin duda imperativo en la lista. El Museo del Prado se lo debemos a Carlos III, quien encargó no pocos iconos de la capital para elevarla al nivel y gusto de la época.

En un inicio, el edificio diseñado por Juan de Villanueva en 1785 iba a ser el Gabinete de Ciencias Naturales. Años más tarde, la reina María Isabel de Braganza tomó la decisión de destinar este edificio a la creación de un Real Museo de Pinturas y Esculturas que abrió sus puertas en 1819.

Su vasta colección se centra en el arte europeo, especialmente de los siglos XVI al XIX . Entre tanta obra maestra hay una que roba la atención más que otras: Las Meninas de Velázquez. Aunque El jardín de las delicias de El Bosco o El 3 de mayo en Madrid de Goya también están acostumbrados a los selfies . Además de grandes artistas españoles, el museo tiene una gran variedad de arte flamenco e italiano, entre los que se incluyen Rafael, Rubens o Rembrandt, como legado de los dominios españoles en ambos territorios.

4. Plaza Mayor

En sus 400 años de historia la plaza ha evolucionado tanto como para cambiar de nombre —en origen se llamaba la plaza del Arrabal—, pero continúa siendo un centro social que es herencia del Madrid de los Austrias .

Aunque el espacio ya se utilizaba para celebrar ferias desde que en 1463 Enrique IV concedió a la villa este privilegio, el diseño original es el de Juan de Herrera (quien también proyectó El Escorial ) en el siglo XVI. Posteriormente fue reestructurada por Francisco y Juan Gómez de Mora.

La plaza, originalmente con soportales de madera, pasó por varias reformas hasta convertirse en la gran plaza Mayor de Madrid en 1617, cuando el arquitecto Gómez de Mora consiguió proporcionarla y enmarcarla dentro de un rectángulo de 152 metros de largo por 94 metros de ancho.

5. Templo de Debod

La siguiente parada es un templo egipcio de más de 2000 años de antigüedad en un parque al aire libre en pleno centro de Madrid. El Templo de Debod es un regalo del Gobierno de Egipto a España tras su colaboración en el rescate arqueológico de los templos del valle de Nubia organizado por la UNESCO. La integridad de estos peligraba debido a las inundaciones de la presa de Asuán y su traslado fue efectuado piedra por piedra alrededor de 1972.

Además de la propia construcción, la ubicación es un lugar de peregrinaje para ver los atardecer madrileños . Dada su ubicación, en el parque del Cuartel de la Montaña, sus inmediaciones ofrecen unas vistas privilegiadas de la ciudad.

6. Puerta de Alcalá

Es tan difícil ver la puerta de Alcalá sin tararear alguna canción que la mencione como pasar por la plaza de la Independencia sin salir de fondo en la foto de un turista. Este icono de la ciudad está en el cruce de la calle de Alcalá con la calle de Alfonso XII, dando la bienvenida al parque del Retiro.

La puerta de estilo neoclásico fue construida por orden de Carlos III, el rey conocido por embellecer la capital, entre 1769 y 1778 como una de las cinco puertas reales que daban acceso a la ciudad de Madrid . Se la encargó al arquitecto italiano Francesco Sabatini, y su construcción fue dirigida por Francisco Moradillo.

7. Parque del Retiro

Más que ver por el Retiro hay que pasear. El parque más céntrico era en origen la zona de descanso y recreo para Felipe IV en el siglo XVII. Pero la época de esplendor del Buen Retiro llega con Fernando VII (no en cambio la del país). Con el «rey deseado» se lleva a cabo la replantación del parque y se construyen la Casa de Fieras, el Real Embarcadero y el Jardín de Caprichos o Reservado , del que quedan algunos edificios como la Montaña Artificial y la Casita del Pescador.

Durante la Guerra de Independencia sufre varios destrozos, ya que fue utilizado para fortaleza y acuartelamiento por los franceses y terminado de destruir por los ingleses. Durante el siglo XIX se utilizó para algunas de las exposiciones internacionales que se celebraron en la ciudad, por las que se construyó el Palacio de Velázquez y el de Cristal. Y desde 1935 es Jardín Histórico Artístico de uso público para los ciudadanos.

8. Catedral de la Almudena

La catedral tiene no pocos detractores, pero además de estar contigua al Palacio Real, se ve desde muchos puntos de la ciudad. Para que La Almudena llegara a ser la catedral de Madrid hubo que esperar más de un siglo, desde que Alfonso XII puso la primera piedra en 1868 hasta su consagración en 1993 .

Fue diseñada originalmente por Francisco de Cubas, la obra evolucionó a lo largo de los años con contribuciones de otros arquitectos, como Chueca Goitia y Carlos Sidro, adaptando el proyecto para armonizar con el entorno, particularmente con el Palacio Real. El resultado de tanta intervención es que no tenga mucho que ver con el proyecto inicial. El estilo final está a caballo entre el neogótico y neoclásico.

El interior es su punto fuerte y alberga obras de arte como el Cristo Crucificado de Juan de Mesa. Tiene una planta de cruz latina con elementos decorativos, vidrieras y capillas dedicadas a santos madrileños.

9. Museo Reina Sofía

Una vez has hecho la visita al Museo del Prado puede que cruzar el paseo hasta la calle Santa Isabel y seguir con el Museo Reina Sofía sea una opción si prefieres el arte moderno.

El museo está ubicado en un antiguo hospital del siglo XVIII remodelado y es relevante por albergar obras emblemáticas de artistas españoles e internacionales del siglo pasado y contemporáneo . Hasta aquí vienen no pocos admiradores de Picasso para ver el Guernica,  una obra maestra que simboliza el sufrimiento humano durante la Guerra Civil Española. Además, el museo exhibe obras de Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, Juan Gris, y otros artistas españoles, así como de figuras internacionales como Francis Bacon y Yves Klein.

Tiene cuatro sedes diferentes: la Sede Principal, formada por el edificio Sabatini y el edificio Nouvel, y las sedes del parque del Retiro, palacio de Velázquez y palacio de Cristal.

10. Puerta del Sol

La Puerta del Sol es amada y odiada a partes iguales y cada generación de madrileños ha vivido una obra diferente que acaba de dejarla cada vez más blanca y pulida. Pero siempre hay gente cruzando el antiguo y verdadero corazón de la ciudad, da igual la hora.

El reloj de la Puerta del Sol es el protagonista de la plaza y de cada Nochevieja española. El kilómetro cero y la estatua del Oso y el Madroño son de fotografía obligatoria si es tu primera visita a Madrid.

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6 Stunning Plazas In Madrid You Need To See

Published: September 4, 2024

by Naoma Benefield

Madrid, Spain's vibrant capital, boasts some of the most beautiful plazas in Europe. These open spaces offer a mix of history, culture, and local life. Imagine sipping coffee at an outdoor café while watching street performers or exploring historic landmarks. Each plaza has its own unique charm and story. From the bustling Plaza Mayor to the serene Plaza de Oriente , there's something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just looking to relax, Madrid's plazas provide the perfect backdrop. Ready to discover the best spots in this lively city? Let's dive into six stunning plazas you need to see.

Madrid's Must-See Plazas

Madrid, Spain's vibrant capital, boasts a rich history and lively culture. Among its many attractions, the city's plazas stand out as hubs of activity, history, and beauty. Here are six stunning plazas in Madrid you need to see.

Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor, Madrid's grand central square, is a must-visit for any traveler. Surrounded by beautiful architecture, this plaza has been the heart of the city since the 17th century.

• Historical Significance : Built during the reign of Philip III, Plaza Mayor has witnessed markets, bullfights, and even public executions.
• Statue of Philip III : At the center, you'll find a bronze statue of King Philip III, a popular photo spot.
• Arches and Frescoes : The square is lined with stunning buildings featuring frescoes and nine entrance arches, each with its own story.

Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol, often considered the very center of Spain , is another iconic plaza you can't miss. It's a bustling hub of activity, day and night.

• Kilometer Zero : This spot marks the starting point for Spain's six national roads. Stand here to say you've been at the center of Spain!
• The Bear and the Strawberry Tree : This statue, a symbol of Madrid, is a favorite meeting point for locals and tourists alike.
• Clock Tower : Famous for the New Year's Eve countdown, the clock tower is a historic landmark.

Plaza de España

Plaza de España offers a mix of greenery, history, and modernity. It's a great place to relax and take in the sights.

• Monument to Cervantes : This impressive monument honors the famous Spanish writer, with statues of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza.
• Torre de Madrid and Edificio España : These two skyscrapers provide a striking contrast to the historic elements of the plaza.
• Lush Gardens : The plaza's gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic .

Plaza de Cibeles

Plaza de Cibeles is one of Madrid's most beautiful and iconic squares, known for its stunning architecture and fountains.

• Cibeles Fountain : This magnificent fountain features the Roman goddess Cybele in a chariot pulled by lions.
• Palacio de Cibeles : Once the main post office, this grand building now serves as Madrid's City Hall and offers panoramic views from its observation deck.
• Banco de España : Another architectural gem, this building adds to the plaza's grandeur.

Plaza de Oriente

Plaza de Oriente, located near the Royal Palace, is a serene and elegant space perfect for history buffs and architecture lovers.

• Royal Palace : This stunning palace is one of the largest in Europe and a must-see for its opulent interiors and beautiful gardens.
• Teatro Real : Madrid's opera house, located on the plaza, hosts world-class performances.
• Statues of Spanish Kings : The plaza features an array of statues representing various Spanish monarchs, adding to its historical charm.

Plaza de Santa Ana

Plaza de Santa Ana is a lively square in the heart of Madrid's literary quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural significance.

• Teatro Español : One of the oldest theaters in Madrid, it has hosted countless performances since the 16th century.
• Statue of Federico García Lorca : This statue honors the famous Spanish poet and playwright, a key figure in Spanish literature.
• Tapas Bars and Cafés : The plaza is surrounded by numerous bars and cafés, making it a perfect spot to enjoy some tapas and people-watch.

Madrid's plazas offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Each one has its own unique charm and stories to tell.

Madrid's Plazas Await

Madrid's plazas offer a mix of history, culture, and beauty. Plaza Mayor stands out with its grand architecture and lively atmosphere. Puerta del Sol is the city's heartbeat, where locals and tourists gather. Plaza de España showcases Spain's rich heritage with its impressive monuments. Plaza de Cibeles is a visual treat, especially at night when the fountain lights up. Plaza de Oriente provides a peaceful escape with views of the Royal Palace. Plaza de Santa Ana is perfect for enjoying tapas and people-watching.

Each plaza has its own charm, making Madrid a city worth exploring. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just looking to relax, these plazas have something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab a map, and get ready to experience the best of Madrid's plazas.

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Erling Haaland 'closes on lucrative new Man City contract' - but Real Madrid hopes of signing superstar 'boosted by release clause'

• Haaland is expected to sign a new contract with his current deal ending in 2027
• A release clause would continue to give Haaland control over his club future
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Erling Haaland is reportedly close to committing his future to Manchester City by signing a lucrative contract extension - but the deal is expected to contain a release clause.

Haaland has enjoyed a stunning start to the new Premier League season, scoring seven goals in Man City 's opening three matches.

The forward headed into the international break with Norway off the back of scoring consecutive Premier League hat-tricks against Ipswich and West Ham .

Spanish newspaper Marca report that Haaland is expected to soon commit his future to the Premier League champions by signing a new contract.

His existing deal is due to expire in the summer of 2027.

Marca led their report with the headline 'renewal and a release clause'. 

According to the report, Man City will make Haaland the highest paid player in the Premier League through his basic salary - with team-mate  Kevin De Bruyne holding the title currently.

De Bruyne is reportedly on wages of £425,000-a-week at Man City, while Haaland currently earns a basic salary of £375,000 each week.

However, Mail Sport understands that while Haaland receives a basic salary which is in line with the other higher earners at the Etihad Stadium, a series of substantial, almost-guaranteed bonuses see his weekly wage surge beyond the £850,000 mark.

Marca state that Haaland's new deal is expected to contain a release clause, which should be achievable for Spanish giants Real Madrid in the future.

The Champions League holders remain admirers of Haaland, but the Norwegian is not currently see as a priority having added Kylian Mbappe to an already stellar strike force this summer.

A release clause is reportedly viewed by Haaland, his father Alf-Inge and agent Rafael Pimienta as a way to ensure the forward maintains control over his future and career.

Pimenta said last year that Haaland was 'the master of his destiny', but would ensure he will always do what is right for his club.

A similar release clause had been triggered by Man City when they signed Haaland for £51million from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2021.

Haaland has enjoyed stunning success at Man City, with the forward having scored 97 goals in 102 appearances for the club to date.

This includes winning the Premier League golden boot in the last two seasons.

The 24-year-old has also won the Premier League twice, the Champions League and FA Cup during his two seasons at the club.

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Champions League draw: Man City to visit PSG, Liverpool to host Real Madrid, Aston Villa vs Bayern Munich

Manchester City to face Inter Milan at San Siro, a repeat of the 2023 Champions League final, Liverpool to host holders Real Madrid, while Aston Villa will play Bayern Munich and Juventus at home; Arsenal host PSG and also visit Inter, while Celtic travel to Borussia Dortmund and Villa

Saturday 31 August 2024 13:36, UK

Manchester City have been drawn at home to Inter Milan and away to Paris Saint-Germain as part of the new-look league phase to the Champions League that UEFA hopes will provide a more exciting first stage of the competition.

At the draw in Monte Carlo, the revamped 36-team competition threw up a showdown between City and Inter, the side they beat to finally lift the trophy in 2023. The new format sees all 36 teams forming a single league, with each entrant playing four home games and four away.

The top eight will go straight into the last 16 while a round of play-offs will decide the other eight teams.

City were the first team pulled out by former Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon. Cristiano Ronaldo was the man then tasked with pushing a large button on the desk in front of him to allocate eight computer-generated opponents.

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Manchester City opponents

• Inter Milan (h) PSG (a)
• Club Brugge (h) Juventus (a)
• Feyenoord (h) Sporting CP (a)
• Sparta Prague (h) Slovan Bratislava (a)

Juventus, Club Brugge, Feyenoord, Sporting Lisbon, Sparta Prague and Slovan Bratislava are their other six opponents.

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Liverpool were the next British team pulled out and landed a home fixture against holders Real Madrid. Leipzig, Bayer Leverkusen, AC Milan, Lille, PSV Eindhoven, Bologna and Girona made up their schedule.

Liverpool opponents

• Real Madrid (h) Leipzig (a)
• Leverkusen (h), Milan (a)
• Lille (h), PSV (a)
• Bologna (h), Girona (a)

Meanwhile, Arsenal were drawn out of pot two already knowing they would face PSG, Atalanta and Inter Milan. The rest of their opponents came out as Shakhtar Donetsk, Dinamo Zagreb, Sporting Lisbon, Monaco and Girona.

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Arsenal opponents

• PSG (h), Inter Milan (a)
• Shakhtar Donetsk (h), Atalanta (a)
• Dinamo Zagreb (h), Sporting CP (a)
• Monaco (h), Girona (a)

Aston Villa - former European champions having lifted the European Cup in 1982 - have been given a mouth-watering home encounter with Bayern Munich.

Aston Villa opponents

• Bayern Munich (h), RB Leipzig (a)
• Juventus (h), Club Brugge (a)
• Celtic (h), Young Boys (a)
• Bologna (h), Monaco (a)

Unai Emery's side will also host Juventus as they return to the Champions League, ending a run of 41 years without playing in European football's premier competition, as well as hosting Scottish champions Celtic. Their other five fixtures will be against Leizpig, Club Brugge, Young Boys, Bologna and Monaco.

As well as Villa, Celtic - residing in Pot Three - will face last season's runners-up Borussia Dortmund, Leipzig, Club Brugge, Atalanta, Young Boys, Dinamo Zagreb and Slovan Bratislava.

Celtic opponents

• RB Leipzig (h), Borussia Dortmund (a)
• Club Brugge (h), Atalanta (a)
• Young Boys (h), Dinamo Zagreb (a)
• Solvan Bratislava (h), Aston Villa (a)

How the new format will work

For the new season, the Champions League has expanded from 32 to 36 teams, a transformation from the traditional group stage to a single league phase including all participating teams.

Each team has been drawn against two different teams from each pot, playing one team at home and one away. Teams will play eight matches against eight different teams.

Every club will now be guaranteed a minimum of eight league-stage games against eight different opponents (four home games, four away) rather than the previous six matches against three teams, played on a home-and-away basis.

The top eight sides in the league will qualify automatically for the knockout stages, while the teams finishing in ninth to 24th place will compete in a two-legged play-off to secure a place in the last 16 of the competition.

Teams ranked 25-36 are eliminated from all competitions.

Will the new format lead to more early excitement?

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Sky Sports News chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol:

"It's really easy, when it comes to modern football, to be a bit cynical and jaded, but I have to say that is the best draw I've ever seen.

"It's probably the first draw I've ever seen that I've enjoyed. It was actually entertaining.

"It had Cristiano Ronaldo, who'd flown in from Saudi Arabia, Gianluigui Buffon, two brilliant presenters. It had a brilliant film, which had incredible acting by some of the most famous footballers in the world; Rodri was in it and Zlatan stole the show in explaining how the tournament has changed.

"When we got to the actual draw, that was brilliant as well. Gone were all of those balls and glass bowls - we basically had Buffon picking out one team and then Ronaldo - who, I have to say, looked a little bit bored - was the one who was pressing a button and, straightaway, the computer would come up with that team's eight opponents.

"It was really slick, it was really entertaining, fast-paced and also, it has thrown up some incredible games.

"For instance, a couple of years ago, the final was Inter Milan vs Man City - this time around, that is just a league phase game. Also Barcelona vs Bayern, PSG vs Man City, Real Madrid vs Liverpool, PSG vs Arsenal, Bayern vs PSG. These could all be finals.

"I, for one, am totally won over. I think this is going to be a brilliant new format."

Champions League draw in full

✅ Home and away opponents for Pot 1 teams 🏠✈️ #UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/4bwEU4zCqq — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) August 29, 2024

Manchester City

• Inter Milan (h)
• Club Brugge (h)
• Juventus (a)
• Feyenoord (h)
• Sporting CP (a)
• Sparta Prague (h)
• Slovan Bratislava (a)

Inter Milan

• RB Leipzig (h)
• Man City (a)
• Arsenal (h)
• Bayer Leverkusen (a)
• Red Star Belgrade (h)
• Young Boys (a)
• Sparta Prague (a)

Bayern Munich

• Barcelona (a)
• Benfica (h)
• Shakhtar Donetsk (a)
• Dinamo Zagreb (h)
• Feyenoord (a)
• Solvan Bratislava (h)
• Aston Villa (a)
• Liverpool (h)
• Inter Milan (a)
• Juventus (h)
• Atletico Madrid (a)
• Sporting CP (h)
• Aston Villa (h)
• Sturm Graz (a)

Borussia Dortmund

• Barcelona (h)
• Real Madrid (a)
• Shakhtar Donetsk (h)
• Club Brugge (a)
• Dinamo Zagreb (a)
• Sturm Graz (h)
• Bologna (a)

✅ Home and away opponents for Pot 2 teams 🏠✈️ #UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/DHAAIG5uxB — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) August 29, 2024

• Bayern Munich (h)
• Borussia Dortmund (a)
• Atalanta (h)
• Benfica (a)
• Young Boys (h)
• Red Star Belgrade (a)

Real Madrid

• Borussia Dortmund (h)
• Liverpool (a)
• AC Milan (h)
• Atalanta (a)
• Salzburg (h)
• Stuttgart (h)
• Real Madrid (h)
• RB Leipzig (a)
• Bayer Leverkusen (h)
• AC Milan (a)
• Bologna (h)
• Man City (h)
• Bayern Munich (a)
• Atletico Madrid (h)
• Arsenal (a)
• Salzburg (a)
• Stuttgart (a)

Atletico Madrid

Club Brugge

✅ Home and away opponents for Pot 3 teams 🏠✈️ #UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/6xQDCTNtdL — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) August 29, 2024

Bayer Leverkusen

• Shakhtar Donestsk (h)

Shakhtar Donetsk

✅ Home and away opponents for Pot 4 teams 🏠✈️ #UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/G22WtdPeMb — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) August 29, 2024

Dinamo Zagreb

• Solvan Bratislava (a)

Red Star Belgrade

Sporting CP

• Liverpool (A)

Aston Villa

Back where we belong. Our @ChampionsLeague fixtures are officially set! #ChampionsLeague || #UpTheVilla pic.twitter.com/8zvZjisXTT — Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) August 29, 2024

Sparta Prague

Slovan Bratislava

• GNK Dinamo (h)
• Crvena Zvezda (h)
• GNK Dinamo (a)

Why was the draw being done by a computer?

The new draw system took around 35 minutes - the same duration as the manual draws for the previous 32-team format with a group phase and knockout stage.

Without the bespoke software, an old-fashioned manual draw for the expanded competition would have taken four hours and require up to 1,000 balls and 36 glass bowls.

When will fans know the fixture dates?

The finalised fixture list will be released on Saturday August 31 .

When are the 2024/25 Champions League league-stage matches?

• Matchday 1: September 17-19, 2024
• Matchday 2: October 1/2, 2024
• Matchday 3: October 22/23, 2024
• Matchday 4: November 5/6, 2024
• Matchday 5: November 26/27, 2024
• Matchday 6: December 10/11, 2024
• Matchday 7: January 21/22, 2025
• Matchday 8: January 29, 2025

When are the 2024/25 Champions League knockout stages?

• Knockout round play-offs: February 11/12 and February 18/19, 2025
• Round of 16: March 4/5 and March 11/12, 2025
• Quarter-finals: April 8/9 and April 15/16, 2025
• Semi-finals: April 29/30 and May 6/7, 2025
• Final: May 31, 2025

Where is the Champions League final being held in 2025?

The 2024/25 UEFA Champions League season will take place in Munich at the Allianz Arena on May 31, 2025.

One goal away in the opening two rounds, could you go one better and win £1,000,000 for free with Super 6?

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