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Best Things to Do
Top 50 Best Things to Do in Madrid [2025]
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Royal Palace of Madrid
4.7
/5
1571 reviews
10
From AU$ 39.51
Based on 35,780 reviews
Austrias | 900m from downtown
Phone +34 914 54 87 00
Address: Centro, 28071 Madrid, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 1.5-2 hours
Selected for 2 years in a row
Highlights:
See the Equestrian Portrait of Philip IV and the 3 gardens
Royal Palace holds Stradivarius violins
Saved by 702 users825 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
It’s essential and convenient to purchase the ticket in advance in order to minimise the queuing time. It’s easy to use and just show the QR code for entry.
I think there is no need to come here after seeing Brussels. The palaces in Europe are almost the same. It takes about two and a half hours. There are about 29 rooms. Follow the voice prompts.
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Prado Museum
4.6
/5
1089 reviews
9.8
From AU$ 26.94
Based on 58,632 reviews
Triangulo del arte | 1 km from downtown
Phone +34-913-302800
Address: Retiro, 28014 Madrid, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Selected for 2 years in a row
Highlights:
Three-story pavilion with diverse art experiences
See works by Michelangelo & Raphael
Saved by 535 users683 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
The salvation of the hot summer weather is to come to the exhibition. Anyway, people who understand art and those who don’t should be able to find their own aesthetics here.
Taking photos is not allowed, and there will be staff to remind you all the time
No need to queue, you can go straight in. You can enter early. It is recommended to enter before 11 o'clock. We walked around until the afternoon. The restaurant was closed. We went to the church and found that there was a sacrament, so we came out. If you want to see the church, you can go in the morning. Anyway, it is right opposite the entrance.
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Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
4.6
/5
519 reviews
9.1
From AU$ 70.04
Based on 23,451 reviews
Financial District | 4.2 km from downtown
Phone +34-91-3984300
Address: Av. de Concha Espina, 1, Chamartín, 28036 Madrid, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
Featured in 2025 Europe 50 – Best Things to Do
Highlights:
Experience the Thrill of Live Games This Season
Trophy room shows Real Madrid history
Saved by 308 users231 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Bought a ticket for a designated time, and go at most half an hour in advance, don't go too early.
It's still worth seeing, the Bernabeu dream comes true, not only football, Real Madrid basketball and other events also have exhibitions to see, but those well-known golden age players in childhood have no display area, only stay in the photos
I walked quite fast in the whole process, it took nearly two hours
If you don't want to take a virtual photo, just walk from the right, tell him that it's not necessary. Otherwise, you have to queue up for a photo and then charge for it to be washed
At the last exit, you can buy beer and snacks to sit in the audience to simulate the experience, making up for the regrets of the off-season
The full name of the Bernabéu Stadium is Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. It is the home of Real Madrid Football Club and one of the most iconic stadiums in the world of football. The following comments on it from different aspects:
- Architecture and scale: The stadium was built in 1947. After several renovations and expansions, it can now accommodate about 81,000 spectators and is a UEFA five-star football stadium. Its appearance is magnificent, integrating modern architectural aesthetics with football cultural characteristics, and is highly recognizable. The internal facilities are advanced, equipped with modern lighting, sound, broadcasting and other equipment, providing strong guarantees for competitions and various activities.
- History and significance: As the home of Real Madrid, it has witnessed countless glorious moments. Real Madrid has won 35 La Liga titles, 14 Champions League titles and many other honors here. It carries the long history and glory of Real Madrid, and also leaves behind the legendary stories of superstars such as Di Stefano, C Ronaldo, Zidane, etc. It is a football temple in the hearts of countless fans, with extremely high historical and cultural value and symbolic significance.
- Viewing experience: The stadium's field of vision is scientifically designed, and you can enjoy the game from any position. The atmosphere in the audience seats is warm, and the enthusiastic cheers of Real Madrid fans create an unparalleled football atmosphere. In addition, the stadium regularly holds the "Bernabeu Tour" event, where visitors can visit the players' locker room, coaching seats, honor room and other areas to experience the Real Madrid culture and the charm of the stadium up close.
- Commercial and supporting facilities: The commercial facilities around the stadium are complete, and there are official souvenir shops that sell all kinds of Real Madrid peripheral products, which are deeply loved by fans. At the same time, there are also restaurants, cafes and other dining venues to meet the needs of fans and tourists. However, during major events, the surrounding traffic may be congested and parking is more difficult; the prices of food and beverages in the stadium are relatively high, and the choices are relatively limited.
No.
4
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Las Ventas Bullring
4.4
/5
235 reviews
8.7
From AU$ 28.74
Based on 2,713 reviews
3.8 km from downtown
Phone +34-913-562200
Address: C. de Alcalá, 237, Salamanca, 28028 Madrid, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Highlights:
Real bullfighting in March & April
Real bullfights during festival
Saved by 248 users129 positive reviews
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On May 30, 2025, we spent a thrilling and exciting night at the Las Ventas bullring in Madrid. Watching Marco Pe`rez a talented teenager born in 2007 1V6 bullfighting, this bullfighting known as the "old bull" is called a bullfighting that happens in 20 years, I have the opportunity to watch it on the spot (after learning the news this morning, through friends in Madrid, find a way to get the ticket, There is also a doctor who reads Spanish bullfighting art in Madrid, a Beijing brother's live guide and reconciliation) and admired a wonderful, ups and downs, twenty-year-old bullfighting, the whole venue is full, and also appreciates the Spaniard's fever, so lucky, Very happy and excited to have such an experience 🤩😎
Tickets were issued very quickly, in half a day. But in fact, you don't need to buy tickets in advance. You can go to the bullring one hour in advance on the day of the opening to queue up and buy tickets. It's much cheaper than this ticket.
The whole process takes about 2-2.5 hours, and 6-7 bulls fight. Whether it's good or not depends largely on the bullfighters of the day. Some people just go to work as a routine, and some are very passionate and very good. Anyway, you can come and watch a show if you have nothing to do. You're here.
If it's not very sunny on the day, you don't need to buy the shady side. The sunny side is good and cheap.
You can rent a cushion at the venue for 1.5 euros. It is recommended to rent one, otherwise your butt will hurt.
No.
5
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Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
4.6
/5
360 reviews
8.5
From AU$ 19.94
Based on 16,871 reviews
Madrid City Center | 1.3 km from downtown
Phone +34 91 774 1000
Address: C. de Sta. Isabel, 52, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
Highlights:
Spanish expressionism & impressionism
1500+ multimedia art explanations
Saved by 224 users220 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
It is well worth going. The museum has a rich collection, including many world-class art treasures, such as paintings by Picasso and Dali. A few hours inside is not enough, especially for the elderly, free tickets, very friendly. It would be a pity to miss this museum.
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is a must-see for modern art lovers in Madrid. The museum is home to iconic works, including Picasso’s Guernica, as well as pieces by Dalí, Miró, and other 20th-century artists. Its spacious layout, clear signage, and serene atmosphere make it easy to navigate and enjoy. Whether you’re a dedicated art enthusiast or just looking to explore Madrid’s cultural scene, this museum is an essential stop.
No.
6
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Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum
4.4
/5
104 reviews
7.4
From AU$ 21.38
Based on 17,010 reviews
Madrid City Center | 755m from downtown
Phone +34 917 911 370
Address: P.º del Prado, 8, Centro, 28014 Madrid, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Highlights:
See works by Picasso & Miró
Key part of Madrid's Art Triangle
37% positive reviews
Verified user reviews
The museum is a private collection of German industrialists and collectors, and was later sold to the Spanish government and opened to the public. After visiting the Prado and Sofia Queen Art Center, I came here again and felt that the collector's extraordinary vision and strength were too powerful. Their collections span not only centuries, but also have a wide range of styles and artists involved. Just like super rich investors, investors have invested in each track, and they have included artworks of various periods and styles. For visitors, the museum is extremely diverse in style, with a strong lineup of painters and artworks of different eras and genres. Coming here is equivalent to a one-off visit to dozens of galleries, from ancient art, baroque, rococo, to 19th century and modern art.
Compared with the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofia Art Center in Madrid, the Thyssen Museum has fewer visitors, and its exhibits are mainly works by famous painters from various periods collected by Thyssen.
No.
7
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Teatro Flamenco Madrid
4.6
/5
17 reviews
7.3
From AU$ 52.39
Based on 929 reviews
Malasana | 719m from downtown
Address: Calle del Pez 10, 28004 Madrid Spain
No.2 of Night Attractions in Madrid
Highlights:
Experience the Artistic Charm of Flamenco
Flamenco Interactive Workshop Experience
Verified user reviews
It was really great! Although it was only an hour, I could still feel the passion of the dancers, every light and heavy step~ and the performances of the guitarists and singers were very good! The atmosphere was also very good, and I still have to experience it if I have the chance~ The front row seats with drinks are really great~
It's an exotic experience. Although I don't understand it, I should experience it when I get to the local area. The dancers are very passionate and perform very hard and seriously. I feel that they are very attentive. The service staff are also warm and sincere. The theater is not big. We sat in the first row and saw it clearly. The drinks were also delicious.
No.
8
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Plaza Mayor
4.5
/5
578 reviews
7.3
Based on 27,277 reviews
Austrias | 336m from downtown
Address: Pl. Mayor, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
No.3 of Night Attractions in Madrid
Highlights:
Colorful street performances, art vibe
Spanish style plaza with nine arches
Saved by 287 users238 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Stay near the Majorelle Gardens. After visiting several gardens and museums, walk from this pleasant and exquisite area to several attractions on the Djemaa El Fna Square. Visit the city's large bazaar in the old town of Marrakech. There are all kinds of people, streets, and horse-drawn carriages. After sunset, the market in the square becomes a group of food stalls. You can experience it and eat barbecue. The Moroccan breakfast is colorful and you can try it.
Compared with the bustling Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor adds a sense of laziness. When I walked into this square "courtyard" from the ancient neighborhood of Madrid, I immediately felt a unique atmosphere! There are 9 arches in the square connecting the surrounding streets and alleys.
No.
9
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El Retiro Park
4.6
/5
268 reviews
7.0
Based on 57,141 reviews
1.7 km from downtown
Phone +34-914-008740
Address: Retiro, 28009 Madrid, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Featured in 2025 Global 50 – Spring Outings
Highlights:
Statue avenue of 20 Spanish kings
Rent boat, see 105ft king monument
Saved by 342 users28% positive reviews
Verified user reviews
The park is large and shaded by trees. It feels quite nice to walk around and stop whenever you have time. The Crystal Palace and the small lake in front are pleasant, and there are swans, ducks and pigeons playing around, creating a peaceful atmosphere. There are also free art exhibitions to see, which is worth mentioning.
Originally the spiritual retreat of Spain’s ultimate power couple, Isabella and Ferdinand, Retiro evolved into a pleasure palace when the rather less devout Felipe IV wore the crown.
Built by his valido (the equivalent of Prime Minister), the Conde Duque de Olivares, more than 20 buildings went up between 1630 and 1660 to please the playboy king who enjoyed balls, theater and reenactments of naval battles performed on the park’s central lake.
The Palacio de Velazquez is not the only Reina Sofía gallery nearby. Venture further south and you’ll come upon the Palacio de Cristal, a huge greenhouse built in 1887 to house flora brought over from the Philippines — then a Spanish colony. Sadly, at the time, Filipino natives were also brought over and forced to live in their “natural habitat” by the side of the ornamental pond outside. The dark history of this human zoo was rightly exposed and condemned in a 2021 exhibition by Filipino artist, Kidlat Tahimik, held in the space.
No.
10
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Puerta del Sol
4.6
/5
593 reviews
7.0
Based on 10,986 reviews
Madrid City Center | 29m from downtown
Phone +34-915-326490
Address: Centro, Madrid, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 hour
No.4 of Night Attractions in Madrid
Highlights:
Night plaza for street performer shows
Explore red & white old post office
Saved by 326 users192 positive reviews
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The Puerta del Sol was originally built on the wall of Madrid in the 15th century, facing east. The gate tower was decorated with a rising sun pattern, hence the name; in the continuous expansion of the city, the gate was demolished in 1570.
The square that was built retained the name of "Puerta del Sol" and gradually became the center of the city.
From a bird's eye view, with the 12,000 square meters of semicircular square as the center, 10 streets and alleys spread out radially, like the rising sun, shining brightly.
In the center of the square, the oval fountains on the east and west sides are surrounded by the statue of Carlos III sitting in the center. This king who presided over the construction of a large number of Madrid's infrastructure and was highly respected by the people of Madrid, rode a tall horse, smiled and watched the square and the city's changes.
On the south side is the most classic building in the square-the Security Bureau Building. The building was built between 1766 and 1768 (the bell tower was added in 1867). Its simple and bright style and red and white facade convey the mood of neoclassical palace-style architecture.
The building was originally the central post office of Madrid, and later the headquarters of the Ministry of National Security during the Franco period. It is now the office building of the Madrid government.
For a long time, the Spanish people loved the big clock on the roof of the Security Bureau building, regarded the time of this big clock as the Spanish standard time, and regarded it as an honor to come here to check the clock. To this day, every time when the old year is about to end and the new year is about to begin, people still gather in the square to listen to the ringing of the New Year's bell in the building.
On the north side, four slightly arc-shaped buildings are lined up along the way, with fashionable facades and crystal white; on the roof in the middle is a "TIO PEPE" (Tio Pepe, the world's number one brand of sherry wine) advertisement, which is exaggerated and elegant, and cute.
On the ground of the street in front of the main entrance of the Security Bureau building, there is a sign of the zero kilometer of the highway. The semicircular sign is inlaid with a map of Spain and the Iberian Peninsula and the words "0 km, starting point of the road". The mileage of Spanish roads is calculated from this point, and the street numbers in Madrid are compiled from this point.
If you don't leave a photo, it's like your shoes have never set foot in Madrid.
When you visit Madrid, stop at the numerous city squares, stroll through the crisscrossing streets and alleys, you will always meet all kinds of street performers...
Some are classic, some are absurd, some are singing and dancing, some are dazed and fooling around, and the beautiful scenery lines have broadened the horizons of many tourists.
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