Madrid has so much to offer that it can be overwhelming to decide what to do. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning, I’ve got you covered.
This guide breaks down the best things to do in Madrid Spain into four categories: must-sees, free experiences, unique activities, and exciting nightlife.
This is based on my recent trip where I spent 10 amazing days exploring Madrid attractions – from the iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Now, let me share all the must sees in Madrid.
Table of Contents
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5 Must See Things in Madrid
1. The Royal Palace (Palacio Real)
One of the reasons to visit Madrid starts with exploring the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family with its beautifully opulent rooms and extensive art and textile collection.
- € 14 | 🕤 From October until March: Monday through Saturday: from 10 am until 6 pm. Sundays: from 10 am to 4 pm. From April until October: From Monday to Saturday: from 10 am until 8 pm. Sundays: from 10 am to 4 pm.
2. Catedral de la Almudena
You can enter this beautiful cathedral with no admission fee and admire its modern interior, however, to visit the museum or the crypt there is an entry fee as it’s considered one of the top attractions of Madrid.
- € 7 | 🕤 Monday to Sunday: from 10 am until 8 pm (September to June) and 9 pm (July and August). Museum and crypt: Monday to Saturday: from 10 am until 2:30 pm.
3. Prado Museum (Museo del Prado)
Visit one of the world’s premier art galleries, featuring masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco and other artists from the 16th century to the 20th century.
- € 15 | 🕤 Monday to Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm, Sundays and Public holidays: 10 am – 7 pm
4. Palacio de Cibeles (Cybele Palace)
The Cibeles fountain of a Greek goddess sitting on a lion-drawn carriage sits in front of the former headquarters of the Spanish postal service, but now the seat of the Madrid City Council. The reason to visit here is for the rooftop terrace.
- € 3 | 🕤
5. Reina Sofía Museum (Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía)
One of the most visited museums due to the large collection of Spanish contemporary art. It covers the period beyond the Prado Museum, starting with the 20th-century Spanish artists like Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró.
- € 12 | 🕤 Monday to Saturday: 10 am – 6 pm / 9 pm (depending on the season),
Sunday: 10 am – 2:30 pm, Tuesday: closed
5 Free Things to Do in Madrid
1. Puerta del Sol
Stand at the heart of the city and soak in the atmosphere of this iconic square. It’s a popular meeting point and home to three Madrid landmarks: Kilometre Zero, marking all distances in Spain; the El Oso y el Madroño statue, symbolizing Madrid’s coat of arms; and the Real Casa de Correos, whose clock tower is central to the New Year’s Eve tradition of eating twelve grapes with each chime.
2. Plaza Mayor
Admire the grand architecture of this historic square with its nine archway entrances. At the centre stands an equestrian statue of Philip III, gifted by the Duke of Florence in 1616.
3. Retiro Park
Wander through this expansive 17th-century park, featuring a lake with rowboats, the Crystal Palace with a free art gallery, statues, and fountains. The park is as lively as the city, with rollerblading, kids’ programs, musicians, and yoga.
4. Gran Vía
Walk down Madrid’s most famous street. It’s lined with restaurants, bars and shopping. It’s said to be the street that never sleeps in Madrid, with many of the best rooftop bars.
5. Temple of Debod
Visit this ancient Egyptian temple that was gifted to Spain and now offers stunning sunset views.
- Tuesday – Sunday and public holidays: 10 am – 8 pm, Mondays closed.
5 Unique Things to Do in Madrid
1. El Rastro Flea Market
I had so much fun browsing the largest open-air market in Madrid, held every Sunday in the La Latina neighbourhood.
2. Mercado de San Miguel
Come hungry and taste gourmet tapas and local delicacies at this historic market, offering a unique culinary experience.
- Sunday – Thursday: 10 am – 12 am, Friday – Saturday 10 am – 1 am
3. Madrid Cable Car (Teleférico)
Take a scenic ride over the city for unique aerial views of Madrid from the Parque del Oeste to Casa de Campo Park, about a 2.5 km ride.
- € 3.75 (one-way) € 5.50 (return) | Monday – Sunday: 12 pm – 11 pm
4. Cuesta de Moyano
Stroll along Cuesta de Moyano, a charming outdoor book market, where I found a beautiful watercolour sketch of Madrid to bring home.
- Monday – Sunday: 9:30 am – 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm – 7:30 pm
5. Atocha Train Station
One of the most unique things to see in Madrid is its largest train station, where the original 1850s structure has been transformed into a botanical garden.
5 Things to Do in Madrid at Night
1. Chocolatería San Ginés
Enjoy late-night churros and hot chocolate at this iconic spot, open 24/7.
2. Teatro Kapital
Dance the night away at Madrid’s most famous nightclub, known for its seven floors of entertainment. Other popular nightclubs are Fitz Club and Vandido.
3. Círculo de Bellas Artes Rooftop
Sip cocktails with a stunning view of Madrid’s skyline from this cultural center’s rooftop terrace. Other recommended rooftop bars include El Viajero, Ático 11, and The Hat.
4. Flamenco Show at Casa Patas
Experience an authentic flamenco performance in an intimate setting.
5. Malasaña Bars
Explore the trendy Malasaña neighbourhood, with many boho bars and restaurants. The clubs are small and mostly play indie music.
Expert Tips for Things to Do in Madrid Spain
- Free admission Royal Palace: From Monday to Thursday, from 5 pm to 7 pm (4 pm to 6 pm in winter), free admission is available for all. However, expect long lines to enter.
- Book online in advance: Save time by booking tickets online for popular Madrid sights like the Royal Palace and Prado Museum.
- Plan your itinerary: Depending on how many days you stay in Madrid and your interests, don’t try to see everything and only choose the activities that interest you most. Part of Madrid’s charm is to go at an unhurried pace.
- Free admission to museums: Most of the popular museums, like Prado, offer free admission after 7 pm. Do expect long lines to queue, I did this and waited close to an hour to get in.
- Plan around meal times and siesta: Madrid’s lunch hour is typically from 2 pm to 4 pm, and dinner starts around 9 pm. Many shops and attractions close for a siesta between 2 pm and 5 pm, so plan your sightseeing around these times to make the most of your visit.
As a Holidaymaker
I hope this list of 20 top things to see and do in Madrid provides you with a great start to your itinerary planning. To help you further, check out these next two articles:
And, if you haven’t yet booked your accommodations, this article shall help you find the best neighbourhoods to stay in.
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