Discovering the best things to do in Madrid can be a thrilling challenge, especially when you’re limited to a weekend getaway. While Spanish capital may not boast as many iconic landmarks as other Spanish cities, it offers a wealth of experiences that capture the essence of Spain.
The heart of the city, Plaza Mayor, serves as a magnificent focal point for exploration. Art aficionados are drawn to Madrid’s legendary museums – the Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofia – which showcase some of Europe’s most treasured masterpieces. Sports enthusiasts often make the pilgrimage to Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, a temple of football history. But Madrid’s allure extends beyond these highlights, with its vibrant culinary scene, the sprawling oasis of Retiro Park and the bohemian charm of neighbourhoods such as Malasaña.
Top 6 Things to See in Madrid
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a football fan, a foodie, a history buff, or simply looking to soak in the energetic atmosphere of a European metropolis, our in-depth guide will help you make the most of your whirlwind 48 hours in this captivating city. Below are Madrid’s must-see attractions which you should include in your weekend itinerary:
Puerta del Sol
It’s more than likely that you’ll be staying in the vicinity of Puerta del Sol when you stay in Madrid as it is not only the geographical centre of the capital but also the centre of Spain. Look out for the marker on the pavement in front of the Ayuntamiento (Council) building as all road distances in Spain are measured from this spot (Kilometre Zero).
“Puerta” means gate and it got this name historically because in the 15th century it was the city’s main, easternmost gate when under the Habsburg Kings it was surrounded by churches and monasteries. It was rebuilt in its present form in 1854-62. Today it is the hub of the city’s transport system and is Madrid’s most popular meeting point.
Plaza Mayor
More impressive on a monumental level is the great Plaza Mayor just a two minute walk from Puerta del Sol. Initially it served as a small market square when it was first built in the 15th century. It was completely rebuilt after Phillip II made Madrid the capital of Spain and became the city’s focal point as bullfights, carnivals and all the great festivals and ceremonies of imperial Madrid were held there.
Large sections were rebuilt after a fire in 1790. Today you’ll find a selection of bars and restaurants on the outskirts of the square along with novelty shops selling hats and coins. There are artists working outside the tourist office and tourists from all over the globe hanging around this grand plaza.
Royal Palace (Palacio Real)
Madrid’s Royal Palace, an 18th-century Baroque and Neoclassical masterpiece, is one of Europe’s largest with over 3,400 rooms. Built on a former Moorish fortress site, it houses priceless artworks and impressive features like the Grand Staircase and Royal Armoury. Though the official royal residence, it’s mainly used for state ceremonies and is open to the public. The palace offers visitors a rich experience of Spanish history, art and craftsmanship through its lavishly decorated chambers and meticulously landscaped grounds.
Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art
Culturally there can be little doubt that Madrid’s ‘Art Triangle’ is the city’s top tourist attraction. Located on Paseo del Prado there are three main galleries that every art enthusiast should visit:
El Museo del Prado: The Museo del Prado, often referred to as the crown jewel of Madrid’s art museums, is an iconic landmark that houses an unparalleled collection of European art from the 12th to the 19th centuries. This vast museum is home to masterpieces by renowned artists such as Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, Rubens and Titian, among many others. Its galleries are a testament to the incredible depth and diversity of Spanish and European art, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the various artistic movements and styles that have shaped the course of art history.
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía: The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, on the other hand, is a modern and contemporary art museum that showcases some of the most significant works of the 20th and 21st centuries. This iconic institution is best known for housing Pablo Picasso’s masterpiece, Guernica, a powerful anti-war symbol that has become one of the most recognizable artworks in the world. In addition to this legendary painting, the museum’s collection includes works by Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró and other influential avant-garde artists, offering a fascinating exploration of the groundbreaking movements that have shaped modern and contemporary art.
Paseo del Arte Ticket: A useful tip if you you plan on visiting all three galleries is to purchase the Paseo del Arte ticket which allows entrance to these galleries at a substantial saving. The ticket is available at all three participating galleries.
Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza: The collection dates back to the 1920s when Baron Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza acquired Old Masters for his villa overlooking Lake Lugano in Switzerland. After he died in 1947, his son expanded the collection to include many modern masterpieces. In 1993 the Spanish government outbid the Getty Foundation to secure the collection for $350 million when its true value was estimated at over $1 billion.
The Thyssen-Bornemisza collection has been installed in chronological order to allow the visitor to take a historical walking tour of European Painting from the 13th Century to modern times. The most outstanding works are from the Italian and German Renaissance, the 17th Century Dutch School, 19th Century North American Painting, Impressionism, Expressionism and Cubism.
Parque del Retiro
The Retiro park is an important part of the life of the people of Madrid. Lying within walking distance of the main attractions of the city centre it is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. On Sunday mornings in particular you’ll see Madrileños enjoying their leisure time with some simply wandering around before their ‘aperitivo’ (pre-lunchtime drink), others jogging, some reading the paper on benches or in a café and others rowing around the lake in rented boats.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is home to 15-times European champions, Real Madrid. Visitors to this iconic venue can book a stadium tour which includes access to the changing rooms, players’ tunnel, the dugout and the club’s trophy-laden museum. It also allows visitors to marvel at the engineering feat of the stadium’s retractable roof and pitch which are part of a recent renovation. Fans from all over the world take the Bernabéu tour to enjoy a thrilling behind-the-scenes look at one of football’s most famous clubs.
Top 8 Things to Do in Madrid
There are so many things to do in Madrid that you’ll find you can’t fit them all into a weekend. Football enthusiasts can watch a Real Madrid match at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium whilst foodies can book a table at Botín, the world’s oldest restaurant which is famous for its roast suckling pig. For those seeking to explore beyond the city, day trips to nearby UNESCO World Heritage sites in Toledo, Segovia and El Escorial are amongst the most popular options. Below are a few recommended things to do in Madrid’s a weekend though you’ll need to come back if you want to fit them all in:
Go to a Football Match
Football tourism is a popular pastime these days as fans travel to matches all over Europe to watch some of the world’s most famous teams and players in iconic stadiums. Watching Real Madrid in the Santiago Bernabeu would certainly come high on every football fan’s checklist. The city’s other top team is Atlético Madrid who play their home games at the Estadio Cívitas Metropolitano. The Spanish football season usually lasts from late August until early May with most league games taking place on weekends and European Champions League matches on Tuesday or Wednesday nights.
Go to a Bullfight at Las Ventas Bullring (Plaza de Toros)
Although the bullfighting season in Spain lasts from March to October its arrival in Madrid is in May when the Las Ventas bullring hosts the country’s main event during the festival of San Isidro. This month sees every top bullfighter in Spain appearing in the capital where, like it or loathe it, there is no escaping the fact that the bullfight remains part of the city’s cultural landscape. If you don’t want to attend a bullfight, you can still visit Las Ventas and take a tour of what is the largest Plaza de Toros in Spain.
Go For Dinner at the World’s Oldest Restaurant
Restaurante Botín (Calle Cuchilleros, 17) is certified by the Guinness World Records as the oldest restaurant in the world. Founded in 1725, this culinary landmark has welcomed generations of diners to savour its legendary roast suckling pig, lamb and signature Botín clams. Despite its coveted status that draws tourists from every corner, Botín has never compromised its standards in its nearly 300 years, preserving an air of timeless elegance in the vaulted stone ceilings that have born witness to lively conversations, Benito Pérez Galdós penning excerpts for his novels and even a visit from Ernest Hemingway.
Take a Tapas and Wine Tasting Tour
Taking a tapas tour is a great way to experience Madrid’s culinary heartbeat as you join locals hopping from one bustling bar to the next in the time-honoured tradition of “tapeo.” Your journey through the best tapas bars in Madrid might begin in the vibrant La Latina neighborhood, where centuries-old taverns serve crispy croquetas and savoury jamón ibérico alongside chilled cañas of beer.
As you wind through narrow streets, each stop reveals a new flavour of Madrid – perhaps succulent gambas al ajillo sizzling in earthenware dishes, or creative modern tapas that blend traditional ingredients with innovative techniques. In Chueca or Malasaña, trendy gastrobars offer artisanal cheeses and wines from across Spain. The tour is as much about the food as it is about the convivial atmosphere, with animated conversations flowing as freely as the Rioja.
Go Shopping at El Rastro Flea Market
Madrid’s famous flea market is a vibrant Sunday morning tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. Sprawling through the streets of the La Latina neighbourhood, this open-air bazaar attracts locals and tourists alike with its eclectic mix of goods. Visitors can browse through hundreds of stalls offering everything from antiques and vintage clothing to handmade crafts and quirky souvenirs. The market’s lively atmosphere is enhanced by street performers and the enticing presence of nearby cafes and tapas bars. A visit to El Rastro is more of a a cultural experience than a shopping destination for weekend visitors to Madrid.
Have Chicken and Cider for Lunch at Casa Mingo
Not a choice for the evening, but if you take a lunchtime stroll out to the west of the city this cheap and cheerful Asturian cider-house is well worth a stop. Casa Mingo (Paseo de la Florida, 2) opened in 1910 and continues to churn out little more than roast chicken with salad washed down with natural cider. Popular with students and difficult to get a table though you can get a takeaway and head into the nearby Casa de Campo.
Visit Some Of Madrid’s Historic Cafés
Madrid’s historic cafés are famous for having hosted lively ‘tertulias’ (discussion forums) at which heated debate amongst politicians and academics led to decisions that would shape modern Spanish history. Some of the most famous of these establishments include Café Comercial (Glorieta de Bilbao, 7), Café Gijón (Paseo de Recoletos, 21), Café de Barbieri (Lavapies Plaza) and Café de Oriente (Plaza de Oriente, 2).
Visit the Historic Chocolatería San Ginés
Chocolatería San Ginés, a Madrid institution since 1894, is renowned for its chocolate con churros. This charming café, open 24/7, draws locals and tourists alike with its thick hot chocolate and crispy churros. Its vintage décor and walls lined with photos of famous patrons reflect its rich history. Whether as a late-night treat or indulgent breakfast, San Ginés offers more than just food—it’s a delicious taste of Madrid’s cultural heritage.
Take a Day Trip from Madrid
If you’re only in Madrid for a weekend then you won’t have time to take excursions outside the city. However, with an extra day or two you’ll have time to take book some exceptional day trips from Madrid which are all within easy reach of the capital. The three most popular destinations are as follows:
Madrid to Toledo Excursion
Toledo was the capital of medieval Spain until 1560 where Arabs, Christians and Jews once lived together in relative harmony. A day excursion from Madrid to Toledo allows you to discover the city’s many beautiful sites including the amazing 13th century Cathedral, the medieval Alcazar, the stunning Santa Maria La Blanca Synagogue and the artistic masterpieces of El Greco.
Madrid to El Escorial Excursion
Dating back to the reign of Felipe II in the 16th century, this Royal Palace is one of Spain’s most visited tourist attractions. It is located in the small town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial and its ‘Panteón de los Reyes’ serves as a mausoleum for the Spanish monarchy. Excursions from Madrid to El Escorial also include a visit to El Valle de Cuelgamuros (formerly known as Valle De Los Caídos) which is a monument to those who died in the Spanish Civil War.
Madrid to Segovia Excursion
The main attractions of Segovia include a 2000 year old Roman aqueduct and the fairy tale Alcázar which was reputedly the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella castle. Time your visit correctly and you can also enjoy a typical Castilian lunch of roast lamb or roast suckling pig at one of the city’s traditional restaurants. Excursions to Segovia often include a visit to the walled city of Avila which is famous as the birthplace of Saint Teresa.
FAQs About Madrid City Breaks
When is the Best Time to Visit Madrid?
The local saying about the climate in Madrid is “9 months of winter and 3 months of hell”. Although this is not strictly true, the summer months of July, August and September do tend to be very hot but due to the lack of humidity. However, the heat doesn’t tend to be particularly oppressive as it’s a very dry heat that is far easier to cope with than similar temperatures in a humid climate.
Having said that I wouldn’t recommend that you plan a visit to the city in July or August if you have a choice. Not only can temperatures get seriously high during those months but also many Madrileños will have headed off to the beach leaving the city quieter than usual with quite a few bars and restaurants taking summer holidays. The weather in Madrid winter can be quite cold but there are often blue skies and some sunshine and in general there is not too much rain.
What’s the Best Way to Get Around Madrid
It’s no great distance between the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol and Paseo del Prado so the best way to get around these sights is on foot. However, if you’d like to head further afield such as to visit the Santiago Bernabeu stadium or the bullring at Las Ventas you should buy buy a ten journey ‘Metrobus’ ticket.
This allows you to interchange between the Metro and bus services in the city. Alternatively, you can get a ticket for the hop-on, hop-off bus service which travels a set route around the city’s main tourist attractions. Check out our Madrid Airport Guide if you’re wondering how to get into the city from the airport.
Where Should I Stay in Madrid?
The majority of first time visitors to Madrid will stay somewhere near Puerta del Sol and Gran Via so most of our recommended hotels are in this central tourist area. The 5-star options tend to be in more upmarket areas outside this tourist centre but with easy access by public transport. If you’re coming to watch Real Madrid there are a few option near the Bernabeu but you’re far better off staying in the centre and taking public transport to the stadium. Here are a few recommendations:
Madrid 3-Star Hotels:
Hotel Opera (Cuesta de Santo Domingo, 2): Located in the historical centre of old Madrid, this is an ideal base from which to discover the city.
Hotel Moderno (Arenal, 2): A perfect location, right on Puerta del Sol with easy access to all the city’s attractions. Our favourite for location and value.
Hotel Petit Palace Cliper (Chinchilla, 6): A fine budget option located just off the Gran Via in the city centre. Popular with city break visitors.
Madrid 4-Star Hotels:
Hotel Liabeny (Calle Salud, 3): An excellent choice located just a few paces away from Puerta del Sol but with the advantage of being located in a peaceful square.
Emperador (Gran Via, 53): Combines the elegance and comfort of a classical hotel together with the newest amenities of a four star hotel in the heart of Madrid.
Hotel Vía Castellana (Paseo de la Castellana, 220): If you’re going to watch Real Madrid, perhaps you’d prefer to stay near the Bernabeu. This is the choice hotel of FC Barcelona when they play in the capital.
Madrid 5-Star Hotels:
Westin Palace (Plaza de las Cortes, 7): In the heart of Madrid, this hotel is a monument to elegance which has been included in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List. One of Madrid’s finest hotels.
Villa Magna (Paseo de la Castellana, 22): Old-world charm combined with modern elegance help make the Villa Magna one of Europe’s finest hotels. It is situated just outside the tourist centre in the wealthy Salamanca district.
Villa Real (Plaza De Las Cortes 10): Inclusion in the prestigious ‘small luxury hotels of the world’ list, the Villa Real is another excellent choice located in the heart of the city between Puerta del Sol and the Prado.
Mandarin Oriental Ritz (Plaza De La Lealtad 5): The classical Ritz hotel is a landmark of Madrid. It lies next to the Prado museum and offers everything you could expect and more, from a hotel of this calibre.
Miguel Angel (Miguel Angel 29-31): Highly recommended hotel located slightly to the north of the main tourist area on the Paseo de la Castellana.
