Discover Madrid: Spain’s captivating and vibrant capital
Head to Madrid for fascinating history, unique art, and an unrivalled food scene. Madrid – Spain’s lively capital city – seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Boasting a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning architecture, this city offers something for everyone. Explore the top things to do in Madrid, from exploring world-renowned museums to indulging in authentic Spanish cuisine. Feed your soul in marvellous Madrid.
What to see and do in Madrid
Make Madrid top of your bucket list
If you’re searching for a European city that has it all, check out Madrid. Captivating city life, fascinating history, and lush green spaces, that’s Spain’s capital in a nutshell. Madrid has something to offer groups, couples, families, and solo travellers. Wander around the city’s museums, chill out in one of the spacious parks, eat tapas at one of a range of authentic restaurants, or see a bullfight or a flamenco dance. The opportunities are endless.
Top attractions in Madrid
Madrid is calling. Whether you enjoy art, history, sport or shopping, create your perfect itinerary and delve into this famous city.
Prado Museum
No 1 for Spanish art
The Prado Museum, or Museo Nacional del Prado, is in the centre of the city. Housing an unrivalled collection of Spanish art, this Madrid museum is a must-see for those who love admiring European pieces. For the best experience, visit in spring or autumn when crowds are smaller.
El Retiro Park
City centre escape
El Retiro Park offers an escape from Madrid’s bustling centre, especially on summer days. Named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to gardens, monuments, a rowing lake and puppet shows, it’s unsurprising this is one of the most popular parks in Spain.
The Royal Palace
Grand and impressive
One of the largest royal palaces in the world, the Royal Palace of Madrid has an impressive 3,418 rooms, including the Royal Armoury, the Painting Gallery and the striking Hall of Mirrors. Take the Royal Palace tour on a Wednesday or Saturday and see the popular Changing of the Guard.
Gran Via
The city’s famous street
Gran Via – Madrid’s most famous street – is a great place for a stroll. Home to restaurants, bars, clothing stores, cinemas and theatres, Gran Via boasts the best nightlife in Madrid. You can also spot some of Spain’s most famous structures here, including the Metropolis and Carrion buildings.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Home of Los Blancos
Ideal for football fans, the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is famous around the world as the home of Real Madrid. Take the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium tour for a look behind the scenes. See Real Madrid’s 14 Champions League trophies and numerous La Liga titles during your visit.
Unique activities in Madrid
Ticked Madrid’s most popular attractions off your list? Here are some unique activities to try.
Tapas in La Latina
Explore La Latina, Madrid’s liveliest neighbourhood, and indulge in authentic tapas.
El Rastro Market
Madrid’s El Rastro Flea Market – open on Sundays and public holidays – boasts around 1000 vendors selling a huge range of goods.
Madrid Rio
The largest park in Madrid, Madrid Rio sits on the riverside and features walking trails, 17 play areas, and cafes.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
An unmissable Madrid art museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum hosts a collection tracing the history of European painting.
Immerse in Madrid’s culture
Madrid has a wonderfully rich and vibrant culture. It boasts unrivalled art, fantastic entertainment options, and an enviable food scene. From local sporting events and religious history to its amazing nightlife options, fully immerse yourself by trying some of these activities.
Attend a bullfight
Las Ventas Bullring
While controversial, bullfighting is deeply rooted in Spanish tradition. If you’d like to watch a Spanish bullfight, the Las Ventas bullring is the place to go. You can also try out a virtual realty bullfight for yourself!
Visit San Miguel Market
Centro
A must-visit for foodies, the San Miguel Food Market in Madrid offers all the cultural delights you could dream of. Find fresh fish tapas and a wide range of Spanish cheeses. Plus meat, fruit, vegetables, cakes, and more.
Explore Madrid’s churches
Madrid City
Discover Madrid’s fascinating religious history by visiting some of the city’s churches. Head to La Almudena Cathedral, the largest crypt in Spain. Or check out San Jerónimo el Real, once one of the most important convents in Madrid.
Flamenco roots: Witness this passionate dance in a tablao for the most authentic experience.
Artistic capital: Madrid is home to three of the world’s most famous museums.
Siesta tradition: Smaller shops could be closed for a siesta in the early afternoon.
The best hotels in Madrid
As a bustling capital, Madrid is home to a huge variety of hotels. With options to suit every budget, you’re guaranteed to find a great base to explore the city.
Four Seasons Hotel Madrid
The Four Seasons Hotel Madrid is a stunning luxury option featuring rooftop dining, Asian-Mediterranean cuisine, a four-level Wellness Centre and a pool terrace. Located in the heart of the city, just 500 metres from Gran Via Metro Station, the hotel has been created through joining seven historic buildings.
Novotel Madrid City Las Ventas
A great Madrid hotel for families, the Novotel Madrid City Las Ventas has spacious rooms and is conveniently located for the airport and city centre. Featuring an outdoor pool, game room, billiards, and Wi-Fi, there’s plenty to keep children occupied when you’re not out exploring.
JC Rooms Santa Ana
Located less than a mile from the Royal Palace Madrid, JC Rooms Santa Ana offers great facilities and fantastic value. The air-conditioned rooms are vibrantly decorated and feature a free minibar, free Wi-Fi, and a hydromassage shower.
Hostal Falfes
Hostal Falfes can be found in Madrid’s Cuatro Caminos District, home to restaurants, cafes, and cozy tapas bars. It’s just 10 minutes’ walk from Paseo de la Castellana and Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Featuring modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, this is a great budget hotel option in Madrid.
Average prices in Madrid
When on vacation in Madrid, expect to pay:
Dining out: A dish at a mid-range restaurant in Madrid can cost between €10-20 per person.
Public transport: A single Metro ticket costs €1.50-2.
Coffee: A cup of coffee in Madrid typically costs around €1.50.
Hotel accommodation: Prices vary, but a night in a mid-range hotel typically costs €80-120.
Souvenirs: A typical souvenir costs €10-20
Madrid is a truly unique place to visit. With a famous culture, fascinating history, amazing food and plenty of entertainment, it’s not to be missed.
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