Things to do Madrid

What to see in Madrid in 3 days (a weekend)?

Madrid offers an incredible mix of history, culture, and vibrant city life perfect for a three-day weekend. Here's a comprehensive itinerary to help you explore the best of Spain's capital.

Day 1: Historic Center and Royal Landmarks

Morning: Historic City Center
Start your Madrid adventure at Puerta del Sol, the city's bustling central square. Here you'll find the iconic "Bear and the Strawberry Tree" statue and kilometer zero, marking the geographical center of Spain. Next, explore the historic Plaza Mayor, a stunning square that celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2018.

Afternoon: Royal Attractions
Visit the impressive Royal Palace complex, which includes the Almudena Cathedral, Royal Palace, and Teatro Real. Take a guided tour of the Royal Palace, the largest in Europe, and marvel at its stunning architecture. Nearby, stroll through Plaza de Oriente and soak in the historical atmosphere.

Evening: Tapas and Flamenco
End your first day in the charming Las Letras neighborhood, known for its literary history and excellent tapas bars. Enjoy traditional Madrid dishes like patatas bravas and Iberian ham. Cap off the night with a spectacular flamenco show at one of the city's famous tablao venues.

Day 2: Museums and Parks

Morning: World-Class Museums
Begin your day at the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Velázquez, El Greco, and Goya. Book a guided tour to fully appreciate the art collection. Pro tip: arrive early to avoid long queues.

Afternoon: Retiro Park
After the museum, head to Retiro Park, Madrid's most famous green space. Rent a boat on the park's picturesque lake, take a leisurely stroll, or simply relax on the grass.

Evening: Rooftop Views
End the day at the Círculo de Bellas Artes rooftop, enjoying unique sunset views and a cocktail.

Day 3: Neighborhoods and Modern Madrid

Morning: Cultural Neighborhoods
Start in the Barrio de las Letras, Madrid's literary quarter. Explore its historic streets, old bookshops, and theaters. Visit nearby markets like Antón Martin for a local experience.

Afternoon: Modern Madrid
Walk along Gran Vía, Madrid's iconic avenue filled with shops, restaurants, and theaters. Stop at Plaza de España and enjoy views from one of its rooftop bars, like Ginkgo Sky Bar.

Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol is one of Madrid's most recognizable icons and is located in the heart of the capital. It is home to some of Madrid's most significant buildings and was the site of the proclamation of the Second Republic in 1931.

The Historical Evolution of Puerta del Sol happened in different stages. The first was the Casa de Correos, built in the mid-18th century. Later, thanks to architects José Morer, Juan Rivera, and Lucio del Valle, between 1857 and 1862, it took on its final form. Finally, the fountain, gardens, and pedestrian area that you can see today were added in the 20th century.

In addition to the clock of the Casa de Correos, from where you can watch the New Year's Eve chimes, in Puerta del Sol you will find three other famous elements: Kilometre Zero, the place where Spain's radial roads begin, the statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree, symbol of the city, and just above the latter, the iconic Tío Pepe advertisement.

From Puerta del Sol, you can easily walk to other essential places in Madrid such as Plaza Mayor, Gran Vía, Royal Palace, or Plaza Cibeles. It is one of the most central locations in the city, well-connected thanks to its metro station, which connects with the suburban train and numerous bus stops.

The Prado Museum

Although Madrid offers a wide variety of museums, the Prado stands as the most renowned. Inaugurated in 1819, it has evolved into one of the world's most important museums, featuring an exceptional collection of paintings from the 16th to 19th centuries.

This museum, designed by Juan de Villanueva, houses works by legendary painters including Goya, El Bosco, Rubens, El Greco, and Velázquez. A full morning is recommended to explore all its rooms and works, though this depends on whether you're an art enthusiast wanting to examine every corner or prefer to focus on the most famous masterpieces. Some of its most important pieces include The Naked Maja by Goya, The Three Graces by Rubens, The Gentleman with his Hand on his Chest by El Greco, and Las Meninas by Velázquez.

Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is located about 350 meters west of Puerta del Sol, in the heart of Madrid. Its impressive dimensions of 94 meters wide and 129 meters long are surrounded by three-story buildings and various arcades. What many don't know is that this square has endured several fires throughout history, necessitating multiple reconstructions.

The plaza has undergone several name changes throughout its history. The current name has remained since the end of the Civil War, but previously it was known as Plaza de la República, Plaza Real, Plaza de la Constitución, and Plaza del Arrabal during the 15th century.

Key points of interest include the Arch of Cuchilleros, the Casa de la Panadería, and the Statue of Felipe II. The square is particularly magical during the Christmas season, when it hosts a traditional Christmas market that has been running for nearly 150 years.

Gran Vía of Madrid

When visiting Madrid, you can't miss the city's most famous boulevard: the Gran Vía. It connects the Argüelles neighbourhood with the Salamanca district and represents a project that took several decades to complete (from 1910 to 1929, although the first sketches were made in 1862) and involved the demolition of 300 houses.

Like many Madrid landmarks, it hasn't always carried its current name. It has been known as avenida del quince y medio, avenida de Rusia, and most notably as avenida de José Antonio, named in homage to José Antonio Primo de Rivera.

On Gran Vía, you'll find three main attractions: cinemas, fashion shops, and restaurants. There's a 24-hour atmosphere and, although there are fewer cinemas today, this area was once known as "Madrid's Broadway".

El Retiro

Officially named Parque del Buen Retiro, this is one of Madrid's must-visit locations for both tourists and locals alike. Inaugurated in 1968 and situated about 750 metres from the Prado Museum, it offers numerous attractions and activities.

The park is a vibrant space where you can encounter musicians, puppet shows, actors in costume as children's characters, fortune tellers, and more. There are several points of interest within the park that deserve special attention.

What to see and do in El Retiro, Madrid?

The park features several notable attractions:

• Paseo de las Estatuas: Actually called Paseo de la Argentina, it earned its nickname from the statues of Spanish monarchs lining the path.
• Crystal Palace: Initially used as a greenhouse, it now hosts various temporary exhibitions.
• The Lake: Where visitors can rent rowing boats for a peaceful experience on the water.
• Monument to Alfonso XII: Located on one of the lake's banks, it becomes especially lively on Sundays with groups playing timbales and other instruments.
• Cecilio Rodríguez Gardens: Located near the Ibiza metro station, these carefully maintained gardens feature peacocks and ducks, offering one of the park's most tranquil spots.

Puerta de Alcalá

The Puerta de Alcalá stands as one of the city's most emblematic monuments, immortalized in the famous song by Ana Belén and Víctor Manuel. Inaugurated by Italian architect Francisco Sabatini in 1778, it has a fascinating history.

Charles III ordered the demolition of an earlier brick gate and commissioned its reconstruction. The current version, built from two different types of stone, stands near Retiro Park, serving as one of its main entrances.

The name "puerta" (gate) comes from its original function as one of Madrid's five city gates. It wasn't until 1889 that it became a square. The "Alcalá" portion of its name refers to its location on the road to Alcalá de Henares, a town 30 km from the capital. Alcalá Street itself, the longest in the city, continues in the direction of this historic town.

Plaza de Cibeles

Located about 370 metres from the Puerta de Alcalá at the intersection of Calle Alcalá and Paseo del Prado, Plaza de Cibeles is famous for its central fountain. The fountain depicts a chariot pulled by lions carrying the goddess Cybele herself and serves as the celebration point for Real Madrid's football victories.

What to see in Plaza de Cibeles?

• Palacio de Linares: Built by the Marquis of Linares in 1900, it later became Casa de América, fostering cultural relations between Latin American countries and Spain.
• Banco de España: The central headquarters, inaugurated in 1891, houses an impressive collection of paintings by Vicente López, Maella, Mengs, and Goya, despite its modest exterior.
• Buenavista Palace: Originally the residence of the Duke and Duchess of Alba, it now serves as Army Headquarters.
• Palacio de Cibeles: This majestic former Post Office building now houses the City Hall and hosts various exhibitions throughout the year.

Royal Palace

Also known as Palacio de Oriente, the Royal Palace serves as the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. However, the King and Queen actually reside in the Zarzuela Palace, using this palace primarily for official acts, ceremonies, and receptions.

The palace stands on the site of the former Habsburg Palace, which was destroyed by fire on Christmas Eve 1734. Located about 600 metres from Plaza Mayor and 670 metres from Gran Vía, it's conveniently situated for visiting multiple attractions in one day.

Designed during the 18th century, construction took approximately 17 years, becoming Carlos III's residence in 1764. The palace is surrounded by the Sabatini Gardens (20th century) and the Campo del Moro Gardens (medieval origin).

Temple of Debod

Located next to Parque del Oeste, about 400 metres from Plaza de España and 700 metres from the Royal Palace, this temple is a unique treasure in Madrid. It was a gift from Egypt to Spain for collaborating in the salvage of the Nubian temples, representing a spectacular piece that is 2,200 years old.

The temple's reconstruction in Madrid was challenging due to lost stones and incomplete plans. The process took two years, and initially, the temple didn't receive the maintenance it required, leading to safety concerns. However, this has changed dramatically, and now visitors can explore its interior, which features explanations about hieroglyphs, a model of Nubian temples, and information about Egyptian society and mythology.

The exterior is particularly spectacular at sunset, when the Temple of Debod is bathed in golden colors. The surrounding gardens are popular for yoga, picnics, and relaxation. The location also offers beautiful views of Madrid from the viewpoint, near the cable car station connecting to Casa de Campo.

Royal Theatre

The Teatro Real, located opposite the Royal Palace in Plaza de Oriente, currently serves as Madrid's premier opera house, though this wasn't always its purpose. Construction began in 1818, with inauguration in 1850. For 75 years, it ranked among Europe's most important theaters until structural issues forced its closure for over four decades.

The theater reopened in 1966 as a symphony concert hall, but this wasn't its final transformation. A major renovation closed it for another 9 years, resulting in the magnificent venue we see today.

The audio-guided tour allows visitors to explore palatially decorated rooms and the impressive stage box with articulated platforms enabling various stage combinations. Visitors can even experience the view from the Royal Box, the theater's finest seating location.

An interesting detail awaits in the theater's restaurant (a former ballroom): a starry sky created with thousands of LED lights. The arrangement mirrors the actual star map from the theater's opening night when the stage had an open ceiling.

Almudena Cathedral

The Almudena Cathedral stands as Madrid's most important religious building. It features a distinctive style with bright-colored ceiling and stained glass windows in straight lines, setting it apart from more classical designs.

Construction began with King Alfonso XII laying the first stone in 1883, and it holds the distinction of being the first cathedral consecrated outside Rome, thanks to Pope John Paul II in 1993. Located about 300 metres from the Royal Palace and 600 metres from Plaza Mayor, it's easily accessible to visitors.

The cathedral's museum, though small, comprises 12 fascinating rooms displaying episcopal coats of arms, mosaics, and numerous archdiocese artifacts. Visitors can also access the dome, though the views are less spectacular than those from other cathedral towers.

Colon Square

This vital hub of Madrid is bounded by Paseo de la Castellana, Paseo de Recoletos, and the streets Jorge Juan, Goya and Serrano. The square features a monumental tribute to Christopher Columbus, constructed between 1881 and 1885.

• The Spanish Flag: An impressive sight flying from a 50-meter mast, with the flag measuring 21 x 14 metres.
• Discovery Gardens: Features several tree clusters surrounding three large concrete sculptures with inscriptions and reliefs: the Monument to the Discovery of America.
• Columbus Monument: A white marble statue standing 3 metres high on a 17-metre pedestal.
• Colón Towers: These unique twin buildings were constructed from top to bottom between 1967 and 1976, featuring a distinctive green structure at the top.

Reina Sofia Museum

Located in an 18th-century building that once served as Hospital de San Carlos, about 570 metres from the Prado Museum and 800 metres from the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum is a must-visit for contemporary Spanish art enthusiasts. Founded in 1992, it picks up chronologically where the Prado Museum leaves off, starting with Picasso's birth in 1881.

The museum's most famous piece is Picasso's Guernica, though you'll also find masterworks by Joan Miró and Salvador Dalí. A quick tour focusing on major works takes 1-2 hours, while art enthusiasts might want to dedicate 3-4 hours to explore the full collection.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Completing Madrid's Golden Triangle of Art alongside the Prado and Reina Sofía, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum offers a unique perspective on art history. Housed in the 18th-century Palacio de Villahermosa, the museum takes its name from the Thyssen-Bornemisza family, whose collection of approximately 1,000 pieces was purchased by the Spanish state in 1993.

Spread across three floors, the museum displays works from the 17th to 20th centuries by renowned artists including Van Gogh, Edvard Munch, Caravaggio, and Van Eyck. Visitors are encouraged to start on the top floor and work their way down to follow the historical evolution of painting.

While perhaps housing fewer globally recognized masterpieces than the Prado, the Thyssen-Bornemisza's carefully curated selection provides an excellent overview of Western art history and offers a rewarding experience for art enthusiasts.

Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas

The Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas holds the distinction of being the third-largest bullring in the world and the largest in Spain, with a capacity exceeding 23,000 spectators. Built in 1929, its bullring measures an impressive 61 meters in diameter.

The venue's construction was prompted by bullfighting's growing popularity after 1913, when the previous bullring from 1874 proved insufficient. Interestingly, the chosen location was initially one of Madrid's most marginal neighborhoods, quite different from its current prestigious status.

Even for those not interested in bullfighting, Las Ventas offers fascinating tours. Visitors can explore the venue with an audio guide, walking through the paseíllo, bullring, courtyard, and upper tiers, gaining insights into this significant cultural institution.

How to get to Madrid?

Madrid ranks among Europe's best-connected cities, offering multiple transportation options from anywhere in the world. Whether you prefer air, rail, bus, or car travel, there are numerous ways to reach the Spanish capital.

• By Plane: Adolfo Suárez airport (formerly Barajas) serves as Spain's primary gateway, welcoming countless national and international travelers. From the airport, reach the city center via:
  • Metro Line 8: 25-minute journey
  • EMT bus: Slightly longer, with direct service to Cibeles
• By Train: The AVE high-speed rail network offers efficient connections, with direct services from:
  • Valencia
  • Seville
  • Zaragoza
  • Additional routes from Malaga, Vigo, Tarragona, and Segovia
• By Bus: Madrid's multiple bus stations connect with destinations across Spain and Europe, including:
  • Lisbon
  • Porto
  • Paris
  • Amsterdam
  Major carriers include Alsa and AvanzaBus.
• By Car: Madrid's central location makes it accessible from throughout the Iberian Peninsula. Key distances:
  • Barcelona: 620 km
  • Valencia: 355 km
  • Seville: 530 km
  • Florence: 1,700 km
  • Rome: almost 2,000 km

Frequently Asked Questions about Madrid