What to do in Madrid?
Browse by category and by area through the hundreds of places we love most in Madrid, and mark anything that catches your eye straight to your personal itinerary.
👑 Palaces & royalty
-
Royal Palace ★ 4.7 · Central Madrid
The vast royal palace with more than 3,000 rooms, the largest in Western Europe
-
Alcázar of Segovia ★ 4.7 · Toledo and Segovia
A fairy tale royal fortress shaped like a ship's prow that inspired the classic Disney castle
Full guide → -
El Escorial Monastery ★ 4.7 · El Escorial and around
A vast 16th century royal complex combining a monastery, palace and library, built by Philip II
-
Royal Palace of Aranjuez ★ 4.6 · El Escorial and around
A lavish royal summer palace on the banks of the Tagus with ornate halls and a stunning porcelain room
-
Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso ★ 4.6 · Toledo and Segovia
A royal summer palace in the style of Versailles with grand Baroque gardens and spectacular fountains
Full guide → -
Casa del Labrador ★ 4.5 · El Escorial and around
A small, exquisitely decorated pavilion in the Prince's Garden, a treasury of royal decorative art
-
Palacio de los Verdugo, Ávila ★ 4.3 · El Escorial and around
A fortified Renaissance noble palace inside the walls of Ávila with a stone courtyard and a sculpted facade
-
Longoria Palace · Malasaña and Chueca
A striking Art Nouveau modernist palace, today home to the society of authors
🏛️ Historic landmarks
-
Pantheon of the Kings ★ 5.0 · El Escorial and around
The tomb of Spain's monarchs beneath the basilica, a striking round chamber of marble and gold
-
Aqueduct of Segovia ★ 4.9 · Toledo and Segovia
A colossal 1st century Roman aqueduct built of stone without mortar, the city's defining symbol
Full guide → -
Walls of Ávila ★ 4.8 · El Escorial and around
Complete and impressive medieval walls encircling the city, with many towers and a walkway along the top
-
Casa de la Panadería ★ 4.8 · Central Madrid
The bakery house adorned with colourful frescoes, the standout flourish of the Plaza Mayor
-
Puerta de Alcalá ★ 4.7 · The Golden Triangle
The grand neoclassical triumphal gate from 1778, one of Madrid's most iconic landmarks
Full guide → -
Cibeles Fountain ★ 4.7 · The Golden Triangle
The grand fountain of the goddess of fertility on a lion chariot, where Real Madrid celebrates its titles
Full guide → -
San Martín Bridge ★ 4.7 · Toledo and Segovia
A medieval stone bridge over the Tagus with lovely viewpoints and a nearby zipline route
Full guide → -
Puerta de Bisagra ★ 4.7 · Toledo and Segovia
The main monumental city gate, crowned with a huge imperial eagle, welcoming visitors to Toledo
Full guide → -
Alcántara Bridge ★ 4.7 · Toledo and Segovia
A historic Roman stone bridge crossing the Tagus at the eastern entrance to the old city
Full guide → -
Metrópolis Building ★ 4.7 · Central Madrid
One of Madrid's most photographed buildings, with a golden dome and a winged statue on the corner of Gran Vía
-
Toledo Bridge ★ 4.7 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A spectacular 18th century Baroque stone bridge over the Manzanares river, lined with statues
-
Puerta del Sol de Toledo ★ 4.7 · Toledo and Segovia
An ornate 14th century Mudéjar gate with a double horseshoe arch at the northern entrance to the old city
Full guide → -
Royal Observatory of Madrid ★ 4.7 · The Golden Triangle
A neoclassical 1790 observatory on a hill by the Retiro, a hidden scientific gem
Full guide → -
Alcázar of Toledo ★ 4.6 · Toledo and Segovia
A square royal fortress crowning the skyline, today home to the National Army Museum
Full guide → -
Neptune Fountain ★ 4.6 · The Golden Triangle
The fountain of the sea god on a chariot of sea horses, focal point of Atlético Madrid celebrations
Full guide → -
Hanging Houses of Cuenca ★ 4.6 · El Escorial and around
Medieval houses clinging to the edge of a steep cliff, the defining and most photographed symbol of Cuenca
-
Fountain of the Fallen Angel ★ 4.6 · The Golden Triangle
One of the few statues in the world dedicated to the devil, a curious symbolic landmark in the Retiro
Full guide → -
Castle of Manzanares el Real ★ 4.6 · El Escorial and around
One of the best preserved castles in Spain, with round towers and views of the lake and the Guadarrama mountains
-
The Bear and the Strawberry Tree ★ 4.6 · Central Madrid
The statue of the bear reaching up the tree, the official emblem of Madrid and a beloved meeting point in Sol
-
Telefónica Building ★ 4.6 · Central Madrid
Madrid's first skyscraper from 1929, an early symbol of the bustling Gran Vía
-
Puerta de Felipe IV ★ 4.6 · The Golden Triangle
The oldest monumental gate of the Retiro, from 1690, facing the Jerónimos church
Full guide → -
University of Alcalá ★ 4.6 · El Escorial and around
A historic 16th century university with a spectacular Renaissance facade and noble stone courtyards
-
Calle Mayor ★ 4.6 · Central Madrid
The historic main street linking Sol to the palace, crowded with old buildings and taverns
-
Las Ventas Bullring ★ 4.5 · Salamanca
The magnificent Moorish style bullring with a museum on the tradition of the corrida
-
Valle de Cuelgamuros ★ 4.5 · El Escorial and around
A giant monument carved into the mountain with an enormous cross among the tallest in the world, at a historically charged site
-
Chamberí Ghost Station ★ 4.5 · Malasaña and Chueca
An abandoned metro station from 1919 restored as a fascinating little underground museum
-
Andén 0 Chamberí Station ★ 4.5 · Salamanca
A restored 1919 ghost metro station turned into a fascinating underground museum
-
Fountain of Apollo ★ 4.5 · The Golden Triangle
A neoclassical fountain of the sun god on the Paseo del Prado, one of the three great fountains
Full guide → -
Arco de Cuchilleros ★ 4.5 · Central Madrid
The famous arched gate leading out of Plaza Mayor to a street of ancient taverns
-
Temple of Debod ★ 4.4 · Central Madrid
A genuine 2,000 year old Egyptian temple gifted to Spain, the finest sunset spot in the city
-
Convento de las Descalzas Reales ★ 4.4 · Central Madrid
A hidden royal convent with a collection of masterpieces by Rubens and Titian behind a modest facade
-
La Corrala ★ 4.4 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A historic tenement building with inner balconies, typical of old Madrid architecture
-
Casa de los Picos ★ 4.3 · Toledo and Segovia
A famous Renaissance noble house with a stone facade of pointed diamond shapes near the aqueduct
Full guide → -
Madrid Stock Exchange ★ 4.3 · The Golden Triangle
The magnificent neoclassical stock exchange building on Plaza de la Lealtad, an architectural gem from 1893
Full guide → -
Library of El Escorial ★ 4.3 · El Escorial and around
A magnificent library hall with a stunning fresco ceiling and thousands of rare, ancient manuscripts
-
Cristo de la Luz ★ 4.2 · Toledo and Segovia
One of the oldest surviving buildings of its kind in Spain, from the 10th century, with characteristic arches and a small garden
Full guide → -
Embajadores ★ 4.2 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A historic working class quarter in southern Madrid with narrow streets and an authentic character
-
Taller del Moro ★ 4.2 · Toledo and Segovia
A small, ornate Mudéjar palace from the 14th century, a window into Toledo's architectural history
Full guide → -
Puerta de Toledo ★ 4.2 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A 19th century neoclassical triumphal arch on the southern edge of the historic centre
-
Arco de la Victoria ★ 4.1 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A monumental triumphal arch on Moncloa square marking the entrance to the university city
Full guide → -
Atocha Station ★ 4.0 · The Golden Triangle
The historic railway station with a lush tropical garden beneath a vast iron and glass roof
Full guide → -
Posada de la Hermandad ★ 3.7 · Toledo and Segovia
A medieval brotherhood building that served as a jail and courthouse, with a picturesque stone courtyard
Full guide → -
Puerta de Moros · La Latina and Lavapiés
A historic corner of Madrid's medieval wall, its name a reminder of the Moorish past
-
Chamartín Station · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
Madrid's main northern railway station and the gateway to Spain's high speed trains
Full guide →
⛪ Churches & cathedrals
-
Basílica de El Escorial ★ 4.8 · El Escorial and around
The complex's impressive church with a vast dome, gilded altars and a dramatic marble floor
-
Toledo Cathedral ★ 4.7 · Toledo and Segovia
One of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Spain, with art treasures by El Greco and Goya inside
Full guide → -
Segovia Cathedral ★ 4.7 · Toledo and Segovia
The last Gothic cathedral built in Spain, known as the Lady of Cathedrals for its elegance
Full guide → -
San Juan de los Reyes Monastery ★ 4.7 · Toledo and Segovia
A magnificent Gothic Franciscan monastery founded by the Catholic Monarchs, with a stunning cloister
Full guide → -
Basílica de San Francisco el Grande ★ 4.7 · Central Madrid
A neoclassical church with one of the largest domes in Europe and artworks by Goya
-
Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida ★ 4.7 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A small chapel with a stunning fresco ceiling by Goya, whose tomb rests inside
Full guide → -
Church of La Concepción ★ 4.7 · Salamanca
An impressive neo-Gothic church with a prominent bell tower in the heart of the Salamanca district
-
Monastery of El Parral ★ 4.7 · Toledo and Segovia
A quiet 15th century Hieronymite monastery in the river valley with a Gothic church and a lovely cloister
Full guide → -
Church of Las Maravillas ★ 4.7 · Malasaña and Chueca
An old Baroque church that gave Malasaña its historic nickname, Las Maravillas, through the ages
-
Almudena Cathedral ★ 4.6 · Central Madrid
Madrid's main cathedral facing the palace, with a striking modern, colourful ceiling
-
Los Jerónimos Church ★ 4.6 · The Golden Triangle
A royal Gothic church beside the Prado where Spain's kings were once crowned
Full guide → -
Basílica de San Vicente ★ 4.6 · El Escorial and around
An impressive Romanesque basilica outside the walls with a sculpted portal and an ornate saints' tomb
-
Church of San Ginés ★ 4.6 · Central Madrid
One of the oldest churches in the city, next to the legendary chocolatería, holding an El Greco work
-
Church of San Millán ★ 4.6 · Toledo and Segovia
One of the loveliest Romanesque churches in Segovia, with stone porticoes and an impressive 12th century tower
Full guide → -
Church of San Pedro el Viejo ★ 4.6 · Central Madrid
A medieval church with a leaning Mudéjar bell tower, one of the oldest to survive in Madrid
-
Church of San Andrés ★ 4.6 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A historic church complex in the heart of La Latina, tied to the patron saint Isidro
-
Ávila Cathedral ★ 4.5 · El Escorial and around
A fortified Gothic cathedral whose apse is built into the city wall, a rare blend of fortress and church
-
Cuenca Cathedral ★ 4.5 · El Escorial and around
The first cathedral in Spain built in the Gothic style, with a modern facade and an impressive stone interior
-
Monasterio de Santa María de El Paular ★ 4.5 · El Escorial and around
A historic Gothic monastery in the Lozoya valley of the Guadarrama mountains, with a magnificent carved altarpiece
-
Church of Vera Cruz ★ 4.5 · Toledo and Segovia
A rare round Romanesque church from the 13th century outside the walls, with views of the Alcázar
Full guide → -
Church of Santa Teresa y Santa Isabel ★ 4.5 · Salamanca
A neo-Gothic church with a prominent tower seen from Plaza de las Salesas in Chamberí
-
Church of San Fermín de los Navarros ★ 4.5 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
An impressive neo-Mudéjar church on the edge of Chamberí with rich interior decoration
Full guide → -
Church of Santo Tomé ★ 4.4 · Toledo and Segovia
A small church holding El Greco's masterpiece, the Burial of the Count of Orgaz
Full guide → -
Convento de San Antonio el Real ★ 4.4 · Toledo and Segovia
A royal convent in Segovia with rare gilded Mudéjar ceilings and sculpted Gothic altars
Full guide → -
Convento de Santa Teresa ★ 4.4 · El Escorial and around
A Baroque convent built over the birthplace of Saint Teresa of Ávila, a pilgrimage focus
🖼️ Museums
-
Prado Museum ★ 4.7 · The Golden Triangle
One of the world's great art museums, with masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya and Bosch
Full guide → -
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum ★ 4.7 · The Golden Triangle
A magnificent private collection that completes the triangle, from the Renaissance to Pop Art
Full guide → -
Sorolla Museum ★ 4.7 · Malasaña and Chueca
The home of painter Joaquín Sorolla, with an Andalusian garden and mesmerising paintings of light and sea
-
Geominero Museum ★ 4.7 · Salamanca
A geology museum with a magnificent neoclassical hall and a collection of minerals and fossils
-
Lázaro Galdiano Museum ★ 4.7 · Salamanca
A magnificent mansion with a rich private art collection of paintings, jewellery and objets d'art
-
Naval Museum ★ 4.6 · The Golden Triangle
Spain's naval history museum with ancient maps and spectacular ship models
Full guide → -
MUNCYT Science Museum ★ 4.6 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
The national science and technology museum with interactive exhibits and historic inventions
Full guide → -
Museo de San Isidro ★ 4.6 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A museum on Madrid's origins and history, on the site where the patron saint lived
-
Museum of Abstract Art ★ 4.6 · El Escorial and around
A museum of abstract art inside the Hanging Houses, a stunning blend of art and ancient building
-
Reina Sofía Museum ★ 4.5 · The Golden Triangle
The modern art museum where Picasso's haunting Guernica hangs
Full guide → -
Railway Museum ★ 4.5 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A museum in a historic station with vintage locomotives and lavish carriages for train lovers
Full guide → -
Cervantes Birthplace Museum ★ 4.5 · El Escorial and around
A reconstructed house where the author of Don Quixote, Miguel de Cervantes, was born, with fine period furnishings
-
Museum of the History of Madrid ★ 4.5 · Malasaña and Chueca
A museum with a magnificent Baroque facade telling the story of the city's growth
-
Museo del Romanticismo ★ 4.5 · Malasaña and Chueca
A 19th century mansion recreating the romantic bourgeois life of the era
-
Army Museum ★ 4.5 · Toledo and Segovia
A vast military history museum inside the Alcázar with weapons, armour and flags through the ages
Full guide → -
Museo de Santa Cruz ★ 4.5 · Toledo and Segovia
An art museum in a magnificent Renaissance building with El Greco paintings, tapestries and archaeological finds
Full guide → -
Antonio Machado House Museum ★ 4.5 · Toledo and Segovia
The modest guesthouse where poet Antonio Machado lived, restored with his personal belongings
Full guide → -
El Greco Museum ★ 4.4 · Toledo and Segovia
A house museum recreating the life of the painter El Greco, with a collection of his works and historic rooms
Full guide → -
Museo de América ★ 4.4 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A rich collection of art and culture from the indigenous peoples of the Americas
Full guide → -
Costume Museum ★ 4.4 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A fashion and textile museum showing the evolution of Spanish dress through the ages
Full guide → -
National Museum of Anthropology ★ 4.3 · The Golden Triangle
A museum of world cultures with collections from Africa, Asia and the Americas, near Atocha
Full guide → -
Museum of Decorative Arts ★ 4.3 · The Golden Triangle
A rich collection of furniture, ceramics and tiles telling the story of Spanish design
Full guide → -
ABC Museum of Drawing ★ 4.3 · Malasaña and Chueca
A museum of illustration and drawing in a restored old brewery at the edge of Conde Duque
-
National Archaeological Museum ★ 3.7 · Salamanca
Treasures of Spanish history, including a famous replica of the Altamira caves
🎭 Culture & heritage
-
Casa Museo Lope de Vega ★ 4.7 · Central Madrid
The original home of Spain's great playwright, with 17th century furnishings and a small garden
-
Palacio de Cristal ★ 4.7 · The Golden Triangle
A stunning glass and iron structure from 1887 in the heart of the Retiro, hosting rotating art exhibitions
Full guide → -
WiZink Center ★ 4.6 · Salamanca
A multipurpose arena hosting Madrid's biggest concerts and sporting events
-
Matadero Madrid ★ 4.6 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A former slaughterhouse turned into a vast, impressive contemporary art and culture complex
-
Fundación Juan March ★ 4.6 · Salamanca
A cultural institution with modern art exhibitions and concerts, free to enter
-
Cine Doré Filmoteca ★ 4.6 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A charming historic cinema screening classic films at Spain's national film archive
-
Ateneo de Madrid ★ 4.6 · Central Madrid
A historic cultural and intellectual institution with a magnificent library and a portrait gallery
-
Nouvel Reina Sofía Building ★ 4.6 · The Golden Triangle
Jean Nouvel's architectural extension wing, with a glowing red courtyard and a fine dining restaurant
Full guide → -
CaixaForum Madrid ★ 4.5 · The Golden Triangle
A futuristic culture centre with Patrick Blanc's famous vertical garden wall
Full guide → -
National Library of Spain ★ 4.5 · Salamanca
A magnificent neoclassical building with a museum and rare manuscripts from across Spanish history
-
Conde Duque Centre ★ 4.5 · Malasaña and Chueca
A vast 18th century barracks turned culture centre with exhibitions and performances
-
Palacio de Velázquez ★ 4.4 · The Golden Triangle
An exhibition hall of brick and colourful tiles inside the Retiro, a branch of the Reina Sofía
Full guide → -
IFEMA Madrid ★ 4.3 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
The city's huge exhibition complex hosting fairs, conventions and major international events
Full guide → -
Madrid Arena ★ 4.2 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A multipurpose events hall in Casa de Campo hosting big concerts and exhibitions
Full guide → -
Santa María la Blanca ★ 4.0 · Toledo and Segovia
A luminous white monument from the 12th century with rows of horseshoe arches, a masterpiece of Toledo's Mudéjar architecture
Full guide → -
Teatro Real · Central Madrid
Madrid's prestigious opera house, a grand concert hall facing the palace
-
Barrio de las Letras · Central Madrid
The historic writers' quarter with cobbled streets, literary bars and quotes set into the pavements
-
Calle de San Vicente Ferrer · Malasaña and Chueca
A picturesque street with historic tiled facades, design shops and small cafes in the heart of Malasaña
-
Calle de San Bernardo · Malasaña and Chueca
An old artery linking Malasaña to the centre, with historic buildings and cafes
-
Ciudad Universitaria · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A sprawling university campus with historic buildings, green avenues and a student atmosphere
Full guide → -
Toledo Old Quarter · Toledo and Segovia
The historic old quarter of Toledo, a maze of winding cobbled lanes and small squares within the walled city
Full guide → -
Segovia Old Quarter · Toledo and Segovia
The lanes of Segovia's atmospheric old quarter, with a small visitor centre and views over the valley
Full guide →
🏙️ Squares & streets
-
Plaza de Olavide ★ 4.8 · Malasaña and Chueca
A beloved round square in Chamberí with terraces around a fountain and a family atmosphere
-
Plaza Mayor of Segovia ★ 4.7 · Toledo and Segovia
The heart of the old town, ringed by cafe terraces and the cathedral, a lively meeting place
Full guide → -
Plaza Mayor of Cuenca ★ 4.7 · El Escorial and around
A charming triangular square in the upper town beneath the cathedral, ringed by colourful houses and cafes
-
Plaza Mayor ★ 4.6 · Central Madrid
The grand enclosed royal square from the 17th century with uniform balconies and a statue of Philip III at its centre
-
Plaza de Zocodover ★ 4.6 · Toledo and Segovia
Toledo's historic central square, the hub of city life with cafes and shops
Full guide → -
Plaza de Cascorro ★ 4.6 · La Latina and Lavapiés
The square where the Rastro market begins, with a statue and a colourful neighbourhood buzz
-
Plaza Mayor of Chinchón ★ 4.6 · El Escorial and around
A picturesque round square with blue wooden balconies that turns into a stage for shows and traditional restaurants
-
Plaza del Dos de Mayo ★ 4.2 · Malasaña and Chueca
The lively heart of Malasaña with packed terraces and a young meeting-place buzz day and night
-
Plaza de la Independencia · The Golden Triangle
The roundabout that encircles the Puerta de Alcalá, an impressive junction between the Retiro and Salamanca
Full guide → -
Puerta del Sol · Central Madrid
The beating heart of Madrid and kilometre zero of all Spain's roads, always thronged with people
-
Plaza de la Villa · Central Madrid
One of the oldest squares in the city, ringed by medieval and Renaissance town hall buildings
-
Plaza de Oriente · Central Madrid
A landscaped royal square with statues of kings and a manicured garden between the palace and the theatre
-
Plaza de la Paja · Central Madrid
A tranquil medieval square in the heart of old Madrid, ringed by palaces and intimate bars
-
Plaza del Callao · Central Madrid
The bustling shopping and entertainment crossroads of Gran Vía, ringed by cinemas and rooftop viewpoints
-
Plaza de España · Central Madrid
A vast renovated square with the Cervantes monument, Don Quixote and Sancho, and green gardens
-
Plaza de Santa Ana · Central Madrid
The heart of the Barrio de las Letras with lively terraces, a Lorca statue and the historic Teatro Español
-
San Lorenzo de El Escorial · El Escorial and around
A picturesque royal resort town around the monastery with squares, cafes and pleasant shops
-
Plaza de la Cebada · La Latina and Lavapiés
A lively square in the heart of La Latina with a historic market and a weekend gathering spot
-
Plaza de Lavapiés · La Latina and Lavapiés
The heart of the multicultural neighbourhood and a lively meeting spot with terraces and a theatre
-
Plaza de San Andrés · La Latina and Lavapiés
A picturesque square ringed by churches and tapas bars in the heart of historic La Latina
-
Plaza de Chueca · Malasaña and Chueca
The heart of Madrid's pride district with lively terraces and a festive, colourful vibe
-
Glorieta de Bilbao · Malasaña and Chueca
A central junction linking Malasaña, Chamberí and Tribunal, busy with traffic and cafes
-
Plaza de Santa Bárbara · Malasaña and Chueca
A square on the edge of Chueca with classic cafes and a quiet Madrid atmosphere
-
Plaza de San Juan de la Cruz · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A major traffic square between Chamberí and the north with monuments and government buildings
Full guide → -
Plaza de Colón · Salamanca
A central square with a giant Spanish flag, a monument to Columbus and an open urban space
-
Calle de José Abascal · Salamanca
A wide avenue in Chamberí with dignified buildings and an authentic local feel
-
Plaza de Chamberí · Salamanca
A charming neighbourhood square with cafes under the trees and a genuine local character
-
Plaza del Azoguejo · Toledo and Segovia
The square at the foot of the Roman aqueduct, the best spot to see the structure at its full height
Full guide →
📸 Viewpoints & views
-
Mirador del Valle ★ 4.8 · Toledo and Segovia
The most famous viewpoint over the old city, set across the river with a full panoramic view
Full guide → -
Gran Vía ★ 4.8 · Central Madrid
Madrid's grand avenue with magnificent architecture, theatres and historic hotels
-
Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos ★ 4.8 · Toledo and Segovia
A green meadow at the foot of the Alcázar with the perfect view of the fortress rising above the cliff
Full guide → -
Paseo del Prado ★ 4.8 · The Golden Triangle
The shaded museum boulevard recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the heart of the triangle
Full guide → -
Parque de la Montaña ★ 4.8 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A green hill around the Temple of Debod with a favourite sunset viewpoint over the city
Full guide → -
Los Cuatro Postes ★ 4.7 · El Escorial and around
A viewpoint with four stone columns and a cross, the classic view of the walls of Ávila from afar
-
Monument to Alfonso XII ★ 4.7 · The Golden Triangle
An impressive semicircular colonnade facing the Retiro lake, the park's favourite viewpoint
Full guide → -
Silla de Felipe II ★ 4.6 · El Escorial and around
A stone seat carved into the mountain where, by tradition, the king watched the monastery being built, with a panoramic view
-
Puente de San Pablo ★ 4.6 · El Escorial and around
An iron footbridge over the gorge with the perfect view of the Hanging Houses and the old city
-
Capitol Schweppes Sign ★ 4.6 · Central Madrid
The Carrión building with the iconic Schweppes neon sign, a symbol of Plaza del Callao
-
Tío Pepe Sign ★ 4.6 · Central Madrid
The historic sherry neon sign that has overlooked Puerta del Sol for decades
-
Cuatro Torres Business Area ★ 4.5 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
The complex of Spain's tallest skyscrapers shaping Madrid's northern skyline
Full guide → -
Iglesia de los Jesuitas ★ 4.5 · Toledo and Segovia
A Baroque church whose towers offer one of the finest views over the rooftops of Toledo
Full guide → -
Paseo del Miradero ★ 4.5 · Toledo and Segovia
A viewpoint promenade close to the town centre with views of the hills and the river valley to the north
Full guide → -
Jardines de las Vistillas ★ 4.3 · La Latina and Lavapiés
Small viewpoint gardens with open terraces and sunset views over the south of the city
-
Torre de Mangana ★ 4.3 · El Escorial and around
A historic clock tower in the upper town of Cuenca with a viewpoint over the surrounding valleys
-
Parque de la Ermita del Santo ★ 4.3 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A green hill above the river with a panoramic view of the Royal Palace and the cathedral
Full guide → -
Teleférico de Madrid ★ 3.5 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A panoramic cable car crossing Casa de Campo with stunning views over the skyline
Full guide → -
Palacio de Cibeles · The Golden Triangle
The striking city hall building with a panoramic viewing terrace over the heart of Madrid
Full guide → -
Ronda de Segovia · La Latina and Lavapiés
A viewpoint over the churches and domes of La Latina and the Manzanares river valley
-
Faro de Moncloa · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A modern observation tower with a panoramic terrace overlooking all of Madrid from a great height
Full guide → -
Plaza de Castilla and Puerta de Europa · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A northern square with the famous leaning KIO towers and a modern business skyline
Full guide → -
Torre Picasso · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
One of the landmark skyscrapers of the AZCA business district, a symbol of modern Madrid
Full guide → -
Calle de Almagro · Salamanca
A dignified street in Chamberí with historic mansions and embassies among mature trees
🌳 Parks & nature
-
Retiro Park ★ 4.8 · The Golden Triangle
The green lung of Madrid, a vast royal park with a lake, glass palaces and tree-lined avenues
Full guide → -
Puerto de los Cotos ★ 4.8 · El Escorial and around
A high mountain pass in the Sierra de Guadarrama, a starting point for hikes and for the Peñalara lakes
-
Sierra de Guadarrama National Park ★ 4.8 · El Escorial and around
A mountainous national park with snowy peaks, hiking trails and pine forests close to Madrid
-
Parque Juan Carlos I ★ 4.8 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A vast modern park with sculptures, a lake and light fountains, ideal for a family picnic
Full guide → -
Retiro Lake ★ 4.7 · The Golden Triangle
The central lake where you row boats in front of the grand monument to Alfonso XII
Full guide → -
Parque de El Capricho ★ 4.7 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A rare romantic garden from the age of Goya with a lake, a maze and small hidden temples
Full guide → -
La Rosaleda ★ 4.7 · The Golden Triangle
A manicured rose garden in the southern corner of the Retiro, blooming and fragrant in spring
Full guide → -
La Rosaleda del Parque del Oeste ★ 4.7 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A manicured rose garden in Parque del Oeste with thousands of varieties blooming in spring
Full guide → -
Jardines de los Frailes ★ 4.7 · El Escorial and around
The friars' geometric gardens at the foot of the monastery with tree-lined avenues and mountain views
-
Madrid Río ★ 4.7 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A long linear park along the Manzanares river with cycle paths and playgrounds
-
Paseo de las Estatuas ★ 4.7 · The Golden Triangle
A shaded avenue lined with statues of Spain's kings, a favourite photo spot in the park
Full guide → -
Puerta de España del Retiro ★ 4.7 · The Golden Triangle
The grand main gate of the Retiro facing Plaza de la Independencia and the Puerta de Alcalá
Full guide → -
Retiro Puerta de O'Donnell ★ 4.7 · The Golden Triangle
A quiet entrance to the east of the park leading to running trails and green picnic corners
Full guide → -
Jardines de Sabatini ★ 4.6 · Central Madrid
Geometric French style gardens on the north side of the palace, perfect at sunset
-
Campo del Moro ★ 4.6 · Central Madrid
A green, romantic historic garden below the palace with fountains and shaded paths
-
Parque Dehesa de la Villa ★ 4.6 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A natural woodland park in northwest Madrid with quiet walking trails and viewpoints
Full guide → -
Casa de Campo Lake ★ 4.6 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A wide lake with pedal boats and waterside restaurants and a view of the Royal Palace
Full guide → -
Gardens of La Granja ★ 4.6 · Toledo and Segovia
Vast geometric gardens with Baroque fountains, statues and pools that come alive in seasonal water shows
Full guide → -
Palacio de Cristal de Arganzuela ★ 4.6 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A vast greenhouse with tropical plants and varied climates in the heart of Madrid Río park
Full guide → -
CaixaForum Vertical Garden ★ 4.6 · The Golden Triangle
A living plant wall four storeys high with thousands of plants, a stunning urban green lung
Full guide → -
Bosque del Recuerdo ★ 4.6 · The Golden Triangle
A grove planted in memory of the victims of the 2004 train bombings, a quiet and moving memorial
Full guide → -
Fuente de los Galápagos ★ 4.6 · The Golden Triangle
A charming 19th century fountain of turtles and frogs on the Retiro avenues, a cute photo corner
Full guide → -
Parque del Oeste ★ 4.5 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A green hillside park with winding paths and views of the mountains and the river
Full guide → -
Parque Quinta de los Molinos ★ 4.5 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A charming park famous for its pink almond blossom in early spring
Full guide → -
Ciudad Encantada ★ 4.5 · El Escorial and around
A stunning natural rock park where wind and water have carved fantastical shapes in a forest near Cuenca
-
Jardín del Príncipe ★ 4.5 · El Escorial and around
A vast riverside garden with tree-lined avenues, lakes and small buildings, a World Heritage site
-
Jardín de la Isla ★ 4.5 · El Escorial and around
A historic garden surrounded by water beside the palace, with Baroque fountains, statues and romantic shady corners
-
Jardines de Conde Duque ★ 4.5 · Malasaña and Chueca
Open plazas and green corners around the culture centre, with benches and a place to rest
-
Casita del Pescador ★ 4.5 · The Golden Triangle
A small romantic pavilion on an artificial hill with a fountain, a hidden and peaceful corner of the Retiro
Full guide → -
Fuente de la Alcachofa ★ 4.5 · The Golden Triangle
The historic 18th century Artichoke Fountain on the edge of the Retiro lake, a beautifully sculpted piece
Full guide → -
Royal Botanical Garden ★ 4.4 · The Golden Triangle
A historic 18th century botanical garden beside the Prado with thousands of plant species from around the world
Full guide → -
Parque de Berlín ★ 4.4 · Salamanca
A pleasant neighbourhood park with original sections of the Berlin Wall and fountains
-
Parque de Santander ★ 4.4 · Salamanca
A green, restful park in northern Chamberí, ideal for a walk and a break from the city
-
Jardines del Descubrimiento ★ 4.3 · Salamanca
A quiet urban garden near Plaza de Colón with sculptures commemorating the discovery of the Americas
-
Embalse de Santillana ★ 4.3 · El Escorial and around
A large reservoir at the foot of Manzanares castle with mountain views and pleasant nature trails
-
Casa de Campo ★ 4.1 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
Madrid's largest park with a wide lake, woodland and walking and cycling trails
Full guide → -
Storks of Alcalá de Henares · El Escorial and around
Giant stork nests atop the church towers of the city, a unique and charming nature sight for the whole family
🍽️ Food & tapas
-
Ramón Freixa Madrid ★ 4.7 · Salamanca
A Michelin starred restaurant serving creative cuisine at the highest level in the city
-
Calle de la Cava Baja ★ 4.7 · La Latina and Lavapiés
The most famous street for a tapas crawl in La Latina, with dozens of bars packed side by side
-
Mesón de Cándido ★ 4.5 · Toledo and Segovia
Segovia's legendary restaurant serving classic roast suckling pig beneath the Roman aqueduct
Full guide → -
Los Caracoles ★ 4.5 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A traditional local bar specialising in Madrid style snails and beloved old neighbourhood dishes
-
Taberna La Concha ★ 4.5 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A classic vermouth bar on Cava Baja with a local vibe and simple, good tapas
-
Santceloni ★ 4.5 · Salamanca
A Michelin starred fine dining restaurant serving refined cuisine and exceptional service
-
Casa Lucas ★ 4.5 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A beloved tapas bar on Cava Baja with creative dishes and a carefully chosen wine list
-
Ojalá Bar ★ 4.4 · Malasaña and Chueca
A designed bar-restaurant with a sand floor in the basement that became a symbol of hipster Malasaña
-
StreetXO ★ 4.4 · Salamanca
Chef Dabiz Muñoz's daring street food restaurant with spectacular Asian fusion
-
Txirimiri ★ 4.4 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A Basque style pintxos bar with a famous little burger and modern tapas
-
Chocolatería San Ginés ★ 4.3 · Central Madrid
An institution since 1894 for churros with thick hot chocolate, open almost around the clock
-
Sobrinos de Botín ★ 4.3 · Central Madrid
The oldest restaurant in the world according to Guinness, from 1725, famous for roast suckling pig in a wood oven
-
Casa Botín ★ 4.3 · La Latina and Lavapiés
The oldest restaurant in the world according to Guinness, specialising in suckling pig and lamb roasted in a wood oven
-
Ten Con Ten ★ 4.3 · Salamanca
A fashionable, lively brasserie in Salamanca loved by locals for meals and cocktails
-
Taberna de Antonio Sánchez ★ 4.3 · La Latina and Lavapiés
One of Madrid's oldest taverns, from 1830, with walls covered in bullfighting memorabilia
-
Taberna de Ángel Sierra ★ 4.3 · Central Madrid
A classic tavern from 1917 with vermouth on tap and original tiles, a Madrid institution
-
El Tempranillo ★ 4.3 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A legendary wine bar on Cava Baja with a vast selection of Spanish wines by the glass
-
Cafés de Malasaña ★ 4.3 · Malasaña and Chueca
A cluster of independent, stylish cafes that put the neighbourhood on Madrid's brunch map
-
Casa Lucio ★ 4.2 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A legendary restaurant on Cava Baja famous for its broken eggs and roast suckling pig
-
Palacio de Cibeles Restaurant ★ 4.2 · The Golden Triangle
A grand restaurant inside the Cibeles palace with a panoramic terrace view over the heart of the city
Full guide → -
Taberna La Bola ★ 4.2 · Central Madrid
A family institution since 1870 famous for traditional Madrid cocido stew cooked in a clay pot
-
Nubel Reina Sofía ★ 4.2 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A designed restaurant and bar in the new wing of the Reina Sofía museum at the edge of Lavapiés
-
Yemas de Santa Teresa ★ 4.2 · El Escorial and around
Ávila's traditional sweetened egg yolks, a legendary convent treat worth tasting on the spot
-
Café Comercial ★ 4.1 · Malasaña and Chueca
Madrid's historic old cafe from 1887, reopened on Plaza de Bilbao
-
Anís de Chinchón ★ 4.0 · El Escorial and around
The village's traditional anise liqueur, worth tasting in the historic bars around the square
-
Mazapán de Toledo ★ 3.9 · Toledo and Segovia
The shops of Toledo's traditional marzipan, made from almonds to a centuries old convent recipe
Full guide → -
Calle de la Cava Alta · La Latina and Lavapiés
A quieter parallel street with traditional taverns and authentic wine bars
-
Calle de la Cava de San Miguel · La Latina and Lavapiés
An ancient street of stone cellars turned tapas restaurants and bars next to Plaza Mayor
-
Calle Argumosa · La Latina and Lavapiés
A shaded street in Lavapiés with neighbourhood restaurant terraces and a relaxed vibe day and evening
-
Calle de Lavapiés · La Latina and Lavapiés
A main artery in the multicultural neighbourhood with authentic Indian and Bangladeshi restaurants
-
Calle del Espíritu Santo · Malasaña and Chueca
A characterful Malasaña street with small neighbourhood bars and indie restaurants
-
Calle de Ponzano · Malasaña and Chueca
Madrid's hottest tapas street, which coined the local verb for a bar crawl
-
Calle de Manuela Malasaña · Malasaña and Chueca
A stylish street with brunch spots, specialty cafes and a young, relaxed atmosphere
-
Calle de Luchana · Malasaña and Chueca
A lively street in Chamberí with restaurants, tapas bars and a local neighbourhood vibe
-
Calle de la Palma · Malasaña and Chueca
An indie Malasaña street with music bars, tapas and small nightspots
-
Calle del General Álvarez de Castro · Malasaña and Chueca
A rising tapas street in Chamberí beside Ponzano with less touristy bars
-
Calle de Diego de León · Salamanca
A local Salamanca street with authentic tapas bars and restaurants loved by residents
-
Calle de Jorge Juan · Salamanca
A fashionable gastronomic street in Salamanca with fine restaurants and elegant bars
🛒 Markets & shopping
-
Mercado Grande de Ávila ★ 4.7 · El Escorial and around
The historic market square by the city gate, a local meeting place with stalls and traditional restaurants
-
Calle Serrano ★ 4.7 · Salamanca
Madrid's upscale avenue with international brand stores and an elegant shopping atmosphere
-
Malasaña Vintage Shops ★ 4.7 · Malasaña and Chueca
A cluster of secondhand and vintage clothing shops that made Malasaña the capital of alternative fashion
-
Calle Preciados ★ 4.6 · Central Madrid
The main pedestrian shopping street between Sol and Callao, full of fashion chains
-
Mercado de la Paz ★ 4.5 · Salamanca
A historic gourmet market in Salamanca famous for its potato omelette and fine delicacies
-
Cuesta de Moyano ★ 4.5 · The Golden Triangle
A historic avenue of secondhand book stalls near the Retiro, a paradise for book lovers
Full guide → -
Calle de Fuencarral ★ 4.5 · Malasaña and Chueca
A fashionable semi-pedestrian shopping street with streetwear shops and young brands
-
Calle de Hortaleza ★ 4.5 · Malasaña and Chueca
A main artery in Chueca with design shops, bars and a proud, colourful atmosphere
-
Mercado de San Miguel ★ 4.4 · Central Madrid
A gourmet tapas market in a 1916 iron and glass hall, a culinary paradise in the centre
-
El Corte Inglés Callao ★ 4.4 · Central Madrid
The flagship department store with a rooftop terrace and restaurant overlooking Gran Vía and the rooftops of Madrid
-
Mercado de San Fernando ★ 4.4 · La Latina and Lavapiés
An authentic neighbourhood market in Lavapiés with international food stalls and a local character
-
Mercado de Vallehermoso ★ 4.4 · Malasaña and Chueca
An authentic neighbourhood market in Chamberí, revived with fresh food stalls and local cooking
-
El Rastro ★ 4.4 · La Latina and Lavapiés
Madrid's big, famous flea market that spreads across the slopes of La Latina every Sunday
-
Mercado de San Antón ★ 4.3 · Malasaña and Chueca
A modern gourmet market in Chueca with food stalls across the floors and a popular rooftop bar
-
Mercado de la Cebada ★ 4.3 · Central Madrid
An authentic neighbourhood market in La Latina with fish and vegetable stalls and a local tapas bar
-
El Corte Inglés Serrano ★ 4.3 · Salamanca
An upscale department store with a gourmet hall and fashion brands in the heart of Salamanca
-
Calle del Arenal · Central Madrid
A pedestrian street linking Sol to the Teatro Real, full of shops and cafes
-
Calle de Toledo · La Latina and Lavapiés
A historic commercial street linking Plaza Mayor to the Puerta de Toledo with long standing shops
-
Calle de Augusto Figueroa · Malasaña and Chueca
Chueca's famous shoe shop and outlet street with attractive prices and local brands
-
Calle José Ortega y Gasset · Salamanca
Madrid's luxury brand street with Chanel, Louis Vuitton and top fashion houses
-
Calle Velázquez · Salamanca
A dignified shopping street in the heart of Salamanca with high end boutiques and restaurants
-
Calle Goya · Salamanca
Salamanca's main shopping artery with fashion chains, shops and lively cafes
-
Calle de Claudio Coello · Salamanca
An intimate street of boutiques with art galleries and designer shops among dignified buildings
-
Calle de Lagasca · Salamanca
An elegant Salamanca street with local boutiques, galleries and refined neighbourhood restaurants
🎡 Nightlife, sport & family
-
Territorio Atleti ★ 4.8 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
Atlético Madrid's interactive visitor experience beside the Metropolitano stadium
Full guide → -
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium ★ 4.7 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
The temple of Real Madrid football with a spectacular tour and a museum packed with trophies
Full guide → -
Estadio Metropolitano ★ 4.6 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
The modern home of Atlético Madrid with immersive tours and the club museum
Full guide → -
Sala El Sol ★ 4.3 · Malasaña and Chueca
A legendary live music club that was the cradle of the 1980s Movida movement
-
Fábrica Maravillas ★ 4.3 · Malasaña and Chueca
A craft brewery on site with fresh beers brewed behind the bar
-
Tren de la Fresa ★ 4.3 · El Escorial and around
A historic 19th century steam train between Madrid and Aranjuez with hosts in period costume
-
Parque Warner Madrid ★ 4.2 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A branded theme park with roller coasters and shows, ideal for a fun family day
Full guide → -
Zoo Aquarium de Madrid ★ 4.2 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A large zoo and aquarium in Casa de Campo with pandas, dolphins and shows
Full guide → -
Café La Palma ★ 4.2 · Malasaña and Chueca
An intimate live music venue in Malasaña with indie gigs in the back room
-
Parque de Atracciones de Madrid ★ 4.1 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A theme park with roller coasters and spinning rides for the whole family in Casa de Campo
Full guide → -
La Cocina de San Antón ★ 4.1 · Malasaña and Chueca
A rooftop bar and restaurant atop the San Antón market with open views over the roofs of Chueca
-
Planetario de Madrid ★ 4.1 · Bernabéu and Casa de Campo
A planetarium with a projection dome and fascinating space simulations for children and adults
Full guide → -
El Bonanno ★ 4.0 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A long standing cocktail bar on Plaza del Humilladero loved by the people of La Latina
-
El Viajero ★ 3.8 · La Latina and Lavapiés
A well known rooftop bar on Plaza de la Cebada with open views over the rooftops of La Latina
-
Teatro Barceló ★ 3.5 · Malasaña and Chueca
An iconic nightclub in a former Art Deco building, once Pachá Madrid, with three floors
-
Calle del Pez · Malasaña and Chueca
A bohemian, colourful Malasaña street with stylish bars, small restaurants and intimate nightspots
-
Corazón Malasaña · Malasaña and Chueca
A musical night bar in Malasaña with DJs and the vibe of the Movida movement
-
Calle de Valverde · Malasaña and Chueca
A historic street between Malasaña and Gran Vía with alternative bars and live venues
Want someone to organize it all for you?
Tours and tickets in MadridSome links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you, which helps support the site.
Common questions
What are the best things to do in Madrid?
It depends on your taste: the Royal Palace and the historic centre, the Prado and the golden triangle of museums, the tapas of La Latina and the San Miguel market, Retiro park, a flamenco show and a rooftop with a view. On this page you can browse by category and by area, and add any place that catches your eye straight to your personal itinerary.
How do I add a place from this page to my trip?
Every place has an "+ Add to trip" button. Tapping it saves the place to your places in the browser, with no sign-up. Later, on the "My trip" page, you can slot it into the right day of your trip.
Are the places on the list real and rated?
Yes. Every place is verified against Google Places with a high rating and plenty of reviews. You can filter to show only the highest-rated places, and each place has a link to the full guide on the site.