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Madrid is Spain’s capital city and one of the brightest jewels in Europe’s cultural crown. Many visitors to the country make a beeline for vibrant Barcelona or one of the many stretches of white sandy beaches, but Madrid more than holds its own in the fun stakes.
Whether you’re looking for world-class nightlife, iconic modern art collections, tasty tapas, or neoclassical architecture, this city has it all. Here are the 12 best things to do in Madrid.
1. Go Rowing in El Retiro Park
El Retiro Park is a huge green space in the center of the city where locals go to enjoy Spain’s famous warm weather. Seemingly endless pathways wind between well-kept hedges and fragrant rose gardens, and there are plenty of spacious grassy areas to relax in.
Hiring a rowboat at the lake is a great way to make the most of this beautiful 19th-century space. The lake was created artificially and was once used by King Felipe IV to reenact Spanish Armada Navy battles for the Spanish royal family.
Find the lake by entering the park from Calle Alcalá and then heading in the direction of Alfonso XII’s monument. Boat rentals are available daily from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm and 3:30 pm – 5:30/8:30 pm (depending on the time of year and only until 5:15 pm in December).
If you are a lover of green spaces, be sure to check out Casa de Campo, too. And for stunning views over Madrid and the Gran VÃa, don’t miss the Cibeles Palace rooftop next to El Retiro Park.
2. See the Royal Palace of Madrid
The Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest Western European palace, with a whopping 3,418 rooms and over 135,000 square meters of space. As one of few Heads of State residences open to the public, it’s a must-see for visitors to Spain.
It’s not possible to explore every area of the palace, but much of it is available to view and gives a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Spanish royals from years gone by. The best way of seeing the palace is on a walking tour. There are dozens of options available and some include ‘skip the line’ tickets that get you inside the palace quicker.
3. Taste Some Tapas at Mercado de San Miguel
This central market is over 100 years old and since it opened in the early 20th century has been one of the most buzzing spots to try a tapa or two. There are 30 stalls at Mercado de San Miguel selling everything from contemporary lobster rolls and tuna tartar to classic plates of Iberian ham and fresh croquettes.
Visitors with a sweet tooth shouldn’t miss the Rocambolesc ice cream stand for some creative soft-serve and toppings combos, and there are, of course, churros on offer. There are several bars and cafes that offer hot drinks, beers, wines, and vermouth where you can grab a glass of your favorite tipple and soak up the ambiance.
Mercado de San Miguel is open daily from 10 am until late.
4. Do Some People Watching at Plaza Mayor
This central town square was once used for public executions but is thankfully much more chilled these days. As well as being an important part of Spanish history, locals and tourists like to gather in Plaza Mayor to while away the hours with a coffee. The large open space is surrounded by spectacular period architecture, and there are several charming cafes and restaurants dotted around the square.
Nearby Puerta del Sol is another well-known gathering spot just a short walk from Plaza Mayor. Here you’ll find ‘Kilometer Zero’, the starting point of Spain’s six major roads and makes for a great selfie. If you happen to be in town on New Year’s Eve, be sure to head here — this is where Madrid locals gather to eat 12 grapes as the bells count down to midnight.
5. Check Out an exhibition at the Palacio de Cristal
This metal and glass structure is hidden among the trees of El Retiro Park and is a much-loved Madrid institution. Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina SofÃa (where Picasso’s iconic Guernica painting is displayed) occasionally holds art exhibits at El Palacio de Cristal, giving visitors a more intimate art-viewing experience.
Check the schedule here to see what’s coming up. Even if there’s nothing scheduled during your visit, the architecture of the Crystal Palace itself is well worth a visit if you happen to be nearby.
6. Watch a Game at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is the home stadium of the mighty Real Madrid football team. Named for the legendary manager who headed up the team for 35 years, watching a game here is one of the most authentic Spanish experiences imaginable.
If there are no games scheduled during your stay, guided tours of the grounds are available in English instead. During your visit, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the stadium and access to the on-site museum is also included. The newly remodeled stadium also has a fully removable pitch so it can host concerts and events. Check the schedule on the official website to see which stars are in town at the same time as you.
7. Walk along Paseo del Prado
Paseo del Prado is one of the most famous avenues in all of Madrid. It’s lined with 100-year-old trees and is home to some of the city’s top art museums displaying works by Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and many other local and international greats.
First, head to Museo Nacional del Prado (The National Museum of Prado) to see masterpieces by the likes of El Greco, Francisco Goya, and Diego Velazquez. Once you’ve soaked up the art at the Prado Museum, check out Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza, where you can see almost 1,000 works of art dating as far back as the 13th century.
If galleries aren’t your thing, it’s worth heading to the avenue for a late afternoon stroll to soak up the architecture and old-world vibe.
8. Visit Spain’s Most Famous Flea Market
El Rastro in the La Latina neighborhood is Madrid’s biggest Sunday morning market and is easily one of the most famous in the whole country. The flea market has been running since 1740 and has grown to feature around 3,000 stalls selling every item imaginable. The main street of the market — Ribera de Curtidores — is mostly clothing and accessories, but once you delve into the side alleys, you’ll discover all kinds of curiosities.
Once you’ve had your fill of shopping, head to Plaza de Cascorro for a bite at one of the many tapas bars. A mid-morning aperitivo is a rite of passage at El Rastro, so don’t skip a glass of vermouth if the opportunity presents itself.
Pro Tip: This entire area gets incredibly busy, and pickpocketing is an issue, so take good care of your belongings while shopping.
9. See the Sunset at the Templo de Debod
Templo de Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple in the heart of Madrid. Few first-time visitors would imagine a 2000+-year-old structure that was built in Egypt could end up in Spain’s capital, but this is no replica. The monument was donated to Spain by the Egyptian government for helping to save many important archeological sites from being buried during the construction of the Aswan Dam.
The temple is believed to be where Isis gave birth to Horus and is a sacred site. It’s also one of the best places to see a spectacular Spanish sunset. Entry is free and the site is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am until 7 pm.
10. Taste the Churros at San Gines
Churros can be found on pretty much every avenue in Madrid, but there’s a reason that there’s always a line at San Gines: they are the best churros in the city. Founded in 1894, this chocolate shop is now the most famous in Madrid. It’s open 24 hours a day from Wednesday to Sunday, making it a popular spot for midnight snacks and indulgent breakfasts.
Get an order of churros with a cup of rich chocolate sauce and prepare to be wowed. Also, be prepared to wait for a table as the line is often out the door, but it moves quickly, and your patience will be rewarded with the best churros of your life.
11. See a Flamenco Show
Spain’s most famous dance is renowned worldwide for its beauty, passion, and energy, and travel guides all recommend seeing a live show with good reason. Countless venues are offer nightly live performances, but these are some of the very best spots:
- Casa Patas – this city center spot also has a flamenco school where lessons can be taken. Dinner and a show cost approximately $65 USD and should be booked in advance.
- Torres Bermejas – founded in 1960, Spanish royalty and national TV icons have enjoyed dinner and a show here.
- Corral de la Moreira – book a sherry tasting to enjoy during the show for the ultimate Spanish experience.
12. Take a Day Trip
Madrid has superb public transport connections to the rest of the country, making it the perfect base from which to take day trips. Whether you hop on a high-speed train or catch a bus and take the scenic route, here are some of the best places to head.
Salamanca
Salamanca is home to Europe’s oldest university and is one of the most picturesque cities in the entire country. Take a stroll around the two cathedrals and enjoy an afternoon of people-watching in Plaza Mayor. The bus ride to Salamanca takes 2.5 hours so is doable in a day. However, if you stay the night you’ll be rewarded with some of Spain’s best nightlife — the hottest spots are all on Calle Van Dyck.
Toledo
The train to Toledo takes half an hour from Atocha train station and fans of Roman and Muslim history shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit. The cobblestone streets and historic buildings are enjoyable to wander among, and guided tours are available in English if you’d like to learn more about this stunning place.
It’s said that nuns invented marzipan in Toledo in the 12th century. You can buy this sweet treat directly from convents where nuns still make it to this day; you just need to ask around for which door to knock on.
Segovia
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to many landmarks and is less than 30 minutes by train from Madrid. Check out the Roman viaduct that was built in the first century AD and still works to this day, then head to Alcazar castle to explore. Meat eaters shouldn’t miss trying cochinillo — this roast suckling pig dish is Segovia’s most famous dish.
There Are Endless Fun Things to Do in Madrid
As you can see, there is no shortage of things to do in Spain’s capital. Whether you visit Madrid for a quick trip or a longer vacation, there are enough sightseeing opportunities to make every day magical.
