It will be quite difficult for you to visit all the places of interest and have enough time to do all the activities that this spectacular place offers to those who come to know it. Undoubtedly it will not be easy to decide what to do and what places to visit because below we offer you 45 interesting options to get to know Madrid, we hope you can enjoy them all.
Prado Museum
If you enjoy painting and art, be sure to visit the Prado Museum where you can appreciate the works of great artists such as El Greco, Bosch, Titian, Van Dyck, Rembrandt, Velázquez and Goya .
In this museum you will be delighted with collections of Spanish, Italian, German, French and English paintings. And of course, you will be fascinated by the masterpieces on display such as “Las Meninas” and “Las Dos Majas”. source .
Buen Retiro Park
Do not miss seeing the beautiful gardens of this park; adorned with marble monuments, patterned lawns and abundant vegetation. If you like to practice sports, you can practice rowing in El Estanque Grande ; or if you want to be more relaxed, you will be able to observe modern architecture such as the Palacio de Cristal and the Palacio de Velázquez. In the Crystal Palace you will also enjoy the exhibition of exotic plants. source .
Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando
So that you continue to enjoy art, be sure to enjoy this academy established by Fernando VI in 1752 and which was once the school for unforgettable characters such as Picasso and Dali. And if you love Spanish painting, this is the right place for you, since this is considered one of the most important Spanish painting galleries in all of Spain. source .
The Trail
If you love to go shopping, visit this lively open-air market where you can find an impressive variety of items and souvenirs that you can take with you. This market with more than 400 years of history is called “El Rastro”, since it is located where previously it was the path of the transfer of cattle to the slaughterhouse; When making the transfer, a trace of the blood was left, and from there the original name arose. source .
Main Square
This huge square with an area of 12,126 m2, was built in 1916 during the Habsburg era . Here you can admire the 237 balconies that overlook the square, or walk through the large central square where executions were once carried out where thousands of the unfortunate were burned at the stake. source .
San Ginés
No one can resist a delicious chocolate accompanied by some exquisite churros. Just a few steps from Puerta del Sol, this traditional bar opens its doors all year round late at night, giving you the opportunity to enjoy it after finishing the day’s activities. source .
Bullring and Bullfighting Museum
The Bullfighting Museum founded in 1929, located in the horse courtyard of the Plaza de Toros; offers you the opportunity to learn about the history of bullfighting and its importance in the history of Spain and its culture. If you visit with children they can participate in a didactic workshop in which they will learn about bullfighting . source .
Santa Ana Square
In this square located in the Barrio de las Letras, you can eat a traditional tapa or enjoy a refreshing drink in one of the bars, cafes or restaurants that characterize it. This square was founded in what was previously the convent of Santa Ana and to which it owes its name by José I Bonaparte in the year 1848 approximately. source .
Temple of Debod
This legendary Egyptian temple dating back to the 2nd century BC was moved from its original site and rebuilt in 1972 after being donated to Spain by the Egyptian government. You will be able to learn more about the history of the temple by watching the models, videos and audiovisual projections that are part of the activities offered in this place. source .
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
In this stadium, inaugurated in 1947, you will be able to remember some of the best goals in history, such as Roberto Carlos’s against Barcelona, Cuauhtémoc Blanco playing for Real Valladolid, Diego Maradona’s in 1983, and the many more scored by Hugo . Sanchez . If you are lucky, you will be able to see Real Madrid, the owner of this stadium, in full action. source .
San Miguel Market
In this historic market you can buy different types of fruits, vegetables and fresh and seasonal meats with which, if you wish, you can create your own gourmet dishes or enjoy them right there in the many restaurants of this cultural and gastronomic center. source .
Cibeles Palace
Inaugurated in 1909, the Old Palace of Telecommunications, actually today is the headquarters of the Madrid City Council. If you want to see the inside of this beautiful white palace, you can come to one of the guided tours, where you will also learn more about its history. source .
Gran Via
On the Gran Vía you will be able to appreciate the historic buildings that characterize it and at the same time listen to one or another anecdote about the famous buildings that are found here, such as the famous Lope de Vega theater. Here you can remember some scenes from movies that have been filmed in this beautiful setting, such as Edgar Neville ‘s The Last Horse , or Pedro Almodóvar’s The Day of the Beast. source .
Reina Sofía Museum
Founded in 1992, this museum offers exhibitions of contemporary Spanish art. Here you can delight yourself with works by extraordinary masters such as Picasso and Dalí, and appreciate ” El Guernica “, considered the most important work in this museum. And if you have run short of money, the museum offers different times every day where you can visit it for free. source .
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
If you want to know the history of European painting from its beginnings, this is the right museum. Here you can appreciate works from the 13th century, as well as those from the 20th century. In addition to appreciating the different exhibitions, if how many with a few days you can take part in some of the courses or workshops related to art that are offered to the public. source .
Puerta del Sol
This is one of the most famous squares in Madrid, here you can admire the statue of the bear and the Madroño, which by the way symbolizes this city; the post office clock, a meeting place for many at the start of the new year and kilometer zero , the starting point for radical national highways. source .
Royal Palace
Residence used by kings, now it is open to the public who wants to see it. Here you will be able to appreciate the main staircase, the throne room, the Alabarderos room, the Gasparini room, the Royal Pharmacy, the Royal Chapel, the Royal Armory and the painting gallery where you will enjoy works of art that are also considered part of the national heritage like the portrait of Isabel la Católica. source .
Casa de Campo Cable Car
And if you want to observe Madrid from the sky, don’t miss visiting this tourist attraction open every day of the year. This is an ecological means of transport from which you will also be able to appreciate many green areas that make up Madrid’s scenery. In this space you can relax, away from the bustle of the city, or enjoy a meal and a coffee in the restaurant that offers spectacular views of the city. source .
Madrid Arena
In this colossal multipurpose pavilion located near the center of the capital, shows, sports and cultural activities are offered, among others. If you are lucky, you will be able to enjoy a concert by your favorite artist, ask for an autograph near the dressing rooms or eat a snack in the cafeteria after an event. source .
The Museum of Natural Sciences
Created by King Carlos III in 1771, the museum has more than 6,000 different specimens of animal life. In addition, with the different exhibitions and collections that the museum offers you will be able to learn about amphibians and reptiles, mammals, birds, geology, fine arts and prehistory among many other things. source .
The Puerta de Alcalá
There it is, there it is watching time go by, La Puerta de Alcalá. Surely it brings to mind Ana Belén and Víctor Manuel interpreting this beautiful song. Located in the Plaza de la Independencia, this beautiful monument representative of the culture of Madrid offers visitors the ideal place to take pictures and learn a little about its history. Font .
Lope de Vega Theater
Located on the Gran Vía, this stage that was inaugurated in 1949 specializes in musicals and artistic productions. Dressed in a deep red color, this theater has welcomed personalities such as Concha Piquer and Carmen Morel and has offered performances of famous works such as Les Miserables. source .
The Big Pond
You will find it inside the Buen Retiro Park, built in the 7th century, this pond has been the scene of various shows such as naval battles and the walks of the king and his entourage. Here you can relax taking a boat ride, or if you prefer, listen to one of the many secrets about it, such as that in 2001 it was completely emptied to make it waterproof. source .
Almudena Cathedral
This beautiful cathedral can be visited by everyone and can carry different memories of the Virgin of Almudena, who is considered the patron saint of the city of Madrid. You can revere the altar of Santa María la Real de la Almudena or visit the tomb of Queen María de las Mercedes, the Gothic argon of San Isidro and the main altar where you can appreciate the crucified Christ , also known as Christ of the Good Death. Font .
Atocha Station
This is one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, with its mixture of luxury, modernity and the colonial touch that provides its resemblance to a cathedral or temple inside which an efficient transport is housed that welcomes millions of passengers annually. You will also be able to appreciate the plants and animals, such as the terrapins that are found in the tropical garden of Atocha. source .
Las Ventas bullring
Are you one of those who enjoy bullfighting? In this famous square you will not only be able to enjoy the bullfights that are held every Sunday, you will also be able to attend special events such as the Goyesque bullfight that is held on May 2, fairs, exhibitions, conferences, concerts and much more. source .
Plaza España
Do tall buildings impress you? This magnificent square is located in the center of the city of Madrid, here you can take your portrait in the monument to Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, in the Torre de Madrid or in the España building, impressive skyscrapers that you should not miss. source .
Fountain of Cibeles
Two magnificent and imposing lions pulling the goddess of Cibeles in a cart in the direction of the Puerta del Sol, this is one of the most emblematic symbols of the city of Madrid. Be careful not to fall in love with this goddess or you could end up like these lions pulling this beautiful woman forever. source .
Colon Square
In this magnificent square you can see how the greatest pride in all of Spain waves. Yes! Here you can admire one of the largest national flags of this beautiful and splendid country. This stunning bright red and yellow flag measures just 294 square meters. Can you imagine it? source .
Provencal Market
Let’s go Cañas! If you want to enjoy a good beer, be sure to come to this place that opened its doors no more than five years ago. In an atmosphere of party, movement and colors, you can enjoy not only beers at a very good price, but also delight yourself with delicious food such as traditional tapas. source .
Malasaña neighborhood
Come to know this neighborhood that is located in the Plaza del Dos de Mayo. Here you can go for a drink, eat at one of the many restaurants that you will find, buy a souvenir or simply enjoy the original graffiti that are considered true works of art. source .
Plaza Dos de Mayo
Do you want to enjoy a drink or a coffee outdoors? Come to Plaza Dos de Mayo, here you will find several bars, cafes and restaurants where you can spend time with whoever you want, you can even find playgrounds if you are traveling with children. The name of this square refers to May 2, 1808 when the town decided to defend itself against the French invaders. source .
Capricho Park
If you prefer a romantic walk in a place full of nature where you can relax, come to this beautiful park considered a natural-artistic heritage in Madrid. Within this park you can also visit the parterre, the Italian giardino or the labyrinth where you can hide for a while if you wish. Font .
Madrid Zoo Aquarium
Did you think that you could only see fish and marine life in this splendid place? You are wrong, this is a zoo where you can see more than 500 different species of animals, from dolphins to big bears and gorillas. What are you waiting for? Come with all your family. source .
Warner Park
For you to continue traveling with the family, come to this fantasy park located in San Martín de la Vega. Here you can feel chills in one of the 8 mountains or vertigo in the free fall tower, you will also enjoy the water attractions or the shows for children. Font .
Courtyard Wonders
Located inside the Malasaña neighborhood, this is a center where different social and cultural activities take place, which owes its name to being located where the Maravillas neighborhood used to be. If you wish, you can participate in any of the events or workshops that are offered free of charge. source .
Bonsai Museum
Do you like thumbnails? Be sure to visit this peculiar museum founded in 1992. This museum offers you the opportunity to appreciate a magnificent collection of bonsai and other exotic tree species. This is one of the most important bonsai museums in all of Europe. Font .
Naval Museum of Madrid
Are you fascinated by ships and their history through the years? If you want to know about the maritime history of Spain, this museum founded in 1792 is the one for you. It is important that you plan your visit, since you must book 15 days in advance. source .
The roof of the circle of Fine Arts
I hope you are not afraid of heights, because here we offer you a spectacular idea to spend an incredible time near the clouds. Located 56 meters above Calle de Alcalá. This place offers you a panoramic view of the city of Madrid. If you visit at night, the spectacle you will see will be even more amazing. Font .
Crystal Palace
This palace gives the impression of being one of those you have seen in fairy tales and fantasy. Located in the Parque del Retiro and built in 1887, this palace is made almost entirely of iron and glass. The one that was once used for exhibitions of exotic plants, is now used for artistic exhibitions and is the exhibition venue of the Reina Sofía museum. source .
Madrid Rio
If you want to continue enjoying the art that Madrid offers, don’t miss this part of the city. In this place you will be able to appreciate several historical monuments as well as the plays, shows and musicals that are offered. If you have children, there are several play areas where they will have an incredible time in the hall of the pines. source .
San Antón Market
If you’ve worked up an appetite, don’t miss a walk through this colorful market full of atmosphere. Located next to the Plaza de Chueca, this market is a pleasure for the senses; you can enjoy an incredible variety of tapas with common or exotic ingredients, just the way you prefer them. You can also have a beer on the open terrace of the market. source .
Sabatini Gardens
Located in front of the north façade of the Royal Palace, it is one of the most beautiful neoclassical parks in the center of Madrid. The central part of the park is the pond surrounded by species of different trees. If you are lucky enough to visit them when it is snowing, the spectacle you will see will be something difficult to forget. source .
Cultural Center of the Armies
Be sure to see this beautiful old construction of singular architectural beauty, popularly known as a military casino and founded in 1871. Located on Gran Vía, this place offers a range of activities for members such as concerts and exhibitions, among others. If you want to visit you can enjoy a meal in the restaurant of the place that is open to the public. source .
Kilometer Zero
Located in the Puerta del Sol, this is the most famous kilometer in Spain and is considered a symbol of Madrid. This is the geographical location from where the distances of the radial national highways are measured. Here you can take a picture in front of the plaque that represents this famous kilometer, which contains the map of Spain, Portugal and France, the Madrid shield and the emblem of civil engineers.