Is Madrid worth visiting? The short answer to that is: absolutely!
Take it from me. I’ve been living here for over 20 years and Madrid is one of the most incredible cities in the world with a ton of amazing things to see and do.
I get it, though.
You're wondering if you should go see Barcelona or Seville, or maybe even Valencia.
You have a limited amount of time in Spain and you want to get the most out of your trip.
I promise you that you won't regret a stop in Madrid.
Why visit Madrid?
You have world-famous art museums and galleries, for art enthusiasts.
You have top-notch gastronomy, for foodies and wine lovers.
You have endless shopping opportunities, for shopaholics.
You have incredible architecture and historical landmarks, for history fans.
You have a wild bar scene and diverse nightlife, for people who like to go out.
Seriously, Madrid has it all.
But beyond its diverse and unique range of attractions and cultural experiences, it also has this indescribable energy. That makes it a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.
For overwhelming proof that Madrid is a fabulous city and indeed worth visiting, keep reading for 35+ reasons to add the Spanish capital to your travel itinerary.
Madrid has a rich history and fascinating history that is reflected in its architecture, museums, and landmarks.
The Royal Palace
This is a fantastic example of Spanish architecture, with stunning exteriors and lavish interiors. The palace is the official residence of the Spanish royal family.
Inside is an art collection with works by famous artists like Francisco Goya and Diego Velázquez.
A personal favorite: don't miss the stunning Throne Room and the Royal Armory, with all its shiny armor and weaponry.
Plaza Mayor
This buzzing square in the heart of the city dates back to the 17th century, when it used to serve as a hub for celebrations, markets, and public gatherings throughout the centuries.
Today you can find street performers, artists, and buzzing cafes there.
It's the perfect spot to soak in Madrid's lively energy and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage.
It may be tempting to grab a drink at one of the terraces, but be forewarned! The prices are fantastically inflated, as you can probably imagine.
Also, for a quick and authentic bite to eat, head to La Campana on Calle de Botoneras, which leads out of the square, for a fried squid sandwich. This is a real treat for the locals!
Spanish Civil War-Era Bunker
This is a seriously fascinating historical site inside El Capricho park (more on this park, below).
During the Spanish Civil War in the late 1930s, the park was used as a military base and an anti-aircraft bunker was built to defend the city against potential air raids.
The bunker was intended to protect the capital from aerial attacks and served as a strategic location during the conflict. The bunker has been partially preserved and it's open to visitors!
Art enthusiasts might already know that Madrid is also home to some of the world's most renowned art museums.
These include the Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen, known as the city’s “big 3."
Madrid has plenty of other interesting museums if art isn't your thing, like the Archeological Museum and the Naval Museum, as well as lots of stunning churches.
Plus, there are many free museums in Madrid.
Prado Museum
The Museo del Prado is the perfect place to visit for anyone looking for an extraordinary art experience.
With a collection spanning from the Middle Ages to the 19th century, it holds masterpieces by renowned artists like Diego Velázquez, Francisco Goya, and El Greco.
It also has famous paintings like "Las Meninas" and “Garden of Earthly Delights.”
The museum itself is pretty cool. When I studied abroad in Madrid (many, many years ago), my university offered an art history class at the Prado.
Although I'm not that into art, it's a pretty incredible experience to see such famous works.
Reina Sofía Museum
This museum has an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art with a focus on Spanish artists like Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Joan Miró.
It's home to Picasso's iconic masterpiece, "Guernica." When I first saw it, I felt quite emotional!
In general, the museum's vibe is cool and edgy, with experimental installations and a lot of thought-provoking exhibits.
The Reina Sofia Museum has a very cool restaurant with industrial vibes that's worth a quick visit called NuBel.
I wouldn't necessarily eat here as it's quite expensive and the food is mediocre, but you might grab a drink or cocktail.
On the weekends they have DJs, which is also pretty fun.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
The Thyssen (as it's usually called) has a great collection that reflects the history of European art.
From medieval masterpieces to Impressionist works and beyond, its collection includes renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Monet, and Degas.
Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or simply appreciate beauty and creativity, there’s something at the Thyssen for you.
National Museum of Natual Sciences
Beyond art, there are plenty of cool museums to visit, such as this one.
There are plenty of fossils, minerals, and taxidermy specimens, not to mention engaging exhibits that shed light on the mysteries of nature.
You need not be a science enthusiast to like this one!
Churches and cathedrals
There are many interesting churches in Madrid for you to visit.
That includes La Almudena Cathedral, where the views from the 225-foot dome are quite amazing; the Royal Basicila of Saint Francis the Great, an impressive cathedral with one of the largest domes in the world; and the Saint Jerome Royal Church, which is a great example of Baroque architecture.
If food is more your thing, trust me: Madrid does not disappoint. Spain in general, but definitely Madrid, is a food lover's paradise.
The city has an absolutely thriving culinary scene offering everything from traditional Spanish cuisine and innovative gastronomic experiences to bustling, one-of-a-kind food markets.
Many years ago, when I originally moved here, the city’s culinary scene was so different! You would be hard-pressed to find much international cuisine and options for anything unique were few and far between.
That couldn’t be further from the case now!
Mercado de San Miguel
This is definitely Madrid's most famous market and one of the city's top tourist attractions.
Funnily enough, when I lived in the nearby La Latina neighborhood many years ago, this was just a regular market where I went to buy fruits and vegetables. It's changed quite a bit over the years.
At today's San Miguel Market, there are dozens of stalls offering a variety of Spanish treats. From fresh seafood and savory tapas to sweet pastries and fine wines, it's honestly a feast for the senses.
The market is buzzing with energy and it has a lively atmosphere. You wouldn't actually eat a full meal here; it's more like a place to try different things.
Mercado San Idelfonso
This is another very cool multi-floor food market with an industrial vibe in the heart of Malasaña. You can get some delicious food here—everything from gourmet burgers and tacos to Asian street food and crepes.
This market has great energy and is the perfect place to eat or just grab a craft beer or a cocktail. It's generally less crowded than San Miguel but it's also not as large.
Mercado San Anton
This is probably a lesser-known market but it’s worth a visit as it’s got three floors of culinary goodness. On the first floor, you'll find fresh produce and gourmet products, so it's a great place to buy ingredients to prepare food back at your AirBnB.
Head up to the second floor for a tapas extravaganza. And if the weather is nice, refuel on the rooftop terrace, which has some great views of the Chueca neighborhood.
Food tours
Food tours are a great and fast way to get an overall appreciation for Madrid’s (and Spain’s) most iconic foods.
A knowledgeable guide will be able to take you to lesser-known, less crowded tapas bars, markets, and family-run eateries and introduce you to authentic Spanish flavors and traditional dishes you might not order on your own.
Plus, you'll learn about Madrid's food culture, history, and the passion that goes into its cuisine, which is considered among the best in the world.
Tapas
Tapas are a unique culinary tradition in Spain and Madrid is full of fantastic places where you can try them.
Generally, either you order several different plates at one restaurant, or you stop at several different places to eat one or two tapas, along with drinks.
There are classics like patatas bravas, Ibérico ham, and Padron peppers, as well as more creative creations. Whatever you order, you're in for a culinary adventure you won't soon forget.
Pintxos
Once you’ve mastered tapas, you’ll need the Basque pintxos experience, which is an absolute delight!
These consist of crusty bread topped with anything from succulent meats to fresh seafood and flavorful vegetables.
Neighborhoods like La Latina and Malasaña have several Basque restaurants serving pintxos, each of which is a work of art. Eating them is a very cool social and cultural experience.
Terraces
The locals are extremely serious about their terraceo, which is simply eating or drinking al fresco.
When the weather is nice, the sidewalks are jam packed with people socializing outside restaurants and bars. And when the weather's not nice, they're still there!
Michelin-star restaurants
These restaurants are a great way to experience Spanish chefs' innovation first-hand. There are several in Madrid and they all offer unparalleled dining experiences.
They are DiverXO, by David Muñoz; STAgE, by Diego Guerrero; La Terraza del Casino, by Paco Roncero; Coque, by the Sandoval brothers; and A’Barra, by Juan Antonio Medina.
Many, many people eat at Casa Botin, the oldest restaurant in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
While this is a popular choice and is a great experience, there are so many amazing restaurants in Madrid that are also worth your time. If you need help deciding, send me an email!
There are countless fun and innovative experiences to be had in Madrid, from escape rooms and cooking workshops to sustainable fashion events. You can dine in the dark or head to a virtual reality center! There’s so much to do!
Madrid has a vibrant culture. From street art, music, and sports to theater, cinema, and dance performances, there's always something going on, if you know where to look.
There are also a lot of amazing festivals that are unique to Madrid, like San Isidro in mid-May, when we celebrate Madrid's patron saint, and Gay Pride, in late June or early July.
Street art
Madrid is home to lots of cool street art in neighborhoods like Lavapies and Malasaña and around the Embajadores area.
Around the Tabacalera, an old tobacco factory that has been turned into a cultural space, you can find lots of amazing walls and facades turned into canvases by talented artists.
Theater
While the vast majority of plays are in Spanish, there are several theaters in Madrid that offer plays in English: Teatro Alfil, Teatro Santa Isabela, Teatro Galileo, and Teatro Luchana.
So if you want that theater experience when you’re in the city, you can definitely have it!
Zarzuela
Check out a Spanish opera, also known as a zarzuela. It's like a beautiful blend of opera, music, and theater, all infused with Spanish charm.
The performances are filled with catchy tunes, engaging stories, and lively dance numbers, plus they’re held at Spain’s stunning opera house. I went to see one years ago when my parents visited and we all loved the experience.
Flamenco
If you’re in Madrid, you'll probably want to catch a flamenco show. Madrid has many famous tablaos where you can enjoy a spectacular performance.
Flamenco is all about fiery passion and intense emotions. The live music, soulful singing, and intricate footwork will captivate you from start to finish!
For me personally, I prefer more intimate venues compared with larger ones, but this is a totally personal preference. Madrid has both!
Soccer
Madrid is home to Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabeu stadium, so sports fans will definitely love seeing a game.
Even non-sports fans would enjoy a game, in my opinion, as there's so much atmosphere. Atletico de Madrid is another strong team and its stadium is just outside of the city center.
An alternative to seeing a men's game is to check out a women's soccer game. I have been to see both the Real Madrid's and Atletico de Madrid's women's teams play and I recommend it!
The former play in Valdebebas stadium, which is outside the city, and the latter play at the same stadium as the men's team.
When you get tired of pounding the pavement, one of the best places you can take refuge is in one of Madrid’s many beautiful parks and gardens.
The capital of Spain is home to many green spaces where you can escape the bustle to relax and unwind.
Parque del Buen Retiro
El Retiro Park is Madrid’s most famous park and is a nice place to escape the city bustle, although truth be told (depending on the day) the park is also bustling.
That being said, the lush greenery, serene lake, and beautiful gardens do create a relaxing escape where you can stroll, have a picnic, or just chill out.
Rent a rowboat and paddle across the lake, watch the street performers, or have some cañas on the terrace at one of the many cafes.
Retiro is a local favorite and a must-visit for anyone seeking out some natural beauty in the heart of Madrid.
Casa del Campo
This is a vast urban park where you can rent bikes or go explore scenic trails and picturesque lakes. Bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing escape from the city.
Thrill-seekers can hit up the amusement park and families might also head to the zoo for some extra excitement and entertainment, as both are located in the Casa del Campo.
Madrid Rio
This might be one of my favorite places to go when the weather is warm. It's a fantastic urban park along the Manzanares River with several unique playgrounds for kids.
You can walk or rent a bike or kart and ride along the scenic riverside paths or you can just chill in any of its many shady spots.
The views of the city's iconic bridges and modern architecture are an added bonus. There are plenty of places to eat something light, too!
Madrid is also a shopper's paradise, with a very wide range of options, from luxury boutiques and big brand stores to smaller boutiques with Spanish-made products.
The Golden Mile
This is located in the upscale Salamanca neighborhood and refers to the stretch of high-end stores on Calle Serrano like Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, Longchamp, and Loewe.
Gran Vía
This main avenue is a danger for shopaholics as it has a ton of large stores from well-known Spanish and international brands, including Stradivarius, Bershka, H&M, Primark, Mango, Zara, Oysho, Benneton, Lacoste, Nike, The Body Shop, and much more.
When I go shopping, I generally hit up Gran Via and I'm all set.
Secondhand stores
There are lots of very cool secondhand and vintage shops in Madrid's city center. When my niece was here visiting last summer, I took her on a route that hit many of the shops, many of which are in Malasaña.
El Rastro flea market
The Rastro is held every Sunday and has stalls selling everything from antiques and vintage clothing to art, books, and quirky knick-knacks.
You can haggle with the vendors, rummage through eclectic items, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Do be very aware of your belongings as you pursue though, as this is a very crowded area and it's easy to get distracted.
If you want a do like the locals do, after shopping, head over to nearby neighborhood La Latina for some drinks and tapas.
Streets like Cava Baja and Plaza de la Paja will be buzzing with people!
Madrid is home to one-of-a-kind nightlife and entertainment. For better or worse, I can personally attest to Madrid’s diverse and wild nightlife scene, which is renowned worldwide, and rightfully so.
With a plethora of bars, clubs, live music venues, discotecas, and afterhours, there is something for everyone and you could easily stay out all night long (and all day, if that’s your thing).
Nightclubs
If nightclubs are your thing, check out Joy Eslava, a historic nightclub right in Sol that hosts everything from live music performances and themed parties to DJ sets, or Kapital, one of the city’s biggest clubs, with 7 different floors and a different style of music on each floor.
These are definitely two of the most famous, but they're not necessarily "the best." If you're looking for other ideas or a specific type of music, reach out to me!
Live jazz
If jazz is your thing, enjoy a live performance at Café Central, a legendary venue that attracts renowned national and international jazz musicians.
Alternatively, you can head to the Jungle Jazz Club, in the Salamanca neighborhood, which features jazz artists from all over the world, with a little bossa nova, funk, and soul occasionally mixed in.
Cocktails
Madrid is home to some amazing cocktail bars. Salmon Guru, in the Huertas neighborhood, is a very good option and made The World’s 50 Best Bars list in 2022, and Macera, in Malasaña, makes its own spirits.
Bars and smaller clubs
Depending on your vibe, generally speaking, you’ll want to head to a certain neighborhood.
For lots of discobars, Spanish pop music, free shots, and drink specials, check out Huertas, which is popular with the younger crowd. For bars, clubs, and drag shows, head to Chueca, Madrid’s LGBTQ+ neighborhood.
For more relaxed beer drinking and traditional taverns with the hipster crowd, you’ll want to go to La Latina.
If you’re looking for a specific type of venue (music, age group, vibe, etc.), reach out to me and I will give you some ideas that align with your preferences!
Rooftop bars
Madrid is home to a growing number of rooftop bars where you can grab a drink, enjoy the city's iconic skyline, and watch the sunset.
It offers a whole new perspective of the vibrant Spanish capital and is a nice change of pace from street-level restaurants, bars, and cafes.
Music festivals
There are a lot of different music festivals in Madrid so, depending on your favorite genre, your visit might coincide with one of them.
For example, the Mad Cool Festival brings together indie, rock, pop, and electric music and is usually held in July.
A Summer Story is another great festival with an eclectic line-up held, as the name suggests, in summer.
DCODE is another one, also held in the summer. Madrid's International Jazz Festival, on the other hand, is held in the fall.
Another one of Madrid's appeals is that it is an extremely convenient base for exploring other parts of Spain, as it’s located right in the center of the country.
It also has excellent transportation connections, which makes it easy to take day trips.
Toledo
Getting from Madrid to Toledo is a piece of cake. You can catch a train from Madrid's Atocha station to Toledo. Trains run frequently and the journey takes about 30 minutes.
Or, you can hop on a bus from Madrid's Estación Sur de Autobuses. The buses also run regularly and the ride takes around one hour.
Toledo is a beautiful place with a very different pace from Madrid and is definitely worth the visit.
Segovia
The most popular option is to take a high-speed train from Madrid's Chamartín station. The journey is quick, usually around 30 minutes, and the trains run frequently throughout the day.
Another option is taking a bus from the Estación Sur de Autobuses, as they run regularly and take about an hour. Segovia is also a stunning city with lots of history.
Aranjuez
I used to work in Aranjuez, so I commuted every day for 7 years. The journey is a quick 45-minute ride from Atocha station on the commuter train, known as Cercanias.
From the station, the royal palace and gardens are just a short easy walk. This is a lovely day trip and not as crowded as Toledo and Segovia.
Is Madrid Worth Visiting?
If you've made it this far, I think you'll agree that Madrid is definitely worth visiting.
Now, keep in mind, these are just a few highlights and must-see attractions. Madrid has much more to offer depending on your interests. In fact, I came up with a Madrid bucket list with 80 different things to do in Madrid.
Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, a food lover, or you’re simply looking to soak up Spanish culture, Madrid is an amazing city that can cater to a wide range of preferences and offer an unforgettable experience.