Best things to do in Madrid

Madrid Must-Sees

Madrid’s landscape is defined by the Golden Triangle of Art, comprising the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums. The city’s imperial history is anchored by the Palacio Real and the medieval Plaza de la Villa, while the 19th-century Retiro Park houses the glass-and-iron Crystal Palace. Iconic landmarks like the Metropolis Building and Gran Vía showcase Beaux-Arts and modern architecture. Local traditions thrive at the centuries-old Sobrino de Botín restaurant, the historic Chocolatería San Ginés, and the sprawling El Rastro flea market.

Madrid Must-Sees — Map

Brian Snelson from / CC BY 2.0

A

Prado Museum

National art museum housed in a neoclassical building, featuring an extensive collection of European paintings from renowned masters such as Goya, Velázquez, and Rembrandt.

Fabio Alessandro Locati / CC BY-SA 3.0

B

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the Spanish royal family at the city of Madrid, although now used only for state…

Daytonarolexboston / CC BY-SA 3.0

C

Reina Sofía Museum

National museum dedicated to 20th-century and contemporary art housed in the historic Edificio Sabatini, featuring important collections of Spanish and international modern art.

Eric Titcombe / CC BY 2.0

D

Gran Vía

Historic shopping street known for its modern architecture and vibrant retail environment.

Dmadeo / CC BY-SA 3.0

E

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Thyssen-Bornemisza is a celebrated museum which houses one of the largest collections of art in the world - more than 1,600 paintings.

Jim Anzalone from / CC BY-SA 2.0

F

Crystal Palace

19th-century glass and iron exhibition building originally constructed as a greenhouse for tropical plants during a colonial exhibition. It currently hosts contemporary art installations and is a national monument.

Carlos Delgado / CC BY-SA 4.0

G

Cibeles Palace

Historic neo-gothic palace serving as city hall and cultural center, recognized as a national monument with eclectic architectural style.

David Adam Kess / CC BY-SA 4.0

H

San Ginés Café

Historic café operating since 1894, renowned for its hot chocolate served with churros. Open 24/7 near a central Madrid landmark.

David Adam Kess / CC BY-SA 4.0

I

Statue of the Bear and Strawberry Tree

Bronze sculpture representing a bear and a strawberry tree, symbolizing the city's coat of arms and heritage. It is a historic artwork and an iconic cultural landmark.

Carlos Delgado / CC BY-SA 3.0

J

Monument to Alfonso XII

Neoclassical monument featuring a bronze equestrian statue of King Alfonso XII, located in a major urban park. It includes elaborate sculptures and offers panoramic views of the city.

Zaqarbal / CC BY-SA 3.0

K

Metropolis Building

Historic office building known for its Beaux-Arts architecture and ornate design featuring a gold-covered dome and sculptural details.

Tamorlan / CC BY-SA 3.0

L

Rastro Market

Open-air flea market held every Sunday and public holiday, featuring antiques, vintage items, and local crafts.

Tamorlan / CC BY 3.0

M

Sobrino de Botín

Sobrino de Botín is a Spanish restaurant in Madrid. The artist Francisco de Goya worked in Café Botín as a waiter while waiting to get…

tnarik from / CC BY-SA 2.0

N

Paseo del Prado

About 600 meters long, this boulevard is one of the most beautiful places to take a stroll in the whole Madrid.

Pazit Polak / CC BY 2.0

O

Plaza de Oriente

Historic square featuring formal gardens and a collection of sculptures, located adjacent to royal landmarks including a palace and an opera theater.

Jean-Pierre Dalbéra / CC BY 2.0

P

Plaza de la Villa

Historic medieval square featuring notable monuments and buildings from the Renaissance and medieval periods. It showcases significant architecture and cultural heritage tied to the city's past.

Other Lists

Historic Monuments Top Museums in Madrid Historic Churches of Madrid Madrid's Palaces and Castles Parks and Gardens Best Shopping in Madrid Spanish & Regional Flavors Theatres and Art Centers Sports & Stadiums