What to see in Madrid? Top 30 best things to do

Madrid travel tips 

• Buy the Madrid City Pass (find out more)
• Best hotels to stay in Madrid
• Car hire: the best prices (rated 4.6 on Trustpilot)
• All the activities to do in Madrid 

Visiting Madrid: practical info and tourist bus

Here are our best tips for getting around Madrid and its main points of interest, whether for a weekend or several days in the Spanish capital. 

Practical tips to avoid queuing

If you're coming to Madrid, it's strongly recommended to buy your tickets in advance so you don't waste time and avoid sights being sold out.  

Opt for the Madrid City Pass

This pass is very handy for visiting central Madrid. With the City Pass, you can take the hop-on hop-off bus and get discounts at several museums and other tourist sites. It also includes two skip-the-line tickets to visit the Palace and the Prado Museum. 

Above all, buy your skip-the-line tickets in advance (free cancellation)

Here are the most touristy sites that we recommend booking to be sure of getting a place on the day!

Madrid metro map 

Here is a map of the Spanish capital's metro to help you find your way around during your stay.  

What to do in Madrid? The best activities to discover 

Here is a list of the best suggestions of things to do and experiences to have in the Spanish capital: 

If you're coming for a week or more, here are some visits and activities not to be missed around Madrid: 

What to see and visit in Madrid? Our must-sees 

Here is a complete guide to Madrid's emblematic sights, museums and monuments. In total, 14 activities for a full overview of the city. You'll see, you won't get bored! 

Visit the Royal Palace, Madrid

Bonus: the Sabatini Gardens and the Campo del Moro are included in the ticket price

The Palacio Real is the official residence of the King of Spain and is one of the most beautiful palaces to see in Europe. It evokes the splendour and grandeur of the Spanish monarchs. The visit lets you see the royal apartments and the sumptuously decorated interiors. You can see the Halberdiers' Room, the Hall of Mirrors, the Columns Room and the famous bedroom of King Charles III. The visit also includes the pharmacy and the royal armoury to better understand court life. Don't miss the palace's magnificent gardens outside.

Wandersand tip: entry is free from 5pm to 7pm, Monday to Thursday, for EU citizens only. If you'd like to visit away from the tourist bustle, we nevertheless recommend booking your tickets outside these hours. 

Have a drink on the Plaza Mayor

Sit down for a moment at a café terrace and admire the Plaza Mayor with its sublime arcades and façades. You are in the historic heart of Madrid. A traditional gathering place, this emblematic square is lined with little restaurants where it's lovely to soak up the Madrid atmosphere. It also hosts many events, markets and festivals throughout the year. A place vibrant with energy and tradition.

The Cybele Palace and its majestic fountain 

Located on the Paseo del Arte, this palace is now best known as the town hall. It overlooks the Plaza de Cibeles and embodies all the elegance and history of Madrid. A symbol of the capital, its fountain depicts a goddess on a chariot drawn by lions. It is here, in front of the Palacio de Cibeles, that Real Madrid's victories are celebrated. Needless to say, this square is never short of excitement!

By visiting the Cybele Palace, you can go up to the viewing platform on the 8th floor. From up there, you can admire Madrid in 360 degrees. The palace also houses "CentroCentro", which hosts many free exhibitions. Inside, don't miss the Crystal Gallery, a sumptuous room with a glass vault. 

Explore the Almudena Cathedral 

In our list of what to see in Madrid, here is another must-see monument with neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque architecture.  Located in the heart of the city, the Almudena Cathedral was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993. 

Inside, you'll be captivated by its coloured stained-glass windows and the light creating a mystical atmosphere. You can explore its neo-Romanesque crypt and climb up to the dome to admire another equally incredible panoramic view. A place of worship not to be missed if you're planning a holiday in Madrid. 

Spend an evening at the opera at the Teatro Real 

Located right opposite the Royal Palace, the Teatro Real de Madrid is among the best opera houses in Europe for the quality of its acoustics. It hosts the greatest opera singers. As you step through its doors, admire its majestic auditorium adorned with red velvet and glittering gilding. 

On the programme: classical or contemporary operas, concerts and ballets for a most immersive experience! Come and visit the Teatro Real de Madrid and its boxes with an audio guide by booking your tickets now. 

Visit the best museums in Madrid

We've gathered here the 3 most important museums in the city. 

The Prado National Museum, the most important in Spain

Did you know that the Museo del Prado is also one of the most prestigious art galleries in the world?  You'll see works by Diego Velázquez, Goya, El Greco and Titian. A huge collection of paintings by the greatest masters, as well as 6,400 drawings and 3,000 prints. No wonder it's one of the most touristy visits in the Spanish capital. Note that the museum is free for under-18s. 

The Reina Sofía Museum

Dive into the fascinating world of the 20th-century avant-gardes! The Centro de Arte Reina Sofía houses an important collection of Spanish and international art, including emblematic works such as Pablo Picasso's famous "Guernica". During this visit, don't miss going up to the terrace to admire the breathtaking view over Madrid.

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum 

To avoid the crowds, try to come before 10am or after 3pm and remember to book your skip-the-line ticket here in advance.

Art history lovers will have a field day visiting the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, named after the collector Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza. You can admire a collection of works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, i.e. seven centuries of art. It includes works by Monet, Dürer, Caravaggio, Van Gogh and Kandinsky.

Another museum to note during your stay: the Cerralbo Museum, an aristocratic residence with a sublime ballroom.  

Visit the Real Madrid stadium 

For football fans, the question "what to see in Madrid?" doesn't even arise! You can't leave without visiting the legendary Santiago Bernabéu stadium belonging to the world-famous club Real Madrid. 

If you can't attend a live match, then don't miss the Real Madrid stadium tour. It offers a unique perspective on the club's history and triumphs, with exclusive access to: 

• the pitch of the legendary stadium to feel the intensity of the matches, 
• the tunnel and changing rooms as if you were with the players, 
• and of course the trophy room to admire the cups. 

Go to the San Miguel market

Admire the elegant iron and glass structure of this market in the heart of Madrid and taste the local gastronomy. Depending on the stalls: tapas, seafood, jamón and quesos! An invitation to an authentic culinary journey with a Madrid atmosphere. A must in our list if you're wondering what to see in Madrid. 

Buy your hop-on hop-off bus tickets to visit Madrid's emblematic sights

The Las Ventas Bullring 

Discover Spanish culture by visiting Madrid's bullring, a true temple of bullfighting built in 1930. It is among the top 3 largest and most prestigious bullrings in the world, with a capacity of 25,000 spectators. During this visit, you can see behind the scenes of bullfighting, the stables, and the museum, where all the costumes and other vintage posters are displayed. To feel the thrill of the corridas, don't miss the San Isidro fair in June, or the Comunidad fair in May.     

Go shopping on the Gran Vía

Venture onto Madrid's liveliest and most emblematic avenue! We love its elegance with its buildings with historic façades. The perfect place for window shopping and experiencing Madrid's buzz. You're on one of the most beautiful avenues in the world!

Visit the Temple of Amun

Also nicknamed the Temple of Debod, this monument houses remains of ancient Egypt dating back more than 2,200 years. For the record, this Egyptian temple was given to Spain for helping to save the treasures of Nubia. 

During this visit, admire the magnificent columns and hieroglyphic carvings, not forgetting the breathtaking views of the Casa de Campo and the Sierra de Guadarrama. You can also stroll around, discovering a piece of ancient Egypt. The good news is that it's free! So make the most of it!

See Atocha station and its botanical garden

This glass and steel station, with 19th-century architecture, is the largest in Spain. But what brings you here is its superb botanical garden. It is home to hundreds of species of tropical plants, turtles and a small pond. A haven of peace away from the tourist bustle. A must-see in our list of what to see in Madrid, for those looking for an out-of-the-ordinary experience in Madrid.

Nearby is the memorial to the victims of the 11 March 2004 attacks. 

What to see in Madrid with the family?  15 ideas for fun outings

If you're planning a family stay, here is a suggestion of the best activities to do with children. 

The Madrid Zoo Aquarium

From African elephants to sharks, not forgetting giant pandas, you can watch the animals up close to the delight of the children. On the programme, you'll also enjoy educational and interactive shows that will delight young and old. You can be for or against this outing, but it's important to point out that the establishment is very mindful of animal welfare. The ideal place for a lovely afternoon with the family!

Parque Warner Madrid

Dive into the world of your favourite superheroes and cartoon characters. This park is the perfect place to fill up on adrenaline and family memories. It offers a multitude of attractions that will please young and old alike:  dizzying roller coasters, captivating shows, themed areas dedicated to Batman, Superman and many more…

The Madrid Amusement Park (Parque de Atracciones)

Located in the heart of the Casa de Campo, this amusement park has nearly 32 attractions: from roller coasters to fast drops, there's something for every taste and desire!  The little ones can enjoy rides designed for them and attend the various shows and entertainment at the Gran Teatro Auditorio.  You'll find four large themed areas: the Maquinismo, la Naturaleza, la Tranquilidad and finally Nickelodeon Land.

Within the park, many shaded areas have been designed for strolling or eating. Thrills and laughter guaranteed!

The must-sees in our guide to what to see in Madrid: The Walking Dead Experience dedicated to the TV series (a first in Europe!): the sets recreate the most emblematic places such as the Governor's house, the prison and the Terminus station from The Walking Dead! 

Faunia, another theme and zoological park

Treat yourself to a journey through different ecosystems of the planet. You'll go from tropical jungle to the polar zone, or to more desert environments. A chance to show your children wildlife and plants in conditions close to their natural habitat and to make them aware of the importance of biodiversity conservation.

Madrid Museum of Natural Sciences 

Set off to discover fossils and other wonders of nature at the Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales. You'll see specimens of biodiversity and can attend interactive exhibitions highlighting the evolution of life on Earth. An educational visit that awakens curiosity and admiration for science and natural history.

The Madrid Planetarium

On the programme for this visit: astronomy shows and educational exhibitions to unlock the mysteries of space. From distant constellations to the latest astronomical discoveries, enjoy a most immersive experience as a family. Your children can gaze at a starry sky that will stay in their memories forever. 

The Madrid Railway Museum

Meet old steam locomotives and carriages from the early days of the railway adventure in Spain. You'll see interactive exhibitions and have the chance to climb aboard historic trains. 

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What to see in Madrid in winter? The Ice Palace, of course!

The Madrid Ice Palace is the place to go to lace up your skates and enjoy gliding. You can also stroll there the rest of the year. 

Micropolix 

Give your children a magical afternoon by visiting this miniature city designed for kids. They can explore different jobs and activities in a fun and educational environment. A chance to capture your dear little ones as a firefighter or a doctor. A great activity not far from Madrid. 

A chocolate workshop at Chocolat Factory

Share a convivial moment by diving into the enchanting world of chocolate! An immersive experience that will delight the taste buds of the greediest. From cocoa bean to finished product, your children will learn the secrets of its making. Bonus: under the guidance of master chocolatiers, you'll have the chance to create your own chocolate masterpieces, with the possibility of customising shapes and flavours. 

Focus on Madrid's most beautiful neighbourhoods

A cultural and dynamic city, Madrid has different neighbourhoods, each with its own charm. Whether for a city break or a week's holiday, let's take stock of the best neighbourhoods to see during your stay in the capital. 

Here is the tourist map of Madrid 

Central Madrid: Puerta del Sol and Gran Vía

It's the beating heart of Madrid, this central neighbourhood offers a thousand things to do and see. Here you'll find: 

• The statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree (El Oso y el Madroño) at Puerta del Sol. On this very busy square, there is also the Casa de Correos clock, famous for its New Year chimes.
• Spain's kilometre zero marker, the most central position in the country
• The Metropolis building on Gran Vía
• The Círculo de Bellas Artes and its superb terrace with panoramic views
• The Gran Vía theatre

📌 What to see in central Madrid? Plaza de Callao, Plaza de Cibeles and Plaza del Carmen with the San Ildefonso market. 

A few metres from Puerta del Sol, don't miss the famous San Ginés chocolatería, a must for its dunking churros. Open since 1894 24 hours a day (no, you're not dreaming!), an institution for all Madrileños. 

🌮 Where to eat? Here are our favourite restaurants: 

• La Mallorquina for its pastries, rated 4.1 on Google
• Métro Bistró, restaurant rated 4.6 on Google
• Desengaño 13, fusion cuisine restaurant rated 4.5 on Google

The Los Austrias neighbourhood 

It's one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Madrid with its historic buildings, picturesque squares and narrow lanes. Here are 5 must-see monuments and places not to be missed: 

• The Royal Palace (Palacio Real) 
• The Almudena Cathedral 
• The Plaza Mayor, the historic heart of Madrid, built in 1690
• El Mercado de San Miguel, a stone's throw from Plaza Mayor
• The Monastery of the Descalzas Reales

📌 What to see in Madrid? Here is a suggestion of the most beautiful squares and streets to see: Plaza de la Villa, Calle Mayor, Plaza de Oriente, Calle de Segovia and Plaza de Ramales (known as the burial place of the famous Spanish painter Diego Velázquez).

We love its lively atmosphere, especially in the evening! 

🌮 Where to eat? Here are our favourite restaurants: 

• Restaurant Botania, great restaurant rated 4.1 on Google
• Restaurant La Mi Venta, Spanish restaurant rated 4.6 on Google
• Yothai Bar Restaurante Thaï, rated 4.7 on Google

The Paseo del Arte (Retiro district)

Also called the Golden Triangle of Art, the Paseo del Arte is not a neighbourhood but an emblematic avenue of Madrid. It is famous for housing three of the most important and most visited museums in Spain: 

• The Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado)
• The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía 
• The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

But also two other must-see places in our "What to see in Madrid" guide: the CaixaForum Madrid and the Royal Botanical Garden (Real Jardín Botánico). Nearby, you also have the Calle de Alcalá. It is one of the oldest streets in Madrid and crosses the city from east to west via the Plaza de Cibeles.

🌮 Where to eat? Here are our favourite restaurants: 

• La Rotonda, magnificent restaurant rated 4.5 on Google
• Vinitus, Mediterranean restaurant, rated 4.6 on Google
• Horcher, restaurant near Retiro park, rated 4.6 on Google

The elegant Salamanca neighbourhood

Best known for its luxury boutiques, art galleries and refined architecture, Salamanca is ideal for a stroll in the city centre. Here are five emblematic places and monuments to visit in this neighbourhood:

• The Mercado de la Paz 
• The Palacio de Liria 
• The Juan March Foundation (Fundación Juan March)
• The Lázaro Galdiano Museum (Museo Lázaro Galdiano)
• and of course, the Retiro Park

📌 Suggestion of the most beautiful squares and streets to see: Calle de Serrano (one of the most luxurious streets in Madrid), Calle de José Ortega y Gasset, Plaza de Colón, Calle de Velázquez and Calle de Goya with all their shops and restaurants. 

🌮 Where to eat? Here are our favourite restaurants: 

• Numa Pompilio Restaurante, Italian restaurant with a magnificent outdoor space, rated 4.2 on Google
• Restaurant Padilla 54, rated 4.8 on Google
• Restaurante Terracotta, elegant restaurant, rated 4.6 on Google

The Malasaña neighbourhood

A young and dynamic neighbourhood, Malasaña is renowned for its vintage shops and trendy bars. Here are 4 emblematic places and monuments to visit in this neighbourhood :

• Plaza del Dos de Mayo
• The Museum of the History of Madrid (Museo de Historia de Madrid)
• The Mercado de San Ildefonso, known for its street food
• The Teatro Lara

📌 Suggestion of the most beautiful squares and streets to see: the famous Calle de Fuencarral, Calle de Manuela Malasaña, Calle del Espíritu Santo for its bohemian shops, Plaza de San Ildefonso for a drink on a terrace. Calle Velarde is also known for its record shops and Calle Pez, where you'll find many restaurants. 

🌮 Where to eat? Here are our favourite restaurants: 

• Casa Macarena, great restaurant rated 4.6 on Google
• Les Mauvais Garçons, French restaurant, rated 4.6 on Google
• La Manduca de Azagra, Navarrese speciality restaurant, rated 4.6 on Google

La Latina 

A nice, historic and lively neighbourhood. Here are 4 emblematic places and monuments to visit in this neighbourhood:

• The El Rastro Market 
• The Basilica of San Francisco el Grande 
• The Plaza de la Cebada
• La Latina Theatre

📌 Suggestion of the most beautiful squares and streets to see: Cava Baja, famous for its many tapas bars, Calle de la Cava Alta parallel to Cava Baja, Plaza de San Andrés with its church and the Museum of San Isidro. Finally, you also have Calle Almendro for its traditional taverns. 
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🌮 Where to eat? Here are our favourite restaurants: 

• Astor Gastro-place, great restaurant rated 4.9 on Google
• Toga Restaurant, speciality grills, rated 4.7 on Google
• Juana la Loca, tapas restaurant, rated 4.5 on Google

El Barrio de Las Letras (Huertas)

Madrid's literary neighbourhood par excellence, where many Spanish writers lived. We love its slightly bohemian atmosphere. Here are 4 emblematic places and monuments to visit in this neighbourhood:

• The Lope de Vega House-Museum, residence of the famous Spanish writer 
• The Plaza de Santa Ana, famous for its statues of Lorca and Calderón de la Barca.
• The Convento de las Trinitarias Descalzas (burial place of the writer Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote.)
• Ateneo de Madrid, dedicated to the promotion of the arts and sciences

‍This multicultural and artistic neighbourhood has no shortage of tapas bars! It is also home to many performance venues, ideal for fully enjoying Madrid nightlife. Suggestion of the most beautiful squares and streets to see: the pretty pedestrian street Calle de las Huertas, Plaza de Santa Ana, Plaza del Ángel, Calle de León for its art galleries and of course, Calle Cervantes. 

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🌮 Where to eat? Here are our favourite restaurants: 

• Casa Alberto, Spanish restaurant rated 4.4 on Google
• Viva Madrid, bistro rated 4.5 on Google

Chueca, a vibrant and colourful neighbourhood

The heart of Madrid's LGBTQ+ community, this neighbourhood is renowned for its nightlife and its many shops. Here are 3 emblematic places and monuments to visit in this neighbourhood:

• The Mercado de San Antón
• The Plaza de Chueca, the neighbourhood's lively square
• Espacio Cultural La Nave

📌 Suggestion of the most beautiful squares and streets to see: Calle de Pelayo and the pedestrian street Calle de Fuencarral. 

🌮 Where to eat? Here are our favourite restaurants: 

• La Trattoria Pulcinella, Italian restaurant rated 4.6 on Google
• Villa Capri, Italian restaurant rated 4.7 on Google 
• Sakale, sushi restaurant rated 4.5 on Google

Chamberí

It's a rather residential and quiet neighbourhood. Here are 4 emblematic places and monuments to visit in this neighbourhood:

• Andén 0 - Chamberí Station, a former metro station turned into a museum
• The Museo Sorolla, the former residence and studio of the Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla, now turned into a museum
• Teatros del Canal
• The Mercado de Chamberí for its Spanish gastronomic specialities 

📌 Suggestion of the most beautiful squares and streets to see: Plaza de Olavide (a pedestrian square with many cafés), Calle de Ponzano for its many gourmet restaurants, the Calle de Fuencarral, Plaza de Chamberí and finally Calle de José Abascal. 

🌮 Where to eat? Here are our favourite restaurants: 

• Sala de Despiece, sublime restaurant rated 4.4 on Google
• Allegorie Restaurante, gourmet restaurant, rated 4.9 on Google
• Cocina Real, Mediterranean restaurant, rated 4.9 on Google

Where to walk in Madrid? The most beautiful parks to see

We've gathered here the most beautiful parks in Madrid.

The Retiro Park

Settle into this oasis of greenery in the very heart of Madrid. You can hire boats on the big lake or attend puppet shows. A peaceful place in the midst of urban life.

The Royal Botanical Garden

Photography lovers will be impressed by its incredible collection of more than 5,000 plant species from around the world. You'll see historic greenhouses and many temporary exhibitions. 

Casa de Campo

It's Madrid's largest park. On site, you can do a multitude of activities and go up high on its cable car. A chance to admire spectacular views of the city from up there. 

🎈 Kid-friendly: +++ for its bike hire

Madrid Río 

A great urban leisure space with many children's playgrounds, cycle paths and rest areas. 

🎈 Kid-friendly: +++ 

Parque Juan Carlos I 

A haven of peace offering spaces for kitesurfing, as well as children's play areas with a sculpture garden. 

🎈 Kid-friendly: +++ for its playgrounds  

Parque del Oeste

Famous for its magnificent Egyptian Temple of Debod and its well-kept gardens. Ideal for a romantic sunset stroll or a picnic away from the urban bustle.

Parque de El Capricho

This park offers superb scenery with romantic gardens, mazes and historic buildings.

Jardines de Sabatini

These gardens are located next to the Royal Palace. We especially like their symmetry and pretty fountains. Perfect for a peaceful walk after visiting the palace.

Campo del Moro in the heart of Madrid

Accessible from the Royal Palace, this park is known for its English gardens and free-roaming peacocks with the palace as a backdrop. It is also part of our list of what to see in Madrid. 

Parque de la Quinta de los Molinos

This city park, a little off the beaten track, is best seen in spring when the almond trees are in blossom.  

How many days to visit Madrid? 2, 3 or 5 days

We know Madrid is a big city, so here are some ideas to help you plan your stay. 

What to see in Madrid in 2 days? The perfect itinerary for a weekend

Day 1 of your itinerary 

For this first day, we recommend starting with the Barrio de los Austrias for its concentration of monuments and other tourist sights. Start with the famous Puerta del Sol, then head to Plaza Mayor. As you go back down Calle Mayor, you can see or visit: 

• the Almudena Cathedral 
• the Royal Palace
• the Teatro Real
• and finally, the famous Plaza de Oriente. 

To make the most of this day, opt for the Madrid hop-on hop-off bus tour

In the afternoon, stroll through the lanes of the Barrio de las Letras (las Letras) along Calle de las Huertas. You can stop at one of the neighbourhood's tapas bars. A chance to raise a glass to this wonderful day! 

Day 2 

Start this second day with a visit to one of Madrid's three main museums: 

• The Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado)
• El Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía 
• The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

In the afternoon, why not go and explore the Real Madrid stadium ! If you're not a football fan, then use this afternoon to stroll along Gran Vía and head to the Círculo de Bellas Artes with its terrace on the 7th floor (€5.50 to get in). Fancy calm and nature? Go for a walk in Retiro Park with its sublime gardens and its Crystal Palace. End the day by watching a magnificent flamenco show! 

Visiting Madrid in 3 days: itinerary idea for a 72-hour city break

For this stay, we recommend following our 2 days in Madrid itinerary and adding: 

• The Changing of the Guard: to see it, go either to the Puerta del Príncipe (from 11am to 2pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays) or to the Royal Palace (at 12 noon on the first Wednesday of each month). 
• the Temple of Debod and the Parque del Oeste for its panoramic view 

End the evening in the very lively Chueca neighbourhood for an unforgettable night. 

Visiting Madrid in 5 days or more: what to do? What to see?

For these 5 days, we recommend getting the Madrid City Card for unlimited transport. This tourist pass lets you choose the number of days. The price for an adult varies between €8.40 and €26.80. It will give you some benefits for cultural visits, as well as free entry to some museums.  Another Wandersand tip for a stay of 5 days or more : if you plan to visit the 3 museums during your stay, there is the 3 Museum Pass for a total of €32 including: 

• The Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado)
• El Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía 
• The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

As an itinerary, we recommend following the itinerary: Visiting Madrid in 2-3 days, adding the following must-do activities:  

• a day at Parque Warner Madrid 
• A visit to the Zoo Aquarium or the Museum of Natural Sciences
• The Las Ventas Bullring 
• and why not, a day trip to Toledo! To find out more, we talk about it just below. 

What to see around Madrid? 5 ideas for excursions within 1 hour 

Visit the Alcázar of Toledo

Immerse yourself, if only for a day, in the military and royal history of Spain. Set off to conquer this emblematic monument and its fortification, which have stood the test of time. Also called "the city of three cultures", Toledo's heritage is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't come to Toledo without visiting its sublime 13th-century cathedral. 

Royal Palace of Aranjuez

Wondering where to go from Madrid? Located less than an hour from the capital, this residence of the kings of Spain is surrounded by vast, lush and historic gardens. The River Tagus flows through the palace grounds. You'll be overwhelmed by its architectural beauty. If you come to Aranjuez, remember to visit its bullring too. 

The Alcázar of Segovia

Segovia stands like a history book. It is said that its castle inspired Cinderella's, the famous Walt Disney tale. Also a UNESCO site, Segovia is known for its Spanish military architecture, fortress and fairytale towers. A strategic location on a rock well worth visiting if you're coming to Madrid for a few days. Also don't miss: Santa Maria Cathedral and the Roman aqueduct. 

The Royal Monastery of El Escorial

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site to see around Madrid. This colossal monument represents all the power of 16th-century Spain. During this visit, you'll be fascinated by its austerity and immensity. 

Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso

A true masterpiece of Baroque art, it is the summer palace of the kings of Spain. We love its French-style gardens and spectacular fountains, often compared to those of Versailles. Don't forget to capture the mountains of the Sierra de Guadarrama as a backdrop.

Going to Madrid: accommodation and useful addresses

We've gathered here all the practical info for your stay in Madrid:

Where to stay in Madrid with the family? 

Here is a selection of the best accommodation offering family rooms for sleeping with children: 

• Arenal Suites Gran Via, in the heart of Madrid, rated 9.2 on Booking and 9.7 for its location
• Artip Hotel, for its original decor, rated 9.0 on Booking and 9.7 for its location
• Amor de Dios 17 Luxury Suites, 700 metres from the Reina Sofía Museum, rated 9.0 on Booking and 9.6 for its location
• The Magnificent Gran Hotel Inglés - The Leading Hotels of the World rated 9.4 on Booking and 9.8 for its location 

Where to stay in Madrid as a couple? 

Here is a selection of the best accommodation for a stay for two: 

• Only YOU Boutique Hotel Madrid, rated 9.2 on Booking and 9.7 for its location
• Hotel Montera Madrid, Curio Collection By Hilton, rated 9.0 on Booking and 9.7 for its location
• Casa du Soleil, rated 9.0 on Booking and 9.7 for its location

What to see in Madrid? Useful addresses for your stay

If you're staying in the Spanish capital, here are the official addresses where you can find more information. You can also find out more about upcoming events:

• the Oficina de Información y Turismo de la Comunidad de Madrid
• the Centro de Turismo Plaza Mayor
• or the Tourist Information Plaza de Cibeles

FAQ: visiting Madrid 

Our answers to your most frequently asked questions for visiting Madrid: 

How to get to Madrid?

Easily accessible by plane: to get there, you have Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas International Airport, one of the largest in Europe. 

Madrid is also well connected by the Spanish rail network. With high-speed trains (AVE), you can reach Madrid from Barcelona or Seville. Finally, the last option is to drive to Madrid.

Where to walk in the evening in Madrid?

If you're staying in Madrid, don't miss the Malasaña, Chueca and La Latina neighbourhoods in the evening. You'll find many bars, restaurants and terraces. Another lively avenue in the evening is the Gran Vía with its theatres and cinemas. Perfect for an evening stroll in the capital.

What is the best time to go to Madrid?

To come to Madrid, we recommend spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These seasons are ideal for their pleasant climate and mild temperatures. It's during these periods that there are fewer crowds to visit Madrid. So you can make the most of the city's outdoor attractions, parks and terraces. Another nice time to stay in Madrid: the Christmas holidays. However, be aware that you won't be the only ones and that accommodation prices rise at this time of year. 

Why should you visit Madrid?

Madrid offers an unforgettable experience. It's a vibrant city that combines cultural richness, fascinating history and lively nightlife. It is home to world-class museums such as the Prado and the Reina Sofía, magnificent parks and elegant architecture. Finally, coming to Madrid also means tasting Madrid cuisine and enjoying the warm welcome of its inhabitants.

What is the best campsite for visiting Madrid?

Camping Internacional Aranjuez is an excellent option for those who want to explore Madrid while staying in a natural setting. Located near Aranjuez, this campsite offers easy access to Madrid by public transport or by car. It has modern facilities, including a pool, sports grounds and children's play areas. Ideal for a comfortable stay and family fun.

And that's where our article on what to see in Madrid ends. We hope all this info will be useful to you! And above all, enjoy your stay in the Spanish capital! 😎