12 of the Best Things to do in Madrid

All the must-see sights and best things to do in Madrid, the capital city of Spain.

Overview of Spain

Getting Around Madrid

Madrid is a very walkable city, at least in the tourist area! Chances are, you won’t really need to use public transport the majority of the time. If you do, the metro is extremely simple.

What to see and things to do in Madrid

1. See the Palacio Real

Although the Royal Palace of Spain doesn’t house the royal family anymore, there’s still plenty of interesting history and opulent decor. You can take a tour through the inside, or just look from outside the gates. I definitely recommend seeing the inside though.

2. Visit the art museums

Madrid is home to various art museums. El Prado, the most famous, is a massive museum filled with more classical style paintings.

Reina Sofia, on the other hand, is an incredible modern art museum.

If you want the best of both worlds, I recommend the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza. The top floor of the museum starts with the renaissance period and as you descend through the floors the museum becomes more modern.

3. Explore Parque Retiro

At Parque Retiro you can take a boat on the small lake, visit the Palacio de Cristal, play sports in the endless lawns, or even visit the very small modern art museum on the grounds. Parque Retiro is right off of Gran Vía and easy to walk to from other tourist sights.

4. Order a Tinto de verano at a rooftop bar

Be sure and order a Tinto de Verano or Sangría at one of Madrid’s many rooftop bars. You can read more about the best rooftop bars in Madrid.

5. Eat tapas in Plaza Mayor

Sit outside and enjoy some tapas! If you’re not familiar with tapas, they are small plates with typical Spanish dishes. Normally you order several of them and share with your other guests.

Some of my favorite tapas include croquetas de jamón, patatas bravas, tortilla de patatas, and jamón ibérico.

6. Take photos at Puerta del Sol

Here you can see the bear and the apple statue, as well as the famous ‘Tio Pepe‘ sign. Many gatherings/protests/events happen here or in Plaza de España.

7. Stroll around Malasaña

The hipster neighborhood! Malasaña has some great restaurants, shops, and bars to explore. It is definitely the best place to eat!

I’m a huge brunch fan, so I was always going to Malasaña for the great brunch. If you’re like me, be sure and check out Vacaciones, Ojalá, and Carmencita/La Gringa.

8. Shop on Gran Vía and Fuencarral

Or simply just walk down to see the sights and the hustle and bustle of the city! Gran Via is the main street that connects Parque Retiro with Plaza de España, and contains many sights and shops.

9. Taste authentic churros con chocolate

Churros with chocolate is a Spanish delicacy and an absolute must when you’re in the capital city. Normally you can find several small booths around the city and in parks to enjoy this Spanish dessert.

10. Go to a fútbol match

When in Spain! What is more Spanish than yelling profanities at a football match? You will see the Spanish get VERY into futbol, and it’s definitely a unique experience to have in Madrid!

11. Visit Mercado San Miguel

A great place for sampling several different tapas and tasting sangria! Mercado de San Miguel is one of the nicest markets in Spain and in the heart of the tourist center, so it’s easy to reach!

12. Watch the sunset at Templo de Debod

Near Plaza de España, the Templo de Debod is an Egyptian monument in the heart of the city. There’s a park surrounding the monument, so you can picnic or grab a drink with friends while you watch the sunset.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Madrid?