Museo Nacional del Prado
Home to one of the finest collections of European art, the Museo Nacional del Prado is a must-see for every art lover. Ranging from the 12th to the early 20th centuries, the artworks include masterpieces from artists like Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Spend an afternoon wandering through its halls, marvelling at the depth and breadth of the art on display.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.museodelprado.es
Address: C. de Ruiz de Alarcón, 23, 28014 Madrid, Spain
Royal Palace of Madrid
If opulence and grandeur are what you seek, the Royal Palace of Madrid is the place for you. This colossal monument, with its 3,000 rooms, boasts of intricate interior designs and a lush Sabatini Garden. Don’t forget to peek into the armory, complete with historic weapons and suits of armor!
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.patrimonionacional.es
Address: C. de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid, Spain
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía hosts an impressive collection of 20th-century art, including some iconic works by Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso. The pièce de résistance is undoubtedly Picasso’s Guernica, a moving depiction of the horrors of war.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.museoreinasofia.es
Address: C. de Sta. Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid, Spain
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
Complete your art tour at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, housing an extraordinary private collection of primarily European art. Explore works from periods often overlooked in other collections, such as the English Romantic period and the Italian primitives.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.museothyssen.org
Address: P.º del Prado, 8, 28014 Madrid, Spain
Retiro Park
For a touch of nature amidst the bustling city, head to the Retiro Park. This green oasis offers boating opportunities in its large central lake, a rose garden, and numerous statues and fountains. The Palacio de Cristal, a beautiful glasshouse, hosts contemporary art exhibitions regularly.
Entrance: Free
Website: www.esmadrid.com
Address: 28009 Madrid, Spain
Plaza Mayor
Experience the heartbeat of Madrid at the Plaza Mayor, a grand square surrounded by picturesque three-story residential buildings. Here, you can find numerous outdoor cafes, perfect for people-watching or enjoying a plate of patatas bravas with a view of the equestrian statue of King Philip III.
Entrance: Free
Website: www.madrid.es
Address: Pl. Mayor, 28012 Madrid, Spain
Puerta del Sol
The bustling Puerta del Sol is one of Madrid’s most well-known and busiest places. This is where you’ll find “Kilometer Zero”, the geographical center of Spain, and the famous statue of The Bear and the Strawberry Tree, a symbol of Madrid. Stop by for a photo op, or to simply soak in the vibrant city life.
Entrance: Free
Address: Prta del Sol, s/n, 28013 Madrid, Spain
Mercado de San Miguel
For food enthusiasts, the Mercado de San Miguel is a paradise. Located in the heart of the city, this market presents a range of Spanish delicacies, from fresh seafood and tapas to an array of local wines. This gastronomic hotspot is an exciting place to experience Spain’s vibrant culinary scene.
Entrance: Free
Website: mercadodesanmiguel.es
Address: Pl. de San Miguel, s/n, 28005 Madrid, Spain
Gran Vía
Take a leisurely stroll down Gran Vía, Madrid’s shopping epicenter. With its early-20th-century architecture, vibrant street life, and numerous shops and theaters, it’s often referred to as the “Spanish Broadway”. Whether you’re a shopaholic or a theatre enthusiast, this is the place for you.
Entrance: Free
Address: Madrid, Spain
Templo de Debod
The Templo de Debod is a fascinating piece of ancient Egyptian architecture right in the heart of Madrid. This temple, gifted by Egypt to Spain, offers an unusual sight against the Madrid skyline. At sunset, its reflection on the surrounding water is nothing short of magical.
Entrance: Free
Website: www.madrid.es
Address: C. de Ferraz, 1, 28008 Madrid, Spain
Plaza de Cibeles
The stunning Plaza de Cibeles is known for its emblematic fountain depicting Cybele, the Greek goddess of fertility, and the magnificent buildings that surround it. Among these buildings are the Madrid City Hall and the Bank of Spain, both remarkable examples of Madrid’s architectural wealth.
Entrance: Free
Address: Madrid, Spain
Almudena Cathedral
The Almudena Cathedral, with its vibrant stained-glass windows and mix of Gothic revival and modern styles, is a real architectural gem. A visit to this cathedral offers not just a spiritual journey but also a cultural one, with its on-site museum narrating the history of the cathedral and Madrid’s patroness, the Virgen de la Almudena.
Entrance: Admission
Website: catedraldelaalmudena.es
Address: C. de Bailén, 10, 28013 Madrid, Spain
Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
Football fan or not, the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, home of the world-famous Real Madrid, is an impressive sight. Embark on a tour to explore the stadium’s ins and outs, and imagine the roar of the crowd as you stand on the edge of the immaculate pitch.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.realmadrid.com
Address: Av. de Concha Espina, 1, 28036 Madrid, Spain
Las Ventas Bullring
One of the most important and largest bullfighting rings in the world, the Las Ventas Bullring offers a deep insight into Spanish tradition and culture. With its stunning Moorish design, and a museum dedicated to the history of bullfighting, it’s a captivating experience, even for those ambivalent about the sport.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.las-ventas.com
Address: C. de Alcalá, 237, 28028 Madrid, Spain
Parque Warner Madrid
Fun and adventure await you at the Parque Warner Madrid. This theme park, divided into five areas based on scenes from Warner Bros. movies, features a multitude of thrilling rides, fun shows, and a chance to meet your favourite cartoon characters. It’s a guaranteed day of excitement for all ages!
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.parquewarner.com
Address: A-4, salida 22, 28330 San Martín de la Vega, Madrid, Spain
Madrid Zoo Aquarium
With over 500 different species of animals, the Madrid Zoo Aquarium offers a world of exploration for wildlife enthusiasts. From the African savannah to the Indo-Pacific coral reef, journey across the continents to discover the diverse fauna and participate in engaging educational activities.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.zoomadrid.com
Address: Casa de Campo, s/n, 28011 Madrid, Spain
Madrid Cable Car
For the best panoramic views of Madrid, hop onto the Madrid Cable Car. This 2.5-kilometer ride provides a unique perspective of the city, offering stunning views of landmarks such as the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
Entrance: Admission
Address: P.º del Pintor Rosales, s/n, 28008 Madrid, Spain
National Archaeological Museum
Step into Spain’s rich history at the National Archaeological Museum. This museum houses a vast collection of artefacts from prehistoric times to the 19th century, covering the Iberian, Roman, and Greek periods, among others. Each exhibit offers a captivating glimpse into the past.
Entrance: Admission
Website: man.mcu.es
Address: C. de Serrano, 13, 28001 Madrid, Spain
Royal Botanic Garden
Experience tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the city at the Royal Botanic Garden. With its collection of over 5,000 plant species, stunning floral displays, and peaceful walking paths, it’s a haven for nature lovers and a delightful retreat from the city’s pace.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.queensbotanical.org
Address: Pl. Murillo, 2, 28014 Madrid, Spain