Madrid Travel Guide: The Best Things to Do, See & Eat

Madrid, Spain's capital, offers a vibrant mix of historical and modern attractions. Explore the Royal Palace, visit the Prado Museum, and enjoy tapas in Plaza Mayor. The city's lively nightlife and cultural events make it a must-visit destination.

With 326+ hand-picked places to explore, Madrid rewards travellers who look beyond the obvious. Here's our complete guide to the best of the city — organised by what you're in the mood for.

Must-See Attractions & Landmarks in Madrid

The icons and landmarks no first visit is complete without.

• Puerta de Alcalá (rated 4.8★)
• Palacio de Cristal (rated 4.7★)
• Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (rated 4.7★)
• Monumento a Cervantes

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Museums & Culture in Madrid

Galleries, museums and cultural landmarks for a deeper look at the city.

• Museo del Prado (rated 4.9★)
• Royal Palace of Madrid (rated 4.8★)
• Teatro Real (rated 4.8★)
• Catedral de la Almudena (rated 4.7★)

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Best Things to Do in Madrid

Activities and experiences to fill your days.

• Wanda Metropolitano Stadium (rated 4.8★)
• Club de Campo Villa de Madrid (rated 4.7★)
• Exit Madrid (rated 4.7★)
• Fox in a Box Madrid (rated 4.7★)

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Where to Eat in Madrid

From local classics to standout modern kitchens.

• DiverXO (rated 4.9★)
• DSTAgE (rated 4.9★)
• Kabuki Wellington (rated 4.8★)
• Paco Roncero Restaurante (rated 4.8★)

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Madrid After Dark: Bars & Nightlife

Where to go once the sun sets.

• Angelita Madrid (rated 4.8★)
• Café Berlín (rated 4.7★)
• Café Central (rated 4.7★)
• Café Jazz Populart (rated 4.7★)

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Shopping in Madrid

Markets, boutiques and everything in between.

• Alphaville Vintage (rated 4.7★)
• Casa de Diego (rated 4.7★)
• El Corte Inglés Castellana (rated 4.7★)
• Mercado de San Miguel (rated 4.7★)

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Parks & Green Spaces in Madrid

Room to breathe when you need a break from the streets.

• La Pedriza (rated 4.8★)
• Parque del Retiro (rated 4.8★)
• Parque Regional de la Cuenca Alta del Manzanares (rated 4.8★)
• Bosque del Recuerdo (rated 4.7★)

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Plan Your Trip to Madrid

This is just the start — browse our full, always-growing guide to Madrid, with 326 places across 12 categories, and start building your perfect itinerary.

Explore the complete Madrid guide →