Things to do to live like a Madrilenian, the complete guide
At the heart of Spain is Madrid, a city that vibrates day and night. Renowned for its electrifying parties, impressive architecture, tasty cuisine and rich cultural heritage, it’s one of Europe’s most interesting capitals to visit. To capture the true essence of the capital, it’s important to immerse yourself in the daily life of the Madrilenians and take part in local activities.
1 - Enjoy tapas in Madrid's lively districts
To feel the Madrid atmosphere, nothing beats a tapas bar crawl in the Malasaña las Letras or La Latina neighborhoods. Both areas are packed with traditional bars where tapas are enjoyed standing up, glass of wine in hand. Be sure to try the patatas bravas, fried calamari and tortilla, while enjoying the friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
2 - Visit the temporary exhibitions at the Prado and Reina Sofia museums with a guide
Madrid is a city of museums, and two stops are a must: the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofia Museum. A visit to the Prado will take you on a journey through European art, while the Reina Sofia houses masterpieces of modern art, including Picasso’s famous Guernica. Take advantage of temporary exhibitions to discover lesser-known aspects of these emblematic collections.
2 bis - Discover the tradition and culture of bullfighting during a visit to Madrid's Las Ventas bullring
If you’d like to learn more about a controversial tradition that is deeply rooted in Spanish culture, then we recommend a visit to the Las Ventas bullring.
Bullfighting, also known as bullfighting, is a long-standing Spanish tradition, particularly rooted in Madrid. It is considered an important part of local culture.
3 - Relax in Retiro Park
The city also boasts several large parks, perfect for a nature break in the middle of the city. Retiro Park, a former royal garden, is perfect for a boat trip on its large lake. You can also discover Casa de Campo, with its long kilometers of paths for jogging or cycling. The lesser-known Parc de l’Ouest is perfect for watching the sun set over the Royal Palace.
4 - Attend a Real Madrid soccer match
For a truly Madrid experience, take in a Real Madrid match, whether it’s soccer at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium or basketball. Attending a match in Madrid is much more than just a sporting event; it’s a deeply rooted ritual among residents, whether Real Madrid or Atletico fans.
This tradition is emblematic of local activity. Every match is a celebration, a fusion with the soul of the city. Don’t miss this chance to live the Madrid experience, whether in a vibrant stadium or a lively bar. The electric atmosphere and passionate fans will plunge you into the heart of Spanish sporting culture.
5 - Visit the Rastro market
On Sunday mornings, the Rastro market comes to life. It’s Madrid’s biggest flea market, where you can bargain for everything from antiques to vintage clothes. It’s a cultural experience in itself, perfect for finding unique souvenirs or simply observing local life. If you’d like to visit Madrid on your vacation, we recommend organizing a visit to the Rastro.
Bonus: Excursions around Madrid
Madrid is ideally located for exploring the surrounding historic cities. As a good Madrilenian, it’s a good idea to get out of the nest and discover the wonders of the surrounding area. Toledo, with its rich medieval heritage, El Escorial and its impressive monastery, or Segovia, famous for its Roman aqueduct and fairytale castle, are easy day trips to organize.