I’ve been travelling the length and breadth of Madrid for over 6 years now! One day in Madrid is therefore a summary of all my finds and visits. Even after all this time, I can’t get enough of it. Madrid is an incredible city, with plenty to do with family and friends. In this guide, you’ll find all the information you need to visit the city and Things to do in Madrid during your stay.
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Must-See
Museum
With Kid
Plan your trip
District
Park
Why visit Madrid?
As an expatriate, I recommend visiting this city for its warm welcome, vibrant nightlife, delicious food and unique blend of modernity and history. For a capital city, you’ll find plenty of soothing green spaces to relax in between visits. Madrid is also full of captivating, authentic traditions (particularly San Isidro, an exceptional occasion), where the whole city is a celebration.
Finally, Madrid is a city on a human scale! It’s easy to get around, or to visit Madrid on foot. Madrid is a life experience in its own right, rich in discovery and conviviality.
What I really like about it is that it’s very safe! You can go out late at night with your girlfriends without being hassled, there’s little violence in the streets, and people are courteous and friendly. You can take the metro at any time of night without any problem. Of course, like all big cities, you’ll find pickpockets in the tourist areas, but as a general rule, it’s a quiet and secure city!
How many days will it take to visit Madrid?
Planning the ideal time to visit Madrid is essential if you are to enjoy this fascinating city to the full. As an expatriate here, I recommend that you allow at least 3 to 4 days for your first exploration. This time will allow you to discover the must-sees such as the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace and Retiro Park, and to immerse yourself in local life by sampling tapas in the lively districts.
However, if you want to deepen your experience and explore more of the museums, historic districts or nearby excursions, consider staying for a week or more. This capital has so much to offer that you can easily tailor your stay to suit your personal interests.
To find out what to do in Madrid during your stay of a few days, here is our planning recommendation:
- Visiting Madrid in 1 day: the essentials
- Visiter Madrid en 2 jours : nos incontournables
- Visiter Madrid en 3 jours : que voir, que faire?
- Visiter Madrid en 4 jours : notre planning complet
The main museums to visit in Madrid
What can you do in Madrid if you’re passionate about art and culture? The answer lies in the city’s museums. Let me guide you through a selection of must-see museums that will immerse you in the rich history and artistic expression of this Spanish capital.
- Prado Museum: Start your cultural adventure with a visit to the Prado Museum, one of the most prestigious museums in the world. It houses an impressive collection of European paintings, with works by masters such as Velázquez, Goya and El Greco.
- The Reina Sofia Museum: This modern museum showcases contemporary Spanish art. Here you can admire masterpieces, including Picasso’s famous painting “Guernica”. An unmissable experience for lovers of modern art. Book your tickets Here
- The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: This museum offers a journey through the history of Western painting. From the Renaissance to contemporary movements, it houses a varied collection that will appeal to all art lovers.
- The Sorolla Museum: If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, visit the museum in the home of the painter Joaquín Sorolla. You will discover his studio, his home, and his magnificent works, imbued with light and colour.
- San Isidro Museum: This museum invites you to explore the history of Madrid, from its origins to the present day. It offers a fascinating insight into the evolution of the city through objects, documents and interactive exhibitions.
You’ll find a whole host of museums in Madrid, many of them free!
- Free museums in Madrid
- Top 12 des meilleurs musées
- Instagrammable museums
Things to do in Madrid : other places to see
Madrid is full of fun things to do and see. Here are some of the cool experiences I recommend!
- The Royal Palace : Europe’s largest palace and its cathedral
- Las Ventas Bullring: Immerse yourself in the history of bullfighting with a visit to the famous Las Ventas bullring. Even if you’re not a fan of bullfighting, a visit to the bullring is well worth your while – the building is sublime.
- The Templo de Debod: This ancient Egyptian temple is an unexpected treasure in the heart of Madrid. With stunning sunsets overlooking the city, it’s a great place to relax and take photos. It is possible to visit the interior free of charge.
- Food markets: Explore Madrid’s food markets, such as the Mercado de San Miguel and the Mercado de San Antón. You can enjoy a variety of tapas, Spanish dishes and local produce in a friendly atmosphere.
- Fun Museums: For a fun museum experience, visit the Museum of Illusions, Ikono or the Sweet Space Museum! These interactive areas are sure to delight your children!
- Retiro Park: This vast park offers a green getaway in the heart of Madrid. Hire a boat to paddle on the lake, attend puppet shows or simply stroll through its peaceful gardens. Bike tours are also available! Don’t miss the Palacio de Cristal, one of the park’s iconic monuments!
- The Teatro Real: located opposite the Royal Palace, this cool-looking theatre offers a breathtaking setting inside! Never trust appearances 🙂
- The Faro de Moncloa: This little-known site is nevertheless spectacular! The 360° view is spectacular.
- Palacio de Cibeles: This is simply Madrid’s Town Hall. It houses the centrocentro, an exhibition space, a restaurant and a rooftop at the top of the tower!
- Watch the Changing of the Guard: a very special moment to discover during your visit to Madrid! There are 2 of them. One weekly and one monthly.
Whether you’re passionate about culture, cuisine, entertainment or history, Madrid has it all. Take advantage of these activities to enjoy a memorable experience in this dynamic and welcoming city.
What original things to do in Madrid?
During a city-trip, we like to look for activities that are off the beaten track or original activities to do with family or friends. Madrid has its fair share of unusual activities!
We can start with the unusual places to visit in Madrid! La Tabacalera is a former tobacco factory that has been converted into an alternative cultural venue.. Admission is free, and it offers a range of cultural visits focusing on contemporary art.
The Matadero, in the south of Madrid, is a former abattoir that has been converted into a cultural space. Depending on the time of year, you’ll find plenty to do, especially with the whole family. It’s the perfect place to have fun, eat in a kid-friendly restaurant or visit exhibitions. Like La Tabacalera, it is open to the public free of charge. Last but not least, the Neomudejar museum is another alternative site offering a different cultural offering.
If you don’t feel like visiting too many museums during your stay, there are other ways of visiting Madrid. Check out our full article with our 10 ideas for things to do in Madrid.
Visit Madrid for free?
Many travellers are surprised when they arrive in Madrid by the prices of activities and restaurants. It’s important to remember that Madrid is still a capital city, and as elsewhere in Europe, it has also suffered from inflation in recent months. It’s cheaper than some French cities, but spending a weekend in Madrid can be expensive! It’s important to know that there are plenty of ways to visit at a lower price, or even for free!
Visit Madrid in English
To tell you the truth, I wasn’t a big fan of guided tours when I travelled. But now I’ve changed my mind! Having done several of these in Madrid, I’ve come to realise that it gives you a completely different idea of the city and its history.
Planning an English-language guided tour of Madrid has many advantages for travellers. Firstly, it makes it much easier to explore the city, as the French-speaking guide can provide you with accurate and historical information about the sites you are visiting. This will give you a better understanding of Madrid’s history, culture and architecture.
What’s more, local guides are often familiar with lesser-known places, local traditions and good addresses, allowing you to discover the city from a more authentic angle. They can also answer your questions in real time, giving you a personalised experience.
Finally, a guided tour in English allows you to maximise your time and avoid getting lost in the city. You can make the most of each site without worrying about logistics.
We work with various English-speaking guides in Madrid, all of whom offer different itineraries and themes!
Which district to visit in Madrid?
The city centre is quite small, so you can easily visit several districts in the same day. Each district has its own style, characteristics and charm. Here’s a summary of what to see and do in each district of Madrid. This will help you plan your itinerary according to your wishes.
Chueca district
The Chueca district has become one of Madrid’s most fashionable areas in recent years. There is a huge range of shops, bars and cultural attractions. But above all, we love Chueca for its atmosphere!
But above all, we love Chueca for its atmosphere! You’ll also find trendy shops selling exclusive products that you won’t find anywhere else, public markets transformed into meeting places, museums, art galleries, numerous bars and restaurants and a few hotels. There are also underground establishments such as tattoo studios, specialist bookshops and sex shops.
Chueca is also one of Europe’s best-known gay neighbourhoods. And a benchmark for the LGBT (lesbian, gay, transgender and bisexual) community worldwide. This is where Madrid Orgullo is held at the beginning of the summer, the big neighbourhood festival that has already spread to other streets and squares in Madrid, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Malasaña district
It’s one of my favourite districts! I love the atmosphere, the hipster bobo vibe. Malasaña is an ultra-dynamic district with colourful and sometimes original façades. In fact, there aren’t many big names in this area. Instead, you’ll find independent stalls with a more than thoughtful décor that will delight those looking for bargains or inspiration! Don’t hesitate to discover all the emblematic vintage boutiques in the district.
Malasaña also has a strong history. This district was at the heart of the Movida cultural movement in Spain in the 1980s. This movement, synonymous with creativity and freedom, emerged after the end of the Franco dictatorship and transformed Malasaña into a place for artistic encounters, music, cinema and social expression. Today, the imprint of the Movida is still very much alive in Malasaña, where you can still feel the rebellious, bohemian spirit that characterised this period of Spanish history.
Latina / Lavapiès district
The famous Calle Cava Baja is the gateway to the superlative Latina district. Madrid’s nightlife hotspots. To the south-east of this area is the Lavapies district. This popular multi-ethnic district will welcome you with open arms, with its many shops and restaurants from all over the world. Don’t miss the aforementioned Tabacalera, an iconic cultural venue. If you like street art, you’re in for a treat here.
Retiro district
This eastern part of Madrid is famous for its Retiro Park. Not to be missed on your visit to Madrid: a summer picnic, a visit to the Museo Velázquez and the Palacio de Cristal, or a boat trip on the lake.
The Retiro district is also known as the Paseo del Arte, because you’ll find all Madrid’s major museums on almost the same thoroughfare: the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen.
Centre district
I’ll end this section with the central district. I’m saving the best for last, or at least the most important part. Here you will find the famous Puerta del Sol, the Plaza Mayor with its adjacent San Miguel market, as well as the Royal Palace and the Royal Theatre.
In this district, you’ll discover the charm of Gran Via and Callao, the places that never sleep!
Things to do Madrid with children
Madrid is a fantastic destination for families travelling with children. Spaniards have a real affection for the young, and you’ll find that children are welcome everywhere. Here are some must-do family activities in Madrid:
- Retiro Park: This vast park is an ideal place for children. Don’t miss the puppet shows at weekends. You can take a boat trip on the lake, or simply relax on the grass while the children play.
- Parc Warner Madrid: A theme park located near Madrid, with exciting attractions for all the family based on Warner Bros. characters.
- Science Museum: This interactive museum offers exhibitions on astronomy, geology and biology, fascinating inquisitive young minds. The temporary exhibitions are also of a very high standard.
- Madrid Zoo Aquarium: A must-see for animal lovers, where you can discover a wide variety of animal species.
- Madrid Amusement Park: An amusement park in the heart of the city with rides for all ages.
- Museum of Natural Sciences: Our children’s favourite museum. The museum houses a vast collection of flora and fauna specimens, as well as fossils and minerals from all over the world. The building is superb, which makes it an interesting visit for parents too!
- Madrid Planetarium: For an educational and entertaining experience, the planetarium offers projections on astronomy and the universe.
- Neighbourhood parks: Madrid has many neighbourhood parks with children’s play equipment, making them a popular meeting place for local families.
Children are welcome in Madrid’s restaurants, cafés and most attractions, making it easy to enjoy family outings. Take advantage of the warm Spanish welcome and the many family activities to create unforgettable memories during your stay in the Spanish capital.
Things to do if you like football
If you’re a football enthusiast visiting Madrid, don’t miss the opportunity to explore two of the most iconic stadiums in the world.
The Santiago Bernabéu, home to Real Madrid, offers an immersive experience with its interactive museum and the chance to step onto the legendary pitch. Book your visit HERE
On the other side of the city, the Wanda Metropolitano is the stomping ground of Atlético de Madrid, providing an electric atmosphere during matches. Immerse yourself in the history of Spanish football by exploring these legendary venues, soak in the competitive spirit that prevails, and feel the excitement of sports passion at every turn.
Whether you’re a fan of Real or Atlético, these football temples in Madrid promise an unforgettable experience.
Don’t miss the incredible Legend museum, on the theme of football, a 4-storey museum at the foot of the Puerta del Sol. Even though I’m not particularly fond of football, I found it really interesting!
Where to see the best Flamenco shows?
For an Andalusian atmosphere in the heart of the capital, there’s nothing like going to see a Flamenco show in Madrid. Even if some will say that you can’t find any good flamenco shows, you should know that there are some excellent places to go!
Over the last few years, we’ve tried out a number of them, and we’ll tell you all about them in our full article dedicated to Flamenco in Madrid.
Where to eat in Madrid
We’re sharing some of the places we’ve tried and enjoyed. As a general rule, it’s best to find restaurants in Madrid that don’t “look the part”. These are the places where you’re sure to find good Spanish home cooking. Try the “menù del dia” for between €8 and €12 and you’ll eat like a king!
Visiting Madrid: all the practical information
Here is some practical information you may find useful when visiting Madrid.
Getting around Madrid
You can visit Madrid on foot, and it really is on a human scale. Sometimes, to go faster, the metro comes in very handy. To use it, you need to buy a reusable card and top it up. There are no single tickets. The reload card is multi-personal. You play it as many times as there are people. Read our full article on getting around Madrid to find out more. A journey costs €1.20.
Where to sleep?
If you’re only spending a weekend in Madrid, we recommend that you sleep in the city centre, so that all the districts are close to your accommodation. We have written a full article on hotels by district and also on the various youth hostels for under €20 a night.
The accommodation on offer in Madrid is quite extensive. The districts in the hyper-centre are a little more expensive, but the advantage is that you won’t be stuck with public transport if you want to go out late at night. Discover our selection of hotels in the hypercentre here .
Madrid airport
Madrid airport is 12 kilometres from the city centre. It is served by cercania, metro (L8) and bus. If you take the metro to the airport, be aware that you will have to pay a tax of €3 per person as you are “outside the central zone”.
Our tip: We recommend taking the bus from Avenida de America Metro station, which will only cost you 1 bus ticket (€1.20). We explain everything in our article on Madrid airport transfers. The bus will drop you off in 20 minutes.
You can also opt for shuttle buses or private transfers to make your arrival easier.
I hope this guide helps you discover the things to do in Madrid. Don’t hesitate to check out the full articles for more details.
Emilie