Visiting Madrid for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do
Visitors to Madrid have plenty to explore, from numerous public plazas and parks to the city’s renowned art museums. Whether you’re going to soak up the culture or the famous Spanish sunshine, here are our traveler-approved must-dos for your first trip to the capital of Spain.
Go on a sightseeing excursion
And see more than you would alone.
Madrid is a big city, so to get the lay of the land, a comprehensive sightseeing tour is the way to go. Hop-on hop-off bus tours and private city tours offer the most flexibility, although bike tours allow you to take full advantage of a warm day.
Relax in the park
And escape the hustle and bustle.
Spend the day outdoors in Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro). Madrid’s beloved public space is known for its art, well-tended walkways, and beautiful rose garden. Cruise the lake in a rowboat, or zip around on a bike or Segway tour to see more of the park in less time.
Skip the lines
And make the most of your time.
Marvel at Spain’s most celebrated works of art at museums such as the Prado (Museo del Prado) and the Reina Sofia (Museo Reina Sofía). Purchase your tickets online in advance to skip the entry lines, or make the most of your visit with a docent-led tour.
Spend a day in Toledo
And go beyond the city.
Stroll medieval streets just a short ride from Madrid, in the city of Toledo. If you’re a history fan, check out the 13th-century cathedral or the Synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca (Sinagoga de Santa María la Blanca) and enjoy the convenience of a half- or full-day tour, with round-trip transportation included.
Visit the Royal Palace
And see how the other half live.
From its ornate rococo styling to its carefully curated gardens, the Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real de Madrid) is one of the city’s top attractions. Don’t miss the throne room and the original ceiling frescoes. Book an early-access tour to avoid the crowds, and stop by the nearby Sabatini Gardens (Jardines de Sabatini) for a castle photo op.
Sample the local cuisine
And learn why Spanish food is so beloved.
Indulge your taste buds with a Spanish culinary experience. Head out into the countryside for a vineyard tour, or stay in Madrid, with its countless wine bars. Consider a wine tasting with a sommelier, a market tour, or a tapas tasting.
More things to do in Madrid
Keep reading
Peter Neely is a Brooklyn-based writer and poet who's been bounding between cities for a decade, with stops in San Francisco, Budapest, Montreal, and Lyon. Changing NYC apartments like socks, Peter has lived in Harlem, Greenpoint, Sunnyside, and Crown Heights, though Coney Island is his spiritual homeland. Spot him reading on the subway, or complaining about the slice at your favorite pizzeria.