MUST-VISIT MADRID ATTRACTIONS 2023
Explore Madrid to the fullest!
Madrid, a city steeped in history and vibrant culture, is a must-visit destination that promises a memorable experience for every traveler. Known for its rich heritage, lively atmosphere, and world-class attractions, Madrid offers an enticing blend of modernity and tradition that captivates all who visit.
Skip the lines and explore renowned Madrid tourist attractions! Wander through the bustling streets and discover iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace, a magnificent architectural marvel that showcases Spain’s regal past. Explore the renowned Prado Museum, home to an extensive collection of European art, or feel the magic at the Flamenco dance show.
Best places to visit in Madrid!
There are numerous activities to do and landmarks to see in Madrid, and it might take a lot of work to fit it all into just one trip. That’s why we have hand-picked the best attractions you cannot miss during your visit!
Prado Museum
One of the most iconic Madrid attractions that should be at the top of your visit list is the magnificent Prado Museum. Prado is renowned for its exceptional art collection, boasting over 7600 paintings and 800 sculptures. On a museum display, you’ll see some of the most influential artists and their masterpieces, like Velázquez’s famous “Las Meninas,” Goya’s powerful “The Third of May 1808,” and El Greco’s striking “The Annunciation.”
Get ready for a truly enriching and awe-inspiring experience that will transport you into the fascinating worlds of art, history, and creativity.
Prado Museum Working Hours
- Monday to Saturday: From 10 am to 8 pm
- Sundays and holidays: From 10 am to 7 pm
- Closed: the 1st of January, the 1st of May and the 25th of December
- Limited opening hours: From 10 am to 2 pm the 6th of January, 24th and 31st December
Discover the world’s most famous works of art by visiting Prado Museum!
Royal Palace of Madrid
The Royal Palace, located in the center of Madrid, stands as a remarkable architectural masterpiece with its origins tracing back to the 18th century. Even though it serves as the official residence of the Spanish royal family, they primarily reside in the Palacio de la Zarzuela in the city’s suburbs. The Royal Palace of Madrid hosts many state functions, and when not in use, certain sections are accessible to the public.
The Royal Palace takes the crown as the largest palace in Western Europe, with a total of 3,418 rooms, it surpasses the size of Buckingham Palace and the Palace of Versailles. This magnificent architectural and historical gem offers visitors a glimpse into the regal splendor of the past and is a testament to Spain’s rich cultural heritage.
Royal Palace Working Hours
From April to September
- Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm
- Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm
From October to March
- Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm
- Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm
- Closed: the 1st and 6th of January, the 1st of May, and the 12th and 25th of December.
- Limited opening hours: on the 12th of October, the palace is closed until 5:30 pm, and on the 24th and 31st of December, it closes at 3 pm
Step into the glorious world of Spanish royalty!
Retiro Park
Created as a royal garden in the 17th century, Retiro Park showcases the lush greenery, architectural marvels, and peaceful retreat from the bustling city. You can easily stroll through its winding paths, marvel at the numerous statues, fountains, and monuments, or take a leisurely row in the lake.
One of Retiro Park’s highlights you shouldn’t miss is the Crystal Palace, a stunning glass and iron structure used as a contemporary art museum hall.
This public park provides plenty of options for those looking for recreation and entertainment. You can rent bicycles or roller skates to explore it, participate in outdoor yoga classes, or even enjoy a picnic under the shade of ancient trees.
Retiro Park Working Hours
From April to September
- Open daily from 6 am to 12 am
From October to March
- Open daily day from 6 am to 10 pm
Visit Madrid’s enchanting urban oasis!
Plaza Mayor
Plaza de Mayor is situated in the heart of the city center and is an example of Castilan urbanism architecture. This renowned historic square is characterized by its spacious layout, elegant colonnade, and historical buildings. Charming restaurants, cozy cafes, and inviting outdoor seating areas further enhance the square’s ambiance.
Plaza Mayor is just a short distance from Puerta del Sol, Royal Palace, and other important landmarks in the city center. You can easily reach it by bus, metro, and car, with available parking facilities on-site.
Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
Santiago Bernabeu Stadium is the home of Real Madrid. It was built in 1947 and has undergone a massive transformation recently. With a capacity of around 80,000, it’s the second-biggest football stadium in Spain. Real Madrid is one of the world’s most successful clubs, so visiting the team’s trophy room or watching a game is a dream come true for any Real Madrid fan!
The stadium got its name from a visionary leader and legendary figure from the football world Santiago Bernabéu. He served as the president of Real Madrid from 1943 to 1978 and transformed the club into a global powerhouse. Santiago Bernabéu Stadium stands as a testament to his legacy and his impact on Real Madrid remains indelible.
Reina Sofia Museum
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, established in 1990, displays an extensive collection of Spanish and international art from the late 19th century to the present. Notably, one of the museum’s highlights is definitely Picasso’s Guernica. The growth of the museum’s collection led to an extension with a new building designed by Jean Nouvel in 2005.
The collection is divided in three sections, exploring key periods such as Surrealism, the 1937 Republic Pavilion, and Spanish Informalism. Reina Sofía also serves as a research, experimentation, and reflection hub. It offers a diverse program of temporary exhibitions and public activities, enriching the cultural experience for visitors.
Reina Sofia Working Hours
- Monday from 10 am to 9 pm
- Wednesday to Saturday from 10 am to 9 pm
- Sunday from 10 am to 2:30 pm
- Tuesday – closed
- Closing days: 1st and 6th of January, the 1st and 15th of May, the 9th of November, and the 24th, 25th, and 31st of December.
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is located within a short distance from Prado Museum. The museum showcases a remarkable art collection from the Middle Ages to the late 20th century. The museum exhibits over 1000 works of art focusing on Italian primitives, the German Renaissance, 19th-century American art, Impressionism, German Expressionism, and Russian Constructivism.
Its diverse range of artworks takes you on a journey through different schools and movements. From medieval masterpieces to the modern era’s innovative creations, the Thyssen-Bornemisza is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Working Hours
Permanent collection
- Monday from 12 am to 4 pm
- Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm
- Limited opening hours: 24th and 31st December, the museum will be open from 10.00 to 15.00.
- Closing days: 1st January, 1st May and 25th December
The opening hours of temporary exhibitions may vary.
See More Madrid Ticket Attractions & Tours!
FAQ – Madrid Attractions
What is Madrid most visited place?
The most visited place in Madrid is the Prado Museum. It's one of the most important museums in the world, housing more than 8,000 paintings and sculptures. Another place that's on top of the list is Retiro Park and it's Crystal Palace. Since it's right next to the Prado Museum, it's convenient to visit both of them in a single day.What I should see in Madrid?
There are plenty of things to do and places to see in Madrid. Depending on your personal interests, you can either take a walking tour en explore the city at your own pace. This way, you can easily walk along the famous Gran Vía, see Palacio de Cibeles, Plaza Mayor, and many more. If you're interested in art, then definitely add some of the most famous Spanish museums to your itinerary list.Is 3 days in Madrid enough?
Three days in Madrid is sufficient to explore the major attractions like Royal Palace, Prado Museum or Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Apart from that, you can enjoy in the historical value of the city and explore many vibrant neighborhoods around the city center. Depending on your pace and interests, consider extending your stay to fully experience Madrid.What to do first in Madrid?
If it's your first time in Madrid, we suggest you consider booking a guided tours or attraction tickets in advance. Madrid Walking Tour or a Hop-on Hop-off Tour are great way to learn more about the city's history and discover important landmarks. No matter what you decide, we suggest you book your tickets on time, as some of the most popular attractions can easily get sold out.Experience more of Madrid by booking the best-value Madrid tours & tickets online!
The Best-Value Day Trips From Madrid
Explore the surrounding area of Madrid and go on a day trip away from the hustle of the capital. Explore the Spanish countryside and book your day trip from Madrid online.