20 Ultimate Things to Do in Madrid

If you’re looking for a bar jam-packed with locals, fun-loving staff, tapas, and strong drinks, too; look no further than Taberna Malaspina. The Bar La Campana serves up the best bocadillo de calamares (fried squid sandwich) and you can kick it up with a few splashes of hot sauce. It’s also one of the most popular ways for Madrileños to end a long night out. If that’s not enough, Cava Baja is one of the most popular streets to capture the “essence” of Madrid’s most delectable recipes.

Located in the heart of Madrid, the posh marketplace first opened in 1916. Here, you’ll find stalls and kiosks serving up classic and fusion gastronomy from the Mediterranean, with influences from all around the world. Although the wares are priced a bit steeper than most local establishments, the high-quality of the cuisine complemented by the gorgeous atmosphere is unmatched by almost any in the city. The historic building creates a charmingly compact and energetic environment to indulge in some of Madrid’s most delectable bites.

Madrid has some of the most beautiful and unique parks sprinkled throughout the city. If you enjoy boating, birds, and people watching then the Parque de Buen Retiro will be the perfect option for you. If you’re in the mood to explore then here are three other options that can be fun for you, the Parque Madrid Río for spectacular aquatic views along with the natural views from the Parque Lineal del Manzanares and the Parque del Oeste.

Puerta Del Sol is a great location for shopping, pub crawls, and people-watching, as well as a standard meeting place. If you listen closely, you may even overhear a tour guide explaining the legend of the Estatua del Oso y el Madroño (The Bear and the Strawberry Tree statue). While the plaza is generally bustling with people from all walks of life and ages—both day and night—it’s also swarming with pickpockets and scammers. Besides that, you’ll find Sol to be the perfect place for walking tours, selfies, shops sporting international brands, street performers, and more.

Gran Via gives 5th Avenue and Champ De Elysees vibes to those that enjoy luxury shopping and experiences. You’ll find iconic buildings, luxurious hotels, like the H10 Villa de la Reina, restaurants, and stylish people at every turn. You’ll also find luscious, green parks, easy access to public transportation, and beautiful roundabouts in this part of the city. Try to avoid restaurants where workers desperately try to entice you to enjoy the menu of the day, the food tends to be overpriced and underwhelming, to say the least. Opt instead, to support local eateries on quieter streets for a better experience.

The Estación Madrid – Puerta de Atocha, a.k.a. Madrid Atocha, is a sprawling station that sports an indoor botanical garden consisting of more than 7,000 plants and trees from about 260 species, likening it to a mini-forest. Once you get past the beauty of that hidden gem, you can peruse the local shops, dine at the local restaurants, or head to the metro or medium-long distance Renfe train. The Spanish public transportation system is easy to navigate, affordable, reliable, clean, and renowned as one of the best in the world.

Even if you’re not a fútbol (soccer) fan, you’ll go far in the eyes of many Spaniards if you cheer for the Real Madrid CF team. Known for hosting some of the most loyal fans in the world, the stadium is a great source of pride for the city. Perhaps you’ll even catch a glimpse of some players or feel inspired to play a game while you’re in Madrid. After all, there are heaps of parks and plenty of space to practice and exercise in this beautiful city.

Although the Spanish clothing titan was born in Galicia, Spain, the largest Zara store is located in the Financial District on Paseo de Castellana in Madrid. It’s been serving affordable fashion since the mid-’70s, and even Queen Letizia is known to sport looks from the clothing powerhouse. How unexpected and cool is that? You’ll also be in the most prime location to witness and get inspired by the unique Spanish style in the heart of Spain.

Museo Nacional del Prado is one of the most visited museums in Europe and a must-see when visiting Madrid. If museums are your thing, then be sure to visit the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza and the Museo Reina Sofía, as well. Purchasing a Madrid City Pass will mitigate costs as you explore, or you can check which days and times the museums are open for free. You can always use the money you save to splurge on other experiences, like heading to one of the many art galleries or buying a piece from a local artist at a park.

If you’d like to get a glimpse of most of the major sites but don’t enjoy crowds or wandering around, grab your camera, purchase a ticket and try to grab a seat on the top deck of the Hop-on/Hop-off double-decker bus. It’s also a great option if you’re traveling with older people, children, or disabled persons. You’ll be pleasantly surprised when you start to recognize places—and easily a cool alternative to get your bearings before venturing out on your own.

Salamanca is a gorgeous neighborhood that’s studded with high-end apartments, hotels, houses, boutiques, and grocery stores. If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop, look no further than El Corte Inglés, Spain’s equivalent to Harrods in London, or Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City. Salamanca truly glows at night, you’ll find luxe bars and restaurants patronized by well-dressed people sipping expensive champagne, vermouth, and just about any beverage you can imagine. This is the scene for extravagance and if you want to be “seen.”

La Latina is rapidly becoming the “place to be” due to residents believing that Malasaña has become “too mainstream” and overrun with hipsters. Lavapiés has a diverse and energetic crowd where you’ll find loads of traditional restaurants, shops—and a rubber duck church. Get inspired by the colorful murals and other street art you’ll find as you meander around the barrios. Most importantly, expect to feel at ease and home as you aimlessly wander around. Whichever of these neighborhoods you choose, you’re bound to have a long day (or night) that’s worth remembering.

The Parque de Atracciones is a small amusement park that’s located near the zoo. Open since 1969, it’s the third oldest amusement park in Spain and a great escape for singles or the entire family. In this park, you’ll find a designated Nickelodeon Land, theme and water rides, dining options, parking, and live shows.

One of the most endearing qualities of Spain is how safe people feel while living or visiting here. Madrid in particular is a very LGBTQIA-friendly city and home to some of the best live music venues, bars, nightclubs, and a plethora of entertainment in the world. For an authentic look into how inclusive the city is, head to the Plaza de Chueca, located at the top of Chueca, one of the liveliest barrios (neighborhoods) in the city.

The Plaza was once the center of Old Madrid and is now within walking distance of the Puerta del Sol and the Royal Palace. It’s also the perfect place to enjoy a churro with a cup of hot, thick, Spanish chocolate while taking in the architectural splendors from a nearby bench or one of the rooftop spaces. You just may feel as if you’ve been transported to the old world.