Madrid is a unique city, full of culture, art and iconic monuments. Do you know which are the most famous places in Madrid? You can't miss them on your visit to the capital! Organize your itinerary around the city and enjoy popular touristic attractions in Madrid.
Popular places in Madrid
Puerta de Alcalá and Retiro
Start your city tour with a visit to the majestic Puerta de Alcalá. It is one of the famous spots in Madrid you shouldn’t miss. Puerta de Alcala is located a few meters from Parque del Retiro, one of the most beautiful corners of Madrid and one of its lungs!.
The park has a lot of character, it has large green areas, a lake where you can rent a boat, as well as many monuments and sculptures, such as "The Fallen Angel". In addition, you can also visit the glass palace, Palacio de Cristal, where there are usually art exhibitions.
Walk along the iconic Gran Vía
One of the most famous streets in Madrid is Gran Vía. It is a kilometer-long street full of restaurants, luxury hotels, clothing stores, theaters, among others. Gran Vía starts at the Metrópolis building, which is located a short distance from Cibeles fountain and the City Hall; these two places are very close to Puerta de Alcalá.
Gran Vía street connects with other main streets of the city, such as Fuencarral or Montera; if you keep going, you can reach Plaza de Callao, where there is a huge cinema. Along the way, you can do some shopping, stop for lunch, and also see one of the varied musical shows. Gran Vía ends at the famous square Plaza España.
Temple of Debod
Beyond Plaza de España is the Egyptian Temple of Debod. This iconic Egyptian temple was a gift from the monarch of Egypt to Spain and was shipped in pieces that had to be assembled once they arrived in the city. The Temple of Debod is beautiful and offers spectacular views of the Almudena Cathedral. Visit it at sunset!
Puerta del Sol
One of the famous spots to visit in Madrid is the square of Puerta del Sol, with its symbolic statue of El Oso y el Madroño and surrounded by iconic souvenir stores, as well as a Madrilenian chocolate shop. Around it you can enjoy the performances of different street artists, as well as mariachis, from time to time.
Chocolate with churros and Teatro Real
One of the streets that adjoins Puerta del Sol will take you to the famous chocolatería San Ginés, one of the most famous places in Madrid! It's perfect to have a good chocolate with churros and take a short break on your tour of the capital.
A little further from this iconic site, visited by many personalities, is the royal theater, Teatro Real. The architecture is worth contemplating and is set at Plaza de Ópera, where you will find many terraces.
The Royal Palace and the Sabatini Gardens
Very close to the Royal Theater is the Royal Palace, with its spectacular armory and its curious apothecary. You can enter the palace and take a guided tour along the majestic halls, full of important works of art. The decoration is exquisite!
Next to the palace are the Sabatini Gardens, of a mesmerizing beauty. You can complete your tour with a visit to the breathtaking Almudena Cathedral, which is located in front of the Royal Palace.
Plaza Mayor, one of the famous spots in Madrid
Another of the most famous places in Madrid is the Plaza Mayor. This is an enclosure similar to other European squares, with many terraces and restaurants around it. On the way to Plaza Mayor, which has several gates leading to different parts of Madrid, you will come across the San Miguel market, a very popular place among tourists who love Spanish gastronomy.
The cultural route through Madrid
Madrid stands out for its numerous museums, there are museums for all tastes! For lovers of classic art, the museums of El Prado, Thyssen Bornemisza and Reina Sofia; these three museums host the most famous works of art of great Spanish painters and other European gems. For history lovers, the National Archeology Museum (MAN), with Greek and Roman mosaics and even mummies from ancient Egypt. For fans of dinosaurs and large creatures, the Museum of Natural Sciences.
Amusement park, Parque de Atracciones: a must-see
Inside the Casa de Campo park, you will find the Parque de Atracciones de Madrid. It is the perfect place to conclude your visit to the Spanish capital. The Parque de Atracciones is characterized by its multiple themed areas, aimed at all audiences. The youngest members of the family can have a great time with their favorite Nickelodeon characters and go on rides designed for their age group.
Adults can experience high doses of adrenaline in the most intense and frenetic attractions such as La Lanzadera, Abismo, Top Spin, La Máquina among many others. In the Parque de Atracciones de Madrid, you will also find many shows, including those of the Halloween season, such as the passage of terror. And where to eat? Don't worry, in the park you can enjoy different fast food restaurants.