What to seeMadrid
Historic Core and Iconic Landmarks
Madrid’s historic center is a blend of past and present. Puerta del Sol, the city’s bustling hub, is surrounded by shops, cafés, and historic buildings. Nearby, the Plaza Mayor is a masterpiece of Habsburg architecture, where traditional taverns serve the city’s famous calamari sandwiches.
The Royal Palace is one of Europe’s most stunning royal residences, with lavish interiors and manicured gardens. The Royal Palace Tour offers an in-depth look at its history and art. Facing the palace, the Almudena Cathedral combines classical and modern design, while the Teatro Real adds a cultural touch to the square.
Art and Cultural Treasures
Madrid is a paradise for art lovers. The Prado and Reina Sofía Museums house masterpieces spanning centuries, from Velázquez’s Las Meninas to Picasso’s Guernica. The Prado and Reina Sofía Museum Tour is the ideal way to explore both with expert insights.
The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum completes the city’s Golden Triangle of Art, with an impressive collection that bridges classical and modern art. Contemporary spaces like CaixaForum, with its vertical garden, and Matadero Madrid showcase the city’s creative edge.
Sports and Local Passion
Football is deeply ingrained in Madrid’s identity, and the city is home to two of Spain’s most celebrated clubs. At the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid, visitors can explore the locker rooms, walk onto the pitch, and admire the club’s trophy collection on the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium Tour.
Meanwhile, the Cívitas Metropolitano Stadium, home to Atlético de Madrid, is a modern venue where fans gather to support their team with unmatched passion.
Celebrations for each team take place at iconic city fountains. Real Madrid fans gather at Cibeles Fountain, while Atlético supporters head to Neptuno Fountain to mark their victories. On match days, the atmosphere across the city is electric, with bars and plazas filled with supporters sharing the excitement.
Green Spaces and City Views
The Retiro Park is a green oasis in the city center, perfect for strolling, boating on the lake, or visiting the glass pavilion of the Palacio de Cristal. The larger Casa de Campo and the Madrid Río park offer more expansive outdoor escapes.
For panoramic views, the rooftop at the Círculo de Bellas Artes is unmatched, while the Faro de Moncloa and the viewpoint at Palacio de Cibeles offer different perspectives over the city.
Experiences and Nearby Highlights
Madrid is an ideal starting point for discovering nearby treasures. Toledo enchants with its mix of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim heritage, while Segovia is famous for its Roman aqueduct, Alcázar, and medieval streets. Both cities are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and can be visited together in a single day.
For a different kind of outing, Puy du Fou España stages large-scale historical shows that recreate key moments from Spain’s past, offering an immersive experience for all ages. History enthusiasts will also appreciate the Monastery of El Escorial and the Valle de los Caídos, two monumental landmarks surrounded by impressive natural scenery.
To experience them comfortably, consider the Toledo and Segovia Tour, the Visit Puy du Fou Theme Park by Bus from Madrid, or the Private Tour to El Escorial and Valle de los Caídos.