If you are visiting Spain, you must visit the city of Madrid. Not only because it is the country's capital but also because it is a place with a lot to offer. No matter where you turn, you will find something new to do or a beautiful place to visit. It is not easy to visit Madrid's main attractions, especially during a single trip, but here you can find some of them so you can plan your time and get to know them all.
What are Madrid's top attractions?
Are you looking for cultural, natural or adrenaline-filled places? Here you have several options for choosing the ones that best suit what you want. Discover Madrid top attractions.
A walk through nature in Madrid
El Retiro Park
If you want to fill your lungs with fresh air, a visit to Retiro Park is a must. This place has a space of 118 hectares and offers activities for everyone.
It has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, as it has more than 19,000 trees, including the oldest tree in Madrid. You will find fountains, ponds, walks, and gardens as you walk around. Perfect for taking pictures. These reasons are why Retiro Park is one of the top attractions in Madrid.
In addition, you can visit iconic places such as the Crystal Palace, the hermitage of San Pelayo and San Isidoro, the Monument to Alfonso XII, the door of Felipe IV and the Royal Astronomical Observatory.
The Royal Palace and Gardens
Another of the top attractions in Madrid is The Royal Palace and Gardens. Built by order of King Philip V, it is the largest palace in all of Western Europe and a major tourist destination. Inside the palace, you will find the Royal Armory of Madrid and hundreds of works of art by famous painters.
At the end of your visit, you can go to the north facade of the palace, where you will find the Sabatini Gardens. An ideal place to walk and rest.
Visits with children or family
Museum of Illusions
This destination will delight anyone who visits it, as it will make you see things differently. The museum has several exhibits; in each, you will find a different illusion, such as the inverted room, the infinite and the inclined, which is why it is one of the top 10 things to do in Madrid.
You must book your tickets in advance and prepare for the adventure of visiting the museum.
Parque de Atracciones de Madrid
Since 1969, the Parque de Atracciones de Madrid has been one of the favourite destinations for families. Located in a central area, near the Batán metro station, this park is perfect for those who want to spend a fun and different day with all the possible comforts.
The park has mechanical and aquatic attractions for all ages, so young children and adults can enjoy it.
There are not only attractions, but you can also eat delicious food in any of its eight restaurants, buy souvenirs in its stores, withdraw money at the ATM and visit the medical service in case you need it.
Circo Price Theater
Are you looking for a permanent circus in the city? The Price is for you. In this circus theatre, you can enjoy entertaining shows and participate in different activities. It is even possible to attend workshops and classes of various kinds.
Quinta de Los Molinos Open Space
Since 2018, this place has been running non-stop. At Espacio Abierto, Madrid's youth can find exciting activities and fun in different digital classrooms, a garden café, the Urbanoteca, the auditorium and the lounge/games room, making it an ideal afternoon with the little ones. This is why it is on the list of the top 10 things to do in Madrid.
Canal Theaters
Teatros del Canal is a place for culture and entertainment. With more than 80 shows a year, the theatre is home to dance, music, opera, stage plays and festivals.
It has 24-hour parking for cars, but you can easily reach it also by bus and subway.
Culture, sports and history
Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
Another one of the top attractions in Madrid is the stadium of the football club Real Madrid; this stadium is a must-see if you are a fan of the Merengue or a football fanatic. Inside you will find a team museum where you can see their trophies and other items of interest.
Temple of Debod
This monument was a gift from Egypt to Spain for their help in saving the Nubian Temples. The building is about 2000 years old, so visiting it seems like travelling back in time.
Prado National Museum
Finally, art fans can not leave Madrid without visiting the Prado National Museum. Here you will not only find "Las Meninas" by Velázquez, but also works by Goya, Rubens, Tiziano etc. There are approximately 35,000 objects on display, such as sculptures, paintings, medals, armour and more.
Plan your visit to the city of Madrid and discover all that the capital has to offer. When you finish, you will want to come back for more of the top attractions in Madrid.