Want to make the most of your visit to the Spanish capital? Here’s the ultimate guide with over 40+ things to do in Madrid, based on my 100+ trips to the city.

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40+ Unique Things to Do in Madrid, Spain

My Constant Trips to Madrid

Madrid is one of my favorite places in Spain. As the country’s capital, the city is known for its rich history, grand architecture, vibrant art scene, and traditional Spanish cuisine. I’ve already lost count of how often I visited Madrid for a weekend getaway, so it’s starting to feel like a second home.

What I enjoy most about the city is that I always find something new to do on every trip, whether it’s discovering a new café or a hidden museum (you have to agree that this is a big deal when you’ve visited somewhere over 100 times). You can find many Madrid itineraries and tips on my blog under this hashtag.

What makes Madrid special?

Readers often disagree with me when I say I prefer Madrid to Barcelona. While I constantly emphasize that both cities have their unique vibe, I find Madrid’s classical charm, deeply rooted in Spanish history, along with its world-class museums, hard to beat. Madrid is officially the center of all the roads in Spain, hosting the national New Year’s celebrations at Puerta del Sol and housing many of the nation’s treasures – from the paintings at El Prado Museum to the Dama de Elche sculpture and the whole lavish heritage of the Spanish Royal dynasty.

How many days do you need in Madrid?

I’d recommend planning at least a long weekend in Madrid. However, on my blog, you can find itineraries ranging from one day in Madrid to a 7-day road trip around the city. So no matter how much time you have in Madrid, you can still enjoy the city to the fullest.

Which part of Madrid is best to stay in?

My favorite areas to stay in Madrid are Salamanca, a trendy neighborhood filled with luxury shops and boutique hotels, and Malasaña or Chueca, lively hipster neighborhoods full of trendy bars. However, Madrid’s metro system is well-connected, so you can stay almost anywhere, depending on the hotel you prefer and your budget.

My top picks to stay in Madrid would be boutique hotels (like, BLESS Hotel, Relais & Châteaux Hotel Orfila, H10 Villa de la Reina Boutique Hotel, TÓTEM Madrid, and Only YOU Boutique Hotel Madrid) and hotels with rooftops (like, ME Madrid Reina Victoria Hotel, The Principal Madrid, and Room Mate Oscar).

Book top Madrid activities with my 5% discount code ‘ATC5‘ / excludes combos and bundles (check availability)

40+ Unique Things to Do in Madrid

Whether you’re visiting Madrid for the first time or returning to explore more (like me), the city offers an endless list of experiences. Here are 40+ unique things to do in the Spanish capital:

1. Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid

Palacio Real is one of the largest palaces in Europe, boasting 3,418 rooms filled with art and lavish decor. Its unusual no-photo policy only adds to the intrigue of the visit. While some interiors are spectacular, in my opinion, it is still not the most impressive royal landmark in Europe. Nevertheless, a visit offers a great opportunity to learn more about the Spanish Royal family and its history. Like most royal houses in Europe, there are debates surrounding the monarchy and its abolition. However, I believe it is worth preserving as a national symbol and a part of history. Additionally, I feel that the current Spanish king, Felipe VI, is one of the most creditable and educated royals in Europe.

To avoid the line, I recommend getting your tickets in advance:

• Royal Palace Skip-the-line Guided Tour (check availability)
• Royal Palace of Madrid Small Group Skip the Line Ticket (check availability)

2. Explore the Prado Museum

The Prado Museum is one of the most iconic Spanish landmarks for art lovers, housing over 8,000 paintings by masters like Velázquez, Goya, and Rubens. Unlike many other museums that feature a wide variety of works from all over, the collection of the Prado Museum is highly focused on national artists: visiting feels like a journey through Spanish art history. A previous booking is highly recommended to avoid the line:

• Skip-the-Line Prado Museum Guided Tour (check availability)
• Prado Museum Small Group Tour with Skip the Line Ticket (check availability)

3. Stroll through El Retiro Park

Madrid’s El Retiro Park is a beautiful green hub in the heart of the city. You can rent a boat on the lake, visit the Palacio de Cristal, or simply walk around to have a break from the city’s hustle. Also, El Retiro Park is a great place to book a segway or biking tour.

• Iconic Retiro Park Segway Tour (check availability)
• Madrid Retiro Park Electric Bike Tour (check availability)

4. Have a Coffee at Plaza Mayor

Enjoy a coffee at one of the charming outdoor cafés in Plaza Mayor, a historic square bustling with life year-round. While most of the spots directly on the square don’t have the best reviews, they’re fine for just a coffee. For breakfast, check out Teapots. For lunch, head to Mesón del Champiñón or Cafe de la Plaza. All of these places are just around the corner from Plaza Mayor, offering far better food and service.

5. Visit Puerta del Sol

The Puerta del Sol square is the center of all Spanish roads. On the pavement in front of the main entrance to the headquarters of the Madrid regional government, Casa de Correos, you’ll find a stone slab marking Spain’s Kilometre 0, the starting point for all major radial roads in the country. Here, you’ll also see the famous clock associated with Spain’s New Year celebrations and the Oso y Madroño statue – a bear by a strawberry tree – the official city symbol.

5. Watch a Performance at Gran Vía

Madrid’s vibrant Gran Vía is often called the Spanish Broadway. I try to include a new performance in my cultural itinerary whenever I visit the city. While The Lion King is arguably the most famous show, there are plenty of other performances to choose from.

6. Enjoy a Football Match or Tour the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

Madrid’s most famous football club, Real Madrid CF, holds more European Cup titles than any other team. You can tour their Santiago Bernabéu Stadium year-round, and if your visit coincides with a game, you can even attend one. It’s an exciting experience, as football in Spain is often considered a second religion. The most anticipated match is always el clasico, when FC Real Madrid faces FC Barcelona, but tickets usually sell out well in advance.

From my personal experience, I have to say that while I once attended el clasico, I enjoyed it less than the Spanish Cup final between FC Barcelona and FC Atletico Madrid. The rivalry between FC Barcelona and FC Madrid fans creates a tense atmosphere that, for me, takes away some of the fun. So, if you like football and can’t get tickets for el clasico – don’t be discouraged. Most games in Madrid, especially those involving one of the two main local teams (FC Real Madrid or FC Atlético Madrid), are fantastic to attend.

• Tour Bernabéu Entry Ticket (check availability)
• Atlético de Madrid Stadium Entry (check availability)
• Atlético de Madrid Match Tickets at Metropolitano (check availability)

7. Visit the Almudena Cathedral

As a country with a deeply rooted Catholic tradition, Spain is home to many stunning cathedrals and monasteries. Madrid’s religious heart is the Catedral de la Almudena, located across from the Royal Palace. The building blends neoclassical, Gothic, and modern architectural elements.

8. Have Lunch at the World’s Oldest Restaurant

Restaurante Botín in Madrid holds the Guinness World Record as the world’s oldest restaurant, serving traditional dishes since 1725. Their signature dish is cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig). While it may not be my favorite restaurant in Madrid, I must admit that it’s a must-visit for first-timers.

9. Visit the Reina Sofía Museum

Modern art lovers should not miss the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Picasso’s iconic Guernica, along with works by Dalí, Miró, and other contemporary artists. Together with the Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, it forms Madrid’s renowned Golden Triangle of Art. While all of them are highly popular, in my experience, the Reina Sofía Museum was the least crowded.

• Reina Sofía Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets (check availability)
• Reina Sofia Museum Small Group Tour with Skip the Line Ticket (check availability)

10. Taste Churros with Chocolate at San Ginés

Chocolatería San Ginés is the most popular spot in Madrid to try churros con chocolate. Indulging in crispy churros dipped in rich hot chocolate is one of the top experiences in Madrid for foodies. However, I usually prefer smaller places like Churrería Milagros.

11. Visit the Temple of Debod

Not many people know that Madrid has its very own Egyptian temple – the Temple of Debod, gifted by Egypt to Spain. This ancient structure dates back to the 2nd century BC and is especially popular at sunset, as it sits on a small hill offering stunning views of the city.

12. Visit San Miguel Market and take a tapas tour

The Mercado de San Miguel is a gourmet food market in the heart of Madrid, filled with delicious bites, tapas, seafood, and wine. Many foodie tours in Madrid make it an essential stop on their itinerary, although I must admit that it can get quite busy.

• San Miguel Market and Street Food Walking Tour (check availability)
• ️The Original Madrid Tapas Crawl (check availability)

13. Discover Street Art in Madrid

Madrid is known for some of the most unique murals in Spain, and while Lavapiés is a neighborhood famous for its vibrant street art, the best way to explore local graffiti is by booking a street art tour with a local guide:

• Street Art Tour with Local Graffiti Hunter (check availability)
• Uncover Madrid’s Street Art with a Local (check availability)

14. Explore the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is another iconic museum in Madrid, focusing on a collection of European masterpieces from the Renaissance to modern art, including works by Rembrandt and Van Gogh. It is probably the Spanish museum I have visited the most, as they constantly organize unique temporary exhibitions. Also, it is another landmark in Madrid that you should book in advance to avoid the lines:

• Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum Guided Tour & Entry Ticket (check availability)
• Guided Tour Thyssen Museum Skip the Line (check availability)

15. Visit El Rastro Flea Market

El Rastro is Madrid’s most famous flea market, coming alive every Sunday. It is a popular stop for travelers and locals alike, as the streets are filled with antiques, vintage clothing, and other quirky finds.

16. Walk Around the Malasaña District

The bohemian neighborhood of Malasaña is known for its retro vibes and creative shops and cafes. It’s the perfect place to wander around places like Plaza del Dos de Mayo and Calle del Pez while enjoying tapas or cocktails at top-rated La Musa Malasaña or 1862 Bar.

17. Visit Plaza de Cibeles

Plaza de Cibeles is one of the most emblematic places in Madrid, featuring a stunning fountain of the goddess Cibeles and the city hall of Palacio de Cibeles, full of different cultural spaces.

18. Visit Las Ventas Bullring in Madrid

I won’t encourage you to visit a corrida, as it’s not for everyone. After Catalonia prohibited bullfighting, there were discussions about this tradition dying out. While it’s true that in larger cities in Spain, it has declined, bulls still play a significant role during fiestas in Spanish villages. Some may find it interesting, as Hemingway did, but I found it quite stressful during my first visit and never returned. Anyway, learning more about corrida is about getting a deeper understanding of Spanish culture and history. For those intrigued by Spain’s bullfighting tradition, the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas is the place to witness it:

• Las Ventas Bullring VIP Private Guided Tour (check availability)
• Las Ventas Bullring and Bullfighting Museum with Audioguide (check availability)

19. Visit Lope de Vega Museum and Walk the Literary Quarter

Cervantes, Quevedo, and Lope de Vega are some of the most famous Spaniards in history, and all of them lived in Barrio de Letras, the Literary Quarter of Madrid. This neighborhood offers a wonderful opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Spain’s greatest writers. Also, don’t miss the Lope de Vega Museum.

20. Visit Museo de America

One of my favorite lesser-known museums in Madrid is the Museo de América. This museum features a stunning collection of artifacts from pre-Columbian times through the Spanish conquest. While the Age of Discovery and Columbus are often romanticized, the true history of Spain’s conquest of South America was filled with dramatic events. Yet, the historical artifacts at the Museo de America offer a glimpse into the unique civilizations that once inhabited the Americas. Moreover, when I visited in June, there were only a few people inside, making it a joy to explore compared to the Prado Museum.

21. Faro de Moncloa

The 92-meter-high Faro de Moncloa is a popular spot to enjoy panoramic views of Madrid, located near the Museum of America. Built in 1992, it was originally a transmission tower. Today, Faro de Moncloa is a popular destination for watching the sunset over the city.

22. Try Cocido Madrileño

The most iconic local dish to try in Madrid is cocido madrileño, a hearty, slow-cooked stew made with chickpeas, chorizo, meats, and vegetables. It’s considered the pillar of traditional Madrid cuisine, perfect for a chilly day. These local restaurants are especially renowned for their cocido madrileño: Malacatín and Casa Carola.

23. Visit the Royal Botanical Garden

Stroll through the peaceful paths of the Real Jardín Botanico, admiring its diverse plant species and seasonal flowers. The garden is a serene break from the bustling city streets. It is not the most impressive garden in Spain, but you won’t get my objective opinion cause I love plants on every occasion.

24. Attend a Show at Teatro Real

While Madrid is less famous than Vienna or Paris for world-class opera and ballet performances, the city is home to the historic Teatro Real, offering a glimpse into Spain’s arts scene. However, I should warn you that tickets are usually quite expensive, making this a classy way to explore the artistic side of Madrid, though not the most budget-friendly one.

25. Stroll Down the Serrano street & Explore the Salamanca neighborhood

Calle Serrano, located in the trendy Salamanca neighborhood, is often called the most expensive street in Spain. This avenue is known for housing Madrid’s top boutiques and international luxury brands. Even those not interested in high-end things or fine dining can still enjoy window shopping and the charming cafés in the area. I love this neighborhood cause it’s full of beautiful architecture.

26. Explore Casa de Campo & Madrid´s Zoo

Casa de Campo is Madrid’s largest park popular for cycling and running. Here, you can also visit the Zoo Aquarium, home to a variety of animals from around the world.

• Casa de Campo Electric Bike Tour (check availability)
• Zoo Aquarium Madrid Ticket (check availability)

27. Discover the CaixaForum Vertical Garden

CaixaForum is one of Madrid’s most popular cultural centers, known for its striking vertical green wall. Additionally, depending on the dates, it hosts excellent art exhibitions inside.

28. Madrid’s Nightlife at Chueca

The Chueca neighborhood in Madrid is famous for its lively nightlife and trendy cocktail bars. It is also considered Madrid’s LGBTQ+ hub. I won’t give you many nightlife tips, as I honestly don’t remember the last time I stayed out until dawn myself. To party like locals, you can book a pub crawl tour:

• Pub Crawl Madrid by Mad Party Crew (check availability)
• Pub Crawl Madrid by Crawl Masters (check availability)

29. Visit the Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is on my list of epic underrated Madrid museums. It is especially known for housing the ancient Iberian sculpture of Dama de Elche, considered one of the top historic mysteries in Spain.

30. Try Tortilla de Patata

You can’t leave Madrid without trying tortilla de patata, a classic Spanish dish made from eggs, potatoes, and onions. While it is typical throughout the country, not many travelers know that Madrid is the best place to try it. You can even embark on your food tour, tasting all of the local variations. Spaniards believe that the ideal tortilla should have a slightly liquid consistency inside, yet it is a rare find across the Iberian peninsula ( since most bars tend to overcook it). While you can find tortilla de patata in almost every tapas bar in Madrid, here are a few of the absolute best places to try the Madrid-style tortilla de patata: Casa Dani, La Primera, Pex Tortilla, and La Penela.

31. Visit Sorolla Museum & Learn more about the iconic Spanish painter

Joaquín Sorolla is one of the most famous Spanish painters of all time. Although he was originally born in Valencia and Sorolla´s most emblematic works were often inspired by the Mediterranean coast, the painter used to live in Madrid for a long while. So, the Sorolla House Museum is located in the Spanish capital.

This museum preserves the painter’s home decor and workshop. It is one of the most complete and best-preserved artist houses in Europe, featuring a garden designed by the painter himself. By the way, you can find Sorolla’s most famous artworks in the Prado Museum, the MET in New York, and the Musée d’Orsay in Paris.

32. Visit the Secret Museum of Romanticism

The National Museum of Romanticism is one of the cutest Madrid hidden gems, founded in 1924. It is full of tapestry, furnishings, portraits, and antique boudoirs showcasing the daily life of the bourgeoisie during the Romantic period of the 19th century. With its sophisticated interiors, it has reminded me of all the secret museums in Paris.

33. Watch a Flamenco Performance

While vibrant flamenco is primarily traditional to the Spanish region of Andalusia, including cities like Seville, Granada, and Córdoba, Madrid also offers everything Spain globally ranks for. Here, you will find some amazing flamenco performances:

• “Emociones” Live Flamenco Performance (check availability)
• Flamenco Show Entry Ticket with Drink & Artist Talk (check availability)
• Flamenco Show & Special Menu at Torres Bermejas in Madrid (check availability)

34. Take a Day Trip to Segovia for a Hot Air Balloon Ride

A hot air balloon ride is a popular day trip idea from Madrid. This activity is mostly available in Sierra de Guadarrama or Segovia (the city is famous for its aqueduct, one of the top Roman ruins in Spain, and the Alcázar, a stunning example of a storybook location). Hot air balloons are renowned for offering views often unmatched by other forms of travel, making a hot air balloon tour a fantastic option for adventure lovers in Madrid.

• From Madrid: Hot Air Balloon over Segovia with Transfer (check availability)
• Segovia from the Skies: Sunrise Balloon Ride (check availability)

35. Try Spanish Vermouth

Vermouth is a fortified wine that is largely popular in Madrid. Although I would say that the most authentic place to explore the origins of vermouth in Spain is Reus, this drink is still widely popular in Madrid. Locals love having it before lunch, as it is an aperitif meant to stimulate the appetite. The top places to try vermouth in Madrid are La Taberna de Angel Sierra and La Hora de Vermut.

36. Take a Spanish Cooking Class

A trip to Madrid is always a great opportunity to learn a few cooking tips from local chefs and prepare traditional Spanish dishes like paella, gazpacho, and tortilla. You can read more about my Madrid cooking class in this post.

• Madrid Half-Day Spanish Cooking Class (check availability)
• Spanish Cooking Class: Paella, Tapas & Sangria in Madrid (check availability)

37. Take a Day Trip to Toledo, the Old Capital of Spain

When asked to suggest only a day trip from Madrid, I always recommend Toledo (one of my favorite places in Spain). This historic city was the capital of Spain until 1561 and it´s just a 30-minute train ride from Madrid. Toledo is especially known for its stunning medieval architecture and a rich blend of cultures. It is often referred to as the ‘City of Three Cultures,’ where Arabs, Jews, and Catholics all lived together in peace.

• From Madrid: Toledo with 7 Monuments and Optional Cathedral (check availability)
• Toledo Tour with Cathedral, Synagoge & St Tome Church from Madrid (check availability)

38. Go Hiking in Sierra de Guadarrama

Nature lovers can escape the city of Madrid for a while by heading to the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains. It is one of the best places to find adventurous activities in Spain, from hiking and horseback riding to skiing in the winter months.

• Sierra de Guadarrama Hiking Day Trip (check availability)
• Horse Riding in Sierra del Guadarrama National Park (check availability)
• Zip Line Circuits  (check availability)
• Star Tour – See the stars in Madrid (check availability)
• Canyoning in Sierra de Guadarrama (check availability)

39. Visit Warner Bros Park

While I prefer PortAventura, the second most popular park in Spain is Warner Bros. Located just outside Madrid, it’s a great option for visiting the city with kids or teenagers since the park offers thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and attractions based on the famous Warner Bros. characters.

• Warner Park Entry Ticket (check availability)
• Parque Warner Day Tour from Madrid (check availability)

40. Go Shopping for Brands at Las Rozas Village

Shop for luxury brands at discounted prices at Las Rozas Village, a chic shopping outlet located just outside of Madrid. It offers designer items in a stylish open-air setting. Years ago, I was thrilled to buy my first Burberry coat here, but now I’ve cooled off on brands a bit and mostly invest in experiences.

41. Explore the city on a Sightseeing Bus

A Madrid sightseeing bus is one of the easiest ways to explore all the top neighborhoods in the Spanish capital while listening to informative commentaries as you pass by historic landmarks, museums, and plazas. Another popular option is a tuk-tuk tour.

• 24 or 48 Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour (check availability)

42. Have a dinner with panoramic views of Madrid

For an unforgettable dining experience, visit one of Madrid’s rooftop restaurants, such as Azotea Forus Barceló, Nice To Meet You, or Restaurante Volvoreta. On my last trip, I took my husband to Volvoreta. It was quite pricey, and I’d say the food was just okay, but the nighttime views of Madrid felt magical.

Read more about Madrid:

• Top Outdoor & Adventurous Activities in Madrid You Can Not Miss (read it)
• Delicious Breakfast in Madrid: My Favorite Spots & Avocado Toasts (read it)
• My Amazing Spanish Cooking Class in Madrid (read it)
• Our Fun 7-day Madrid Road Trip Itinerary (read it)
• How to Spend an Epic Weekend in Madrid (read it)
• Madrid to Barcelona Road Trip: Top Stops (read it)
• 10+ Unforgettable Madrid Day Trips (read it)
• Madrid to Valencia Road Trip: Top Stops (read it)
• One Day in Toledo Itinerary: My Favorite Day Trip from Madrid (read it)

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For more Spain travel tips check out my Pinterest board Spain Travel Collection and Flipboard Travel to Spain.

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