Madrid was founded as a Moorish fortress in the 9th century and became Spain’s capital in 1561 under King Philip II. This transformed it into a center of power and culture, marked by iconic sites like the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor. Today, Madrid’s blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy, with its rich art, cuisine, and lively culture, makes it an inspiring city to explore.
Last summer, I found myself in Madrid with only 24 hours to explore this incredible city. Though it was a whirlwind visit, I managed to squeeze in some of the top sights, eats, and experiences that make Madrid so special. While I did not get to do everything on my list, I did a lot of research and put together my top 7 things to do in Madrid.
1. The Royal Palace (Palacio Real)
The Royal Palace of Madrid, known as Palacio Real, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and the largest functioning royal palace in Europe. Originally built in the 18th century on the site of a Moorish fortress, the palace served as the residence of Spanish monarchs until the early 20th century. Today, it hosts state ceremonies and official events while also welcoming visitors to explore its stunning architecture, lavish rooms, and extensive art collection, featuring works by Goya, Velázquez, and Caravaggio.
3. Go For a Walk in Retiro Park
Retiro Park. El Retiro Park, or Parque del Buen Retiro, is one of Madrid’s most beloved green spaces and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Originally created in the 17th century as a royal retreat, this expansive park spans over 300 acres. Make sure to check out Crystal Palace which is absolutely gorgeous!
2. Try Tapas at Mercado de San Miguel
By lunchtime, we made our way to Mercado de San Miguel, one of Madrid’s iconic food markets. With limited time, I sampled a variety of tapas, from empanadas to . The market’s bustling atmosphere and diverse food options make it a must-visit for a quick but satisfying bite.
4. Indulge in Churros and Chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés
Chocolatería San Ginés, famous for its churros and thick hot chocolate. A classic Madrid experience, the churros were crispy and delicious, perfect for dunking into the rich chocolate. It’s a great way to recharge before more sightseeing. Note that the lines can be long so plan accordingly.
5. Check at the Oldest Restaurant in the World, Sobrino de Botín
For dinner, I couldn’t miss the opportunity to dine at Sobrino de Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world, founded in 1725. The restaurant is famous for its traditional Spanish dishes, especially its cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig). The ambiance, history, and hearty meal made it an unforgettable dining experience.
6. Admire Plaza Mayor’s Historic Charm
A short walk brought me to Plaza Mayor, Madrid’s main square. It’s the perfect place to grab a coffee, do some people-watching, and take in the surrounding historic buildings. The square’s lively atmosphere is infectious, and it’s a great spot to rest and recharge.
7. Go Shopping
Madrid offers a fantastic shopping experience, from luxury boutiques along the Golden Mile in the Salamanca district to unique finds at eclectic markets like El Rastro. For high-end brands, Serrano Street is a must-visit, while Gran Vía combines international stores with historic architecture.
While I was there, I couldn’t resist stopping by Jimmy Choo, where I treated myself to a couple of beautiful pairs of heels. A great bonus for international visitors is Spain’s VAT refund, which lets non-EU tourists claim back part of the tax on qualifying purchases, making shopping in Madrid even more enticing.
ON MY LIST FOR NEXT TIME
Picasso’s Guernica at the Reina Sofía Museum
After dinner, I made a quick stop at the Reina Sofía Museum, primarily to see Picasso’s legendary Guernica. This powerful painting left a lasting impression, and the museum’s focus on modern art contrasted beautifully with the classic works I saw at the Prado.
Catch a Glimpse of Gran Vía
With a few hours left, I wandered along Gran Vía, Madrid’s buzzing avenue lined with shops, theatres, and cafés. The architecture alone is worth the walk, with standout buildings like the Edificio Metrópolis. It’s Madrid’s version of Broadway, and while I didn’t have time to catch a show, the energy of the street was captivating.
Get Lost in Art at the Prado Museum
Next, I headed to the Prado Museum, home to a collection of masterpieces by artists like Velázquez and Goya. Though I only had an hour to spare, I made sure to see Velázquez’s Las Meninas, one of the museum’s most famous works. The Prado is a treasure trove, so plan ahead if you want to see your favorite pieces.
End the Day at the Temple of Debod
As evening approached, I made my way to the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple that overlooks the city. Watching the sunset from this unique spot was the perfect way to wind down after a full day of exploring. The views over Madrid are stunning, and the peaceful setting feels worlds away from the bustling city.
