1. Museo del Prado
One of the world’s great art museums: Velázquez’s Las Meninas, Goya’s black paintings and Bosch’s Garden of Earthly Delights. Entry is free in the last two hours most days, when lines form.
2. Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza
The other two corners of Madrid’s "Golden Triangle" of art: Picasso’s Guernica at the Reina Sofía, and a sweep of European art at the Thyssen.
3. Retiro Park
Madrid’s big central park, with the boating lake, the glass Crystal Palace and the rose garden. Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the Paseo del Prado.
4. Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral
The official royal residence, used for state ceremonies, with lavish rooms open to visitors. The gardens and the sunset views from the plaza outside are free.
5. Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol
The arcaded 17th-century square and the busy square nearby that marks kilometre zero of Spain’s roads.
6. Mercado de San Miguel
A glass and iron market hall turned gourmet tapas stop near Plaza Mayor. Lively, if pricier than ordinary markets.
7. El Rastro
The giant Sunday morning flea market in La Latina, followed by tapas on Cava Baja.
8. Templo de Debod
A real ancient Egyptian temple, gifted to Spain and rebuilt in a park. A favourite sunset spot.
9. Gran Vía and rooftop bars
Madrid’s Broadway, with theatres and early 20th-century buildings. Several rooftops, such as the Círculo de Bellas Artes, give views over the city.
10. A Real Madrid stadium tour
The renovated Santiago Bernabéu runs a museum and stadium tour on non-match days.
Day trips from Madrid
- Toledo: about 35 minutes by train.
- Segovia: about 30 minutes by AVE.
- El Escorial: about 1 hour by train.
- Ávila: about 1h30 by train.
What to eat
- Bocadillo de calamares
- Cocido madrileño
- Churros with chocolate
- Vermouth before lunch
Tip: Madrid eats late: lunch around 2 pm and dinner from 9 pm.
Planning to stay longer? Read our full Madrid guide and where to stay in Madrid.
