7 Best Places to Visit in Madrid, Spain

In the past 9 months that I’ve been living here in Madrid, I’ve had my fair share of visitors. First was Carson and Natalie, then Matt, then Morgan, then Matt again! After all this, I’ve finally learned the best places to visit in Madrid. Now I know exactly where to take my tourists so that they have the opportunity to really experience the city.

So I put it all together into a list. Some of these are “duh” items; some of them are just my personal opinion of things that make Madrid special and interesting. This list also is great for anyone planning a visit to Madrid, even if you’re not showing tourists around!

1. Parque del Retiro

Of course — I’m of the opinion that everyone who visits Madrid should visit El Retiro. It’s the Spanish capital’s version of Central Park, but my favorite thing about the Retiro park is its setup. There is an endless maze of paths amongst all the green space, and despite the park’s popularity on the weekends, it’s never hard to find a secluded place to relax with a book or have a picnic with friends.

Also, don’t miss the Crystal Palace — Palacio de Cristal — or rent a boat in the lake in front of the Monument to Alfonso XII. And even if you don’t have time to make it to any of Madrid’s most famous art museums, the Retiro has an art gallery of its own.

Closest Metros: Retiro (Line 2), Ibiza (Line 9)

2. Puerta del Sol

This is Madrid’s version of Times Square, though honestly a lot less overwhelming. Sol is THE city center. Here you’ll find a couple of statues of dudes on horses, the statue of La Osa y el Madroño (the bear and the strawberry tree), and the famous neon Tío Pepe sign. You also might see people dressed up as characters like Mickey Mouse, people selling all kinds of gimmicks and knock-off purses, and tons and tons of people in general.

At night especially, this place lights up. As a Madrid resident, I more or less try to avoid this area now because I don’t like crowds, but it is interesting to see.

Closest Metro: Sol (Line 1, Line 2, Line 3) 

3. Plaza Mayor

Just a short walk away from Puerta del Sol is Plaza Mayor. This used to be the center of Old Madrid, in the typical plaza style. During the 15th century when it was constructed, it was used as the city’s main market. Though it’s not quite as popular as it used to be, it’s still interesting to see the design and intricate painting’s on the building’s façade.

During December, Madrid’s Christmas market sets up here. And during the whole year, you can see another statue of a guy on a horse. Because you definitely will never see enough of those in Madrid.

Closest Metro: Sol (Line 1, Line 2, Line 3)

4. Gran Vía

If you like shopping — or even just the feeling of being in a big city — then Gran Vía is the place for you. It’s the city’s main shopping street, with big fashion chains like Primark, H&M, and Zara, as well as food brands like McDonald’s, Starbucks, and VIPS. There are also an abundance of theaters and cinemas in this area. And if you like souvenirs, you’ll find the widest selection here.

Gran Vía’s Metropolis Building is one of the most iconic symbols of Madrid. From here, it’s also easy to reach Plaza de Cibeles.

Closest Metros: Gran Vía (Line 1, Line 5); Callao (Line 3, Line 5)

5. Mercado de San Ildefonso

Now, lets start talking about some hidden gems. Mercado de San Ildefonso is a market, but maybe not the kind you’d expect. Instead of selling fresh produce or artisan products, this trendy, multi-story market is a series of food stalls. On the bottom floor, you’ll find Asian-inspired fare; on the next floor, modern takes on Spanish and Latin American favorites.

There’s a full bar and plenty of seating — you and your friends can each choose your own plates and reconvene at the table of your choosing. Located in the creative barrio of Malasaña, it’s no surprise that Mercado de San Ildefonso has such a cool vibe. My favorite part is that it’s never been overly crowded when I’m there, and the prices are really good for the quality and experience.

Closest Metros: Tribunal (Line 1, Line 10), Chueca (Line 5)

6. Chocolatería San Ginés

I can’t believe I didn’t find out about this sooner because I’m a self-proclaimed churro connoisseur. San Ginés is probably Madrid’s most famous churrería, dating back to the 1890s. Spanish churros are served without sugar — so they’re really just fried dough — and they’re meant to be dipped in the thick chocolate that’s kind of like hot chocolate pudding.

At the original San Ginés, they’re open 24 hours, so you can enjoy churros at all hours of the night. They do make an excellent snack after a night out when most other restaurants are closed! And I’m lucky enough to live in the Ciudad Jardín/Prosperidad barrio, which is home to the second San Ginés location. You can find it in Mercado de Prosperidad. It’s not open 24 hours, but it’s never as busy as the original.

Closest Metro (Original): Sol (Line 1, Line 2, Line 3)
Closest Metro (López de Hoyos): Prosperidad (Line 4)

7. Museo del Jamón

Yes, the literal translation is “Museum of Ham.” It’s less a museum and more a restaurant, but even if you don’t eat here, it’s worth stopping in. Those who are new to Spain may be surprised by the whole legs of pork that greet you in restaurants and supermarkets — perched on the counter or hanging from the ceiling. Welcome to the jamón ibérico life!

Museo del Jamón is a great place to experience the hanging ham in all its glory and you’ll understand why it’s called a museo. If you are hungry (and it’s hard not to be, given your surroundings), they usually have a good deal for a bocadillo and drink for €2. There are about 8 different locations in Madrid, but most of them are scattered around the city center.

Closest Metro: Sol (Line 1, Line 2, Line 3)

Once you’ve checked out all of the above, you’re ready for more of the best places to visit in Madrid! Next on your list should be:

• The “Golden Triangle” of art museums — the Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza. Whether you like traditional or contemporary art, you’ll find something you like!
• The Templo de Debod — an Egyptian temple transplanted in Madrid, popular at sunset.
• The Royal Palace — the official residence of the royal family and the largest royal palace in Western Europe.

Find more things to do in Madrid.

Have you been to any of these places, or what places would you add? Let me know in the comments!

-Cathy

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Originally Published on June 17, 2019.