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Prado Museum
2026 Europe 50 - Best Things to Do

Prado Museum

9.8
4.7/5
1.3k reviews
The building that today houses the Museo Nacional del Prado was designed by architect Juan de Villanueva in 1785. It was constructed to house the Natural History Cabinet, by orders of King Charles III. However, the building's final purpose - as the new Royal Museum of Paintings and Sculptures - was the decision of the monarch's grandson, King Ferdinand VII, encouraged by his wife Queen Maria Isabel de Braganza. The Royal Museum, soon quickly renamed the National Museum of Paintings and Sculptures and subsequently the Museo Nacional del Prado, opened to the public for the first time in November 1819. Since it was founded in 1819 and over its multi-century history, the Museo Nacional del Prado has performed the important task of conserving, exhibiting and enriching a set of collections and works of art which, due to their close ties with Spanish history, are recognized as one of the most valuable compendiums of artistic expression known to humanity. Loans to temporary exhibitions are the Museum's most direct means of communication with society. They offer the opportunity of reinterpreting the collections while linking them to currentl issues. At the same time, they also provide an especially attractive scope for museography allowing for experimentation on new styles and technologies. They contribute to projecingt a new identity of the Museum by encouraging innovation, research and the public interest in its collections. With this intention in mind, the Museo Nacional del Prado offers its visitors a wide exhibition program while contributing to the promotion of its collections through the loan of works from its collection to exhibition projects organised by other cultural institutions, both national and international.Madrid · 1km from downtown
Las Ventas Bullring
No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Metropolitan Area and Henares Corridor

Las Ventas Bullring

8.8
4.3/5
305 reviews
The Las Ventas Bullring is built with red brick walls adorned with intricate arabesque carvings and semi-arched windows, exemplifying the unique Neo-Mudéjar architectural style of the Iberian Peninsula. It is Spain's premier venue for high-level bullfighting performances, where bullfighters from across the nation and the world take pride in performing. Located in Madrid's Salamanca district, the bullring was completed in 1929 and inaugurated on June 17, 1931. With a diameter of approx. 65 m and four levels, it can accommodate approx. 23,000 spectators, making it Spain's largest and most magnificent bullring. Bullfighting is Spain's traditional national sport, with the season in Madrid running from late March to early October. Performances are held every Sunday, with the San Isidro Bullfighting Festival in May being the most prestigious, attracting top bullfighters and often selling out. During the season, flags flying atop the bullring's gatehouse signal an upcoming event. The tour begins at the main entrance, one of 18 gates, distinguished by its grandeur and mosaic-adorned brick walls featuring the coats of arms of Spanish provinces. Victorious bullfighters exit through this gate to cheers. From the upper stands, visitors can observe the arena's layout: a circular sand-covered ring surrounded by multiple barriers to prevent bulls from leaping into the stands, with two escape gates for endangered bullfighters and additional gates for participants, medical staff, bulls, and cleaners. Visitors may then enter the arena itself, where fine sand quickly absorbs blood, sweat, and rain. This is the main "battlefield," where each performance typically features three matadors facing six bulls in 20-30 minute matches. Assistants (peones) provoke bulls with red capes, mounted picadors spear the bull's shoulders, banderilleros charge to plant barbed sticks in its neck, and finally, the torero duels the bull alone, delivering the fatal sword thrust. Exiting through the matadors' gate leads to the bullfighting museum, divided into five sections showcasing Spain's bullfighting history and art, including Goya's bullfighting scenes in the gallery.Madrid · 3.8km from downtown
Puerta del Sol
No. 6 of Best Things to Do in Metropolitan Area and Henares Corridor

Puerta del Sol

7.7
4.6/5
594 reviews
Puerta del Sol is the central square of Madrid, surrounded by many historic buildings. The square is now a venue for major parades and gatherings as well as a place for citizens and visitors to relax and entertain. Whether day or night, it is always crowded and full of vitality. Public square buildings Puerta del Sol is semicircular, surrounded by buildings, many of which can be called the essence of Madrid's urban architecture. To the south of Puerta del Sol stands the iconic old post office building (La Casa de Correos). This ancient building on the square is red and white, resembling a majestic palace. The clock tower in the center of the building is very famous. Every New Year's Eve, people in Madrid gather here. At the stroke of midnight, they eat 12 grapes symbolizing good luck to celebrate the arrival of the new year. "Zero starting point marker" On the pedestrian walkway in front of the post office building, there is a sign marked "0 starting point" (Kilómetro Cero). All highway milestones across Spain are calculated outward from here, and the street numbers in Madrid also start from this point. "Bear and raspberry statue" The iconic "Bear and Strawberry Tree" statue (Estatua del Oso y el Madroño) in Madrid is located in the eastern part of Puerta del Sol. This statue replaced the remains of the former Puerta del Sol gate and is now a highly popular city symbol of Madrid. The charming little bear stands upright with its front paws holding the strawberry tree in front of it, appearing remarkably lifelike. Today, this spot is also a meeting place for many locals. Statue of Charles III On the west side of Puerta del Sol stands the equestrian statue of Charles III (Estatua ecuestre de Carlos III), next to which is a large fountain surrounded by colorful flowers, with steps around it for visitors to rest. In addition, the Sol subway station building on the square is itself a highlight, its arched glass structure glistening in the sunlight, and its avant-garde shell-like shape stands out among the traditional classical buildings around the square. Public square events You can freely admire the sights and take photos in the square, or sit by the fountain, feed the pigeons, and enjoy wonderful street performer shows. The area around Puerta del Sol is also a commercial district, where you can find Sephora, Springfield, and the Real Madrid flagship store, and you can also see the building topped with the Tío Pepe sherry neon billboard. El Corte Inglés is also just steps away. The road to the north of the square leads to Gran Vía, while the Callao commercial area lies to the west, making it a great place for shopping. In addition, the alleys south of the square are home to many bars and cafes, which are very characteristic of Madrid and affordably priced. You might want to try the experience of beer paired with tapas (Madrid bar snacks). Midnight views Puerta del Sol is also particularly lively at night. As the lights come on and the crowds surge, Puerta del Sol at this moment perhaps better captures the essence of Madrid's nightlife. The street youths showing off their dance moves, the sentimental saxophonists, the whispering couples... all form a beautiful sight. If you happen to come here at midnight and face the still-crowded square and the waves of cheers, please don't be surprised. This city is telling you in its own unique way: Welcome to Puerta del Sol, welcome to the sleepless Madrid!Madrid · 29m from downtown
El Retiro Park
2026 Global 50 - Spring Outings

El Retiro Park

6.8
4.7/5
269 reviews
Retiro Park boasts numerous main attractions, including the Statue Avenue, the Crystal Palace, the artificial lake and more, making it a great place to relax and unwind. You can sit on a bench in the park, or lie on the grass, bask in the sun, watch the little squirrels or pigeons play and watch the Spanish children playing in the grass. Have fun and enjoy some free time in Madrid.  Statue Avenue and Rose Garden The statues displayed along the statue avenue in the park are similar to those in the Oriental Square. They are all 20 emperors in Spanish history. The Rose Garden was designed and built by the chief designer of Retiro Park according to the design and construction of the Reed Rose Garden in the Bois de Boulogne Park in Paris. At that time, different varieties of roses collected from various botanical gardens in Europe were gathered here. Now there are more than 4,000 roses in the garden. When the roses bloom in May and June, the garden is full of fragrance. King Alfonso XII Monument and Artificial Lake The artificial lake in the center of Retiro Park is very popular. On one side of the lake stands the Monument to King Alfonso XII, about 32 meters high. The bronze statue of the twelfth century, the columns below it are arranged in a half-moon shape, which is very spectacular. There are bronze lion statues on both sides of the monument, which are lifelike and majestic. In the artificial lake, in addition to admiring the majestic King Alfonso XII Monument, you can also rent pedal boats to go boating on the lake, with black swans and teal ducks swimming by, which is very interesting. Crystal Palace and Velasquez House The Crystal Palace next to the artificial lake is one of the famous attractions in Retiro Park. This crystal clear glass house is currently open to the public as an exhibition hall like the nearby Velasquez House. Mainly used for art exhibitions.Madrid · 1.7km from downtown

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Featured Food & drink in Madrid

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Madrid: F1 Arcade — Formula 1 Simulation & Food & Drinks
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FromVND 2,133,165
Madrid Premium Personalised Small Group Tapas & Drinks Tour
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Duration: 3.5 hrs
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5% off
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FromVND 3,814,184VND 4,014,931
Madrid: Tapas, Taverns & Local Stories
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Duration: 4 hrs
English
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5% off
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FromVND 3,508,983VND 3,693,667
Madrid: 10 Tapas 2.5-Hour Cooking Class
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4.7/5
· 7 reviews
Duration: 2.5 hrs
English
Free cancellation
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromVND 1,849,697VND 1,947,050
Madrid: Paella & Sangria Classes- Seafood, Chicken & Vegan option
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5.0/5
· 55 reviews
Duration: 3 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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55 consecutive positive reviews
FromVND 2,475,307
Taste of Spain: Tapas Cooking Class with Bottomless Wine Pairing
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4.9/5
· 299 reviews
Duration: 3 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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99.3% of travelers recommend
FromVND 3,639,797
Madrid: Paella Cooking Class with Bottomless Wine Pairing
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4.9/5
· 638 reviews
Duration: 150 mins
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100 consecutive positive reviews
FromVND 3,646,959

Featured Culture & history in Madrid

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Madrid: Machu Picchu - Journey to the Lost City Entry Ticket
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FromVND 672,878
Atlético de Madrid: Self-Guided Tour + Museum Entry
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FromVND 715,827
Toledo + Segovia twin-city 1-day tour (guide/self-guided tour dual options included)
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4.5/5
· 2 reviews· 21 booked
Duration: 10.5 hrs
English
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7% off
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FromVND 1,650,983VND 1,775,251
Madrid: Happiness Museum Interactive Experience Ticket
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4.5/5
· 33 reviews
Duration: 75 mins
English
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5% off
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FromVND 435,223VND 458,130
Prado Museum + Royal Palace Skip-the-Line Entry+Guided Tour
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 4 hrs
English
Free cancellation
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromVND 3,400,178VND 3,579,135
Madrid: The Royal Palace Skip-the-line Guided Tour
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Duration: 2 hrs
English
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5% off
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FromVND 1,169,661VND 1,231,223
Segovia and Avila 1-day tour (city wall tour included + optional featured lunch)
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Duration: 8.7 hrs
English
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FromVND 1,235,574VND 1,328,575

Featured Day tours in Madrid

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Special Discount Offer: Warner Park Madrid - Ticket
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Duration: 24 hrs
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FromVND 801,226
Toledo Day Trip from Madrid
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Duration: 24 hrs
English
FromVND 2,256,838
Visit Cordoba by Train
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Duration: 24 hrs
English
FromVND 5,113,571
Flamenco Show at the Tablao de la Villa Madrid
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4.4/5
· 10 reviews
Duration: 1–2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
FromVND 1,339,470
Toledo, Ávila and Segovia Private Trip from Madrid
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Duration: 24 hrs
English
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FromVND 19,539,985

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What travellers say about Madrid

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201***8310 October 2026
5.0
Actually, I missed the meeting point because I didn't pay attention to the ticket instructions; the meeting point wasn't at the palace entrance. I had to buy a separate ticket to get in, but it was definitely worth it. The palace is incredibly luxurious and magnificent, with stunning interiors. It was a truly worthwhile trip.

Royal Palace of Madrid

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wendy051112 October 2026
5.0
The good thing about the Prado is that photography isn't allowed, so I can't upload photos of the exhibition halls, but I can upload a picture of the entrance. The classic Las Meninas is still very impressive, and there were many people looking at it. There are also many famous works by Goya, Velázquez, Bosch, and many others. Last time, I visited three floors and countless halls, but I couldn't see everything. It was a visual feast, and I can only marvel at how talented the older generation of European painters were! The paintings are so beautiful!

Prado Museum

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Captain Wang 冲上云霄😎26 July 2026
5.0
The Las Bantas bullring is a highly controversial traditional cultural landmark in Madrid, and we came specifically to watch a live bullfight. The neo-Mudéjar style red-brick amphitheater is magnificent, with a fantastic atmosphere. Learning about the complete process and history of bullfighting beforehand makes it easier to introduce this Spanish tradition to children objectively. The entire performance is highly ceremonial, with the bullfighters' elaborate costumes and elegant movements being extremely entertaining. However, the performance involves bloodshed, as the bull expends its energy before its demise. Watching it up close evoked complex emotions; we understood its role in carrying centuries of local culture, but also felt a pang of pity for the bull. We recommend that tourists traveling with children prepare themselves mentally beforehand and approach this controversial tradition with a rational perspective. A once-in-a-lifetime experience to feel a unique culture is sufficient; those who are sensitive to graphic violence should consider carefully before purchasing tickets.

Las Ventas Bullring

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300***6611 October 2026
5.0
This museum visit was incredibly rewarding! I saw classic works by Picasso, Dali, and Miró, as well as masterpieces from many other outstanding artists. The exhibition areas were well-organized and the pace of the tour was comfortable. I managed to see a large number of famous paintings in a short amount of time. I highly recommend it to art lovers.

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

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TTTTTTeddyXXXXXX17 October 2026
5.0
When traveling to Spain, if you're passing through Madrid, a visit to Real Madrid's home stadium is a must. Buying tickets online and checking in directly via QR code is incredibly convenient. You can tour the stadium, see past trophies, and visit the fan shop, but the itinerary is a bit rushed; one hour is a bit tight.

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

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Traveller000011 August 2023
5.0
travelled to Madrid during summer weather was hot lots of people, tourists great view enjoyed their facility, safety, stays, and people. public transports are convenient. very very amazing trip. good thing about Madrid was their gelato were amazing, especially yogurt ice cream. during summer, nights were short. so you can enjoy endless view and endless evening. definitely great to travel during summer but price is a little bit off, but definite worth I would say. great overall!

Puerta del Sol

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Anonymous user28 October 2026
4.0
This second time I come for this show. It’s really good and fantastic.

Teatro Flamenco Madrid

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Anonymous user30 January 2026
5.0
With its rich and high-quality collection, it truly deserves its status as a world-class art museum. Spanning two floors, the second floor houses Impressionist and Modern art, while the third floor features Renaissance and Baroque art. It boasts not only Spanish paintings but also masterpieces by Dutch, French, and Italian artists. A thorough visit would take at least four to five hours. A must-see for art lovers.

Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum

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Mezzcalico24 October 2024
5.0
Great theme park, with attractions for all the ages and enthusiasm. I reccomend the Superman ride, the stunt fall and the visit to the rapids. And the Stunt show is really nice!

Parque Warner Madrid

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WHH1210 April 2023
5.0
Madrid’s Retiro Park occupies a very large area and is well worth a visit, but when people enter the park, they dress up as Disney dolls, such as Cardchao and Super Sonic Mouse, which are out of place!

El Retiro Park

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Madrid?

Don't miss these attractions in Madrid: Royal Palace of Madrid, Prado Museum, and Las Ventas Bullring. If you like Food & drink, try Madrid: F1 Arcade — Formula 1 Simulation & Food & Drinks. If you enjoy Culture & history, try Madrid: Machu Picchu - Journey to the Lost City Entry Ticket.

You can give Madrid: F1 Arcade — Formula 1 Simulation & Food & Drinks and La Raza Madrid viral restaurant reservation service in Madrid, Spain a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Special Discount Offer: Warner Park Madrid - Ticket, Toledo Day Trip from Madrid, and Visit Cordoba by Train. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of 3 November 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Madrid is around VND 801,226 – VND 19,539,985. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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