While it may not have the status of Paris or Rome in terms of sights and attractions, the Spanish capital has a lot to see and explore. From historic architecture to world-class art, incredible food and delightful parks, we’re going to check out some of Madrid’s best places, attractions and activities.
#1. Plaza Mayor:
Madrid’s main square has cobblestone streets that hold decades of history and culture and has been the scene of just about anything worth watching over the centuries, from coronations to beheadings. Today, it is an awesome place to stroll and take in the views and sample some of the city’s most famous food from one of the various bars that surround the square.
#2. royal palace:
Today, the official residence of the Spanish nobility is used only for ceremonies; The King and Queen themselves live in the Zarzuela Palace, a smaller residence located just outside the city. The palace is open to the public, who can visit and view centuries-old collections of armor, artwork and furniture.
#3. Debod Templo:
Given to the country by Egypt as a gift, this Egyptian shrine was moved, piece by piece, to Spain in the early 1970s. Today a major tourist attraction in the city, it’s best visited in the evening, as it’s among the best places to watch the sunset in Madrid.
#4. Gran Via:
The most iconic street in Madrid; Gran Via starred Abre Los Ojos, the original Spanish-language film from the 2001 Tom Cruise remake Vanilla Sky. You’ll find plenty of amazing architecture, together with dozens of outlets, cafes, bars and restaurants to explore. Head to the top of the Corte Ingles Gourmet Experience, where you can enjoy terrific views.
#5. Puerta del Sol:
Every road in Spain leads to the Puerta del Sol, which is located in the center of the country and is also known as the zero kilometer. The Puerta del Sol is also home to a bear statue and the famous strawberry tree, which is the official symbol of the capital.
#6. Palacio de Cibeles:
Until 2011, this magnificent building served as the official headquarters of the Post Office in Madrid. Today, it’s the home of the Madrid City Council and a popular spot for tourists. Not only is the architecture amazing to look at and photograph from the outside, the observation deck also offers incredible views of the city.
#7. Rastro:
If you’ll be in the city of Madrid on a Sunday morning, then you must visit Rastro, Madrid’s famous weekly flea market. The streets come alive with stalls selling everything from handmade goods to street food, and bars open out onto the street, getting everybody as excited as a party around the Lavapies area.
#8. Literary Quarter:
Whether you are a nerd or not, there is a lot to appreciate about it Literary Quarter; probably the most lovely and funky neighborhoods in Madrid. Once the home of Spanish literary giant Miguel de Cervantes, today it’s a place crammed with quirky bars and restaurants, with streets dotted with famous and not-so-famous literary quotes.
#9. Flamenco:
Of course, no visit to Madrid would be complete without a visit to the city’s best Flamenco shows. Cardamom is Madrid’s premier Flamenco tablao, with ten artists performing daily so you can enjoy the best shows in the capital. There are four different shows each day, accompanied by excellent food and wine. Flamenco Madrid is an old tradition worth exploring today.
#10. Almudena Cathedral:
Opened in 1993 and consecrated by Pope John Paul, it’s probably the most famous religious buildings in the city. It is very popular with tourists and is the place where King Felipe and Queen Letizia got married. With a shocking Baroque exterior that matches the older Royal Palace right next door, it is hard to believe how modern it’s Cathedral actual building.
#11. Dore Movie:
For film lovers, a trip to Cine Dore is important when visiting Madrid. This old cinema shows a wide range of classic and modern Hollywood films from all over the world, for a low price of only 2.50 euros. With a tumultuous history, the cinema was bombed during the Spanish Civil War, but today, it serves as the headquarters of the Filmoteca Espanola, part of the Spanish Ministry of Culture.
#12. Sobrino de Botin:
Last but not least, do not forget to pay a visit to the world’s oldest restaurant – Sobrino de Botin even displays a Guinness World Record certificate in the window to prove it. Founded in 1725 and going strong since their specialty is roasted suckling pig.
Which of these Madrid attractions are on your itinerary?
