Things to do in Madrid: The 21 Best Places to Visit and Highlights

You’re planning to visit Madrid and you’re looking for the best places to vist?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have written this guide of the best things to do in Madrid, with all the must-see attractions and points of interest.

At the end of the article, you will also find itineraries to visit Madrid in 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days (or more!) as well as my suggestions of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Madrid? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

Visiting Madrid: 21 Must-See Attractions

1. Stroll Around Plaza Mayor in Madrid

Built in 1690, Plaza Mayor is the heart of Madrid, the main point of interest where people love to wander and meet.

On the square, you will find buildings with interesting architecture such as:

• The Bakery House
• The Butcher’s House
• The Cutler’s Arch

The numerous arches also add to the charm of the square, and in its center, stands the statue of Philip III on horseback.

if you visit Madrid in Summer, you will see that Plaza Mayor is filled with café and restaurant terraces frequented by locals and tourists alike. And in winter, Madrilenians also gather here to soak up the Christmas magic.

2. The Royal Palace of Madrid

The Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real in Spanish) is among Europe’s most beautiful palaces. Built in the 17th century, this majestic palace will amaze everyone, young and old alike.

To explore the most interesting rooms, you should really opt for a guided tour. It will allow you to discover the Halberdiers’ Room, the Column Room, King Charles III’s Chamber, and the Hall of Mirrors.

It’s the perfect opportunity to learn more about this exceptional place!

And guess what? This guided tour is so good, it comes with a satisfaction guarantee or your money back!

To book your guided tour of the royal palace, it’s simple, just click on the button below:

Don’t forget to also visit the Sabatini and Campo Del Moro gardens, included in the tour price. A delightful nature break after exploring the palace!

3. The Teatro Real

Opposite the Royal Palace, you will find the Opera Theatre (Teatro Real in Spanish), another must-see attraction in Madrid.

Built between 1817 and 1850, it’s one of Europe’s finest operas thanks to its exceptional acoustics. If you want to spend an evening at the opera, be prepared to pay a premium for the experience, as the cheaper seats don’t offer a full view of the stage.

Madrid’s Teatro Real has hosted the greatest opera singers and the high quality program varies often, so check the official website for the schedule, prices, and to book your ticket online.

And if you’re not up for a show, you have another option to discover the inside of the Teatro Real: you can book tickets to visit the opera house during the day, with an audio guide.

You will thus be able to discover the dressing rooms, theatre rooms and all exhibition halls.

Tickets need to be booked directly here.

All information can be found on the Teatro Real’s official website.

4. Visit the Prado Museum

The Prado Museum (Museo del Prado in Spanish) ranks among the world’s greatest museums and is a top tourist attraction in Madrid.

It houses a huge collection of paintings, mainly from Europe, spanning from the 14th to the 19th century. Inside the museum, you will be able to admire works from famous painters such as Francisco Goya, Diego Velázquez, and Hieronymus Bosch.

If you’re an art lover, you will be happy to learn that this museum also displays 6400 drawings and 3000 prints, setting it apart from typical museums that only offer paintings.

5. The Royal Botanical Garden

Right next to the city’s most famous museum, the Prado Museum, the Royal Botanical Garden of Madrid is a haven of hundreds of trees, shrubs, and flowers from around the world.

If you’re a botany enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to wander here and discover new species. It’s the perfect spot in Madrid for a relaxing break in a beautiful and lush setting.

During your visit, don’t miss the greenhouse, which houses rare and exotic species.

Entry to the garden is 6€.

6. Reina Sofía National Art Center Museum

Let’s continue to discover Madrid’s prestigious museums and talk about Reina Sofía National Art Center Museum (Centro de Arte Reina Sofia).

It stands out with its collection of both Spanish and international art, from the 19th century to the present day. Here, you will even have the chance to admire the famous Guernica painting by Pablo Picasso!

You can find the museum’s opening hours and detailed prices on this website.

7. The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Along with the Prado Museum and Reina Sofia Art Center, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts in Madrid.

It features a large collection of paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. It notably houses the Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza collection, which has given the museum its name.

For a quieter experience, you should ideally visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The museum is most crowded between 10 AM and 3 PM.

If you’re in a hurry, you can do what I did and buy a skip-the-line ticket, which lets you bypass the queue at the entrance. Just click the button below to buy it:

8. Almudena Cathedral

While visiting Madrid, you should go to the Almudena Cathedral.

This cathedral was built in two prevailing styles of the time: its interior is in the Gothic style, while the exterior is classically inspired.

This results in a curious and original monument, not to be missed during your stay in Madrid. Interestingly, the Almudena Cathedral was consecrated in 1993 by Pope John Paul II!

9. Strolling in Retiro Park

Originally created in the 18th century for the exclusive use of the King, Retiro Park (Parque El Retiro) is now open to everyone, offering a green oasis in the heart of Madrid.

During your walk, you can admire:

• Velázquez Palace
• The Crystal Palace
• Alfonso XII monument
• Numerous statues, ponds and fountains

10. The Temple of Amon (Debod)

For a touch of Africa in the heart of Madrid, head to the Temple of Amon, also known as the Temple of Debod. Here, you’ll find 2200-year-old Egyptian ruins authentically reconstructed.

This unique monument is one of my favorites for several reasons: entrance is free, it’s highly photogenic (especially at dusk), and the Temple of Debod offers a glimpse into Egyptian civilization for those who can’t travel there.

11. Las Ventas Bullring

The most significant bullring in Madrid and the third largest in the world, Las Ventas was built in 1930.

It can host up to 24,000 people and is the setting for bullfights, a famous aspect of Spanish culture. While this tradition faces ethical criticisms, Madrid locals still gather here, mainly during the Community Fair in May and the San Isidro Fair in June.

You can get your tickets to visit Las Ventas Bullring right here!

12. Visit the Madrid Zoo Aquarium

If you’re visiting Madrid with family or are passionate about biology and animals, you can spend an afternoon at the Madrid Zoo Aquarium.

This zoo is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the country. It houses several dozens of animal species and offers animal interactions, like feedings and care sessions. There are even giant pandas!

Combined with a large aquarium, it’s the perfect outing if you’re visiting Madrid with children. They can discover animals from all over the world in a well-maintained and animal-welfare-conscious establishment.

You need buy your tickets for the Madrid Zoo right here!

13. Attending a Match at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

Inaugurated in 1947, Bernabeu Stadium is home to the famous Real Madrid football club.

In the evening, you can attend a match and watch some of the world’s best players in an electrifying atmosphere.

If there’s no match during your visit, you can still take a daytime tour of this legendary stadium, walking around the pitch, entering the players’ dressing rooms, and admiring the club’s won trophies.

To book your tickets to visit the stadium, it’s super easy: you just need to click on the button below.

14. Cybele Palace

The Cybele Palace (Palacio de Cibeles), formerly known as the “Palace of Communications,” is one of Madrid’s most impressive monuments due to its incredible architecture.

It currently serves as the city hall but also houses the “CentroCentro,” a cultural center offering free exhibitions. During your visit, don’t miss the Crystal Gallery, a room topped with an impressive glass vault.

On the eighth floor (paid access), you can even go up to the observatory and enjoy a 360-degree panorama over the city of Madrid.

Cybele Palace is located in the Paseo del Arte neighborhood on Cybele Square, one of Madrid’s most lively and well-known squares.

15. Experience the Rhythm of Flamenco

 During your stay in Madrid, I highly recommend you to attend a flamenco show

Listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, flamenco is a traditional dance with Madrid as its capital.

Choose a “tablao”, the venue for flamenco performances, and enjoy the enchanting and passionate rhythm of the dance and song. One of the most famous shows takes place at the Torres Bermejas tablao.

To attend a performance, you need to book your seats in advance here:

16. Watch the Changing of the Guard

For a dive into royal Madrid, head to the Royal Palace of Madrid on the first Wednesday of the month.

You’ll have the privilege of witnessing a remarkable spectacle: the changeover of more than 400 men and 100 horses, symbolizing the changing of the guard.

Lancers and halberdiers parade before the spectators, accompanied by musicians, fifers, and drummers.

This is an original activity I recommend if you’re lucky enough to be in Madrid at the right time.

17. Visit the San Miguel Market

The San Miguel Market (Mercado de San Miguel in Spanish), once a traditional market, has become a trendy spot for local cuisine thanks to an innovative concept: you can taste products for free or for less than a euro before deciding to buy them!

So, get ready to enjoy cheeses, fruits, vegetables, charcuteries, seafood, and sushi, as well as ice cream, chocolates, and fresh fruit juices…

The building features a glass structure, allowing sunlight to reach the stalls and giving the market a special atmosphere.

If you’re thinking about food shopping, don’t hesitate to go to San Miguel Market!

18. Getting a Bird’s-Eye View at Círculo de Bellas Artes

If you want to rise above and get an overview of Madrid, head to the Círculo de Bellas Artes.

This place, besides housing interesting artworks, features a publicly accessible panoramic rooftop, known as the best viewpoint in the city.

You’ll have an unmatched view of the capital’s rooftops while sipping a drink in the sun!

19. Shopping in Madrid

Madrid isn’t just a cultural capital; it’s also a major fashion hub.

To update your wardrobe, head to the Salamanca district, the best area for shopping in Madrid!

You’ll find dozens of stores, especially around Serrano Street: top clothing brands, shoe stores, and jewelry shops. These shops, usually very elegant with tempting displays, might significantly lighten your wallet 😅.

20. What to Do in Madrid at Night

In Madrid, the day doesn’t end with the sunset!

At night, the terraces of bars and restaurants come alive. Join the locals enjoying a sangria with some tapas, and you’ll truly discover the soul of the city.

If you’re not tired, there’s no shortage of nighttime activities: the Chueca district, in particular, is home to several relaxed nightclubs where you can let loose and dance until dawn.

21 – Savoring Chocolate Churros

For those with a sweet tooth, this Spanish specialty is a must-try: the famous Chocolate Churros are a real institution, an essential part of Spanish street gastronomy!

The thick, rich chocolate in which you dip hot, golden churros leaves deliciously sweet memories.

If you’re in Madrid and want to try the very best, do what I did and head to Chocolatería San Ginés: open 24/7 since 1894, this place offers the best chocolate con churros in the city.

Be prepared to wait, as the place is highly popular with both locals and tourists.

Other places to Visit in Madrid

For this Top 21 Things to Do in Madrid, I had to make some choices, so here’s a list of some other monuments and places of interest to visit in Madrid:

Monuments/Places

• Alcalá Gate
• Plaza de España

Museums to Visit

• Sorolla Museum
• Lázaro Galdiano Museum
• Cerralbo Museum
• National Archaeological Museum of Madrid

Religious Buildings

• San Francisco el Grande Basilica
• San Manuel y San Benito Church, north of Retiro Park

Best place to visit close to Madrid

El Escorial: In this guide, I must mention the Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, a UNESCO World Heritage site, located in the town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, 45km northwest of Madrid.

An absolute must-visit!

The Districts of Madrid

To help you navigate the city, know that Madrid is divided into several districts. Don’t hesitate to pick up a paper map at the tourist office, it will make getting around much easier!

Here are the features of the main districts:

Centro (Sol – Gran Via)

The heart of tourism in Madrid, many tourist routes start from this district.

It’s also the “zero point” of the country, located at Puerta del Sol, one of the city’s liveliest squares. Symbolically, it’s the kilometer 0 point of all Spanish roads and thus the center of Spain.

Austrias

This central district is where you’ll find Plaza Mayor.

It’s where the atmosphere is most lively in the evening, with its bars full of young Madrilenians.

Here are the best places to visit in Austrias district:

• Plaza Mayor
• The Royal Palace of Madrid
• The Monastery of the Incarnation
• La Almudena Cathedral
• The Teatro Real

La Latina

During the day, explore the narrow medieval streets winding through the La Latina neighborhood, its pleasant small squares, and numerous buildings with interesting architecture.

Here you’ll find El Rastro, the city’s most famous flea market, and the area is also renowned for its tapas bars.

Paseo Del Arte

As its name suggests, this is the heart of Madrid’s cultural life.

The 3 main museums of the city are located here, along with an architectural jewel of Madrid, the Palacio de Cibeles:

Best things to do in Paseo del Arte:

• The Prado Museum
• The Thyssen Bornemisza Museum
• The Reina Sofia Art Center
• Palacio de Cibeles
• The Naval Museum of Madrid
• The Hall of Kingdoms

Lavapiés

It’s the cosmopolitan and popular neighborhood of Madrid.

Lively at all hours, this friendly area immerses you in the daily life of locals, chatting at their doorstep, hanging laundry on their balconies, or playing ball in the alleys.

For dining, the Lavapiés neighborhood is packed with international eateries: African, Turkish, Chinese, Italian, etc. Be aware of pickpockets and keep an eye on your valuables.

Malasaña

Madrid’s version of New York‘s Soho or London‘s Camden Town, the hippie and popular Malasaña offers great shopping opportunities, and its relaxed atmosphere is definitely worth experiencing.

Chueca

This is the city’s trendy gay neighborhood, featuring several gay nightclubs.

But Chueca is also a party hotspot for everyone, with its many bars and nightclubs where young people gather after sunset.

Argüelles/Moncloa

These are Madrid’s student districts, located near Ciudad Universitaria. They feature numerous nightclubs, often located underground.

The 6 Best Things to Do in Madrid with Family

You’re planning to visit Madrid with your family?

Great idea!

Here are the best things to do in Madrid with kids:

• A visit to Madrid Zoo Aquarium
• El Retiro Park, where you can enjoy a boat ride, or the Temple of Debod, which will amaze them with its magical atmosphere
• If your kids are football fans, take them to the Bernabeu Stadium, it’ll be an unforgettable experience!
• Take them to the Prado Museum, free for minors
• The Almudena Cathedral, a wonderful visit for a symbolic entrance fee of 1 euro.
• Warner Park, a theme park full of attractions, located near Madrid. From Madrid, there are packages including round-trip bus + entrance ticket to the park, super convenient if you don’t have a car during your stay in Madrid. Book in advance by clicking here!

How Many Days to Visit Madrid?

As there are many things to do in Madrid, you can stay for a week without running out of activities.

In order to help you plan your stay, here are itinerary suggestions for 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 days in the Spanish capital.

If you only have a few days in Madrid, you should really book your skip-the-line tickets in advance. It’s not more expensive than buying them on-site and you’ll really save a lot of time!

To check all the entrance tickets and tours available in Madrid, you need to click on this link.

You can also buy the Madrid City Pass by clicking here:

One Day in Madrid

If you only have one day in Madrid, you’ll need to focus on the essentials.

Here’s an idea for a 24-hour Madrid itinerary:

• Explore the majestic Plaza Mayor
• Stop by the Mercado de San Miguel
• Visit the Almudena Cathedral
• Tour the Royal Palace of Madrid
• Relax in El Retiro Park
• Take advantage of free admission hours to admire the collections at either the Prado Museum or the Reina Sofia Art Center
• End the day eating tapas

Another great way to see Madrid if you’re short on time is to opt for a hop-on hop-off bus tour. It’s a great way to discover the best places to visit in Madrid in a short amount of time!

Simply click the button below to buy your bus tickets:

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And don’t forget that if you have the Madrid Pass, your hop-on hop-off bus ticket is already included!

2 Days in Madrid

If you’re planning a weekend in Madrid, here’s the itinerary I recommend:

Day 1:

• Plaza Mayor
• San Miguel Market
• Visit to Santa Maria de la Almudena Cathedral
• Royal Palace Tour
• Stop by the Royal Theatre
• Churros break at Chocolatería San Ginés
• Temple of Debod at sunset
• Enjoy a flamenco show

Day 2:

• Visit Reina Sofia National Museum
• Explore the Botanical Garden
• Stroll in El Retiro Park
• Visit either the Prado National Museum or Thyssen Bornemisza Museum
• Stop by the Cybele Palace
• Enjoy the view from Circulo de Bellas Artes

3 Days in Madrid

If you have 3 days in Madrid, follow the 2-day itinerary and add:

• Start with a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium for football fans
• Discover Las Ventas Bullring
• A few hours of shopping in Salamanca district
• Visit the Parroquia Santa Bárbara, a beautiful baroque church near Salamanca
• Enjoy the lively evening atmosphere of the Chueca district

To plan your 3-day stay in Madrid, you can find all the details in my other article: 3 Days in Madrid.

4, 5 Days or a Week in Madrid

If you’re lucky engough to spend 4 or 5 days (or even a week!) in Madrid, you can take the opportunity to discover the surroundings.

If you don’t have a car, the easiest is to opt for day trips with guide and transport included. Simply click the orange links for detailed info and to book.

• A Day in Toledo to discover the UNESCO-listed sights of this city.
• A Day in Toledo with Included Visits to 7 emblematic monuments
• Vineyards of Madrid Region: Guided Tour and Tastings – Includes visiting 3 wineries and local wine tastings
• Guided Tour of Toledo, Segovia, and the Alcazar
• Guided Tour of the Royal Monastery of El Escorial and the Valley de los Caidos – The monastery is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Guided Tour of Cuenca, another UNESCO-listed historical site known for its cliffside houses. If you’re familiar with Ronda in Andalusia, it’s somewhat similar.
• Visit to Avila and Salamanca: two beautiful cities known for their cathedrals.

I have prepared a detailed 4-day itinerary in Madrid, you can read it by clicking here: 4 Days in Madrid.

And if you’re planning 5 days in Madrid, it’s this itinerary: 5 Days in Madrid.

Where to Stay in Madrid

If you’re wondering where to stay in Madrid, here’s a list of my favorite hotels and hostels, suitable for every budget:

• OK Hostel Madrid: Youth hostel located 700 meters from Plaza Mayor and 200 meters from a metro station. Dormitory bed from 16€ per night, breakfast for 3€. Strong points: perfect location, friendly staff, clean and modern dorms, meal option for 10€. It’s the best hostel in Madrid! Note that the hostel also offers double rooms from 75€ per night.
• Ibis Madrid Centro Las Ventas: Located next to the famous Madrid bullring and 100 meters from a metro station. Spacious and modern room from 60€ per night, breakfast for an additional 7.95€. Strong points: rooms with bullring view, extensive buffet breakfast.
• B&B Hotel Puerta del Sol: Ideally located 100 meters from Puerta del Sol and 400 meters from Plaza Mayor. Quiet and comfortable room from 89€ per night, with a breakfast bag (water, fruit, and chocolate bread) included every morning. Strong points: free drinks and fruits available 24/7, prime location, and lovely staff.
• Only YOU Hotel Atocha: Located right next to El Retiro Park. Comfortable, spacious, and stylish double room from 190€ per night, breakfast for 21€. Strong points: stunning hotel, attentive staff, vast breakfast options, location (10 minutes walk from the center and 5 minutes to airport shuttle), decor, and ambiance. The perfect choice for a luxury stay in Madrid!

Where to Eat in Madrid?

• Dstage: This Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant ranks among Madrid’s most favored. If you’re ready to indulge without worrying about the budget, make sure to book (well) in advance. You won’t be disappointed! The 10 or 14-course menus with paired drinks (around 90€) are a real treat. The chef’s genius is evident in each dish, dazzling your palate with unique flavor and texture combinations.
• Maitia: This intimate gourmet restaurant offers a cozier atmosphere than the first. Perfect for a romantic evening, the owner personally presents her dishes to guests. Her cooking is universally praised for its excellent value (40€ for a 3-course menu). I was really impressed!
• Cerveceria Gandario: Probably one of the favorite budget-friendly restaurants for both tourists and locals. This cerveceria serves delicious tapas at affordable prices, outstanding sangria, all in generous portions. Ideal for a quick bite between the visits, the setting is very pleasant, and the service impeccable. However, it’s not that close to the main tourist spots.

Madrid Tourist Map

Here is Madrid tourist map as well as the list of all places to visit and museums, with the opening times. Save it on your smartphone, it will ve very convenient for your visit to the spanish capital!

And here is a more stylized version:

Madrid metro map

Madrid metro map can also be useful to plan your visits:

Tourist Information Office Addresses in Madrid

Once you’re in Madrid, you should go to the Tourist Information Office to get the latest information about the best places to visit in Madrid.

As Madrid is a large city, there are several tourist offices around the city. Here are the 3 main ones:

• Oficina de Información y Turismo de la Comunidad de Madrid: Calle Duque de Medinaceli, 2, 28014 Madrid
• Tourist Information Plaza de Cibeles: Palacio de Cibeles, Plaza Cibeles, 1, 28014 Madrid, Spain
• Centro de Turismo Plaza Mayor: Plaza Mayor, 27, 28012 Madrid, Spain

If you’re planning to visit Madrid, you should also download the official Madrid guide in PDF from the Tourism Office’s website.

Here’s the direct link to this guide.

My Impressions of Madrid

My few days in Madrid left an excellent impression on me.

Madrid, a city bursting with activities, blends warmth and liveliness, tradition and modernity, captivating me more each day. I loved wandering its cobbled streets, stumbling upon churches, parks, palaces…

So, I can only recommend spending a few days exploring the Spanish capital. The cultural richness of Madrid, a city unfairly overlooked by tourists (who usually prefer going to Barcelona) greatly appealed to me. In some ways, exploring it reminded me of my visit to Rome.

And you, what do you plan to visit in Madrid?

You’re traveling in Spain? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Spain: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Spain are listed there.

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