Are you looking for the best and most fun things to do in Madrid?
Madrid is a great place to do some sighting seeing, eat some amazing food, and learn a lot about the culture. You’ll be able to get a glimpse of the city life as well as nature! No matter when you visit Madrid, the weather will be great because it is sunny most of the time.
The city is known for its nightlife and delicious food! A lot of restaurants and even markets are opened late. This guide will provide you some of the most fun things to do in Madrid and a few places to eat as well.
We also have a little surprise for you at the end of the article!
But first, let's take a look at the guide for 10 Best Things to Do in Madrid:
Go On a Boat Ride at Retiro Park
There is so much to do at Retiro Park!
Retiro Park is one of the largest and most charming parks in the city. You will see a lot of people rowing boats in the lake and performers around the park. Located at the center of the park, Crystal Palace is a beautiful structure that is made out of glass and metal. It occasionally hosts art exhibitions as well.
Good to know: Entrance to the park and Crystal Palace is free, however, you would need to pay if you want to rent a rowboat. It cost €6 for 45 minutes to go on a boat.
Eat at Mercado San Miguel
Indulge your taste buds in a variety of Spanish food!
Located near Plaza de Mayor, the San Miguel Market is a popular spot for people to eat lunch. You can find anything from mimosas and seafood to fresh fruits. You can also find some tasty tapas for a decently low price too There are many types of food to try, you can expect to leave the market feeling full.
The market opens until really late at night so you can stop by here for a midnight snack if you’re hungry.
Opening Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Sunday 10- 12 am. Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10- 2 am.
Explore the Bustling Streets at Puerta del Sol
Enjoy your day at this famous plaza
Just a short walk from Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol is another fun spot with lots to do! There are many restaurants, bars, and stores surrounding this plaza. You’ll have a great time whether you are here to eat or do a little bit of shopping. This busy square also has a lot of street performers, especially during the weekend.
Good to know: If you happen to go to Madrid during New Year’s Eve, then this is where the countdown happens. There is a tradition where you eat 12 grapes, one for every time the tower chimes at midnight. If you do this, then you’ll be rewarded with good luck.
Experience a Royal Afternoon at Palacio Real de Madrid
Take a look inside a palace!
The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the Spanish Royal family but they live in a palace that is located in the outskirts of Madrid. The Royal Palace is used for state ceremonies and is opened for the public to visit.
If you ever wondered what it is like to live like royalty, then you should visit the palace. This is considered to be the largest palace in Europe. The interior is decorated with beautiful frescoes and elegant furniture. Stepping inside the palace will make this trip worth visiting!
Good to know: Watch the changing of the guard! There are two types of changing of the guard ceremonies.
1. Solemn Changing of the Guard: Every first Wednesday of the month at noon (except January, August, and September)
2. Changing the Guard: Every Wednesday and Saturday from 11am to 2pm (July, August, and September is from 10am to noon)
Take a Spanish Cooking Class in Madrid
Get a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine!
You have been eating a lot of food during your travels but have you ever thought about how it is made? The best way to learn about a country’s culture is through its food! Take a cooking class and learn how to make some of the most popular dishes in Madrid.
Food tastes best when it is homemade! Making your own food and the friendly atmosphere will make this an unforgettable experience. Learn how to make tapas, paella, desserts, and even sangria!
Watch a Bullfight at Las Ventas
Learn why bullfights are an important part of Spanish culture
Although bullfighting may seem cruel and hazardous, it has been part of the culture for centuries. Watching a bullfight is a thrilling experience but it is not for everyone because the bull does get killed at the end. If you are interested in watching this, bullfighting season in Spain is usually from March to October.
For those who do not wish to watch a bullfight, you can still take a tour of the Las Ventas Bullring! It is considered to be the most important bullring in the world. You can learn more about its history and the bullfighting attire by visiting the museum during the tour!
Entrance Fee: Standard price is €14.90 and €11.90 for students and retirees.
Eat Churros for Breakfast
What’s more delicious than churros dipped in chocolate?
Churros dipped in chocolate is something you must try when you’re in Madrid! It is usually considered a dessert but the Spaniards actually eat it for breakfast.
This delicious treat can be found all around the city but the best place to get it is at a restaurant called Chocolateria San Gines, located in Puerto del Sol. The classic churros are usually served with a thick delicious cup of hot chocolate. Expect a line when you go here because this place is really popular.
Go on a Tapas Bar Crawl
La Latina is famous for its tapas and bars!
La Latina has many bars and restaurants that serve tapas. If you are looking for a variety of tapas then this is the place to be. This is the perfect place to go if you love food! This area is visited by locals often so you know it is authentic.
Whether you are here to eat or not, La Latina is still a great place to visit. There are a couple of streets in La Latina that is filled with restaurants and bars. The two main streets that you must go to eat are Cava Alta and Cava Baja.
Watch a Flamenco Performance
It’s not a Spanish fiesta without a flamenco performance!
Flamenco, a beautiful dance that is paired up with guitar music and singing, has been part of Spanish tradition for centuries. Many of the dancer’s outfits contain red pieces of clothing and polka dots. The flow of their ruffled dresses and talented dance moves is mesmerizing to watch.
You can sometimes see street performers flamenco dance but it is often performed at restaurants and taverns. Watching this spectacular show while you eat is a fun activity to do in Madrid. A Flamenco show is guaranteed to make your evening more fun and exciting!
End your day by watching a sunset at a rooftop bar!
Grab and drink and wind down at the roof of Circulo de Bellas Artes. This center is an important cultural institution with art exhibitions but it is also a place where people like to gather and have fun.
The rooftop can be accessed during the day also but the best time to go is when the sun is about to set.
Entrance Fee: Access to the exhibition hall and the rooftop cost €4 each.
Opening Hours: Exhibition Hall opens Tuesday- Sunday from 11am- 2pm, 5- 9pm. The rooftop opens Monday- Friday from 9am- 9pm and Saturday- Sunday from 11am- 9pm.
This is it! Plus, a little bonus...
We hope that our list of “10 Best Things to Do in Madrid” will help you discover Madrid’s most fun things to do and other enjoyable activities for a 4-5 day itinerary.
We also have a little something for you! If you're interested in a cooking class, use the promo code MADRIDBEST10 and get a 10% discount on www.cookly.me
Explore Cooking Classes in Madrid
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