LivingTravel18 best things to do in Madrid, Spain

18 best things to do in Madrid, Spain

No matter how much time you spend in Madrid, you will never get bored. With world-class museums, grand architecture, and a diverse food scene, it’s packed with places to be and things to do.

At the same time, this wealth of attractions and activities comes with Spain’s famous laid-back lifestyle, so there’s no pressure to see it or do it all at once. And if 18 things aren’t enough, be sure to check out our master list of 100 things to do in Madrid for more ideas.

Discover contemporary art at the Reina Sofía

Direction
Calle de Santa Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid, Spain

Get directions

Telephone

+34917 74 10 00

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Any art fan visiting Madrid knows that the Reina Sofía Museum is part of the prestigious Golden Triangle of Art. The massive complex houses one of the world’s leading art collections from the 20th century, including big names like Picasso (don’t miss Guernica), Dalí, and Miró. Get your tickets on their website for a small discount.

Party all night while experiencing Madrid’s nightlife

Spain’s nightlife is legendary, to say the least. The two great clubs in Madrid are Kapital and Joy Eslava, but they are not the end of the nightlife. The trendy Malasaña neighborhood is home to great clubs that often give you more for your money.

Pack a bag and go on a day trip

Direction
Plaza Reina Victoria Eugenia, s / n, 40003 Segovia, Spain

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Telephone

+34921 46 07 59

Web

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Madrid’s central location, combined with Spain’s excellent interurban public transport network, make the capital an ideal base for exploring the rest of Spain. Cultural Toledo, sunny Cordoba, medieval Avila and more are just a short train ride away. Start planning your ideal day trip from Madrid and prepare for an adventure you will remember for years to come.

See the Architecure in the Plaza Mayor

Direction
Plaza Mayor, 28012 Madrid, Spain

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Visit the website

Every city in Spain has a main square that forms the centerpiece of daily life for both locals and visitors. Here in Madrid, that square is the Plaza Mayor, one of the most ornate and grandiose examples of architecture in the city. The restaurant and terraced cafes that stretch out onto the square are on the touristy side, but their undisputed charm helps add to their appeal.

Cheer on Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabéu

Direction
AV. de Concha Espina, 1, 28036 Madrid, Spain

Get directions

Telephone

+34913 98 43 00

Web

Visit the website

Even if you are not a football fan, chances are you have heard of Real Madrid. As one of the most legendary teams in Spain, it’s no surprise that their home turf, the Santiago Bernabéu Staidium, is one of the best things to see in Madrid.

If you’re in town during soccer season, you can’t pass up the unique opportunity to see this iconic club hit the field, but get your tickets as soon as possible. In the off-season, it is still possible to experience the magic of Real Madrid by taking a tour of the stadium.

Explore Lavapiés, Huertas and La Latina

Direction
Plaza de la Puerta del Sol, s / n, 28013 Madrid, Spain

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While it may seem that the center of life in Madrid is the area around Gran Vía and Puerta del Sol, you will find that getting off the beaten track can give you a more authentic insight into city life. In this case, you don’t even have to go very far. From the multicultural spirit of Lavapiés to the bustling tapas bars in La Latina and the literary history that runs through the streets of charming Huertas, there are whole worlds within reach of central Madrid.

Eat a lot of chocolate with churros

Direction
Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5, 28013 Madrid, Spain

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Telephone

+34913 65 65 46

Web

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The heavenly combination of churros and chocolate is one of the most famous examples of Spanish cuisine that many visitors get to know, and for good reason. While locals often enjoy churros for breakfast, they are also a mid – afternoon snack or snack late at night.

When it comes to where to eat churros in Madrid, you have many options. One of the most popular places is the Chocolatería San Ginés, near the Plaza Mayor, but its fame often brings long lines and large crowds. Head to Chocolat en Huertas for equally delicious churros in a more relaxed setting.

Discover historical artistic masterpieces at El Prado

Direction
Calle de Ruiz de Alarcon, 23, 28014 Madrid, Spain

Get directions

Telephone

+34913 30 28 00

Web

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If the Reina Sofía is the main center for modern art in Madrid, then the Prado is the equivalent when it comes to the classics. Here, stunning masterpieces like Velázquez’s Las Meninas, Goya’s Black Paintings, and a must-see selection of El Greco’s works are obvious, but each of its more than 7,000 pieces is worth seeing. Get your tickets online before you go to avoid lines at the box office.

Reconnect with nature in the Buen Retiro park

Direction
Plaza de la Independencia, 7, 28001 Madrid, Spain

Get directions

Telephone

+34914 00 87 40

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Madrid is one of the greenest capitals in Europe, with dozens of beautiful parks and gardens waiting to be explored. However, if you only have time to visit one, make it Retreat. As the most famous of the city’s green spaces, it features a picturesque man-made lake, a beautiful rose garden, a gleaming glass palace filled with art installations, and more.

Discover the true art of tapas

Everyone thinks they know what tapas (small plates from Spain!) Are, and while that definition is generally true, tapas are much more than just food. Here in Spain, they are a social experience and a way of life.

Tapas is about meeting up with good friends to share dishes and conversation, often moving from one bar to another along the way. Take a look at a traditional venue like Casa Labra or La Casa del Abuelo, or get modernized in a place like La Palma 60.

Go back in time at Anden 0

Chamberí metro station no longer serves passengers, but remains frozen in time. After closing in the 1960s, it was abandoned for several decades until a restoration project gave it new life. Today, it looks a lot like what it was in the 1920s, with glamorous vintage advertisements and old-fashioned turnstiles. It’s a fascinating way to experience a bit of the glamorous Madrid of the past, and best of all, it’s free.

See ancient Egypt at the Temple of Debod

A true temple of ancient Egypt in the heart of the capital of Spain? Yes, you read that right. The Temple of Debod was moved brick by brick from Egypt to Madrid in the 1960s, and today it stands as one of the most unique places in the city. Its location in Parque del Oeste is just down the street from the Royal Palace, and offers one of the most impressive sunset views in Madrid.

Enter the geographical heart of Spain

Look down as you pass the old Royal Post Office in Puerta del Sol and you will see an unassuming metal plaque. This is Kilometer 0, which marks the geographical center of Spain and the point from where all the main roads begin. While in the heart of the country, also look at the clock on the post office building, it is said to be the official source of time in mainland Spain.

Live royalty at the Royal Palace

Spain’s royal family may not call the Royal Palace home, but their official residence is still worth a visit. Get your ticket online and show up to experience the wonderful opulence of this astonishing 18th century building. Admission also includes a visit to the Royal Armory, an impressive collection of royal armor and weapons dating back to the 13th century.

Shopping till you get tired

You don’t need us to tell you that Madrid is one of the trendiest fashion capitals in Europe. From the dazzling international designers in chic Salamanca to the chic boutiques in Chueca and even the big global brands on Gran Vía, you can find your perfect shopping district here in Madrid, no matter what your heart desires. Bonus points if you come during the semi-annual sales period ( rebates ).

Explore a food market

Markets are where locals do their grocery shopping, catch up with friends and neighbors, and even grab a bite or drink at the market bar. These colorful centerpieces of everyday life are a great way to live like a local while in Madrid. The San Miguel Market is the most famous in the city, but for a less touristy experience, consider the Mercado de la Paz or the Mercado de Antón Martín.

Enjoy drinks at a rooftop bar

Madrid looks even better when viewed from above. Head to the top of the Círculo de Bellas Artes building to access its iconic rooftop – you’ll have to pay a small entrance fee, but it’s worth it for the stunning panoramic views of central Madrid, as well as the fabulous Mixed Drinks and good vibes.

Have a meal to remember in Botín

Do you want to go all out when it comes to experiencing Madrid’s food scene? The oldest restaurant in the world is calling you. Botín has been going strong since 1725, named by Ernest Hemingway and serves the best roast suckling pig this side of Segovia. Just don’t forget the wine.

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