10 best things to do in Madrid, Spain: ultimate guide

Spain Madrid Palacio Real

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Here I bring you a list of the 10 best things to do in Madrid, with a touch of history, recommended activities, and how to get the most out of them.

Madrid is a city that has it all: art, history, parks, stunning architecture and, of course, a nightlife that will make you lose track of time. Whether it’s your first time in the Spanish capital or you’re already a regular visitor, there are certain places you simply can’t miss.

1. The Prado Museum

The Prado Museum is the artistic pride of Madrid and one of the most important museums in the world. Its history begins in 1819, when it opened as the Museum of Painting and Sculpture. Today, it houses more than 8,000 works. Here you can admire masterpieces such as Velázquez’s Las Meninas or Bosch’s The Garden of Earthly Delights. It also houses an impressive collection of works by Goya, ranging from his colorful court portraits to his haunting “Black Paintings”.

Useful tip: if you don’t have the whole day, focus on the most famous works and remember that you have free admission during the last two hours of the day.

Things to do: explore the temporary exhibitions, take a guided tour or have a coffee on the museum’s terrace.

  • Entrance fee: €15.
  • Website: museodelprado.es
  • Phone: +34 913 30 28 00
  • Days and hours: Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sundays and holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • Address: Barrio de Los Jerónimos, Calle de Ruiz de Alarcón 23, Madrid
Espana - Madrid - Museo del Prado
Espana - Madrid - Museo del Prado

2. El Retiro Park (El Palacio de Cristal and El Lago)

The Retiro Park is a true oasis in the middle of the bustling city. Originally designed as a royal garden in the 17th century, this park has everything from statues, fountains and monuments to the famous Palacio de Cristal, a glass greenhouse that today houses contemporary art exhibitions. You can also rent a rowboat on the lake and enjoy a relaxing moment surrounded by nature.

Tip: If you are a photography lover, the Crystal Palace and the park’s pond offer perfect settings to capture the evening light.

Activities: Take a boat ride, visit free exhibits at the Crystal Palace, or simply have a picnic under the trees.

  • Admission fee: Free
  • More information: El Retiro Park
  • Days and hours of opening: Everyday from 6:00 to 22:00
  • Address: Barrio de Los Jerónimos, Plaza de la Independencia, Madrid
Espana - Madrid - El Retiro

3. The Puerta de Alcalá and the Plaza de Cibeles

Two of the most photographed monuments in Madrid.

The Puerta de Alcalá is a triumphal arch that was built in 1778 under the mandate of King Carlos III. At the time, it marked the entrance to Madrid for travelers coming from France.

The Plaza de Cibeles is famous for the fountain that adorns its center and celebrates the victories of Real Madrid, as well as the imposing Palacio de Cibeles, which today serves as the City Hall and cultural center. The fountain of Cybele depicts Cybele, the Greek goddess of fertility and nature holding a scepter and a key while being pulled by two lions in a chariot.

Tip: For the best view of both monuments, climb to the terrace of the Palacio de Cibeles and enjoy a unique panoramic view of the city.

Activities: Explore the Palacio de Cibeles, climb up to its terrace, or simply have a coffee on one of the nearby terraces overlooking both monuments.

Espana - Madrid - Puerta Alcala

4. The Gran Vía: with the most variety of things to see in Madrid

La Gran Vía is Madrid’s Broadway. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, it is famous for its theaters, cinemas, stores and vibrant day and night life. It is the ideal place if you love shopping or if you want to enjoy a musical or movie. At night, the Gran Via is still alive with bars and restaurants full of people, you won’t get bored!

Local tip: If you have time, don’t miss Chocolatería San Ginés, just a few steps from Gran Vía, to enjoy the most famous churros with chocolate in Madrid.

Activities: Go shopping, see a musical, enjoy a movie or just stroll around to enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

  • More information: La Gran Vía
  • Admission fee: Free
  • Address: Barrio de Centro, Madrid
Spain Madrid Gran Via
Spain - Madrid - Gran Via

5. The Royal Palace of Madrid

The Royal Palace of Madrid, a top tourist attraction, is the largest palace in Western Europe, with more than 3,000 rooms, and was the official residence of the Spanish monarchy until the abdication of Alfonso XIII. Today, the Royal Palace is only used for official ceremonies, but its lavish halls, such as the Throne Room, and its collection of art, weapons and clocks, make it a fascinating place to visit.

Expert tip: If you visit on Wednesdays, you can witness the changing of the guard. A historical spectacle that adds a touch of grandeur to the visit.

Activities: Tour the impressive rooms, visit the Royal Armory and the Sabatini Gardens, and discover the Gallery of Paintings.

  • Admission fee: 12€.
  • Website: www.patrimonionacional.es
  • Days and hours of opening: Monday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00
  • Address: Barrio de Palacio, Calle de Bailén, Madrid
Spain Madrid Palacio Real
Spain - Madrid - Royal Palace
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6. The Almudena Cathedral (The sunset from the hill)

The Almudena Cathedral, which took more than a century to build, is one of the most important religious buildings in Madrid. Unlike most Gothic cathedrals in Spain, the Almudena is a true cocktail of styles, with neoclassical elements on the outside and a surprisingly modern interior. Climb the dome for unforgettable views of the city and the Royal Palace, especially at sunset.

Tip: The sunset light makes this place one of the most romantic in Madrid. Don’t forget to bring your camera.

Activities: Visit its museum, climb the dome to see the panoramic views, or just enjoy the surroundings.

  • Admission fee: Free (voluntary donations).
  • More information: Almudena Cathedral
  • Instagram: @museoalmudena
  • Opening days and hours: Monday to Sunday from 9:00 to 20:30
  • Address: Barrio de Palacio, Calle de Bailén, Madrid
Spain Madrid Catedral Almudena

7. The Plaza Mayor and the San Miguel Market

The Plaza Mayor is Madrid’s most famous historic square. It was once the scene of bullfights, markets and public events. Today, it is the perfect place to sit on a terrace and enjoy a coffee.

A few steps from the square, the Mercado de San Miguel offers an unparalleled gastronomic experience. Built in 1916, this market is the place where you can sample gourmet tapas, fresh seafood and an excellent selection of wines.

Foodie tip: Try the fresh oysters and pair them with a glass of Spanish white wine – a delight!

Activities: Explore the various food stalls, sit in the plaza to watch the hustle and bustle, or join a historical guided tour.

San Miguel Market

Spain - Madrid - San Miguel Market
Spain - Madrid - San Miguel Market

8. Eating and drinking in La Latina (Visit El Rastro market on Sunday)

The neighborhood of La Latina is known for being the epicenter of Madrid’s gastronomy and tapas. Here, the streets are lined with traditional bars and taverns where you can enjoy tapas and cañas (small beer) while strolling along cobblestone streets. On Sundays, La Latina is transformed by El Rastro, Madrid’s most famous street market, which has been held for centuries and offers everything from antiques to vintage fashion.

Local tip: Arrive early to enjoy El Rastro without the crowds and then take refuge on one of the terraces on Calle Cava Baja for some well-deserved tapas.

Activities: Stroll El Rastro in search of antique treasures, enjoy tapas in the taverns and explore the street art and lively plazas.

  • Admission: Free
  • Instagram: @latinamadrid
  • Opening days and hours: Sunday from 9:00 to 15:00 (El Rastro)
  • Address: Barrio de La Latina, Calle de la Ribera de Curtidores, Madrid
Spain - Madrid - La Latina
Spain - Madrid - La Latina

9. The Arganzuela Bridge

This impressive bridge, designed by French architect Dominique Perrault, is one of the most modern and elegant constructions in Madrid. It is part of the Madrid Río project, which has recovered the banks of the Manzanares River for the recreation and enjoyment of the people of Madrid. Its helical design makes it an ideal place to stroll and take spectacular photos, especially at sunset, when the bridge is magically illuminated.

Photogenic tip: The Arganzuela Bridge is one of the most instagrammable places in the city, so don’t forget to charge your phone or camera before you go.

Activities: Walk or bike along Madrid Rio, take photos from different angles of the bridge, or just enjoy the views of the river.

  • Admission fee: Free
  • More information: Arganzuela Bridge
  • Address: Barrio de Arganzuela, Madrid
Spain - Madrid - Arganzuela Footbridge

10. The Temple of Debod

This ancient Egyptian temple was a gift from Egypt to Spain in 1968 in gratitude for Spanish assistance in the preservation of Nubian monuments. With more than 2,000 years of history, the Temple of Debod stands as one of the most amazing constructions in Madrid. What really makes it special is its location: atop a hill overlooking the Casa de Campo and the Royal Palace, making it a perfect place to watch the sunset.

Magic tip: Visit the Temple of Debod at sunset, when the Madrid sky is tinged with warm colors and the silhouette of the temple is reflected in the water of its pond. It is one of the most romantic moments in Madrid.

Activities: Explore the interior of the temple, enjoy panoramic views of the city or relax in the surrounding park.

  • Admission fee: Free
  • More information: Temple of Debod
  • Days and hours of opening: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 20:00
  • Address: Barrio de Argüelles, Calle Ferraz, Madrid
Spain - Madrid - Debod Temple
Spain - Madrid - Debod Temple

How to visit Madrid?

If you are on a quick trip you can visit Madrid’s highlights in 2 days:

  • First day (walk in the City Center): you can start at the 1) Prado Museum, then walk around 2) El Retiro Park and afterwards go north to see the 3) Puerta de Alcala and Plaza de Cibeles. At the end of the avenue you’ll find 4) La Gran Via which you can walk west to get to 5) The Royal Palace of Madrid. From there you can walk south to 6) Almudena Cathedral and watch the sunset on the hill. Finally, in the night you can walk east to 7) Plaza Mayor and San Miguel Market.
  • Second day (by metro, taxi or walking – a lot!): you can start by having breakfast or lunch in 8) La Latina, then go south to see 9) Arganzuela Footbridge, and finally finish by visiting 10) The Debod Temple (in the night preferibly).
Madrid - Spain - Europe - Map

Conclusion: best things to do in Madrid

Madrid is a city full of beautiful places, history, culture and restaurants and you should visit it at least once in your life!

Are you interested in traveling around the world? In the Travel Section you can find detailed travel guides for different cities, touristic activities, recommendations, tips, and much more!

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11 Comments

  1. 19/09/2017 / 8:56 AM

    Your first two list items are what I most think of in Madrid. Nice to learn about some other places to visit in Madrid, too.

  2. 14/09/2017 / 5:09 AM

    Your travel blog is fantastic! I have always wanted to visit Madrid. If I only had a few days in Spain where would you recommend visiting?

    • Pilar
      Author
      14/09/2017 / 10:58 AM

      Thank you very much Kaitlynn! I’m super glad you like the blog 😀 I added a new section at the end of the blog post explaining how can you visit Madrid in 2 days, hope you find it useful!… later on I’ll make a more general post about the places you should visit in Spain 😉

  3. 29/07/2017 / 9:29 AM

    Oh wow one of my places to visit in the world ! Pinning to keep for when that trip happens. 🙂

    • Pilar
      Author
      14/09/2017 / 10:54 AM

      Amazing Louann! Hope you find the post very useful when you visit Madrid! 😀

  4. darlingceo
    28/07/2017 / 8:54 PM

    Gorgeous photos! I would LOVE to go to Madrid. This post makes me long for this much more. Thank you for sharing.

    • Pilar
      Author
      14/09/2017 / 10:52 AM

      Thanks sweetie! I’m glad you liked the post! 😀

  5. 28/07/2017 / 6:35 PM

    Super jealous of your travels! I hope to have the adventures you have experienced!

    • Pilar
      Author
      14/09/2017 / 10:51 AM

      Thanks Kimberly :p , I’m sure you’ll have lot’s of great adventures too! 😉

  6. 28/07/2017 / 6:19 PM

    Great post! The pictures make me want to hop on a plane! Hope to be able to travel someday!

    • Pilar
      Author
      14/09/2017 / 10:50 AM

      Thank you very much Mary-Ellen! Hope you are able to visit Madrid soon! 😀

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