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Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.​

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Prado Museum

Prado Museum

The Prado Museum, officially known as Museo Nacional del Prado, is an internationally renowned museum that boasts an impressive collection of over 7,000 paintings (although only approximately 1,500 are currently on display). Established two hundred years ago, the museum's collections have expanded to include artworks by Spanish masters such as Velázquez and Goya, as well as pieces by renowned Flemish artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Pieter Bruegel, and Anton Van Dyck.
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Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor, the main square of Madrid, boasts a fascinating history that dates back to the late 16th century when it was named Plaza del Arrabal, hosting the city’s most popular market. Today, it is a top tourist attraction with a lot to offer. One of the highlights of the plaza is the equestrian statue of King Philip III, located in the centre. Sculpted by Giambologna and finished by Pietro Tacca in 1616, it originally stood at the entrance to Casa de Campo Park before Queen Isabella II had it moved to the Plaza Mayor in 1848. The plaza's most striking building is the Casa de la Panadería, the first to be established in 1590, which was initially the most important bakery in Madrid. Today, it houses the Plaza Mayor Tourist Information Centre and the Tienda Casa de la Panadería, a shop selling souvenirs of Madrid made by local artisans. Another popular spot is El Arco de Cuchilleros, the most famous of the nine entrances to Plaza Mayor. Plaza Mayor is also an excellent place to enjoy a coffee or grab a bite, people-watch, and soak up the city’s rich history. Throughout the year, there are various events, including the drum parade at Easter, outdoor concerts, and the Christmas market in December, so be sure to check the calendar when you're visiting.
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El Retiro Park

El Retiro Park

El Retiro, an iconic park in Madrid, was once reserved exclusively for Spanish royalty, but it became accessible to the public in the late 19th century. Covering 350 acres, it is one of the largest parks in the city and is often referred to as "the lungs of Madrid" due to its vast green spaces. It's a popular spot for leisure, sports, and outdoor activities, with wide avenues and flat terrain perfect for running, cycling, and skating. Visitors can also rent rowboats to paddle around the Estanque or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride. The park is home to several architectural and historical features, including the Velázquez Palace and the Crystal Palace, as well as remarkable sculptures and fountains, such as the statue of the Fallen Angel, the only sculpture in the world to represent the devil (Lucifer). The park also boasts a Puppet Theater, which offers a unique program every weekend and is one of a kind in Europe.
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Reina Sofía National Art Center Museum

Reina Sofía National Art Center Museum

Located in the Golden Triangle of Art alongside the Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the Reina Sofía National Art Center is housed in a massive former hospital dating from the mid-18th century. Its collection consists mainly of Spanish works from the 20th century. Among the works on display are pieces by renowned artists such as Dalí, Miró, and Juan Gris, as well as the gallery's prized possession, Picasso's "Guernica".
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Royal Palace of Madrid

Royal Palace of Madrid

The Palacio Real de Madrid — the official residence of the Spanish royal family in the city — is Europe's largest royal palace, boasting a whopping surface area of 135,000 square meters and a staggering 3,418 rooms. This architectural marvel is not only visually stunning, but also features spectacular outdoor gardens and exquisite frescoes, furnishings, and paintings within its walls. Originally constructed in 1764 as a replacement for the Alcázar castle, which had been destroyed by fire three decades earlier, this magnificent edifice is a must-see attraction for visitors to Madrid. Nearly the entire palace is open to the public, including the Armoury and Pharmacy.
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Madrid Tapas & Wine Tasting Tour

Madrid Tapas & Wine Tasting Tour

Embark on a delectable tapas tour and discover Madrid's vibrant culinary scene. Indulge in a variety of traditional delicacies such as Iberian ham, salted cod, and rich chickpea stew while sipping on excellent Spanish wines. With an expert guide at your side, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the local ingredients and the history behind each dish. This gastronomic adventure is the perfect way to experience the city's unique culture and traditions, as well as to tantalize your taste buds with some of the most delicious food you'll ever try.
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San Miguel Market

San Miguel Market

Mercado de San Miguel is a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the most distinctive flavours of Spanish cuisine. Located just a stone's throw away from Plaza Mayor, this renowned wholesale food market has become one of the most significant culinary hotspots in all of Europe. Here, you'll find some of the city's finest gourmet foods and delicacies, ranging from exquisite wines and delectable cheeses to savoury hams and cured meats. It's the perfect spot to stop for a mid-afternoon tapas and a glass of wine, all while taking in the vibrant energy of this bustling market.
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Avila & Salamanca Tour from Madrid

Avila & Salamanca Tour from Madrid

Embark on a day trip from Madrid to discover two of Spain's UNESCO-designated medieval cities, Avila and Salamanca. Begin your journey by visiting Avila, a stunningly preserved medieval town that boasts the Avila Cathedral and Basilica of St. Vincent. Marvel at the ancient architecture and immerse yourself in the history of this magnificent city. Next, head to Salamanca, known for its renowned university and captivating sandstone structures. Explore the city's enchanting architecture and discover the secrets of its rich cultural heritage.
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Flamenco

Flamenco

Madrid is a city that is globally recognized for its remarkable Flamenco performances, which can be enjoyed at numerous taverns and bars scattered throughout the city. Flamenco is not just a dance but also a form of music that accompanies the dance. Originating from Andalusia, it is well-known for its guitar-accompanied songs, complex techniques of foot-stomping, hand-clapping, and the use of castanets. For an unforgettable Flamenco display, the "Corral de la Moreria" is the place to be.
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Casa de Campo Park

Casa de Campo Park

Casa de Campo, the largest and most significant public park in Madrid, was once a Royal Forest and is now open to the public. The park boasts many attractions, including the Madrid Zoo, an amusement park, a Teleférico (cable car), and a lake. In addition, the park is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as working out and swimming during the summer. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy over 1.5 hectares of natural surroundings before returning to the vibrant city.
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Teleférico de Madrid

Teleférico de Madrid

The Teleférico — Madrid's cable car — is a comfortable way of seeing most of the major sights while sitting down, provided you're not afraid of heights. This cable car was first built as part of an amusement park, and at places, it reaches a height of about 40 metres above the ground. The ride takes ten minutes and once you've reached the destination Casa de Campo Park, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city, as well as grab some food at the restaurant.
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Do & See

National Museum of Romanticism

The neoclassical-style former palace of the Marquis of Matallana, erected in 1776, is home to a captivating assembly of 19th-century artworks, furnishings, and decorative objects that capture the essence of Madrid's cultural, political, and everyday life of that era. Its collection provides a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of wealthy individuals during that period. The exhibition includes pieces by renowned artists such as Goya, Esquivel, Madrazo, Alenza, and the Bécquer brothers. In addition, visitors can marvel at ceramics from Sargadelos and Sèvres, exquisite jewellery crafted from ebonite, lava, and human hair, a selection of porcelain dolls, as well as several pianos and pieces of imperial and Isabelline furniture. The Magnolia Garden, styled after the French gardens of the 18th century, is one of the most enchanting parts of this exceptional museum.
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