Today we are going to present you a destination that everyone can access, in terms of both transportation and financials. How about a wonderful city break in Madrid? However, not many people know about the awesome tourist attractions in the capital of Spain, and that’s what we will be talking about today!
Let’s check out the top 10 tourist attractions in Madrid, the capital of Spain.
Madrid is the capital of Spain and is a vibrant modern capital, which shows in every step you take. The many cultural attractions, museums and beautiful monuments here will make you forget about the busy city lifestyle. Although it does not have the traditional charm of Andalucia or the beauty of Barcelona , you will discover here a very interesting atmosphere. Our tourism objectives will keep you busy for at least two days, but do not forget save some energy for the evening and night, when the locals like to go out and party!
Tip for those who want to visit Madrid – avoid getting here throughout summer as much as possible, the heat is really unbearable. Plan a spring or fall holiday when you will find a good atmosphere to discover the most important tourist attractions in Madrid.
1. Prado Museum
The Prado Museum is a world-class museum with a collection of more than 5,000 paintings, competing even with the collections of the Louvre Museum in Paris. Here you can see most of the famous Spanish paintings dating from the 14th century to the beginning of the 19th century. In addition, the impressive exhibition of paintings gives the Prado Museum an international reputation.
Here you will find the most important exhibitions of some vary famous Spanish painters, Diego Velazquez and Francisco Goya. The collection also includes Italian, French, British and German paintings, as well as new classical sculptures.
Trying to see everything on a visit can be difficult, but the Prado Museum offers guided tours focused on a specific masterpiece; this way you can admire the most famous works of the museum, such as “Las Meninas”, signed by Velazquez.
Visitors also have an audio guide to the museum for a small fee, offering you a tour of more than 50 important masterpieces. Right before you leave the museum you will be able to buy souvenirs, and enjoy delicious desserts and coffee.
2. Palacio Real
Palacio Real is the Spanish version of the Versailles Palace in France, designed to impress you with lush gardens and palace architecture, built in a new classic style. Palacio Real is the seat of the King of Spain in Madrid and the only residence for State Ceremonies. The building dates back to the 16th century and was built at the request of King Philip V, the impressive entrance façade designed in modern classical style, built on the designs of Italian sculptor Bernini, initially made for the Louvre Museum in Paris.
If you visit Palacio Real you will be amazed by its superb interior design and stunning architecture of the rooms. If you are a fan of the history of painting, here you will find a wonderful collection from important 16th century painters such as Velazquez, Goya Rubens, El Greco and Caravaggio with at least 3000 works displayed here.
3. Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor is a market that impresses through its elegance and is one of the most visited places in Madrid. Here you can enjoy a variety of musical, sporting, folkloric and cultural activities. If you are planning a holiday during the Christmas holidays, you will get a chance to see an amazing winter show here.
The Plaza Mayor was built in the 16th century under the reign of King Philip III and was a center of commerce and a fitting place for the characters of the times. The market also served as a place for the famous bullfighting, and various plays. However, at this time, bullfights are banned in Madrid.
We recommend going to a restaurant in the market area and enjoying the traditional cuisine. If you do not like seafood, feel free to try one of the specific foods such as Bocata de Calamares or Paella.
4. Puerta del Sol
Puerta del Sol is a representative landmark for Madrid, named after the sun’s emblem, the one that represents the ancient gate of the city, very close to Madrid. This is the place where the entire Spanish road network is measured from, or the “km 0” of Madrid.
The Puerta del Sol was the scene of many historical events, including the Spanish resistance of the Napoleonic era in 1808 and also the 1931 event when the Second Republic was proclaimed.
For shopping enthusiasts, here you can find the largest store in Madrid, El Corte Ingles, from where you can buy clothes, shoes, perfumes and many other interesting products. We recommend visiting in one of the discount periods (twice a year – once in winter, once in the summer).
5. Buen Retiro Park
Buen Retiro Park is a true oasis of calmness and relaxation in the heart of Madrid. Thanks to its magnificent 120 hectares, Buen Retiro Park was built in 1632 by King Philip V as a haven of tranquility for the royal family. Today it is a tourist attraction sought after by thousands of tourists.
6. Archaeology Museum
The Archaeology Museum is the most important museum in Madrid after the Prado Museum. Founded in 1867 by Queen Isabella II, the museum hosts an impressive collection of artifacts dating back to prehistoric times.
For those interested in history, the museum offers pieces from different periods of time such as Egyptian mummies, Spanish-Roman art pieces, and mesmerizing Islamic monuments.
7. National Museum of Contemporary Art – Reina Sofia
The National Museum of Contemporary Art is one of Madrid’s most sought after art destinations. Reina Sofia opened in 1986 and was designed by architect Antonio Fernandez Alba. Here you can enjoy the works of great Spanish artists such as Juan Miro, Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali, and you can relax in the large exhibition center of at least 39,000 square meters.
8. Debod Temple
La Montana Park hosts one of the most spectacular monuments – the Debod Temple, an ancient Egyptian temple, a gift from the Egyptians to the Spanish people. The temple was brought from Egypt in 1968 and built for King Adikalamani in the second century BC. You will notice that it features many protected areas, a spacious hall, and a terrace on the top floor. Inside you’ll find one of the best preserved ancient decorations, a true cultural heritage of the Spanish people.
The entrance is free, but if you want to visit with a group you need to book ahead. Reservations can be made on the official website.
9. The Cibeles Fountain
The Cibeles Fountain is one of the city’s main attractions, and is located at a main intersection in Madrid. It was created in 1782 by Francisco Guttierez and Roberto Michel, and is a statue that represents the Roman goddess Cybele. Near Calle de Alcala you will find one of Madrid’s most popular shopping streets – the Grand Via – featuring many shops, restaurants, hotels and theaters.
10. Puerta Alcala
Puerta Alcala is Madrid’s Arc de Triomphe and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city. It was built between 1769 and 1778 in neo-classical style by King Carlos III, to celebrate the arrival of monarchs in the capital of Spain.
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