The Best Things to See & Do in Madrid Spain

Are you planning a trip to Madrid and wondering what are the best things to see and do?
With so many historic landmarks and cultural experiences, you’ll need some help narrowing down how to best spend your time in the Spanish Capital. Here’s a list of the best things to see and do in Madrid, Spain!

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Welcome to Madrid, the capital city of Spain. Steeped in history, millions of tourists arrive here every year to experience the architecture, browse the art museums and taste the delicious food. There is no shortage of things to see and do!  

There is something to be said about spontaneity while travelling, but there is nothing more satisfying than showing up prepared to a new destination. Preparation not only offers peace of mind, but you’ll have a better chance of snagging deals on flights, booking your preferred accommodation, reserving a table at an in-demand restaurant or getting limited-supply tickets to local attractions. 

Here’s a list of the best things to see and do in Madrid, Spain. Take some time to thoughtfully consider what you would like to experience while you are there, what it will cost and how much time you think you’ll need to fit it all in. Take these essential steps to create memories that will last a lifetime. 

Best Things to See & Do in Madrid

Use this guide to create a list of your top highlights for visiting Madrid. From there you can make a budget and itinerary, turning your dream vacation into a reality. Planning the trip is almost as exciting as the journey itself. All that will be left to do is pack your bags and decide where to go first! 

1. Royal Palace of Madrid

An iconic landmark in Madrid, the Royal Palace is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, although now used only for state ceremonies. The largest palace in Europe is open to the public for guided tours. Explore the grand staircase, as well as elaborate rooms decorated with fine pieces of art and luxurious furnishings. The palace is surrounded by peaceful greenspaces such as the Sabatini Gardens and Campo del Moro. 

Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm. Sunday from 10:00am – 4:00 pm. 
Cost: €12.00

2. La Almundena Cathedral

Santa Maria Cathedral is a Catholic church, located adjacent to the Royal Palace. The vantage point from the cathedral dome offers spectacular views over the city of Madrid. 

Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am – 8:30 pm. 
Cost: Access to the cathedral is free but there is a fee (€6.00) to access the dome.

3. Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is a popular town square where locals and tourists gather to shop, eat, enjoy the outdoors and people-watch. The bronze statue dedicated to King Philip III is the centerpiece of the plaza.

4. Puerta del Sol (Gate of the Sun) 

Located in the heart of the city, Puerta del Sol represents the centre of Madrid as well as the country of Spain. The large semi-circular plaza is home to the stone slab marking Spain’s kilometre zero. It is from here that the five historic routes of the country originated from. Madrid’s famous clock tower, as well as the Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree can also be found in this bustling plaza. 

5. Golden Triangle of Art

Museo del Prado, Centro de Arte Reina Sofia and Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza are considered the three most famous art museums in Madrid. Each museum includes collections from Spain’s greatest masters. Save money on entrance costs by visiting during the free entry periods, which occur on most days of the week. Make sure to arrive prior to the time of entry to avoid very long queues.

Museo del Prado

Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm. Sunday from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm. 
Cost: €15.00
Free Access Hours: Monday – Saturday from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm & Sunday/Holidays from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm. 

Centro de Arte Reina Sofia

Opening Hours: Monday 10:00 am – 9:00 pm. Closed Tuesdays. Wednesday – Saturday from 10:00 am – 9:00 pm. Sunday from 10:00 am – 2:30 pm.
Cost: €12.00
Free Access Hours: Monday & Wednesday – Saturday from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm. Sunday from 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm. 

Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza

Opening Hours: Monday 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm. Tuesday – Sunday from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm. 
Cost: €13.00
Free Access Hours: Free entry on Mondays. 

6. Parque del Retiro 

Retiro Park is an oasis in the heart of the city. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. Here you will find gardens, monuments, galleries, statues, fountains and lakes. Hire row boats and admire the Crystal Palace. 

Opening Hours: Open daily year-round from 6:00 am – 10:00 pm.  
Cost: Free

7. Puerta de Alcala

Located in the Independence Plaza, situated next to Parque del Retiro, stands a magnificent, triumphal gate called Puerta de Alcala. It’s comprised of 5 archways and was once the entrance to the city of Madrid.

8. Temple of Debod 

Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple that can be found in the Parque de la Montaña. The treasured monument was dismantled, transported and re-erected in the city of Madrid as a gift from the Egyptian government. The temple is free to enter but limited indoor capacity often leads to long queues. The area is best viewed at sunrise or sunset.

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday from 10:00 am – 7:30 pm. Closed Mondays. 
Cost: Free

9. Gran Via (Great Way)

Referred to as the Spanish Broadway, Madrid’s Gran Via is a luxurious avenue with high-end shopping, dining, nightlife, cinematic and theatrical shows. Some of the most famous buildings in Spain can be found here, such as the Metropolis and Carrion building.

10. Mercado de San Miguel

The San Miguel Market has nourished locals and travellers in Madrid for over 100 years. The cast iron building opened in 1916 and is located within walking distance of Plaza Mayor. Several vendors offer a variety of freshly prepared food and beverages including tapas, meat, olives, cheese, bread, wine and seafood.

Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday from 10:00 am – 12: 00 am. Friday & Saturday from 10:00 am – 1:00 am. 

11. Live Flamenco Show

Flamenco is a Spanish art form comprised of dancing, singing and guitar playing. The performance is often very passionate and powerful, creating a deep connection between the entertainers and the audience. You won’t regret going to see a live Flamenco Show during your trip to Madrid! 

12. Tapas & Wine Tour 

Spain and its capital, Madrid, are known for being one of the best places in the world to spend time wining and dining. The region is brimming with wine-producing vineyards and tapas bars. Tapas, traditionally known as small savory dishes, snacks or appetisers, are a staple of Spanish cuisine.

Join a tapas and wine tour to enrich your travel experience. Discover local-approved restaurants and try new flavourful foods. If you book your tasting tour in the evening, you may also have access to a rooftop terrace. 

Day Trips from Madrid

Madrid is the gateway to nearby day-trip destinations. Spend some time visiting a different city, with new foods, cultural experiences and historical sites. Base yourself in Madrid and check out these must-see Spanish cities. 

1. Segovia

The incredibly historic city of Segovia is a bucket list travel destination in Spain. Segovia is known for its three main landmarks: Roman Aqueducts, Gothic Cathedral & Medieval Castle. Admire the architecture including the medieval walls, ancient aqueduct arches and the fortress that inspired Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle. 

Segovia is a very popular day-trip located less than 2 hours from Madrid. Choose to get there by taking a train, driving yourself or opting for a guided tour. 

2. Ávila

If you are seeking medieval charm, head to the Spanish town of Ávila. This enchanting day-trip destination is best known for its perfectly preserved stone city walls, semicircular guard towers and defensive gates.

It’s best to visit in the evening, as some of the wall sections are walkable and become illuminated once the sun sets. This is a very impressive sight, and will certainly be a memorable part of your trip to Spain. You can often combine a day-trip to both Ávila and Segovia. Take a train, self-drive or choose to join a guided tour. 

3. Toledo

Toledo is another ancient city located on the outskirts of Madrid built high upon a hill. Marvel at the incredible monuments, designed with Christian, Jewish and Muslim influences. Come prepared to wander the narrow, historic streets looking for the perfect vantage point of this walled city. 

Toledo is located about an hour from Madrid. It’s also possible to get there by taking a train, driving yourself or opting for a guided tour. 

If you are limited on time, you can combine trips to Segovia, Ávila and Toledo into a single day. But with so much to see, it’s best to dedicate either a full or at least a half-day to each city. 

How to Save Money in Madrid

Here are some of the best ways to save money in Madrid so that you can see and do as much as possible, within budget! 

1. Purchase a Madrid City Card

The Madrid City Card offers visitors discounted entry and priority access to over 50 of the city’s main attractions and museums. It’s cheaper to buy a Madrid City Card than to pay for each activity individually. Avoid paying entrance fees or waiting in long lines. The city card also includes a Tourist Travel Pass which offers free, unlimited use of Madrid’s public transportation system (within Zone A). 

The Madrid City Card is valid for 1-5 days duration (consecutive days). The validity period starts when the card is first used, not from the date that the pass is purchased. The Madrid City Card can be purchased online or redeem your pass at any one of the Tourist Information pick-up points located in the city centre. 

Attractions included in the Madrid City Card:

• Royal Palace of Madrid
• Prado Museum
• Reina Sofia National Art Museum 
• Thyssen-Bornemisza
• Temple of Debod
• La Almudena Cathedral Museum 

Purchase the Madrid City Card here. 

2. Purchase an Art Walk Pass

An Art Walk Pass allows entry to the Golden Triangle of Art: Museo del Prado, Centro de Arte Reina Sofia & the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza. It’s cheaper to buy an Art Walk Pass, than to purchase entrance tickets to each museum individually. Passes are valid for one visit to each museum within one year from the date of purchase. Cost: €32.00.

Purchase the Art Walk Pass here. 

Alternatively, visit Madrid’s most popular art museums during their free access hours. 

3. Purchase a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Madrid is a walkable city, but as temperatures soar during the summer season, it may be more comfortable and convenient to get around by bus.  

Choose to purchase a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. These bus routes have been created specifically for tourists, stopping at all the major landmarks in Madrid while providing audio commentary. There are two routes to choose from: Historical Route & Modern Madrid Route. Purchase a one or two-day pass to suit your itinerary. 

Madrid Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour tickets can be purchased here: 

4. Stay in Hostels

If you are looking for budget-friendly accommodation, hostels are a great option. Typically, the more people sharing a dormitory the cheaper the cost. It’s also possible to select your room based on gender (male, female or mixed) if you have a preference.

If you are travelling as a couple or with a friend, many hostels also have private room options, which typically cost less than a standard hotel room. You may have to share a bathroom with other guests. 

Hostels often include kitchens, where you have the option to cook your own meals to save money. Hostel staff regularly organize events, such as low-cost cooking classes or city tours, for their guests. Get free access to local advice and insider tips about things to see and places to visit that you may never have found on your own. 

Many hostels are located in the city centre, within walking distance to main attractions. This may help to save money on transportation costs. Staff are typically onsite at all times for added security. Hostel accommodation typically includes lockers or a secured place to store valuables and belongings. 

Hostel common areas are a great location to meet people from all over the world. Share travel stories and create new friendships. This will add value to your experience in a new city!

Book your accommodation in Madrid here.

5. Purchase Travel Insurance

As much as we don’t like to think about it, things can and do go wrong while travelling. Have some peace of mind knowing that you are covered by insurance if something unexpected happens, such an injury, illness or lost luggage. 

SafetyWing is a global travel medical insurance company designed to meet the needs of travellers from all over the world. If you have already left home, it’s not too late to protect yourself. You can still purchase insurance while abroad. 

Consider purchasing travel insurance from SafetyWing for your next trip. You can use the booking widget below to get a quote:

Start Booking Your Trip to Madrid

Use the helpful resources below to start booking your trip to Madrid, Spain! 

• Reserve your accommodation with Hotels.com or Hostelworld. 
• Book your rental car with Discover Cars.
• Book your flight with SkyScanner.
• Book tours with Get Your Guide. 
• Traveling Solo? Book a Group Tour with G Adventures.
• Buy Travel Insurance with SafetyWing or World Nomads.

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Have any questions about planning your trip to Madrid, Spain? Please share your questions or comments below!