Madrid, the capital of Spain, has a lot to offer, from photo-worthy rooftop bars and relaxing parks to countless delicious restaurants and exceptional museums. In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best attractions in Madrid to help you make the most of your trip!

1) Stroll Through Plaza Mayor, One of Madrid’s Most Beautiful Squares

If you are visiting Madrid, be sure to stop by Plaza Mayor. It is the most famous square in Madrid. Enjoy a drink on the terrace or taste a bocadillo (Spanish sandwich) made with hamón at the Museo del Jamón. You can also shop at the small stores in the square and admire the beautiful architecture. The plaza also hosts various events throughout the year, including the Christmas Market, Fashion Week, and Festival de Bellano.

2) Admire the Royal Palace of Madrid

The Royal Palace of Madrid, known as the Palacio Real, is a sight to behold inside and out. The beautifully decorated building covers an area of no less than 135,000m². After admiring the buildings from the outside, it is time to discover the palace’s interior: a 2-hour tour will allow you to see some of the rooms. Admission tickets are available starting at 16.00 euros per person. Guided tours can be booked starting at €26.10. Children up to 5 years old are free of charge; discounts are available for children from 5 to 16 years old, those over 65 years old, and students up to 25 years old.

3) Visit One of the Many Food Pavilions

One of the best ways to discover a destination is through its local cuisine. Spain is known for its delicious tapas. In addition to its numerous restaurants, Madrid is home to many eateries that offer a wide variety of tapas. Therefore, visiting one of these markets is a must when visiting this cozy Spanish city.

Madrid’s most famous food market is the Mercado de San Miguel, a building built in 1913 that has been completely renovated and transformed into a modern food hall. Here you will find 33 different stalls where you can purchase Spanish snacks and drinks. Have an empanada and then immediately sip on a delicious sangria. If you prefer a more intimate food hall, head to Mercado de San Ildefonso. This eatery is located in the fashionable Malasaña district. Feeling full? Then take a stroll through this colorful neighborhood of cozy bars and vintage stores.

4)  Relax in the Greenery of Retiro Park

1.4 square kilometers of the center are pleasantly surrounded by greenery. Retiro Park is an excellent place to go when you want to relax or need some shade. Here you can take a boat ride across Estanc Grande del Retiro Pond, relax on a wooden bench, or stroll through the park to observe local life. And don’t forget to pay a visit to the Palacio de Cristal. It is the perfect place for Instagram-worthy photos.

5) Discover Madrid’s Different Neighborhoods

Nothing is more fun than discovering the different neighborhoods in a new city. You will get a glimpse into the life of the locals, and each district offers a different experience. If you are looking for tapas and a variety of bars, head to the La Latina district. La Latina is located south of Plaza Mayor, and it is nice to combine the two. Every Sunday, there is a large flea market (El Rastro) in the neighborhood, and in the afternoon, the bars are filled with locals enjoying a drink. You can visit trendy cafes in the Chueca district, north of Gran Via. Here you will find numerous cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and bars. Looking for a trendy neighborhood? Then visit Malasana! From street art to trendy restaurants to exceptional boutiques. Here you will feel the best of Madrid’s energy and be prepared for hours of fun!

Have you ever been to any of these places? Share your experience with us in the comments below!