Madrid, the lively capital of Spain, mixes its impressive history with a modern, energetic lifestyle. If you’re thinking about what to do in Madrid, you’ll find no shortage of options. This city is full of amazing art, fascinating history, small streets filled with charm, and tasty food at every turn. Whether you love history, art, food, or just want to enjoy the city vibe, Madrid has plenty to keep you busy from morning to night. From grand palaces and big parks to busy markets and flamenco shows, you’ll find something new around every corner.
Madrid has a little of everything, and its welcoming style is part of the reason people return again and again. Even though millions of visitors come each year, the city manages to hold on to its real Spanish feel. Here are some of the best things to do in Madrid, so you can make the most of your visit to one of Europe’s most interesting cities.
Top Historical and Cultural Attractions in Madrid
Royal Palace of Madrid and Sabatini Gardens
The Royal Palace of Madrid is a stunning symbol of Spain’s royal history. It’s the biggest royal palace in Western Europe, with over 3,000 rooms. Although the Spanish royals don’t live here today, it’s still used for important ceremonies, and visitors can tour many of its fancy rooms. When exploring, check the official website first because sometimes the palace is closed for events. The grand staircase is especially impressive and one of the places where you’re allowed to take photos. Next to the palace, the Sabatini Gardens are peaceful and have great views, making them perfect for a relaxing walk.
Prado Museum: Famous Art Collections
Art fans should not miss the Prado Museum. It’s one of the world’s top art museums and has an incredible collection, mainly by Spanish painters like Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, but also Titian, Rubens, and Bosch. With more than 8,500 paintings and 700 sculptures, it’s easy to spend hours here. You can visit for free in the evenings (Monday-Saturday, 6-8 PM; Sundays, 5-7 PM), but it can get crowded. Regular admission is €15, and it’s best to book online. Remember, you can’t bring water bottles inside, even empty ones, but you can leave them at the entrance for free.
Reina Sofía National Art Museum
If you’re interested in modern art, head to Reina Sofía. This museum is best known for Picasso’s powerful painting “Guernica.” There are also works by Dalí and Miró, and the overall feel is more relaxed than the Prado. Entry is free daily from 6-8 PM, and Sundays 1:30-2:30 PM, making it easy to stop by after a day of sightseeing.
Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum
The Thyssen-Bornemisza is the third part of Madrid’s famous art triangle, along with the Prado and Reina Sofía. This museum covers European art from the 1200s to the 1900s, with works by artists like Van Gogh, Kirchner, Gauguin, and Dürer. It’s a great way to see the development of art over time. Tickets are inexpensive, and you can get in free on Mondays from noon to 4 PM.
Temple of Debod: Ancient Egypt in Madrid
The Temple of Debod is a real Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BC, rebuilt in Madrid as a gift from Egypt in the 1960s. You’ll find it in Parque de la Montaña, close to the Royal Palace. The park has some of the best sunset views in the city, and the temple looks beautiful in the evening light. Entrance is free, but it can get busy, so try to go early if you want to go inside.
Almudena Cathedral and Royal Collections Gallery
Right next to the Royal Palace is Almudena Cathedral. Construction started in 1883 but was finished only in 1993, so it’s a mix of several building styles. Inside, the cathedral is bright and colorful. Entry is free (a small donation is welcome). Next door is the Royal Collections Gallery, a newer museum showing art and treasures collected by Spain’s royals throughout history. It’s a good way to see how Spanish culture has changed over time.
Plaza Mayor: The City’s Main Square
Plaza Mayor is Madrid’s most famous square. Built in the 1600s, it’s surrounded by lovely old buildings and covered walkways. Over the centuries, it’s hosted everything from markets to celebrations. Today, it’s full of cafes and is great for people-watching or enjoying some tapas. Try to go in the morning before it gets too busy, and look out for the murals and the statue of King Philip III. In December, the plaza holds a wonderful Christmas market.
Puerta del Sol: The Central Point
Puerta del Sol is both the geographical and spiritual center of Madrid-and of all Spain. The famous “Kilometer Zero” plaque here marks Spain’s road network center. You’ll also see the Bear and Strawberry Tree statue, which is a well-loved symbol of Madrid. This square buzzes with activity at all hours and is the perfect spot to feel Madrid’s energy.
Gran Vía: The Main Avenue
Gran Vía is Madrid’s most famous street, full of impressive buildings, shops, restaurants, theaters, and cinemas. It’s busy day and night with people shopping, eating, and seeing shows. The street is also great for walking and admiring the many different building styles.
Parks, Gardens, and Outdoor Spaces in Madrid
El Retiro Park: Rowboats and Art
El Retiro Park is a huge green space in central Madrid. Once used by the royals, it’s now open to everyone. You can rent a rowboat on the lake, walk among statues, and visit the beautiful Crystal Palace, which now hosts free art displays. There are plenty of pretty spots, including a rose garden and even a statue of the devil! Look for free-roaming peacocks in the hidden gardens.
Real Jardín Botánico: The Botanical Garden
Next to the Prado Museum, the Botanical Garden is a calm spot to enjoy plants from around the world. The garden is well-organized and good for a quiet break. Check out the greenhouses and the bonsai collection. Entry is only €4, making it an easy and affordable stop.
Casa de Campo & Parque del Oeste Rose Garden
Casa de Campo is Madrid’s largest park, with wild areas for hiking and biking. Within it is the Rose Garden at Parque del Oeste, which shows off more than 650 types of roses. The best time to visit is from spring to early summer. The gardens are free and near the Royal Palace and Temple of Debod. Try taking the cable car (Teleférico) for great city views.
Madrid Río Park: Walks and Cycling by the River
Madrid Río is a long park along the Manzanares River, perfect for walking, running, or cycling. There are playgrounds, sports courts, and places to relax. This park connects several neighborhoods and shows how Madrid has changed its old riverside into a lively green area.
Best Places for City Views
- Palacio de Cibeles Deck: For €3, go to the top of this old post office building for a wide view of Madrid, including Gran Vía and the Cibeles Fountain.
- Parque de la Montaña & Temple of Debod: Great for sunsets, with views of the palace and city skyline.
- El Corte Inglés Callao Rooftop: A department store rooftop that’s free, with cafes and great city scenes, especially near Gran Vía.
Madrid’s Districts and Neighborhoods
Madrid is made up of many different areas, each with its own feeling. Exploring these neighborhoods-or ‘barrios’-will help you get to know a different side of the city every time.
| Barrio | Main Features |
|---|---|
| Sol | Main landmarks like Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor; shopping; always busy |
| La Latina | Tapas bars; classic Madrid charm; host of El Rastro flea market on Sundays |
| Chueca | LGBTQ+ friendly; lively nightlife; trendy shops; relaxed and open vibe |
| Malasaña | Bohemian; independent stores; vintage shops; street art and coffee bars |
| Lavapiés | International food; street art; many galleries and cultural spaces |
Local Food and Culinary Experiences in Madrid
Eat churros con chocolate at San Ginés
Trying churros dunked in thick hot chocolate is a classic Madrid treat, and San Ginés is the city’s favorite spot for it. This café is open almost all day and night, and you can get a big plate of churros with chocolate for less than €6.
Try Madrid’s Calamari Sandwich
You shouldn’t leave Madrid without tasting a calamari sandwich (bocadillo de calamares)-fried squid rings in fresh bread. It’s a budget-friendly lunch, especially near Plaza Mayor. Favorites include Bar La Campana and Bar Postas, both offering this local specialty for around €6.
Dine at Sobrino de Botín: The Oldest Restaurant
Sobrino de Botín, founded in 1725, is said to be the oldest restaurant in the world. It’s famous for roast suckling pig and lamb cooked in old wood ovens. Many famous guests have eaten here-making it a must for both food and history lovers.
Tapas and Wine Walks
Going on a tapas and wine tasting tour is a wonderful way to try Madrid’s food and meet people. Guided walks take you through small local bars and markets where you can taste different tapas, including croquettes, albondigas, and patatas bravas. Some tours include wine tastings to introduce you to Spanish favorites.
Visit Markets: Mercado de San Miguel & San Antón
- Mercado de San Miguel: Near Plaza Mayor, filled with food stalls-great for a quick bite but can be busy.
- Mercado de San Antón: In Chueca, quieter with a rooftop bar and both fresh food stalls and ready-to-eat meals.
Paella and Cooking Classes
Madrid isn’t the home of paella, but many cooking schools teach how to make it, as well as other Spanish classics. Classes often start with a visit to a market, then move on to hands-on cooking. It’s a fun way to learn about Spanish food and bring back a new skill.
Traditional Pastries and Bakeries
- Cookies from Nuns: Some convents in Madrid sell cookies through a small hidden door, keeping old traditions alive. Bring cash for these homemade treats.
- Cube Croissant at Panem: On Saturdays, this bakery offers modern cube-shaped croissants in special flavors for around €6.
Unique Activities and Different Things to Do in Madrid
Watch or Try Flamenco
Flamenco, a mix of singing, music, and dance, is famous across Spain. In Madrid, you can see a live performance in a small ‘tablao’ or try a flamenco class yourself for fun and a bit of exercise.
Bernabéu Stadium and Real Madrid Museum
Football fans can visit the Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid. The tour includes the museum, where you’ll see the team’s trophies and gear. Tours give you a closer look at one of the world’s most famous clubs. Tickets start at around $76.
Street Art and Alternative Neighborhoods
Madrid is full of colorful street art, especially in places like Lavapiés and Malasaña. Take a walk, or join a guided tour, to see the city’s creative side and find murals and galleries you might miss otherwise.
Shop at El Rastro Market
Every Sunday, La Latina hosts El Rastro, Madrid’s giant flea market. Stalls sell everything from antiques to clothes, and the market is busiest from 9 AM to 3 PM. It’s a perfect spot to find a bargain and enjoy the busy local atmosphere.
Free or Cheap Things to Do in Madrid
- Free Walking Tours: Companies like Sandeman’s offer walking tours covering city highlights. Guides work for tips, making this a very affordable way to learn about Madrid.
- Museum Free Hours: Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza have free entry times (usually evenings or certain days-check online for times).
- Historic Churches: Many, like Almudena Cathedral, are open for visitors for free (donations welcome).
- Statue of the Devil: In El Retiro Park, see the Fountain of the Fallen Angel, said to be the only statue of its kind.
Day Trips and Short Excursions from Madrid
| Destination | Highlights | Travel Time from Madrid |
|---|---|---|
| Toledo | Medieval old town, mix of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim history, Gothic cathedral, El Greco’s house | About 30 mins by train |
| Segovia | Massive Roman aqueduct, fairytale Alcázar castle, Gothic cathedral | About 30 mins by train |
| Ávila | Best-preserved medieval walls, churches, birthplace of Saint Teresa | About 1 hour by train |
| Countryside Wineries | Winery visits, wine tasting, learn about Spanish wine | Varies, up to 1 hour by car/bus |
Madrid is the perfect place to explore Spain’s history, food, art, and daily life. No matter your interests, you’ll find plenty of things to keep you busy, amazed, and well-fed.
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