Madrid: 10 Must-See Attractions and Activities in town
Madrid: 10 Must-See Attractions and Activities in town
Discover the top ten must-visit spots in Madrid, from the grandeur of the Royal Palace to the bustling charm of markets like Mercado de San Miguel.
Explore the city like a true Madrileño, and immerse yourself in its museums, parks, and historic neighborhoods.
COSA TROVERAI IN QUESTO POST:
My First Visit to Madrid
I visited Madrid for the first time in 2007. It was my very first self-funded vacation, and I felt so proud. I was 22 years old, and low-cost airlines had just started popping up. I still remember how little I paid for the flight from Bologna to Madrid. Naturally, I seized the opportunity and spent ten days exploring Spain’s capital.
Planning the trip was thrilling, even though I didn’t have a detailed itinerary. I brought along a travel guide and an adventurous spirit – the essentials for any journey!
Madrid captivated me completely, leaving an indelible mark on my heart. When a city enchants you like that, you can’t help but want to return. And I did – ten years later, in 2017.
Seeing Madrid again after a decade was magical. The city remained as beautiful and vibrant as I remembered. During my first trip, I made sure to visit all the key landmarks. On my second visit, I revisited these places with fresh eyes, a different perspective, and a greater sense of maturity.
Now, I want to share with you my recommendations for the ten must-see places in Madrid.
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1. Puerta del Sol
Puerta del Sol is the heart of Madrid and Spain itself. Look for the tile inscribed with “kilometer zero,” marking the starting point for Spain’s main roads. Don’t leave without taking a picture with the iconic Bear and Strawberry Tree statue, the symbol of the city.
Metro Stop: Sol
2. Plaza Mayor
This rectangular square is surrounded by lively cafés and often hosts concerts and events. At its center stands the equestrian statue of King Philip III. While you’re here, grab a giant, budget-friendly sandwich filled with jamón serrano at “La Casa del Jamón,” a chain specializing in Spain’s famous cured ham.
Metro Stop: Opera
3. Prado Museum
The Prado Museum is Madrid’s most famous cultural landmark. Home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of Spanish art, you’ll find masterpieces like Goya’s La Maja Vestida and La Maja Desnuda. My personal favorite is Velázquez’s Las Meninas.
Tickets: €15 for general admission. Consider the Paseo del Arte Card (€29.60) if you also plan to visit the Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofia museums. Visit the official website here.
Metro Stops: Estación del Arte, Banco de España
4. Buen Retiro Park
This is my favorite spot in Madrid. Retiro Park is full of life, with musicians, performers, and artists creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Be sure to visit the Crystal Palace, a stunning glass structure originally built as a greenhouse. Nearby, you can rent a boat for a romantic paddle on the lake. Don’t miss the Rosaleda, a rose garden with 4,000 blooms, best seen between May and June.
Metro Stop: Retiro
5. Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofia Museums
The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, located near the Prado, showcases a private collection with works by Picasso, Van Gogh, and Caravaggio. Admission is €12, free on Mondays from 12 PM to 4 PM.
More info here.
The Reina Sofia Museum is home to Picasso’s iconic Guernica and other modern masterpieces by Dalí and more. Admission is €15.50, with temporary exhibits available for €4.
Visit the official website here.
Metro Stops: Estación del Arte, Lavapiés
6. Royal Palace
Though no longer a royal residence, the palace is used for official ceremonies. Visitors can explore several rococo-style rooms, including the Throne Room and Royal Chapel.
Book your tickets online (€10) to skip the long lines.
Metro Stops: Opera, Plaza de España
7. Gran Vía
Gran Vía is Madrid’s bustling main street, lined with shops, theaters, and historic buildings like the Metropolis. It’s a great place for shopping and people-watching.
Metro Stops: Callao, Gran Vía, Sol
8. Chueca District
Chueca is Madrid’s trendy LGBTQ+ neighborhood, perfect for nightlife and dining. Rooftop bars, tapas spots, and vibrant clubs make it a must-visit for a fun evening out.
Metro Stop: Chueca
9. Atocha Train Station
Rebuilt after the tragic 2004 attack, Atocha is still a stunning piece of architecture. Its iron-and-glass structure fills the station with natural light, making it a unique spot to visit.
Metro Stop: Atocha Renfe
10. Cibeles Fountain
This iconic fountain depicts the Roman goddess Cybele on a chariot pulled by lions. It’s even more magical when lit up at night.
Metro Stop: Banco de España
Bonus! 11. Temple of Debod
The Temple of Debod, gifted by Egypt to Spain, is over 2,000 years old. Relocated stone by stone, it’s an exotic and serene spot in the city.
Metro Stop: Plaza de España
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Madrid is a city full of history and energy, blending a youthful vibe with an ancient soul. Explore every corner, and see for yourself how stunning it truly is!
How did you enjoy Madrid? Let me know in the comments!
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