Madrid is a city that never sleeps, with plenty of things to do and see from dawn to dusk, and beyond – especially if you’re into its wild nightlife. Take a break from the bars and clubs and explore the city’s other delights, such as the Retiro Park, bustling markets, and the fascinating history of bullfighting. Get ready to discover an Egyptian temple, amazing shopping spots, and the world’s top football team – apologies to Barcelona fans. No matter what you’re into, Madrid’s got you covered. Here are some of the best activities to enjoy in the Spanish capital.
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
This museum may not be as traditional as the famous Prado, but it’s a must-see attraction. The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is dedicated to contemporary art, and it’s home to Pablo Picasso’s famous “Guernica” painting, a powerful anti-war piece that speaks to the heart. You can also admire works by other iconic artists such as Salvador Dalí. Don’t forget to arrive early to avoid long lines, especially during the free admission hours.
Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas
Bullfighting is an integral part of Spanish culture, and the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas is an impressive landmark that showcases the best of this tradition. The arena, located in the Salamanca district, features stunning Moorish architecture and colorful ceramic tiles. While the tickets for the bullfights can be quite pricey, you can still take a tour of the stadium without experiencing the main event.
Teleférico de Madrid
Avoid the rush-hour traffic and enjoy breathtaking views of the city with the Madrid Teleférico cable car service. It connects both sides of Madrid, crossing the river and taking you to Casa de Campo, an amusement park and zoo that kids will love. This is an excellent opportunity to discover Madrid’s green spaces from a different perspective.
Palacio de Liria
This private residence of the Alba family is a hidden gem that has only recently opened its doors to the public. Palacio de Liria is packed with important artworks, including pieces by El Greco, Titian, and Velázquez. You’ll also find Goya’s famous portrait of the 13th Duchess of Alba here. The library is another highlight of the palace, boasting a vast collection of rare books, including works by Christopher Columbus and Miguel de Cervantes.
Madrid Atocha Train Station
Atocha is not just a train station; it’s a botanical garden that houses over 5,000 plants and 400 species. The gardens are located in the station’s spectacular atrium, which is also surrounded by shops and restaurants. Take a break from your travels and explore this vibrant complex.
Palacio de Cibeles
Located at one of the city’s most important intersections, Palacio de Cibeles is a grand building that used to be the city’s Telecommunications Palace. Today, it houses Madrid City Council and a cultural center with regular concerts and exhibitions. Admire the building’s impressive architecture and don’t miss the stunning fountains in front of it.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Home to Real Madrid, one of the world’s most famous soccer teams, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a must-visit for any sports fan. Take a tour of the stadium and see the locker rooms, training areas, and trophy room. The energy in the stadium is electric, especially when the home team scores a goal.
Temple of Debod
Just behind Plaza de España (which is currently under construction), you’ll find the Cuartel de la Montaña Park on a hillside, featuring an Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BC. It’s still easily accessible during work on the plaza. The Temple of Debod was gifted to Spain from the Egyptian government as a thank-you for their assistance in protecting the temples of Abu Simbel from flooding following the construction of Egypt’s Aswan Dam. When it was transported to Madrid, it was taken apart and rebuilt stone by stone to its original specifications. Decorative motifs and projections on the side of the temple help tell the story of this historic structure.
Museo Nacional Del Prado
Undoubtedly the most celebrated museum in Madrid—and one of the most visited in Europe—the Prado is a must-see attraction. Its neoclassical façade is a prominent part of the Paseo del Prado, home to three well-known art museums (the Prado, along with the Reina Sofia and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum). Inside, you’ll find a primer on Spanish and European art, with an enormous collection of paintings and sculptures from Spain’s biggest names, including Diego Velazquez, El Greco, and Francisco Goya. Make a beeline for the most famous works first: “Las Meninas” by Velazquez and Goya’s “Third of May 1808.” And arrive early to beat the crowds, which are at their peak during the last two hours of the day (when admission is free).
Cinco Museos
While not a guided tour, this discounted pass gives you access to five art museums that might otherwise not initially catch your attention. These include the Museum of Romanticism, the Sorolla Museum, the National Museum of Decorative Arts, the Cerralbo Museum, and the Lázaro Galdiano Museum. For only 12 euros, you have ten days to visit each of these museums. Start with the Sorolla Museum, once the Valencian artist’s family home, where his numerous vibrant landscape paintings detail colorful beach scenes from the Mediterranean. At the National Museum of Decorative Arts, everything from silverware and porcelain to musical instruments and antique fans are on display. When you tire of gilt-framed portraits and paintings, it offers an alternative view of Spanish history.
Almudena Cathedral
Almudena Cathedral sits adjacent to the Royal Palace, once the home of several reigning monarchs through Alfonso XIII, in the heart of the city center. Both imposing landmarks are free to enter, as are the surrounding gardens, and both are important places to visit for their design and lavish interiors. In addition, the neo-Romanesque crypt and adjacent cemetery of La Almudena hold many notable Spaniards—it’s like history come to life. These are must-visit stops for any visitor to Madrid, if only to experience both structures from the outside.
Mercado de San Miguel
Explore the diverse flavors of Spanish cuisine at the always bustling Mercado de San Miguel, housed in a historic ironwork building. Instead of committing to a single restaurant, you can sample from over two dozen vendors, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Although prices are high, many vendors offer free samples. Don’t miss the banderillas (skewers of olives, veggies, and seafood) for just 1 or 2 euros apiece.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is a top attraction in Madrid and part of the Art Walk (Paseo del Arte), which includes the Prado and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. If you’re a fan of art and design, this should be your next stop after visiting the Prado. The museum features a collection that straddles the line between its two siblings, with galleries filled with works by famous artists such as Dalí, El Greco, Monet, Picasso, Rembrandt, and many others, including a few American names. Be sure to reserve tickets online and arrive early to avoid long lines, and avoid visiting on Monday afternoons when admission is free and the museum can get crowded.
Parque del Buen Retiro
The sprawling Parque del Buen Retiro is the largest park in Madrid and is meticulously maintained. There’s something for everyone here, from jogging paths to a lake where you can rent row boats by the hour. The park is easy to navigate thanks to clear signage, but the gravel paths can be tricky to walk on without comfortable shoes. If you’re short on time, head to the lake and the Palacio de Cristal, which hosts rotating art exhibitions that are free to the public.
Calle de Fuencarral
Don’t overlook Calle de Fuencarral, a narrow pedestrian street tucked away off Gran Via. Street performers entertain as shoppers hop in and out of stores, which are mostly international chains with a few local boutiques sprinkled in. You can’t get lost on this street, but it’s worth exploring the side streets for hidden gems. Unlike many other streets in Madrid, Calle de Fuencarral is almost entirely flat and free of cobblestones. Save your high heels for the fancier Calle Serrano.
El Rastro
Indie shoppers won’t want to miss El Rastro, one of Europe’s most famous flea markets. Open every Saturday and on public holidays, Plaza de Cascorro comes alive with hundreds of stalls selling souvenirs, antiques, and clothes. Arrive early to snag the best deals and don’t be afraid to haggle. If you arrive at 9 a.m. when it opens, you’ll beat the crowds and cover more ground.
Royal Palace of Madrid
The Royal Palace of Madrid is a grand landmark that overlooks manicured gardens, a regal courtyard, and the nearby Almudena Cathedral. Although it’s no longer a royal residence, kings and queens resided here for centuries before moving to a more private residence on the outskirts of the city. The palace has over 3,000 rooms and features a Royal Armory and an impressive gallery of notable Spanish masterpieces. The exterior of the building is jaw-droppingly large, and the adjoining Sabatini Gardens provide a peaceful retreat from the frenetic pace of Madrid. Inside, history enthusiasts will delight in the suits of armor, shields, and antique weaponry on display. It’s hard not to feel a sense of grandeur as you wander through the halls and imagine the
