Sundays in Madrid offer a unique peek into the city’s soul – a mix of tradition and relaxation.
Figuring out what to do in Madrid on a Sunday is incredibly helpful for your overall itinerary planning. I recommend you save particular activities for Sundays, over other days of the week.
Embrace the pace of a Sunday, which is slower and more relaxed. Explore the neighbourhoods, where you’ll find out how locals like to spend their day.
I spent two Sundays in Madrid over my almost two-week stay, and I am now ready to share my curated list of my favourite activities with you. From visiting the Madrid Sunday flea market and enjoying a leisurely brunch to strolling the parks, this article will help you carve out your Sunday itinerary in Madrid.
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My Top Recommendation: Madrid Sunday Market
If you were only to do one thing from this list of things to do in Madrid it would be to stroll the El Rastro Market. Madrid’s most famous flea market is located in the La Latina neighbourhood. And even if you don’t have room in your suitcase to shop for vintage treasures, unique souvenirs, and quirky antiques, it’s still fun to browse.
How to Visit El Rastro Market
I arrived just as the vendors were setting up for Sunday market day — 9 am to 3 pm!
Start at Place de Cascorro and you’ll find yourself on Ribera de Curtidores, the main street where the market sprawls out into the surrounding alleyways. The vendors here are typical flea market finds you would find in any European city – offering everything from vintage to cheap clothing, handmade jewellery and pottery, and kitchen and household items. This is where locals come to pick up affordable wares for their homes.
Collectables are a serious business in the market. Tables are set up with playing cards, stamps, coins, and other collectibles where locals like to come and trade and bargain adding new items to their collections.
I bought a white cotton sundress (so popular in Spain), linen pants, and a traditional paella pan.
Once you’ve had your fill of the flea market, my favourite part was visiting the nearby antique markets. This was my favourite part, and spent hours here.
I recommend you walk up Calle de Carlos Arniches and then zig-zag the side streets of C. del Carnero, Cjón. del Mellizo and C. de Mira el Río Alta. Antique vendors line the streets with their vintage items and storefronts create charming vignettes outside with their doors propped open.
Things to Do in Madrid on a Sunday
Madrid has a lot of iconic landmarks you can visit any day of the week. This curated list is what I recommend you save for your slow Sunday.
Retiro Park
Right in the heart of the city is the beautiful Retiro Park, an aspect that makes Madrid worth visiting.
On a typical Sunday, you’ll find families picnicking under the shade of ancient trees, couples rowing boats on the serene lake, and joggers enjoying the expansive pathways. And street performers and musicians add a jovial charm as you walk about.
Highlights of this park include the stunning Crystal Palace, an elegant glass structure that often hosts art exhibits and the Rose Garden is a must. I was there in the spring just as the roses were in bloom and it was stunning!
Cuesta de Moyano
As you exit Retiro Park near the Rose Garden, take a stroll down Cuesta de Moyano, lined with quaint wooden stalls brimming with second-hand books and rare finds. There’s something utterly charming about slowly walking through these used book stalls. Although it is open every day of the week from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm, there’s something special about perusing it on a slow Sunday.
Real Jardín Botánico
Adjacent to Cuesta de Moyano is Madrid’s botanical garden. Visit here and you’ll forget you’re in the heart of a noisy city! I enjoyed strolling the serene pathways leading you past curated themed sections full of different plant species. Find a quiet bench to sit and admire the view and enjoy the chirping of birds fluttering about. This is the ultimate relaxing Sunday experience.
Madrid’s Neighbourhoods
Exploring the neighbourhoods on a Sunday is the perfect way to see how locals spend their time, it’s all about community for them. Here’s a look at some of the most charming neighbourhoods and what you can expect to find:
- La Latina: Known for its lively tapas bars and traditional ambiance, La Latina is the place to experience Madrid’s culinary delights and bustling Sunday markets, like El Rastro.
- Malasaña: This trendy, boho neighbourhood is filled with hip cafes, vintage shops, and street art. It’s a hotspot for young locals and perfect for those who enjoy a creative and energetic vibe.
- Chueca: A lively and inclusive area, Chueca is famous for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, chic boutiques, and stylish restaurants.
- Lavapiés: A melting pot of cultures, Lavapiés is where you’ll find diverse eateries, colourful murals, and a boho spirit.
- Salamanca: An upscale chic neighbourhood with elegant streets, high-end shops, and sophisticated cafes.
- Chamberí: A quieter, residential area with beautiful architecture and local charm. Chamberí is perfect for a stroll and experiencing Madrid at a slower pace.
- Barrio de Las Letras: Known for its literary history, this neighbourhood is lined with historic taverns, quaint bookstores, and charming plazas.
Traditional Spanish Brunch
What is a Sunday without enjoying a leisurely Spanish brunch at a local cafe or restaurant? It’s a must in my opinion. Here are the restaurants I ate at and recommend for the perfect Sunday brunch (1:30 pm – 4 pm):
- Il Tavolo Verde: a slow food cafe featuring organic dishes, pastries & coffee in a plant-filled space doubling as an art & antiques store
- Botín: dining at the oldest restaurant in the world (according to the Guinness Book of Records) is a must. Founded in 1725, and known for its traditional cuisine, this was a highlight to dine here for me
- Los Huevos de Lucio: this restaurant is ideal for Sunday brunch as they specialize in egg-based tapas which are delicious
What’s Closed on a Sunday in Madrid
On Sundays in Madrid, many shops and businesses, particularly those outside of tourist areas, are typically closed. This includes smaller, independent stores, local boutiques, and supermarkets.
Remember if places are open, they may close for siesta (between 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm).
Most museums in Madrid offer free entrance on the first Sunday of each month, leading to extremely long lines and overcrowded galleries. I don’t recommend visiting museums on any Sunday due to the increased crowds. No matter no matter how many days you might be spending in Madrid, save those for a weekday for a much quieter experience.
Conclusion
Make your Madrid Sunday a slow one, the way it’s meant to be enjoyed.
I hope this curated list inspires your Madrid itinerary:
I invite you to visit my Spain page to continue your inspiration for your trip planning.
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