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Madrid is a city full of cultural attractions with the most amazing, lively atmosphere. Yes, it can be incredibly busy packed with people and traffic, however the gorgeous parks take you back to peace. Obviously, it's not as traditional as Seville or Andalusia, however, there is always something exciting to see and do here. I really think the best time to enjoy Madrid is either in Autumn or Spring when the heat isn’t too overwhelming. Here are some of the Top 10 Tourist Attractions you really need to visit if you move or take a trip to Madrid!
1. Temple of Debod
You must see this gorgeous spot when you visit Madrid; it's really close to almost anywhere in the city centre. The Temple of Debod had been donated to Spain by the Government of Egypt. The park that it’s situated on is incredibly beautiful, with space to have picnics, see amazing views of the city and the most wonderful sunsets in Madrid. You can see the Royal Palace, Casa de Campo and the very well known Manzanares river from here. This is a great place for a photo and get some shade from the sun under the palm trees, banana trees and Mediterranean plants.
Locate - Calle de Ferraz, 1
2. Royal Palace of Madrid
This has probably got to be one of the most stunning places I’ve ever seen here in Madrid and a must-see! The decor is absolutely gorgeous and each room is unique with different themes and so detailed from floor to ceiling. Yes, the queue can get very long and look daunting, but you do get through quickly! Unfortunately you can’t take photographs, but you will definitely keep a memory of this. I really do recommend a visit here, it's like a dream!
Locate - Calle de Bailén, s/n
3. Plaza Mayor
Sitting outside for food and drinks can be pretty pricey at Plaza Mayor, but if you don’t mind splashing the cash, it’s worth doing for a little break and cooling down with a refreshing Spanish sangria! If you’d prefer to take in the sights, you can walk around at an easy pace and see the balconies and pretty architecture. The statue of Felipe III on the horse is also in the middle of the plaza which you can get a close view of.
Locate - near Mercado de San Miguel
4. Madrid’s ‘Golden Triangle of Art’
Madrid has lots of incredible museums and galleries that you really need to see! If you're into fine arts or history then you will love the museums here! Here are 3 of the most famous museums in Madrid:
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
This contains more modern art and regularly has new temporary expositions. Each floor has its own treasures but the piece you ave to see if Picasso’s ‘Guernica’ which is a symbol against war.
Locate - Calle de Santa Isabel, 52
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
Incredible works from artists like Picasso, Van Eyck, Van Gogh and El Greco have been placed in the Thyssen Museum. I really appreciate the easy to walk layout of their collection of almost 1000 paintings! This is one of my favourite museums here in Madrid.
Locate - Paseo del Prado, 8
Museo Nacional del Prado
The Prado the most famous museum in Madrid as its collection had multiple periods, artists and art styles. You really should see the Goya paintings! It has some of the worlds richest Spanish paintings ad masterpieces of European paintings. I really recommend fitting this into your plans, if you just have a short trip in Madrid.
Locate - Calle de Ruiz de Alarcón, 23
5. El Retiro Park
I LOVE this place! The Retiro Park is so romantic and cultural; perfect for a peaceful morning walk or picnic during the day. There is always families, dog walkers and friends enjoying the rowing boats, sunbathing spots, picnics and street performances. It's also full of things to see:-
Estanque (Lake) - Locals and tourists rent rowboats here.
Monument to King Alfonso XII - Musicians normally play here.
Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace) - Contemporary exhibitions.
Palacio de Velázquez (Velázquez Palace): Free art gallery
Paseo de Argentina: Promenade of statues
Locate - Plaza de la Independencia, 7
6. Puerta del Sol
This square is right in the centre of Madrid and one of the cities most famous sites; a junction for some of Madrid’s busiest and historic streets. The Puerta del Sol has 3 symbols of Madrid that you need to check out! -
Kilometre Zero - It marks the point from which the distances in Madrid are measured.
El Oso y el Madroño (Statue of the Bear and Strawberry Tree) - This represents the coat of arms of Madrid.
Real Casa de Correos (House of the Post Office) - It contains the famous clock that marks a Spanish new years tradition in which a grape is eaten with every chime.
Locate - Plaza de la Puerta del Sol, s/n
7. Fuente de Cibeles and Gran Via
The Cibeles Fountain is a symbol of Madrid; located in the centre of the square surrounded by the Palacio de Buenavista (Army HQ), Palacio de Linares (Casa de América), Palacio de Cibeles (Madrid City Council) and Bank of Spain. Its an incredibly beautiful and monumental fountain with much history. Close to here is Gran Via which is the busiest and most popular street in Madrid, with 10 million people walking this street every year! If you're looking to shop, there are lots of boutiques, high end and well-known stores on Gran Via. There are also many hotels, theatres, bars and restaurants on this street! You could definitely spend a good few hours here if you’re a shopaholic!
Locate - C/ Gran Vía
Locate - Plaza Cibeles, S / N
8. El Rastro de Madrid
In my friendly neighbourhood of La Latina is the El Rastro market which takes place every Sunday. They sell some really unique pieces and also everyday items. You can buy a whole range of objects from clothes, furniture, jewellery, comic books, decor and more! I suggest stopping in the area to have some drinks and tapas. Check out my blog ‘A Sunday well spent in La Latina’ for the perfect way of experiencing El Rastro.
Locate - Calle de la Ribera de Curtidores
9. Circulo de Bellas Artes
This is my favourite rooftop bar in Madrid if you didn’t know by reading my blog on ‘The Best Rooftop Bars in Madrid’. You can get the most amazing views of the city and the decor surrounding you is also incredibly stylish. The atmosphere is very chilled and friendly and I love getting a cold Tinto de verano on a hot day in the terrace! I recommend this as the rooftop you must visit when you're in Madrid!
Locate - Calle de Alcalá, 42
10. Chocolatería San Ginés
This is Madrid’s most famous chocolate shop known for its chocolate and churros!! Its definitely one of the most original places here with its old fashioned tables and green interior. The rich hot chocolate they serve with the fresh churros is very authentic to Spain; hot and thick! Churros with chocolate has got to be my favourite Spanish treat here in Madrid so really…you have to take my word for it and experience the taste sensation!
Locate - Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5
If you happen to visit any of these places, please let me know your opinion! I’d love to know what you think!
“I would sooner be a foreigner in Spain than in most countries. How easy it is to make friends in Spain!”
– George Orwell
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