Things to do in Madrid

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Madrid featuring night scenes, heritage architecture and a city
Madrid which includes a city, signage and landscape views
Almudena Cathedral
Madrid featuring night scenes
Madrid featuring a city and landscape views

Madrid Attractions

If you consider planning a vacation in Spain’s capital, you’ve come to the right place for guidance concerning things to do in Madrid. Because Madrid is a city that offers a plethora of activities, it will be easy to find Madrid excursions to thrill each member of your travel party.

Madrid is a colorful city with lots of festivals, music, outdoor markets, and an abundance of nightlife. It's been estimated that Madrid has more bars per capita than any other city of its size in the world, so come prepared to celebrate the night away in La Capital. The Gran Via are is particular known for its vibrant and eclectic nightlife. Wine also flows freely in Madrid Spain has more land planted in wine grapes than any other wine-producing country. Madrid tours of local wine bars are one of the best ways to spend a sunny summer afternoon.

If history and culture are appealing to you, the Barrio de las Letras is a must see part of the city because of its historical buildings. This neighborhood was also well-loved by some of Spain's most prominent writers Quevedo and Cervantes both called this area home. If you are the type who likes to find quirky local spots and sit with a book while people-watching, the Conde Duque neighborhood will supply you with an excellent selection of small cafes and bars that feature an alternative ambiance.

If shopping is near the top of your list of Madrid activities, you won't want to miss the Salamanca neighborhood. The multicultural area of Lavapies is one of the city's most unique places and is well worth a visit because you can find shops and cafes here representing all parts of the world. Because Madrid is such a large city, it is recommended you bring a good map to not get lost.

For more information on the many attractions in Madrid, give us a call here at Expedia. We'll be happy to help you plan your vacation so you can have the best tourist experience possible.


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Madrid must see attractions

1. Gran Via

The Gran Via is a shopping hub and a center for nightlife. Like much of Madrid, the strip celebrates the past while embracing the future: boutique stores and international brands are housed in some of Madrid’s most iconic heritage architecture.
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Vibrant sunset over bustling Gran Via showcasing architecture and urban life in Madrid

2. Bernabéu Stadium

Real Madrid is one of the most internationally recognized soccer teams and their Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Estadio Santiago Bernabéu) is among the sport’s finest. Watching a match at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a lifetime dream for both long-term Madridistas and soccer enthusiasts. Walk on the hallowed turf of the playing field, browse the clubs impressive trophy hall and relive historical moments via multimedia exhibits.
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Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

3. Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol, or “Sun Gate,” is Madrid’s beating heart. It was once at the eastern extremity of the city and the location of a medieval gate decorated with the rising sun, from which it gets its name. Today it’s the city’s main public square, hosting everything from political demonstrations to New Year’s Eve celebrations.
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Puerta del Sol which includes a city and a fountain

4. Plaza Mayor

The Plaza Mayor is one of Madrid’s best-known public places. Its cobbled courtyard is surrounded by stylish restaurants, boutiques, bars and cafés. It was a chaotic market back in the 16th century until King Felipe II commissioned a proper public square. The plaza was completed in 1619 under the supervision of architect Juan Gómez de Mora, but would burn down three times before the present version was constructed in 1790.
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Plaza Mayor which includes a square or plaza, an administrative buidling and heritage architecture

5. Royal Palace of Madrid

The Spanish Royal Palace (Palacio Real) is one of the biggest palaces in Western Europe. The palace is known for its extravagant interior and the staggering collection of furniture, artwork, weapons, armor and accessories found throughout its 3,400 rooms. Construction of the building you see today started in 1738 after the previous royal residence burned down on the same site in 1734. Nowadays the Spanish royal family does not live in the palace.
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6. El Retiro Park

El Retiro (El Parque de Retiro) is one of Madrid’s favorite parks and occupies nearly 350 acres (140 hectares) of land in the city center. It was once a royal retreat and the site of a large palace, but was opened to the public in the 1860s. There are statues and monuments all throughout the park, as well as two ponds, art galleries and fountains. It’s a popular retreat for Sunday afternoon picnics and you’ll notice street performers plying their trade in the busiest areas.
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El Retiro Park which includes a park

7. Prado Museum

The Prado (Museo Nacional del Prado) is one of the world’s most prestigious art museums. It was commissioned in 1785 by King Carlos III to showcase Spanish talent and taste. The royal collection has formed the core of the museum’s inventory since it opened to the public in 1819. The collection has expanded over the years to include works from other European nations and even ancient Greek and Roman statues.
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Prado Museum featuring a garden and heritage architecture

8. Plaza de Castilla

The Plaza de Castilla is a leafy square on a roundabout flanked by the Puerta de Europa Towers. At the center of this iconic plaza rises the Caja Madrid Obelisk, while scenic gardens grace its southeastern corner. Relax beside the elegant fountain at the core of the plaza and watch people go by.
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Plaza de Castilla featuring a city and a skyscraper

What to do in Madrid

Free Things to Do in Madrid

Leave your wallet in the hotel. It's a snap to amuse yourself in Madrid without spending a penny.

National Museum of Decorative Arts - Speak to the friendly staff or curator and learn more about the unique collections housed here.

Madrid Rio - Loads of fun awaits at this entertaining place.

Plaza de Santo Domingo - Fans of architecture will certainly enjoy marveling at the modern design of this landmark.

Real Casa de Postas - If you're intrigued by history, this is one attraction you won't want to miss.

Puerta del Sol - Find out why tourists and locals alike are in love with the unique vibe of this place.

Telefonica Building - Widely renowned among those who reside here, this site is worth exploring.

Church of Nuestra Senora del Carmen y San Luis - Work on your spiritual side or just take in the tranquil atmosphere at this sacred place.

Garden of Prince Anglona - If you love pottering about the garden, this attraction will satisfy your inner green thumb.

Things to Do in Madrid with Kids

There are lots of amazing experiences in Madrid that the entire gang will get a buzz out of. Here are a few of the most popular family friendly experiences around.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Madrid? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Madrid

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Madrid

Puerta del Sol showing street scenes, a sunset and a city

Madrid Centro

4.5/5(2,922 area reviews)

View famous works of art, shop for designer goods and visit the palace Spanish royals sometimes call home when you tour Madrid's central district.

Madrid Centro
Spain featuring swimming, general coastal views and tropical scenes

Sol

If you're spending time in Sol, check out sights like Gran Via or Puerta del Sol and hop on the metro to see more the city at Sol Station or Callao Station.

Sol
Salamanca showing street scenes as well as a small group of people

Salamanca

4.5/5(751 area reviews)

Located in the upscale Madrid area of Calle de Serrano, this area boasts pricey real estate and Spain's third most expensive street. Discover numerous diplomatic missions, including the Swiss, French, US, and Italian embassies.

Salamanca
Chueca featuring cafe scenes and a city as well as a large group of people

Chueca

4.5/5(311 area reviews)

This avant-garde part of Madrid is known as the gay quarter because of its numerous LGBT shops and bars, a Gay Pride march and an open-minded populace.

Chueca
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Ibiza

During your stop in Ibiza, check out the parks, and jump on the metro at Ibiza Station to see more of the surrounding area.

Ibiza
Malasana which includes a square or plaza and a statue or sculpture as well as children

Malasaña

4.5/5(189 area reviews)

Loved by hipsters and students for its coffeehouses and nightlife scene, this creative neighborhood also has excellent art museums, theaters and shopping.

Malasaña

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Madrid

Frequently asked questions

Is Madrid worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Madrid is explore Gran Via. Check this top sight off your list, then experience more of this area's markets and culture.
How do I spend a day in Madrid?
After you've checked off leading attractions like Gran Via and Príncipe Pío Shopping Center, spend some time experiencing Madrid's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Madrid?
The top tourist attraction in Madrid is Gran Via, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Madrid?
Three days will be enough time to tick off popular city sights, such as Gran Via, Prado Museum and Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. The average stay in Madrid is three days. If you have the time to extend your trip, Alcobendas isn't far away.
Is Madrid a walkable city?
Some top attractions in Madrid, such as Gran Via and Prado Museum, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.1 miles from central Madrid is Sol and Barrio de las Letras is 0.2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Madrid with kids?
What to do in Madrid for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Madrid, with activities for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Paseo de la Castellana or Calle de Alcalá.
Are there free things to do in Madrid?
In Madrid, Gran Via is a popular spot for anyone planning to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a good way to explore the best free things to do in Madrid.

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