Things to do in Madrid

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Madrid featuring night scenes

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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Gran Via featuring landscape views, heritage architecture and street scenes

2. Santiago 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

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. 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 interior views and art

6. IFEMA

IFEMA is the benchmark in excellence for those travelling to Madrid for work. Its location in the Barajas district, just on the outskirts of the capital and a short distance from the airport, is ideal for enjoying a comfortable stay, with the peace of mind of knowing that you’ll have all the services you need at hand, as well as a metro station just a few minutes’ walk away, ready to take you off to the city centre. There, you can enjoy the culinary delights of the most fashionable restaurants, take in the latest musicals on the Gran Vía or admire one of the many interesting exhibitions at the Prado or the Reina Sofia Museum.
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Few venues for fairs, exhibitions and conferences can compete with IFEMA - Feria de Madrid, Madrid’s trade fair venue, for comfort, amenities and its modern style.

7. 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

8. 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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Royal Palace which includes a city, a garden and a castle

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!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Madrid on a sunny day?
What to do in Madrid on a rainy day?
What is Madrid famous for?
Decisions, decisions — there are loads to make in Madrid, like which of these big-name sights to explore first:

  • Prado Museum
  • Plaza Mayor
  • IFEMA - Feria de Madrid

What should I not miss in Madrid?
Don’t return home without ticking off the following list of superb attractions:

  • Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
  • Parque Warner Madrid
  • Plaza de España
  • Royal Palace of Madrid

Are there cheap things to do in Madrid?
What can you do in Madrid for free?
Your vacation in Madrid doesn’t have to cost a fortune with free things like these to keep you on the go:

  • Plaza Mayor
  • IFEMA - Feria de Madrid
  • Plaza de España
  • El Retiro Park


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

Salamanca

4.5/5(751 area reviews)

Contemporary fashion, gourmet cuisine, fine art and upscale residential living await discovery in one of Madrid’s most stylish neighborhoods.

Salamanca
Madrid showing heritage architecture, religious elements and a church or cathedral

Retiro

4.5/5(311 area reviews)

Known for its abundant dining options and interesting museums, there's plenty to explore in Retiro. Top attractions like El Retiro Park and Prado Museum are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Sainz de Baranda Station or Conde de Casal Station to see more of the city.

Retiro
Spain which includes building ruins, heritage architecture and night scenes

Sol

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

Sol
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Barajas

4/5(826 area reviews)

Consider exploring the abundant dining options in Barajas. If sightseeing is on the list, El Capricho Park is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Barajas Station or Aeropuerto T1-T2-T3 Station to see more of the area.

Barajas
Madrid which includes railway items

Atocha

4.5/5(191 area reviews)

Take time in Atocha to visit attractions like Atocha Station Memorial and Paseo del Arte. You might also appreciate the interesting museums, and you can hop on the metro at Mendez alvaro Station to see more of the city.

Atocha

Popular day trips from Madrid