8 Things to Do in Madrid For a Fantastic Spain Vacation

The Capital city of Spain is one of the most popular cities in Europe. The Spanish capital has a plethora of tourist attractions that are distinctly unique from each other and yet equally captivating and intriguing. The renaissance artwork to the most celebrated stadium in Europe – Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid has everything a traveller to wish for. Apart from these attractions, Madrid has a well off nightlife to keep its tourists engaged and entertained. Read on to explore the best things to do in Madrid to make your vacation a memorable one.

What makes Madrid one of the popular destinations in Spain apart being home to A-list tourist attraction is its connectivity with all major European cities and as well as other countries in Asia. Even within Spain, Madrileños have robust transportation from each corner of Spain.

8 Best Things to Do in Madrid

• Royal Palace
• Santiago Bernabeu
• Mercado San Miguel
• Retro Park
• The Prado
• Plaza Mayor
• Gran Via
• Toledo

1. Royal palace

Royal Palace is one of the largest palaces in entire western Europe. It is presently the residence of the royal family but is also used for many public ceremonies. The palace has a fascinating history behind it and the origin of the palace dates back to 9th century. However, there have been cases of Vandalism and revamping of the palace. If you are intrigued by history and folklore, guides are available during the palace tour. A guided tour certainly gives a different perspective of the entire palace than just a normal visit.

• Opening Time: Oct to March: 10 a.m to 6 p.m
• Apr – Sep: 10 a.m to 8 p.m
• Bus routes: 3, 25, 39 and 148
• Entrance fee: 10 Euros per adult, can upgrade to other tours and packages at an additional cost.

2. Santiago Bernabeu

Santiago Bernabeu is the home ground of the legendary Real Madrid football club. It is not a just stadium but an emotion for all football fanatics in Madrid. You can witness the global footballing superstars over the weekend as most matches are played only during Saturdays and Sundays. However, you can also visit on the weekdays during the practice session.

A visit to Bernabeu will give you a fair idea of how football is an integral part of Madrid and Spain culture. You can also visit the trophy cabinet to view the silverware collection and accolades Real Madrid have achieved over the years.

• Entrance fee/Price: WIth guide: 38 Euros for adults
  22 Euros for Children between the age of 5-14
• Self-guided tours: 18 Euros for adults
  12 Euros for Kids

Also Read: Must-Visit Cities in Spain for a Fulling Dream Vacation

3. Mercado San Miguel

Just a couple of mins walk from Plaza Mayor and present in the heart of the city is Mercado San Miguel. Mercado San Miguel is the place you should be if you are a foodie and like trying out local cuisines. with over 10 million visitors year on year, it is one of the most visited food markets in the world. The market features all kind of local food varieties including the famous tapas

• Timings: Mon, Tues, Wed, Sun: 10 a.m to 12 a.m
• Thursday, Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m to 2 a.m

Also Read: Beaches near Madrid: Top 9 Beaches for your Getaways in Spain

4. Retiro Park

Retiro Park is a good place to enjoy evenings in Madrid with family. It is was royal property and entry to the park were only for the people belonging to the royal family. However, once the monarchy rule became a bit more liberal, the park was open to the public from the late 19th century.

Park is full of fun activities, especially children. Paddling in the man-made lake set opposite Alfonso XII monument during the evening twilight is must a try. In addition, the park is full of calm and elegant gardens that can rejuvenate your souls after hectic touring day. You can head to Mercado San Miguel to evening supper before you retire for the day.

• Opening timings:
  Weekdays: 6 a.m to 9 p.m
  Weekends: 10 a.m to 2 p.m
• Entrance fee: Free for public, no entrance fee

5. The Prado

The Pardo is a must-visit museum and a default entrant to the list best things to do in Madrid. The museum has the richest and comprehensive collection of masterpieces of various artists from the renaissance era. The works of Spanish origin masters José de Ribera, Francisco de Zurbarán and their counterparts El Greco, Velázquez are highlights of this museum.

• Opening Timings:
  Weekdays and Saturday: 10 p.m – 8 p.m
  Sunday: 10 p.m – 7 p.m
• Entrance fee: Basics package starts at 48 USD per person

6. Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is the heart of Madrid city. The centre square is one of the most happening places in Madrid. It is full of cafes, restaurants and bars. If you are bored, all you need to do is head to Plaza Mayor and grab a seat and enjoy the vibrant ambience of the place. You can also witness local artists exhibiting their talents on the streets to the public. Travellers can rent guides as well but the best way to explore the city square is by self-exploration at your own pace.

7. Gran Vía

Gran Via is again a popular tourist spot in the Madrid city. It is the hub of shopping centres and cafes. If you are in the final leg of Madrid itinerary and wishing to buy some souvenirs for people back home, Gran via is the place you should be in. Evenings are the best to visit Gran Via, as it has few cultural centres that give amazing views of Madrid skyline during sunset.

8. Toledo

Once you are done enjoying Madrid city life in and out, you can consider a day trip to enjoy the surrounding attractions of Madrid city. Toledo is one of the best things to do in Madrid. Toledo is famous for its archaeological sites and castles. Public transportation facility is available at regular intervals from Madrid. However, if you enjoy road trips you can rent a vehicle from Madrid and do a road trip.

Spain is destinations full of surprises and caters to all kind of travellers. If you wish to go to Madrid and cover all the things to do in Madrid. Reach out to Pickyourtrail and seek professional expertise from travel consultants for a smooth itinerary. Check out their Spain packages to get an idea of how Spain itinerary. You can also drop a Whatsapp enquiry for further information.