The 10 Best Things to Do in Madrid

It’s no surprise that Spain is one of the most popular European countries for a city break. Be it Mallorca and its beaches, San Sebastian and its food scene or Barcelona and its architecture, tourists are spoiled for choice. With its rich tapestry of history, art and culture, however, the capital of Madrid is one of our top picks for the seasoned explorer, promising an unforgettable journey filled with enriching experiences and leisurely pursuits.

While you’re at it, be sure to tick each of these off your list.

Mornings are best spent with a leisurely stroll through Buen Retiro Park, a verdant oasis nestled in the heart of Madrid. Once a retreat for Spanish royalty, expect serene gardens, shimmering lakes, and iconic landmarks such as the Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace) and the Monument to Alfonso XII. It's also a picturesque spot to indulge in a moment of reflection by the tranquil waters - a perfect way to start your Spanish adventure.

2. Visit the Museo Nacional del Prado

Madrid is a haven of culture, and no visit to the city is complete without exploring the treasure trove of art housed within the Museo Nacional del Prado. Home to an extensive collection of European masterpieces, including works by Velázquez, Goya and El Greco, the Prado Museum explores centuries of artistic brilliance, so be sure to carve out a few hours to immerse yourself in its many renowned paintings and sculptures.

Ernest Hemingway had a lifelong love affair with Madrid, with the American novelist visiting Spain many times from the 1920s and throughout the 1930s – when he covered the Spanish Civil War – to his final visit in 1960.

You can follow in his footsteps by raising a glass at Café Gijón or Café Comercial, where he once found inspiration amidst lively conversations and spirited libations. We highly recommend a traditional Spanish aperitif or a glass of Rioja as you soak in the atmosphere of bygone eras, while you can also emulate the Nobel Prize winner by sipping a cocktail at the Hemingway Cocktail Bar at NH Collection Madrid Suecia Hotel, where they serve the Hemingway Daiquiri, the writer's version of the original Papa Doble.

4. Take a Spanish Tapas Crawl

Every time is mealtime in a city like Madrid, where a tapas hopping afternoon is obligatory. Get lost as you wander through quaint taverns and bustling plazas, sampling an array of delectable small plates ranging from classic tortilla española to succulent jamón ibérico. Some of the best spots for tapas in the city include Bodega de la Ardosa, Casa González and Docamar, so be sure to add them to the list.

5. Bag a Bargain at El Rastro Flea Market

There's nothing quite like the vibrant energy of Madrid’s El Rastro Flea Market, where you can meander its many stalls and vendors selling everything from vintage clothing and antique furniture to handmade crafts and eclectic souvenirs. A must for bargain hunters, amidst amateur paintings and discarded wedding dresses, discover the likes of relics from old churches and pieces of classic designer furniture for true one-of-a-kind finds.

6. Watch a Flamenco Show

Spain’s quintessential art form, be sure to carve out some time to head to a traditional tablao or flamenco venue in Madrid’s historic neighbourhoods, where talented dancers, musicians and singers come together to create an unforgettable spectacle of emotion and expression. Flamenco has been woven into the fabric of Spanish identity for centuries, and if you’re feeling brave, you can even give it a go yourself.

Another of Madrid’s must-visit galleries, Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza is home to an extensive collection of European paintings spanning from the Renaissance to the late 20th century.

Here you can admire works by masters such as Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Monet, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of Western art.

8. Wander the Chueca Quarter

Popular with Madrid’s LGBTQ+ community, the colourful Chueca quarter is a dynamic neighbourhood known for its eclectic mix of shops, bars and cultural venues. It’s a lovely place to stroll along lively streets lined with rainbow flags and vibrant murals, pausing to explore chic boutiques, quirky art galleries and cafés. Oh, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself having a drink with the locals while you’re at it.

9. Take a Football Stadium Tour

Travelling with a sports-obsessed husband or friend? A visit to one of Madrid’s iconic football stadiums is a must-do experience. Choose between the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid, or Atlético Madrid’s Wanda Metropolitano Stadium, where you can embark on an immersive tour of these hallowed grounds.

Not just for football fans, exploring behind-the-scenes areas such as the locker rooms and trophy rooms and marvelling at the storied history of these legendary clubs is a fantastic experience for all.

10. See the Changing of the Guard at the Royal Palace of Madrid

End your day with a regal spectacle at the Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish royal family. It’s here that the time-honoured tradition of the Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place, as uniformed soldiers perform precision drills amidst the majestic backdrop of the palace façade.