From the streets to the monuments, from the fine arts to the intrinsic architecture, and from food fiestas to the flamenco craze, there is no place on earth which feels as young and passionate as Madrid, in Spain. Be it a honeymoon, a family vacation, or a crazy trip with friends, here are the top 20 remarkable places to visit in Madrid, that teach how to live the good life and make every moment count on your magical European holiday.
Places To Visit In Madrid
1. Buen Retiro Park
Literally translating itself into the “park of pleasant retreat” the Buen Retiro Park is one of the best places to visit in Madrid for those who’re looking forward to spending some time in peace, and quiet. These royal gardens span over an area of about 350 acres, and offer some engaging activities such as boating, art exhibitions, and more.
Location: Plaza de la Independencia, 7, 28001 Madrid
Timings:
- April to September – 6 am until midnight
- October to March – 6 am to 10 pm
Entry Fee: Free
Must Read: Spain Tourist Attractions
2. Palacio de Cristal
Though this magical monument is located inside the above-mentioned Buen Retiro Park, it deserves a special mention on our listing as well as on your bucket list. Considered to be one of the favourite places to visit in Madrid for the locals and tourists alike, Palacio de Cristal is completely made out of glass and metal which serves as the best site to showcase the charm of flora and fauna during public exhibitions.
Location: Paseo República de Cuba, 4, 28009 Madrid
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 am to 10 pm
Entry Fee: 10 Euros or INR 750 per person
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3. Puerta de Alcalá
The term Puerta de Alcalá is derived from the root of Alcalá, which in Arabic, literally translates into a citadel. And that is how, this glorious gate which served as the main entrance to Spain during the early 16th century, received its present name. As iconic as it stands, it is indeed one of the most historically significant monuments of Spain.
Location: Plaza de la Independencia, 1, 28001 Madrid
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Honeymoon In Spain
4. Market Of San Miguel
Enjoying a bustling central location close to Plaza Mayor, the Market Of San Miguel is a covered market which is a must-visit for every traveller to relish the real taste of Spain like a local. With more than thirty local vendors ready to serve you inside the market, get to savour some of the best tapas, hams, and baked items, and select from an exhaustive list of champagne, wine, and beer.
Location: Plaza de San Miguel, s/n, 28005 Madrid
Timings:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 10 am until midnight
- Thursday to Saturday – 10 am to 2 am
Entry Fee: Free
Must-Visit Places In Madrid
5. La Puerta del Sol
Serving as the merging point for the busiest streets of Calle Alcalá, Calle Arenal, Calle Preciados, and Calle Mayor, Puerta del Sol is one of the historical squares of Madrid. Housing some of the best landmarks in the city like the clock of Casa de Correos, the Bear and Strawberry Tree Statue, and the statue of Mariblanca, Puerta del Sol is indeed one of the top places to visit in Madrid.
Location: C. Mayor, C. Alcala, 28013 Madrid
Timings: NA
Entry Fee: Free
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6. Plaza de España
Much famed to be one of the busiest squares in Madrid, Plaza de España is where one can observe the lifestyle of a true Spanish local. Located in a central area wherein the Princesa streets, and the Gran Vía merge, this Spanish square is very popular among travelers across the world for featuring some of the best monuments in the city. From the tallest skyscraper of Torre de Madrid, and the eminent poet of Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra’s statue, to the hyped buildings of Palacio de Liria and the iconic Cerralbo Museum, Plaza de España has it all that you just can’t miss.
Location: Western end of the Gran Via, Plaza de España, 28008 Madrid
Timings: 24 hours on all days
Entry Fee: Free
7. Las Ventas
On a touring spree in Madrid and not exploring the bullring of Las Ventas, is like holding a pizza in hand and not grabbing a bite. Watching a bullfight by far is one of the craziest things to do in Madrid, Spain. Las Ventas is one of the top places to visit in Madrid in 3 days as it is serving as an emblem of Madrid. Additionally, it features a museum and a chapel dedicated to the Virgen de la Paloma and the Virgen de Guadalupe – the patrons of Madrid and Mexico respectively. Also, the bullfighting arena of Las Ventas is considered to be the most vital one in the whole world.
Location: Calle de Alcalá, 237, 28028 Madrid
Timings:
- Friday to Monday – 6 am to 10.30 pm
- Closed on Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday
Entry Fee:
- Standard rate: 12.90 Euros or INR 970 per person
- For Students: 9.90 Euros or INR 745 per student
- The rate for kids under the age of 12 years: 5.90 Euros or INR 445
- Entrance for kids under the age of 5 years: Free
Guided Tours:
- Guided tours for 15 people & above 13 Euros or INR 975 per person
- Guided tours for students: 12 Euros or INR 900 per person
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8. The Madrid Zoo Aquarium
If you are wondering what to see in Madrid in one day! Of all the places to visit in Madrid, the Zoo Aquarium is one fine place that makes every traveller feel like staying there forever. The charm of animals is such that everyone tends to fall in love with them at this fascinating place. Home to more than 3000 species of animals, one can easily spot the celebrity Pandas, the fiery Atlas lions, majestic white Siberian tigers, and cute little koalas. Other animals like the mambas, flamingos, zebras, rhinoceroses, dolphins, sharks, and giraffes can also be spotted at the Madrid Zoo Aquarium.
Location: Casa de Campo, s/n, 28011 Madrid
Timings:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 10.30 am to 8.30 pm
- Thursday to Saturday – 10.30 am until midnight
Entry Fee
Online Tickets:
- Adult (7-64 years): 17.90 Euros or INR 1345 per person
- Kid (3-7 years): 15.90 Euros or INR 1195 per person
- Seniors: 15.90 Euros or INR 1195 per person
- Disabled people plus a free companion: 15.90 Euros or INR 1195 per person
- Large family adult: 13.50 Euros or INR 1015 per person
- Large family junior: 9.20 Euros or INR 690 per person
- Under 3 years: Free
Ticket Office:
- Adult (7-64 years): 23.30 Euros or INR 1750 per person
- Kid (3-7 years): 18.90 Euros or INR 1420 per person
- Seniors: 18.90 Euros or INR 1420 per person
- Disabled people plus free companion: 18.90 Euros or INR 1420 per person
- Large family adult: 13.70 Euros or INR 1030 per person
- Large family junior: 9.40 Euros or INR 705 per person
- Under 3 years: Free
Historical Places To Visit In Madrid
9. Royal Palace of Madrid
Post the Moorish Castle was destroyed in 1734 by a tragic fire, the Royal Palace of Madrid or the Palacio Real, was built on the very site where it stands today. Considered to be one of the main aspects of Madrid Spain sightseeing, one can still adore the walls of the old city around the palace site, which was once named al-Magrit meaning the source of water, then as Mayrit, later as Magerit, and finally as Madrid.
Location: Calle de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid
Timings:
- April to September: 10 am to 8 pm
- October to March: 10 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee:
- 15 Euros or INR 1125 with a guide
- 11 Euros or INR 825 without a guide
- 6 Euros or INR 450 for senior citizens, students, and the differently-abled
- Free for kids below the age of 5 years
Suggested Read: Madrid Nightlife
10. Museo Nacional Del Prado
Originally meant to be a site for the National Museum of History, the Museo Nacional Del Prado is an attraction of great historical significance which makes it one of the best places to visit in Madrid. Housing some of the world’s greatest masterpieces of world-renowned artists like that of Rembrandt, Goya, Van Dyck, Velázquez, Titian, El Greco, and Bosch, one can stay assured of being dazzled by the amusing painting dating back to 11th to 18th century.
Location: Paseo del Prado, s/n, 28014 Madrid
Timings:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 am to 8 pm
- Sundays – 10 am to 7 pm
Entry Fee:
- 24 Euros or INR 1800 with a guide
- 15 Euros or INR 1125 per person
- 7.5 Euros or INR 565 for senior citizens and youth cardholders
- Free entry for youth below the age of 18 years, students between 18-25 years, and differently-abled people
11. Temple of Debod
It is believed that the Temple of Debod was presented as a token of thanks by the former Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser to the archaeological team of Spain. Considered to be one of the unusual places to visit in Madrid, the team saved this iconic temple from getting destroyed under the roaring waters of Lake Nasser in Egypt and is now located in the heart of Parque del Oeste in Madrid.
Location: Calle Ferraz, 1, 28008 Madrid
Timings:
- Tuesday to Friday – 10 am to 2 pm and 6 pm to 8 pm
- Saturday & Sunday – 9.30 am to 8 pm
Entry Fee: Free
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12. Royal Chapel of St. Anthony of La Florida
An artist rarely gets to rest in the place that he created himself. Talking about the Royal Chapel of St. Anthony of La Florida in Madrid, this chapel houses some of the incredible works of Francisco Goya – the well-known romantic painter of Spain. His work which reflects in the creative frescoes of the church, majorly portrays the life of the church’s patron saint, St. Anthony. Not only that, the church also comprises the remains of Francisco Goya who was buried right in front of the altar.
Location: Glorieta San Antonio de la Florida, 4, 28008 Madrid
Timings:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 9:30 am to 8:00 pm
- Guided tours from Monday to Friday – 9:30 am to 1:00 pm
Entry Fee: Free
Artistic Places To See In Madrid
13. Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
Located in the heart of Madrid at the Art Walk, the Museum of Reina Sofía showcases some of the best modern and contemporary artworks of legendary artists like Juan Gris, Miró, and Dalí. With its creative Nouvel building, and attractive Sabatini building, travellers flock to this art museum to witness Guernica, which happens to be the best of Picasso’s masterpieces.
Location: Calle de Santa Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid
Timings:
- Mondays, and Wednesday to Saturday – 10 am to 9 pm
- Sundays – 10 am to 7 pm
Entry Fee: 10 Euros or INR 750 per person
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14. Teatro Real, Madrid
The Royal Theatre, Teatro Real, or El Real as it is much famed, this extraordinary opera house is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Madrid. Considered to be one of the best theatres in the entire Europe, the Royal Theatre delivers performances by leading artists from the industry of music, dance, and theatre. With a seating capacity of more than 1,745 people, this cultural establishment also offers well-guided tours to all travellers alike in various languages as well.
Location: Plaza de Isabel II, s/n, 28013 Madrid
Timings:
- Guided Tours: Monday to Sunday – 10.30 am to 1 pm
- Artistic Tours: Monday to Sunday – 9.30 am onwards
- Technical Tours: Monday to Sunday – 10 am onwards
Entry Fee:
- Guided Tours: 8 Euros or INR 600 per adult; 6 Euros or INR 450 for senior citizens above 65 years & below 26 years; Free for kids below 7 years
- Artistic Tours: 12 Euros or INR 900 per adult; 10 Euros or INR 750 for senior citizens above 65 years & below 26 years; Free for kids below 7 years
- Technical Tours: 16 Euros or INR 1200 per adult; 14 Euros or INR 1050 for senior citizens above 65 years & below 26 years; Minimum age for this tour should be 10 years
Avg. Show Duration: 45 minutes to 75 minutes
15. Círculo de Bellas Artes
Image Credit:Emilio Diego Delso for Wikimediacommons
Be it literature or philosophy, visual arts or fine arts, science or performing arts, Círculo de Bellas Artes opens innovative talent with open arms. Though this concept might be new to most travellers around, this private institution gained much fame once it was declared the official “Centre for Protection of the Fine Arts and Public Interest”, in 1880. Moreover, the mesmerizing skyline views of Madrid city from its rooftop and relishing some authentic cuisine from the rooftop restaurant make it one of the places to visit in Madrid in 2 days.
Location: Calle de Alcalá, 42, 28014 Madrid
Timings:
- Tuesday – 5 pm to 8.30 pm
- Wednesday to Sunday: 11 am to 1.30 pm and 5 pm to 7 pm
Entry Fee:
- 1 Euro or INR 75 per person
- 3 Euros or INR 225 per person for the rooftop entrance
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16. Barrio de La Latina
Narrow streets, spacious squares, and old Islamic walls, pretty much constitute the homely and warm environs of this neighbouring street of Barrio de La Latina in Madrid. Representing the old times and the cultural heritage, this neighbourhood is a must-visit for everyone who’s up for delicious tapas, shopping, music & dance scenes, and beer of course! Having said that, make sure you avoid visiting La Latina during weekends unless you don’t mind the jam-packed crowd.
Location: Plaza de la Cebada, 28005 Madrid
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Architectural Charms Of Madrid
17. Plaza Mayor
Originally christened as the “Plaza del Arrabal”, Plaza Mayor is a public, and the most famous square in all of Madrid. Boasting a uniform, classic, and intense architecture by Juan de Villanueva, this grand arcade along with its northern block of Casa de la Panadería, is one of the best places to visit in Madrid, Spain.
Location: Calle Gerona 4, 28012 Madrid
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 9:30 am to 9:30 pm
Entry Fee: Free
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18. The Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial
A historical monument that took the architects of Juan Bautista de Toledo, and Juan de Herrera (in order) more than 20 years of construction, the Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is the most eminent of all Madrid Spain attractions. Standing tall as a witness to the great Spanish Renaissance, El Escorial happens to be one of the greatest architectural monuments of Spain.
Location: Av Juan de Borbón y Battemberg, 28200 San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Madrid
Timings:
- April to September: 10 am to 8 pm
- October to March: 10 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee:
- 10 Euros or INR 750 per person
- Free for kids below the age of 5 years
19. Catedral de Sta Maria la Real de la Almudena
Being one of the greatest contributors to Madrid Spain Tourism, Catedral de Sta Maria la Real de la Almudena is the prime Diocese of Madrid. It took almost 110 years to be constructed, inaugurated, and consecrated. Owing to such a delay due to political factors, it is indeed one of the most remarkable landmarks of Spain. Adding to its glory, it stands tall as the only Spanish cathedral that has ever been consecrated by his grace, Pope John Paul II. It is one of the free places to visit in Madrid.
Location: Calle de Bailén, 10, 28013 Madrid
Timings:
- July to August: Monday to Sunday – 10 am to 9 pm
- September to June: Monday to Sunday – 9 am to 8.30 pm
Entry Fee:
- Entry to the cathedral is free whereas a a donation of 1 Euro is requested.
- Also, entry to the museum costs 6 Euros or INR 450 per person.
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20. Plaza de Cibeles
Housing the legendary and the notable Cibeles Fountain, and the remarkable Cybele Palace, Plaza de Cibeles is the most iconic monument of Spain. Located at the crossroads of the districts of Salamanca, Retiro, and Centro, Plaza de Cibeles is also home to the Buenavista Palace, Linares Palace, and the striking Bank of Spain.
Location: Calle Alcala y Paseo de Recoletos, 28014 Madrid
Timings: Tuesday to Sunday – 20 am to 8 pm
Entry Fee: 2 Euros or INR 150 per person
Further Read: Madrid Hotels
Can’t wait to treat your eyes to these astonishing places to visit in Madrid? Then make sure you include these must-visit tourist attractions in your itinerary on your next trip to Spain, enjoy a hassle-free vacation, and a personalized experience!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Madrid
What is the most visited place in Madrid?
Prado Museum, Buen Retiro Park, Crystal Palace, Royal Palace and Gardens,Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol are some of the most visited places in Madrid.
What should I not miss in Madrid?
Breathtaking monuments, delicious cuisines and Egyptian temples are something that you cannot miss in Madrid.
What is Madrid best known for?
Apart from its most scenic views and breathtaking monuments, Madrid is also famous for its Calamari Sandwiches, Egyptian temples, the world’s biggest drive-in cinemas, and the worlds best footballers.
How do one spend a day in Madrid?
Some of the most fun things to do in Madrid are: 1. Go treasure hunting at El Rastro 2. Watch a performance at the Gran Via 3. Visit the Gateway of the Sun (Puerta del Sol) 4. Have a scrumptious breakfast at San Gines
Where can one go at night in Madrid?
If the person is a night owl, here are a few places to visit in Madrid at night: 1. Visit the Reina Sofía Museum 2. Visit a nightclub and dance till dawn. 3. Enjoy a theatre at Gran Vía 4. Enjoy a flamenco show.
How many days do one need in Madrid?
one will easily need 10 days or more to explore the city of Madrid and a few of its neighboring areas such as Barcelona and Andalusia.
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