Ten Cool Things to do in Madrid, Spain

I thought I would share some of the fun or exciting things that I discovered while living in Madrid, Spain, for ten months. I will note that these are all entirely my own opinion and there are way more than just ten things to do in Madrid, but these are the things that have stuck with me the most. 

So in no particular order here are ten things that are pretty cool to do while in Madrid; 

1. Madrid Teleférico

This is a cable car which takes you over, Casa de Campo. You gain a pretty great view over the city including the Palacio Real, Catedral de la Almudena and the cityscape itself. I suggest going for sunset to soak up the impressive views of Madrid at golden hour.

2. Parque de El Retiro

Step out of the sun, and busy streets of Madrid on to the tree-lined avenues of Parque de El Retiro. Hire a bike or walk under the tree exploring all the different areas of the park. Or hire a rowboat and spend some time on Estanque Grande del Retiro. Once you’ve explored why not find a nice grassy patch and have a picnic lunch or even un helado (an ice cream). 

3. Explore the art galleries

Madrid has a few art galleries, but I’m going to mention Museo de Nacional del Prado and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia. El Reina Sofia is full of artworks from the 20th Century, so if you would like to check out some Picasso, it’s the place to go. El Prado has works from the 12th to the 19th Century’s here you will find works from Goya, including those from his ‘dark years.’

4. El Rastro

If wandering local markets are your thing, then El Rastro is worth exploring. You will find all sorts of weird and wonderful items in the stalls. Just be aware it tends to be busy and is known for pickpockets so keep your wits about you. Don’t let the latter put you off though; it’s well worth a look. 

5. El Corte Ingles Gourmet Experience

Grab a rose-shaped ice cream from Amorino and enjoy the view over Gran Via. 

6. Chocolatería San Ginés

You can’t go to Madrid and not get Churros! Chocolatería San Ginés is the oldest Churro restaurant in Madrid, and it’s well worth the wait. If you can grab one of the outside seats, sit and eat your churros con chocolate while watching locals and tourists go about their day, or just make those waiting in line jealous, it’s up to you! 

7. Palacio Real de la Madrid

Want to be awed by the opulence of royalty? Head into Palacio Real. Grab your tickets in advance, so you don’t have to wait in the queue, then wander the hallways and rooms taking in all the Palace has to offer. Don’t forget to try and get the ‘I’m feeling like a Prince/Princess’ photo on the grand-staircase, because you haven’t visited a palace if you don’t take that picture, or is that just me? 

8. Day Trips

There are some cool historic and unique towns and cities surrounding Madrid, so why not spend a day out of the city exploring one? Here are a few places that I have visited; Toledo - a historic city known for it’s medieval Arab, Jewish and Christian monuments. Make sure you grab a map from the information kiosk because you will get lost in the narrow winding streets, buts that’s just part of the fun! Cuenca - Known for its ‘hanging houses’. It’s a historic walled town with medieval castle ruins and quaint cobblestoned streets. Salamanca; A university city known for its ornate sandstone architecture. 

9. Eat!

This one may seem a bit weird, but Madrid is full of excellent restaurants. So find yourself some Tapas bars grab a Cerveza or vino and enjoy some delicious Spanish tapas. Don’t forget the Spanish eat late so you won’t find somewhere serving ‘dinner food’ until about 9 pm. 

10. Get Lost! 

This is always my goal in a new city. What better way is there to see a city than to get lost in it! Start in Plaza Major or Puerta del Sol, pick a direction and see what you can find. I always find the most exciting or beautiful places when I’m not looking at Google Maps or a guide book. Just remember to save your hotel/hostel in google maps or CityMapper, and you will always be able to find your way back.