What to do and see in Madrid Top 20 must-do activities
Visit Madrid now with our selection of the 20 best things to do and see during your vacation in the Spanish capital. From exhibitions and shows to gourmet restaurants and historic monuments, Madrid is fast becoming a favorite destination for travelers in search of authenticity. Dive into this article to visit Madrid and make sure you don’t miss out on any of the must-do activities.
1 - The most beautiful squares to visit in Madrid: Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol
We’ll start this guide with two of the most important squares to visit in Madrid: Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol.
These lively squares are an integral part of Madrilenian life. Here you’ll find department stores, restaurants and tapas bars.
What to do in Madrid's Plaza Mayor
The Plaza Mayor is the capital’s oldest square. Completely pedestrianized, it is rectangular in shape and surrounded by arcades adorned with paintings. Access is via nine gates, including three main ones. You’ll pass through it on a guided tour of Madrid.
We recommend that you visit at weekends, when the city is at its busiest. On Sunday mornings, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., you’ll find coin and banknote vendors under the arcades – a true collector’s paradise!
Throughout the year, numerous events are organized in the Plaza Mayor. If you’re visiting Madrid during the Mutua Madrileña (Madrid Masters), you’ll be able to swap a few balls on the Plaza Mayor.
Here’s what we recommend you do at the Plaza Mayor:
- Take a panoramic photo of all the buildings (in winter, you’ll be able to see magnificent illuminations).
Two buildings stand out from the rest: the baker’s house (adorned with frescoes) and the butcher’s house.
These two buildings face each other and feature two small towers.
- Pass through the arco des Cuchilleros to reach the calle de Cuchilleros, where you’ll find the world’s oldest restaurant! Sobrino de Botin.
- Eat tapas and have a drink on Calle de Cuchilleros at Bodega Ricla. In a Madrid-style atmosphere and authentic decor, you’ll enjoy some great tapas.
- Buy beautiful santons for your nativity scene at the Christmas market in the Plaza Mayor. The market runs from November 25 to December 31.
Christmas market opening hours: Sunday to Thursday: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday, Saturday and public holidays: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Buy turon in Plaza Mayor at Boutique 1880
If you’re looking to buy quality artisanal turon, we recommend you visit Boutique 1880. Located just a few steps from the Plaza Mayor, you’ll find different flavors of turon. The advantage of turon is its long shelf-life (several months). If you’re visiting Madrid in spring or summer, you’ll be able to buy a few bars as gifts, or enjoy them at Christmas.
Address: Turrones Casa 1880, Calle Mayor, 9, Centro, 28012 Madrid.
Madrid Tourist Office Plaza Mayor
You’ll find Plaza Mayor, one of Madrid’s largest tourist offices. You’ll find plenty of advice and be able to book a wide range of activities. We recommend a visit to discover Madrid’s cultural offerings.
Our tips for visiting the Plaza Mayor
Under the arcades of the Plaza Mayor you’ll find Madrid’s tourist office. Not many people know this, but if you ask around, they can give you discounts on the various things to do in Madrid.
If you want to try the best calamari sandwich, we recommend you go to the bar La campana.
Address: Bar La campana madrid, C. de Botoneras, 6, Centro, 28012 Madrid.
Visit Plaza mayor, practical and useful information :
Address: Plaza Mayor, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spain.
Opening hours: 24 hours a day.
Admission: free.
Transport: Metro (line 1 stop Tirso de Molina / line 2, line 5 stop Opera). Buses: 002, 17, 18, 23, 31, 35, 50, 65, M1, M3, N26.
Self-service bike stations: Plaza de la Provincia, esquina con calle Gerona / Calle Mayor, 6 / Calle Mayor, 16 / Plaza de San Miguel, 10.
Events : Christmas market / Temborrada.
What to do in Madrid's Puerta del Sol?
Located just a few steps from the Plaza Mayor, you’ll always find something to do.
This square has been shaped over the years (cars used to pass in the middle), and you’ll find historic and symbolic monuments such as the post office, the statue of the bear and the Madrid strawberry tree, and the Spanish geographical kilometer 0.
Our tips for visiting Puerta del Sol
Puerta del Sol is a very large esplanade, where you’ll find one of Madrid’s best patisseries (La Mallorquina), Madrid’s Apple Store and souvenir stores.
To immortalize your stay, we recommend a visit to one of the square’s secret rooftops. It’s the terrace of Restaurante Terraza Puerta Del Sol. Very few people know about this quasi-secret address. To get there, enter the Corte Ingles Sol and take the escalators to the top floor.
Visit Puerta del Sol, practical and useful information :
- Address: Puerta del Sol, Centro, 28013 Madrid, Spain.
- Opening hours: 24 hours a day.
- Prices: free of charge.
- Transport: Metro (line 1, line 2, line 3 Sol stop). Buses: 002, 5, 6, 9, 15, 20, 26, 32, 46, 50, 51, 53, 65, 150, M1, SE712, N16, N26.
- Self-service bike stations: Calle Carretas, 8 / Calle Mayor, 20 / Plaza de Celenque A and B (Plaza de Celenque, 1) / Plaza del Carmen, 1.
2 - Visit Madrid and its historic center
In Madrid’s historic center, you’ll find the Royal Palace of Madrid, the Madrid Opera House, the Plaza de Oriente, the Almudena Cathedral and the crypt of the Almuneda Cathedral. A place steeped in history, its beauty will leave you breathless. To prepare your stay in Madrid and organize your visit to the city center, we invite you to discover our complete guide to Madrid’s historic center.
Visit Madrid's Royal Palace
With a surface area of 135,000 m² and 3,418 rooms, Madrid’s Palacio Real is twice the size of the Château de Versailles, making it the largest royal palace in Western Europe. Officially the residence of kings, it is now used to welcome the world’s presidents and diplomats who visit Madrid.
The guided tour of the Royal Palace lasts between 1 h 45 and 2 h 00, depending on how busy it is and how long you spend in each room.
During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the following rooms:
- The palace’s grand staircase.
- The Salon of Columns.
- Charles 3’s bedroom.
- The porcelain cabinet.
- Gala’s dining room.
- The Royal Chapel.
- Throne room.
Visit the Palacio Real in Madrid, practical and useful information :
- Address: Royal Palace of Madrid, Centro, 28071 Madrid.
- Opening hours: Winter (October to March), Monday to Saturday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Sunday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Summer (April to September), Monday to Saturday 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, and Sunday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
- Admission: 14€.
- Transport: Metro Ópera (L2, L5, R), Plaza de España (L2, L3, L10). Buses: 3, 25, 39, 46, 62, 75, 138, 148, C1, C2, M3, NC1, NC2, N16, N18, N19, N20.
- Self-service bike stations: San Quintín (calle Pavía, 6) / Palacio de Oriente (calle Carlos III, 1) / Plaza de Ramales.
Our tips for visiting Madrid's historic center and Royal Palace
To visit Madrid and its historic center, you’ll need between 4 and 5 hours. To make sure you don’t lose any time, we recommend you buy your tickets for the Royal Palace online, and start your tour of Madrid on foot with the historic center from 8:30 to 10 am. As well as being among the first to visit the palace, you’ll be able to take some great photos of the monuments in the historic center, as the place will be almost empty of visitors.
Visit the sumptuous Almudena Cathedral
A visit to Madrid’s Almudena Cathedral is a must, and complements a visit to Madrid’s Royal Palace. Located opposite the Royal Palace, this magnificent church blends neo-Gothic, neo-Romanesque and contemporary styles. Its luminous interior, adorned with modern frescoes, contrasts with its majestic exterior. Inaugurated in 1993 by Pope John Paul II, it is a religious and historical landmark.
Visit Almudena Cathedral, practical and useful information :
- Address: Almudena, Centro, 28071 Madrid.
- Opening hours: September to June: daily 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. July and August: daily, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Admission: free.
- Transport: Metro Ópera (L2, L5, R), Plaza de España (L2, L3, L10). Buses: 3, 25, 39, 46, 62, 75, 138, 148, C1, C2, M3, NC1, NC2, N16, N18, N19, N20.
- Self-service bike stations: San Quintín (calle Pavía, 6) / Palacio de Oriente (calle Carlos III, 1) / Plaza de Ramales.
Our tips for visiting Almudena Cathedral
To organize your visit to Madrid in the best possible way, we recommend that you start by visiting Madrid’s Royal Palace, followed by the Almudena Cathedral and its crypt. Thanks to this organization, you’ll be able to take your time discovering these three must-see places in Madrid.
3 - The changing of the guard at Madrid's royal palace, a show not to be missed
Watching the changing of the Royal Guard is a unique and authentic activity to experience on your Madrid vacation. You can watch the Royal Guard parade from the Plaça de l’Orient, right in front of Madrid’s Royal Palace.
When is the changing of the guard in Madrid?
The Changing of the Guard at the Royal Palace takes place every Wednesday and Saturday at 11 a.m. (barring special events and inclement weather).
Every first Wednesday of the month at noon (with a few exceptions) you can watch the solemn changing of the guard. This is a performance with the music unit that lasts a little longer than the simple changing of the guard. A unique experience not to be missed during your stay in Madrid!
Tips for getting the best seat for changing the guard
This tip is a well-kept secret among Madrid locals. If you want to get the best possible view of the changing of the guard, you’ll have to go to the balcony of the Church of the Almudena to get a bird’s-eye view (it costs 3€).
Changing of the Royal Guard, practical and useful information :
- Address: Royal Palace of Madrid, Centro, 28071 Madrid.
- Times: first Wednesday of the month at 12 noon.
- Admission: free.
- Transport: Metro Ópera (L2, L5, R), Plaza de España (L2, L3, L10). Buses: 3, 25, 39, 46, 62, 75, 138, 148, C1, C2, M3, NC1, NC2, N16, N18, N19, N20.
- Self-service bike stations: San Quintín (calle Pavía, 6) / Palacio de Oriente (calle Carlos III, 1) / Plaza de Ramales.
4 - Museums in Madrid to visit on your vacation
Madrid is famous for its large number of museums, and in particular for its Pinacoteca on the paseo del Prado, which forms the literary golden triangle with the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofia Museum and the Thyssen Bornemisza Museum.
Visit the Prado Museum with an English-speaking guide
The Prado Museum is one of the largest museums in the world, boasting over 900 works of art, including the world’s largest collection of Spanish paintings. You will discover European paintings from the XIVᵉ to the XIXᵉ century by famous artists such as Diego Velázquez, Francisco de Goya, El Greco, Hieronymus Bosch (Jérôme Bosch), Titian (Tiziano Vecellio),Peter Paul Rubens.
The main works come from the private collections of the Hasbourgs and Bourbons.
The most represented painters are Goya, Velasquez, Bosch, Titian, El Greco and Tintoretto. See our complete guide to the Prado Museum.
Visiting the Prado Museum, practical and useful information :
- Address: Prado Museum, Retiro, 28014 Madrid.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sundays and public holidays: 10 am – 7 pm.
- Admission: 15€ / adult – free for under-18s and students under 25.
- Transport: Atocha (L1), Banco de España (L2), Estación del Arte (L1). Buses: 001, 6, 10, 14, 19, 26, 27, 32, 34, 37, 45, C03, E1.
- Self-service bike stations: Espalter (calle Espalter, 1) – Marqués de Cubas (calle del Marqués de Cubas, 25) – Almadén (calle Almadén, 28) – Huertas (calle Jesús, 1) – Cuesta de Moyano.
- Services: café/tea room/shop/lockers (small and medium-sized suitcases accepted).
Visit the Reina Sofia Museum
In contrast to the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofia Museum brings together modern works retracing contemporary Spanish history. Complementing the Prado, it will help you understand the Civil War and the Cubist movement, with paintings by Juan Gris and Pablo Picasso.
Located in a former hospital, the Queen Sofia Museum has three floors and a magnificent garden. A less touristy museum than the Prado, it’s ideal to visit in the afternoon for its freshness, especially if you plan to visit Madrid in summer. What to see at the Reina Sofia Museum.
Pablo Picasso (Pablo Ruiz Picasso) - Guernica - Reina Sofia
Practical and useful information for visiting the Reina Sofia Museum :
- Address: Museo Reina Sofia, calle de Santa Isabel, 52, 28012.
- Opening hours: Monday and Wednesday to Saturday: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Closed Tuesdays, January 1 and 6, May 2, May 16, November 9, December 24, 25 and 31.
- Admission: 12€.
- Public transport: Atocha (L1), Estación del Arte (L1), Lavapiés (L3). Buses: 001, 6, 10, 14, 19, 26, 27, 32, 34, 36, 37, 41, 45, 59, 85, 86, 102, 119, C1, C2, C03, E1.
- Self-service bike stations: Museo Reina Sofía, Calle Santa Isabel, 57 – Ronda de Atocha, 2 – Cuesta de Moyano – Calle Santa Isabel, 32.
- Services: store / lockers (small and medium-sized suitcases accepted).
Visit the Thyssen & Bornemisza Museum
The Thyssen & Bornemisza Museum completes the list of Madrid’s three largest museums.
This museum features works from the XVᵉ century to the XXᵉ century. Comprehensive and vast, it is easy to get lost. We advise you to visit it with a guide to avoid wasting time and have a visit focused on the museum’s masterpieces.
Tips for visiting Madrid's museums
If you want to visit Madrid’s museums in peace and quiet, we recommend the off-peak times. For this, you’ll need to come at 10:30 a.m. (once the groups and guides have returned to the museums) or between 2 and 4 p.m. For a unique and unforgettable experience, we recommend visiting Madrid’s museums with an English-speaking guide.
Practical and useful information for visiting the Thyssen Museum :
- Address: Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza, Paseo del Prado, 8 28014 Madrid.
- Opening hours : Permanent collection – Monday: 12h-16h
Tuesday – Sunday: 10h-19h - Admission: 13€ – free on Mondays.
- Transport: Banco de España (L2), Sevilla (L2). Buses: 001, 10, 14, 19, 27, 34, 37, 45, C03.
- Self-service bike stations: calle Marqués de Cubas, 25.
- Services: store / lockers (small and medium-sized suitcases accepted).
- Bar: Las Terrazas del Thyssen.
Visit Madrid's Archaeological Museum
Located in the heart of Madrid, in the Salamanca district, the Museo Arqueológico de Madrid offers a fascinating journey through history. Its rich and varied collections feature treasures ranging from prehistoric to medieval times, with emblematic pieces. A visit to the Museo Arqueológico de Madrid is an experience not to be missed on a family trip to Madrid.
Visiting Madrid's archaeological museum, practical and useful information :
- Address: Museo Arqueológico de Madrid, Calle de Serrano, 13, 28001 Madrid.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 9.30 am – 8 pm. Sundays and public holidays 9.30 am – 3 pm. Closed Mondays, January 1 and 6, May 1 and 15, December 24, 25 and 31.
- Admission: 3€.
- Public transport: Colón (L4), Retiro (L2), Serrano (L4). Buses: 001, 1, 2, 5, 9, 10, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 27, 28, 34, 37, 45, 51, 52, 53, 74, 146, 150, 203, C03.
- Self-service bike stations: Biblioteca Nacional (Paseo de Recoletos, 20) – Villanueva (calle Claudio Coello, 109) – Colón A y B (calle Serrano, 34) – Columela (calle Serrano, 8).
- Services: store / lockers (small and medium-sized suitcases accepted) / café.
Visit the Sorolla Museum
The Sorolla House Museum, located in the former Madrid home of artist Joaquín Sorolla, offers an intimate immersion into the world of the Spanish Impressionist master. His works, mainly luminous landscapes and beach scenes, are exhibited here in a charming, authentic setting. The house itself, with its Andalusian gardens, adds to the peaceful, artistic atmosphere. A visit to this house museum lasts almost 1 hour and takes you on a journey into the world of the painter.
Visit the Sorolla Museum, practical and useful information :
The Sorolla Museum will be under construction from October 2024 for a minimum of 2 years. We advise you to follow the official Sorolla Museum accounts to find out more about opening dates.
Visit Madrid's Naval Museum
Madrid’s Naval Museum is designed for adventurers in search of a unique, out-of-this-world experience. The museum traces the maritime history of Spain, one of the most powerful naval nations in history. It exhibits ancient maps, ship models, weapons and fascinating objects linked to the great expeditions. Among its treasures is Juan de la Cosa’s map, the first representation of the New World. Located right in the heart of the city, it’s a must-see for those with a passion for naval history and discovery.
Visit the Matadero cultural center to see some magnificent exhibitions
The Matadero cultural center, located in Madrid on the banks of the Rio Manzanares, is a dynamic space dedicated to contemporary art and creativity. A former slaughterhouse transformed into a cultural center, it hosts captivating exhibitions in the visual arts, cinema, design and performance. Its unique industrial ambience provides an inspiring setting for discovering innovative, avant-garde works.
Matadero Cultural Center, practical and useful information :
- Address: Matadero Cultural Center, Plaza de Legazpi, 8, 28045 Madrid.
- Admission: free (charge depending on exhibition).
- Transport: Legazpi (L3, L6). Buses: 6, 8, 18, 19, 22, 45, 47, 59, 62, 76, 78, 79, 85, 86, 123, 148, 156, 180, 247.
- Self-service bike stations: Legazpi (calle Bolívar, 3) – Entrada Matadero (Paseo de la Chopera, 14).
5 - Visit las Ventas, Madrid's bullring
Bullfighting is an integral part of Spanish culture. Although it has been boycotted in recent years, it is still quite common to find bullrings in Spanish cities. Some are no longer in operation, while others, such as those in Madrid, offer bullfights throughout the year. It is possible to visit Madrid’s bullring with a guide.
Our tips for visiting Madrid's bullring
To make the most of your visit, we recommend you book a guided tour of the Las Ventas bullring. Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll discover the history and secrets of bullfighting. If you visit Madrid in October or May, you can attend a bullfight. For more information, please visit the las Ventas de Madrid website.
Visit Madrid bullring, practical and useful information :
- Address: Las ventas Madrid, Calle de Alcalá , 237, 28028 Madrid.
- Opening hours: Daily 10am-6pm.
- Closed: December 22 & 25, January 27 & 1.
- Admission: 16€ – free on Mondays.
- Transport: Las Ventas (L2, L5). Buses: 12, 21, 38, 53, 74, 106, 110, 146, 210.
- Self-service bike stations: Alcalá – Ventas (calle Alejandro González, 1) – Ventas (Avenida de los Toreros, 49)
- Services: store / lockers (small and medium-sized suitcases accepted).
6 - Parks and gardens, which is the most beautiful park in Madrid?
Strolling through the capital’s parks is the most pleasant thing to do when visiting Madrid.
Here are the top 3 Madrid parks to visit:
Visit Retiro Park after the Prado Museum
Must-see activities in Madrid's Parc del Retiro
With its 125 hectares, Retiro Park is a veritable green lung in Madrid’s city center. Located in the city center, it offers a vast area in which to relax and enjoy a variety of activities. You can enjoy a bike ride, a Segway ride or a guided tour of the park’s places of interest.
Well-known among Madrilenians, it’s a popular weekend destination for sunbathing, a daily workout or a relaxing yoga class.
If you go to Retiro Park during your stay in Madrid, here’s a list of activities we recommend you do:
- Take a boat trip on the main lake.
- Eat an ice-cream and recharge your batteries before setting off again to visit Madrid.
- If you have young children, there’s a puppet show that’s very popular with young Madriders. You’ll find it near the main entrance to Puerta de Alcala.
- Once a year, the feria del libro (book fair) brings together thousands of exhibitors and is a great opportunity to bring back some souvenirs and meet your favorite writer.
- Cycling, scootering or rollerblading. Parc del Retiro is very large, so you’ll have plenty of room to enjoy the space.
- Visit the Crystal Palace and the Velasquez Palace.
For more information on the exhibitions at the Crystal Palace and Velasquez Palace, take a look at the official website of the Queen Sofia Museum.
Visit the crystal palace in Retiro Park
The Crystal Palace, located in Madrid’s Retiro Park, is a magnificent glass and metal structure built in 1887. Inspired by Victorian greenhouses (designed to protect vegetable gardens and plants), it now hosts contemporary art exhibitions, while offering a unique setting in the heart of the Spanish capital.
Visit Retiro Park, practical and useful information :
- Address: Retiro Park, Plaza de la Independencia, 7, 28001, Madrid
- Opening hours: Daily – April to September: 6 h – midnight. October to March: 6 h – 22 h.
- Closed: Retiro Park will be closed in case of bad weather.
- Admission: free of charge.
- Transport: Atocha (L1), Estación del Arte (L1), Ibiza (L9), Retiro (L2). Buses: 001, 1, 2, 5, 9, 10, 14, 15, 19, 20, 26, 27, 28, 32, 34, 37, 45, 51, 52, 53, 61, 63, 74, 146, 150, 152, 203, C1, C2, C03.
- Self-service bike stations : Plaza de la Independencia, 6 – Calle Antonio Maura, 15 – Calle Espalter, 1 – Puerta del Ángel Caído (Avenida de Alfonso XII, 54) – Menéndez Pelayo (Avenida de Menéndez Pelayo con calle Poeta Esteban Villegas) – Puerta del Pacífico (Avenida de Menéndez Pelayo, nº 73) – Puerta del Doce de Octubre (Avenida de Menéndez Pelayo, nº 63) – Puerta de Madrid (Avenida de Menéndez Pelayo esquina calle O’Donnell) – Velázquez (calle Alcalá, 95).
- Services: restaurants / bars / kiosks.
Temple de Debod de Madrid (Temple of Amon)
The temple of Debod is one of our favorite places to watch the sunset.
Located just a few steps from the Plaza de España, it’s easy to get to on foot. The park is named after the Egyptian temple at its center.
The Temple of Debod, also known as the Temple of Amon, is an ancient Egyptian temple dating from the 2ᵉ century and dedicated to the Egyptian god Amon. It offers a unique setting in one of the city’s most relaxing parks. It is possible to visit it, with underground rooms tracing its history.
The temple was donated by Egypt to thank them for their help in conservation projects at Egyptian archaeological sites.
Visit Debod temple, practical and useful information :
- Address: Temple de Debod, Calle de Ferraz, 1, 28008 Madrid.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday and public holidays: 10 am – 7 pm. The Temple of Debod is closed on Mondays, January 1ᵉʳ and 6, May 1ᵉʳ, December 24, 25 and 31.
- Admission: free of charge. Tickets can now be booked online on the Town Hall website.
- Transport: Plaza de España (L2, L3, L10), Príncipe Pío (L6, L10, R), Ventura Rodríguez (L3). Buses: 001, 1, 2, 3, 25, 39, 44, 46, 62, 74, 75, 133, 138, 148, C1, C2.
- Self-service bike stations: Paseo de Pintor Rosales (esquina con Plaza de Marqués de Cerralbo) – Plaza de España, 16.
7 - See a soccer match at the Santiago Bernabéu
Real Madrid is a Madrid institution. The world’s greatest players and legendary coaches have all played for the club.
Between soccer, basketball and volleyball, Real Madrid dominates most leagues. In Madrid, you’ll find the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, the official stadium of Real Madrid.
Our tips for visiting the Real Madrid soccer stadium
A visit to the Real Madrid soccer stadium is a unique experience not to be missed during your stay in Madrid. In order to organize your visit as effectively as possible, we recommend that you buy your tickets directly online, to save time and money on the day of the visit. The tour is divided into several sections: the Real Madrid museum, a view of the stadium from the stands and the stadium store. To find out more about the tour, please visit the stadium’s official website.
Visit the Real Madrid stadium, practical and useful information :
- Address: Real Madrid stadium, Avenida de Concha Espina, 1 28036 Madrid.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9am to 7.30pm. Sunday 9.30am to 7pm.
- Closed: December 25 & January 1.
- Tickets: 35 € (online) – 38 € on site.
- Transport: Santiago Bernabéu (L10). Buses: 14, 27, 40, 43, 120, 126, 147, 150.
- Self-service bike stations: Paseo de la Habana, 42 – Doctor Fleming (calle Doctor Fleming, 7) – General Perón at the corner of Poeta Joan Maragall (Avenida del General Perón opposite no. 36).
- Services: store / lockers (small and medium-sized suitcases accepted).
8 - Mutua Madrid Open, attend an ATP Masters 1000 Madrid match
Experience a unique moment during your stay in Madrid and attend one of Spain’s most coveted tennis tournaments, the Mutua Madrid open.
This tournament takes place every year in October in the Spanish capital. It is one of the last tournaments of the season on the men’s ATP and women’s WTA circuits.
Tickets go fast, so we advise you to book a few weeks in advance.
Madrid Mutua Open ATP Masters 1000, practical and useful information :
- Address: Camino de Perales, 23, 28041 Madrid,
- From April 21 to May 4, 2025.
- Prices: Visit the official website.
- Transport: San Fermín-Orcasur (L3). Buses: 23, 78, 123, 180.
9 - Enjoy a unique experience in a Madrid tablao. Discover the best flamenco show in Madrid
If you’re planning a visit to Madrid and enjoy flamenco culture, then you’ll be delighted to be able to attend a flamenco show during your stay in the capital.
Flamenco performances combine dance, song and music (guitar and percussion), and are very intense shows with a unique and elaborate acting style.
Visit Madrid and learn flamenco
If you want to visit Madrid and learn to dance flamenco, then we’ve got just what you’re looking for. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.
Various tablao offer this kind of service and will introduce you to flamenco dancing in a discovery session.
If you’d like to find out more about flamenco lessons or learn to dance, please contact us to arrange this unique experience.
Our tips for attending a flamenco show
Not all of Madrid’s flamenco tablaos are created equal. We recommend the following 4 flamenco tablaos: Corral de la Morería, Cardamomo, Tablao Villa Rosa and Tablao de la Villa. These are Madrid institutions that host the world’s finest dancers.
10 - Visiting Madrid as a family (with babies and young children) and taking advantage of Madrid's cultural and tourist attractions
Visit the Raton Perez Museum
Every child knows the story of the little mouse who comes to drop off a coin in exchange for a tooth. In Spain, children also know the little mouse, but under the name of Raton Perez, she’s so famous that there’s a museum dedicated to her life in the capital.
The Raton Perez Museum is where, according to tradition, the little mouse and his family lived.
The museum consists of two rooms in which the story of the Tooth Fairy is explained.
Ideal if you’re visiting Madrid with young children, we recommend a visit from the age of 4.
Visit the Raccoon Perez house, practical and useful information :
- Address: Perez Raccoon
- House Museum : Calle del Arenal, 8, 1ª planta 28013
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. - Admission: 7 €.
- Transport: Callao (L3, L5), Ópera (L2, L5, R), Sol (L1, L2, L3). Buses: 002, 175, 146, 147, 148, M1, M3.
- Services: store / lockers (small and medium-sized suitcases accepted).
Madrid's Casa de Campo theme park
If you prefer thrill rides, then you’ll find what you’re looking for in Madrid’s theme park.
Located in the Casa de Campo, Madrid’s theme park offers an interesting alternative to classic tours.
The park has also developed attractions based on the TV series The Walking Dead, ideal for zombie fans.
Spend an afternoon at Madrid's theme park, practical and useful information :
Address: Amusement Park – Parque Casa de Campo, s/n 28011.
Prices & opening hours: All prices and opening hours can be found on the official website.
Transport: Batán (L10). Buses: 33, 55, 65.
Services: store / lockers (small and medium-sized suitcases accepted).
Our tips for visiting Madrid with children
To make the most of your vacation in Madrid with young children, we recommend choosing a hotel or Airbnb in a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood. For activities, you can find discounts and special offers on the Internet or on social networks. Finally, if you’d like even more advice, we suggest you take a look at our blog, where you’ll find articles packed with tips.
11 - Discover Madrid's markets
In the Spanish capital, you’ll find numerous markets where you can buy fresh produce, eat tapas or enjoy a good beer – the perfect place to take a break during your visit to Madrid.
Some markets are very touristy, while others are more intimate, where Madrilenians are accustomed to gathering. Friday and Saturday afternoons are usually the busiest, but it’s also at these times that you’ll feel the Spanish atmosphere.
San Miguel market - (mercado de San Miguel)
The San Miguel market is certainly the capital’s most famous market.
Located just a few steps from the Plaza Mayor, it’s a must-see during your stay in Madrid.
Mercado de San Miguel address: Plaza de San Miguel, S/N, 28005 Madrid
Our tips for the San Miguel market
The San Miguel market is a must-see under any circumstances. You’ll find plenty of stalls and magnificent architecture. However, we advise you only to come and admire the sights and have a drink, as the price of tapas is excessive. For an authentic dining experience, we recommend the backstreets of the Latina or Las Letras districts.
San Antón Market - Chueca
This market is located in the heart of Madrid’s famous LGBT Chueca district.
Comprising several floors, you can buy fresh food and enjoy tapas, as well as one of the city’s best terraces. Very popular with Madrilenians, it offers quality products and a chic atmosphere similar to the Bon Marché in Paris.
Mercado de San Antón address: Calle de Augusto Figueroa, 24, 28004 Madrid
Our tips for the San Anton market
This is one of our favorite markets in the heart of Madrid. It offers quality and value for money. We recommend a visit during your tour of the Chueca district.
Peace Market - Mercado de la Paz - Goya
A little-known address for tourists, this is the ideal place to enjoy a glass of wine after shopping in Madrid’s chic district. Located on Calle de Ayala, its entrance is very discreet.
The mercado de la Paz is one of Madrid’s authentic and unique addresses that we like to share with our customers and readers.
Mercado de la Paz address: Calle de Ayala, 28B, 28001 Madrid
Our tips for the La Paz market
The La Paz market is another must-see. Slightly off the beaten track of Madrid’s historic center, we recommend a visit after the Prado Museum (you’ll need to take the metro to the barrio de Salamanca).
12 - Have a drink on one of Madrid's best rooftops
If you like to have a drink on the rooftops, eat with friends with a magnificent view or party in trendy places, then you’re going to love Madrid! With over 20 rooftops in the city center, there’s something for everyone.
Many of the city’s rooftops are hotel-owned and located in the city center, making them a convenient base for your visit to Madrid.
Rooftop plaza Santa Ana, RADIO ME Madrid rooftop bar
Located in the heart of Madrid, the RADIO ME Madrid rooftop bar is an address not to be missed. It’s the ideal place to have a drink and relax after a day of intensive sightseeing.
360º Rooftop Bar Madrid Riu Plaza
The RIU Plaza Madrid hotel on the Plaza de España has the advantage of being the city’s highest rooftop. A 360° view awaits you in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s often crowded. If you enter before 6 p.m., the price is : 5 € and if you enter after 6 p.m. you’ll have to pay: 10 €.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. and weekends and public holidays from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
If you’re looking for an original hotel in downtown Madrid, we recommend the RIU Hotel.
Our tips for the best view of Madrid
The best view in Madrid is from the rooftop Gingko bar. Located just a few steps from the Riu Plaza de España, it offers a bird’s-eye view of Madrid’s Royal Palace. Less well-known and more affordable than the Riu, we recommend a visit here during your Madrid vacation. Admission costs 5 €.
13 - Where to shop in Madrid
If you’re visiting Madrid, you’ll certainly want to go shopping. You’ll have plenty of opportunities, especially with the very interesting sales.
Shopping on Madrid's Gran Via
Calle Gran Via is one of Madrid’s most central avenues. Here you’ll find all the major clothing brands and a multitude of stores.
It’s the perfect place to take home a souvenir or buy some clothes. Here’s where to shop:
- Primark
- Zara
- Benetton
- Uniqlo
Shopping in Malasaña
If you love vintage fashion, second-hand stores and second-hand clothes, then you’ll be delighted to discover Malasaña. If you don’t know what to do when it’s raining in Madrid, then we recommend you go shopping in this district.
It’s the ideal place to buy vintage clothes, and you’ll find a multitude of stores, the best of which are listed below:
- Magpie, a comprehensive second-hand clothing store. You’ll find designer clothes, accessories and even handbags. There’s a men’s section and a women’s section. This is one of Madrid’s most popular second-hand stores.
Address: Calle Velarde 3, Madrid. - Flamingos Vintage kilo, the concept is simple, you pay by weight, the prices are very low and you’ll find everything. This is the place to be for fans of American vintage clothing.
Address: Calle Espíritu Santo 1, Madrid.
Our tips for visiting Madrid and enjoying the sales
To take advantage of the sales when you visit Madrid, we advise you to come on the following dates: from January 1ᵉʳ to March 31 for the winter sales and from June 21 to September 21 for the summer sales. These are the best times to make great bargains and expand your wardrobe.
14 - Visit Madrid and eat churros
One of the things to do in Madrid is to try churros con chocolat. We’ve put together a selection of the two best places to try them. To find out more about churros, we invite you to read the following article: Where to eat churros in Madrid?
Chocolaterie San Ginés, the temple of churros
The San Gines chocolate factory is a Madrid institution and one of the oldest and most famous chocolate factories in the city.
Chocolatería Valor
You’ll find Valor chocolate shops all over Madrid. Their products are of the highest quality, and their churros are also very good. We recommend a visit for a delicious hot chocolate with churros.
Our tips for enjoying a unique churro experience
Churreria St Gines is the best place to eat churros. Not only will you enjoy a unique experience, but you’ll also taste the best churros in the capital. Don’t worry about opening hours, churreria St Gines is open all day from Monday to Sunday. Prefer to enjoy your Airbnb on a rainy day? Find churreria St Gines on Globo or Uber Eats.
15 - Discover Madrid's neighborhoods
Get lost in the narrow streets of Malasana, admire the boutiques of the Salamanca district, stroll through Madrid’s literary quarter or have a drink in Chueca. Madrid has the advantage of a city center on a human scale, offering a wide variety of places and atmospheres. Here’s a list of Madrid’s best neighborhoods for a stroll.
The Latina district and the Rastro market
The Latina district is the city’s bohemian quarter, where you’ll find the Rastro market on weekends. It’s a lively, touristy area with plenty to do and great tapas bars.
Madrid's chic barrio of Salamanca
It’s in Madrid’s chic barrio de Salamanca that you’ll find numerous luxury boutiques and gourmet restaurants. We recommend that you visit this emblematic district of Madrid after a visit to Retiro Park or the Prado Museum.
The Lavapiés district
Lavapiés is Madrid’s multicultural district. It’s unique for its ethnic stores and African restaurants.
Our tips for visiting Madrid's neighborhoods
To make the most of your stay in Madrid, we recommend that you start by visiting Madrid’s historic center. This is where you’ll find all the historic monuments you need to visit. The Latina and Lavapies districts can be visited together.
16 - Visit Madrid and eat paella and tapas
Finding the ideal restaurant is never easy, especially when you’re not familiar with a city. To help you plan your stay in Madrid, here’s a list of Madrid’s best restaurants and bars for paella and tapas.
Our tips for eating delicious paella during your stay in Madrid
For quality paella, we recommend going to a restaurant where Madrilenians are used to going. You’ll enjoy more economical prices and quality products. Here are our top 3 paella restaurants:
- Mar Mía, Pl. de Isabel II, 7, Centro, 28013 Madrid
- La Barraca, Calle de la Reina, 29
- Bar La Gloria, Calle del Noviciado, 2
17 - Visit Madrid and buy a souvenir at the Rastro market
One of Madrid’s most popular activities is antique hunting at the Rastro market on Sundays.
The Rastro flea market is one of Madrid’s oldest markets. Here you can find antiques to decorate your home, paintings, second-hand clothes and old vinyl records.
Our tips for getting the best deals on your shopping trip to the Rastro market
Like all flea markets around the world, you need to arrive early to get the best deals. We recommend arriving around 9 a.m. on Sundays. Depending on what you want to buy, you’ll need to go to a specific area.
- If you want to buy second-hand clothes, we recommend you go to the bottom of the Rastro (down the main street), where you’ll find large stalls selling second-hand clothes.
- If you’re looking for antiques, you’ll have to go to the little alleys and galleries on the sides of the main street.
As for souvenirs, you’ll find them everywhere.
18 - Visit Madrid and the surrounding area: Toledo, Segovia, Avila...
If you’re planning to visit Madrid for several days, you’ll probably want to explore the area surrounding the capital. You’ll find plenty to do in the medieval towns of Segovia and Toledo.
A day in Segovia
The medieval city of Segovia is well worth a visit. One of Spain’s most historic cities, Segovia’s famous aqueduct will astound you.
Toledo in a day
Toledo is one of Spain’s most important medieval cities, located just a 30-minute train ride (return tickets cost less than 40 €/p) from the capital, giving you the chance to visit this magnificent medieval city and relive the era of the kings.
19 - Visit Madrid by bike with an English-speaking guide
Madrid is one of the European capitals where it’s most pleasant to cycle and enjoy the wide open spaces. We recommend booking a bike tour of Madrid with an English-speaking guide.
You can also rent bikes directly from your hotel or from bike rental companies. You’ll find self-service bicycles all over the city, with a special feature: they’re electric bikes – very practical!
Our tips for visiting Madrid by bike
The city of Madrid can be visited in many different ways, but visiting Madrid by bike is the most practical solution. If you want to book a bike tour, don’t forget to ask for electric bikes, as cycling through Madrid can be quite sporty, and doing it on an electric bike will be much easier. For those who love discovery, we advise you to choose the 3-hour option. In addition to sightseeing, you’ll be able to wander through many of the narrow streets and glean valuable tips and addresses that only your guide knows.
20 - The best places to party
Madrid is a capital that never sleeps. Spanish nights are famous for being long. Partying in Madrid is one of the best experiences you can have on your vacation.
A true party capital, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to going out, with every style and music represented. Here’s an overview of Madrid’s clubs, bars and trendy nightlife districts.
Nightclubs and discos in Madrid
There are many clubs in Madrid offering different styles of music. Whether you like electro, house, hip-hop or bachata, there’s a club for you.
Madrid’s most famous nightclub is Kapital, located in a former theater in downtown Madrid. This 7-storey club will surprise you.
Here are the top 3 most famous clubs in Madrid for a night out during your stay in Madrid:
- Kapital – 7-storey nightclub on Calle Mayor.
- Theatro Barcelo – chic nightclub in Chueca.
- Gotham – in the city’s student district.