Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a vibrant city full of culture, history, and lively streets. From world-class museums to beautiful parks, bustling markets, and flamenco shows, there is something for every traveler. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, this guide covers the 20 best things to do in Madrid, complete with location, operating hours, entry fees, and tips for a memorable visit.
1. Royal Palace Madrid
The Royal Palace of Madrid is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. This magnificent palace showcases Spanish royal history, with opulent halls, stunning art collections, and beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the throne room, royal armory, and ceremonial halls.
Location: Calle de Bailén, 28071 Madrid, Spain
Operating Hours: Daily 10:00–20:00 (summer), 10:00–18:00 (winter)
Entrance Fee: €13 adults, free for under 18. Guided tours available for an extra fee.
Things to Do: Walk through the palace rooms, enjoy the Royal Armory, take photos in the palace gardens, attend occasional ceremonial events.
2. Prado Museum
Prado Museum is one of the world’s finest art museums, featuring masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Art lovers can spend hours exploring European paintings and sculptures.
Location: Calle de Ruiz de Alarcón, 23, 28014 Madrid
Operating Hours: Mon–Sat 10:00–20:00, Sun & holidays 10:00–19:00
Entrance Fee: €15 adults; free for under 18 and EU students.
Things to Do: Admire famous paintings like Las Meninas, explore temporary exhibitions, join guided tours to understand Spanish art history.
3. Retiro Park
Retiro Park is Madrid’s most famous green space, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors. The park features fountains, statues, beautiful gardens, and a peaceful lake.
Location: Plaza de la Independencia, 7, 28001 Madrid
Operating Hours: Daily 06:00–22:00
Entrance Fee: Free
Things to Do: Row a boat on the lake, visit the Crystal Palace, enjoy a picnic, take photos of statues and fountains.
4. Reina Sofia Museum
This modern art museum is home to Spain’s iconic painting Guernica by Picasso. The museum offers contemporary Spanish and international art.
Location: Calle de Santa Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid
Operating Hours: Mon–Sat 10:00–21:00, Sun & holidays 10:00–19:00
Entrance Fee: €12 adults; free on certain days.
Things to Do: View Guernica, explore contemporary art exhibitions, enjoy sculpture installations, join guided tours.
5. Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor is a historic square surrounded by elegant buildings and arcades. It has been the center of Madrid life for centuries, hosting markets, festivals, and street performances.
Location: Plaza Mayor, 28012 Madrid
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Entrance Fee: Free
Things to Do: Sit at an outdoor café, watch street performers, explore nearby shops, photograph the central statue of King Philip III.
6. Puerta del Sol
Puerta del Sol is Madrid’s busiest square and a hub for shopping, dining, and local life. It is home to the famous clock that rings in the New Year and the Kilometer Zero plaque.
Location: Puerta del Sol, 28013 Madrid
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Entrance Fee: Free
Things to Do: Take photos at Kilometer Zero, shop at nearby stores, enjoy local street snacks, watch street performers.
7. Gran Via
Gran Via is Madrid’s most famous street, lined with shops, theaters, restaurants, and historic buildings. It is perfect for walking, shopping, and experiencing the city’s energy.
Location: Gran Via, Madrid City Center
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours (shops usually 10:00–21:00)
Entrance Fee: Free
Things to Do: Shopping, visit theaters, dine at rooftop restaurants, explore architectural landmarks.
8. Temple of Debod
Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain. It is known for its serene environment and stunning sunset views.
Location: Calle Ferraz, 1, 28008 Madrid
Operating Hours: Tue–Sun 09:45–13:30, 16:15–18:45
Entrance Fee: Free
Things to Do: Explore the temple, enjoy sunset views over the city, take photographs, walk in Parque del Oeste nearby.
9. Mercado de San Miguel
Mercado de San Miguel is a historic market offering a wide range of Spanish food, tapas, fresh seafood, and wine. It is perfect for foodies who want to taste local flavors.
Location: Plaza de San Miguel, s/n, 28005 Madrid
Operating Hours: Daily 10:00–24:00
Entrance Fee: Free entry (food & drinks priced individually)
Things to Do: Taste tapas, sip wine or sangria, sample desserts, explore artisanal products.
10. Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
This stadium is home to Real Madrid, one of the world’s top football clubs. Visitors can tour the stadium and its museum.
Location: Av. de Concha Espina, 1, 28036 Madrid
Operating Hours: Daily 10:00–19:00
Entrance Fee: €25 adults
Things to Do: Visit locker rooms, museum exhibits, VIP boxes, take photos on the pitch, learn about club history.
11. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
A must-visit for art enthusiasts, this museum hosts European paintings from the 13th to 20th centuries.
Location: Paseo del Prado, 8, 28014 Madrid
Operating Hours: Tue–Sun 10:00–19:00
Entrance Fee: €13 adults
Things to Do: Explore painting collections, attend temporary exhibitions, guided tours available.
12. La Latina District
La Latina is a lively neighborhood full of narrow streets, tapas bars, and historic charm. It is ideal for an evening stroll.
Location: La Latina, Madrid
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours (bars usually 12:00–02:00)
Entrance Fee: Free
Things to Do: Tapas hopping, street photography, enjoy live music in bars, explore local squares.
13. Malasaña Neighborhood
Malasaña is known for its trendy cafes, street art, and vibrant nightlife. It is popular with young locals and visitors seeking alternative culture.
Location: Malasaña, Madrid
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours (cafes 08:00–23:00)
Entrance Fee: Free
Things to Do: Explore boutiques, street art, nightlife, coffee shops, and vintage stores.
14. Chueca District
Chueca is a colorful and inclusive district known for LGBTQ+ friendly venues, rooftop bars, and lively streets.
Location: Chueca, Madrid
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours (bars 12:00–02:00)
Entrance Fee: Free
Things to Do: Enjoy bars and restaurants, rooftop drinks, local shopping, street photography.
15. Parque del Oeste
Parque del Oeste is a quiet park featuring gardens, walking paths, and the Teleférico de Madrid (cable car).
Location: Paseo de Moret, 2, 28008 Madrid
Operating Hours: Daily 06:00–22:00
Entrance Fee: Free (cable car extra €6–€8)
Things to Do: Walk or bike, ride the cable car, enjoy rose gardens, take panoramic city photos.
16. CaixaForum Madrid
CaixaForum is a modern art and cultural center with exhibitions, lectures, and workshops.
Location: Paseo del Prado, 36, 28014 Madrid
Operating Hours: Tue–Sun 10:00–20:00
Entrance Fee: €6 adults, free for under 16
Things to Do: Visit exhibitions, attend cultural events, enjoy architecture, café visits.
17. Matadero Madrid
A cultural space located in a former slaughterhouse, Matadero hosts art exhibitions, theater, and concerts.
Location: Paseo de la Chopera, 14, 28045 Madrid
Operating Hours: Tue–Sun 11:00–21:00
Entrance Fee: Free (some exhibitions paid)
Things to Do: Explore contemporary art, attend live events, walk along Madrid Rio nearby.
18. El Rastro Market
El Rastro is Madrid’s famous flea market, perfect for antiques, souvenirs, and street food.
Location: Calle de la Ribera de Curtidores, Madrid
Operating Hours: Sundays and public holidays 09:00–15:00
Entrance Fee: Free
Things to Do: Browse antiques and souvenirs, enjoy local snacks, street performers, photography.
19. Moncloa Viewpoint
Get a panoramic view of Madrid from the Moncloa Observation Deck. It is ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Location: Plaza de Moncloa, 28008 Madrid
Operating Hours: Tue–Sun 10:00–20:00
Entrance Fee: €2.50 adults
Things to Do: Take cityscape photos, view famous landmarks, enjoy a quiet lookout experience.
20. Teleférico de Madrid
This cable car connects Parque del Oeste to Casa de Campo, offering aerial views of the city.
Location: Parque del Oeste, Madrid
Operating Hours: Daily 11:00–18:00
Entrance Fee: €6 adults
Things to Do: Ride over the city, photograph panoramic views, enjoy parks below, combine with Parque del Oeste visit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which are the must-visit museums in Madrid?
A: Prado Museum, Reina Sofia Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum are the top three.
Q: Are there free things to do in Madrid?
A: Yes, many landmarks, parks, and neighborhoods are free to explore, including Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, Retiro Park, Temple of Debod, and Moncloa Viewpoint.
Q: Best neighborhoods for food and nightlife?
A: La Latina, Malasaña, and Chueca are excellent for tapas, bars, and nightlife.
Q: How many days are ideal to explore Madrid?
A: A 3–4 day trip covers major attractions, museums, and neighborhoods comfortably.
Q: Can I do day trips from Madrid?
A: Yes, Toledo and Segovia are popular day trips accessible by train or bus.
Final Words
Madrid combines history, culture, art, food, and outdoor experiences all in one city. By following this guide, visitors can explore the best museums, parks, neighborhoods, and cultural experiences, ensuring a memorable trip to Spain’s vibrant capital.
