7 Things You Can’t Miss in Madrid

Wondering what to see in Madrid? Madrid is a multicultural city with a history spanning more than ten centuries. To help you stay on track with your plans, have a great time, and learn about its history, here are some tips on the seven things you can’t miss in Madrid. It’s a city where it’s practically impossible to get bored—and it never sleeps.

1. The Royal Palace:

It is the official residence of the King and Queen of Spain, although they do not live there. It is a magnificent example of Spanish Baroque architecture, featuring marble grand staircases designed by Sabatini. It is the second-largest palace in Europe, after the Palace of Versailles in France.
Admission is free Monday through Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in winter) for European Union citizens, residents, and holders of work permits within the EU, as well as Ibero-American citizens. However, if your budget allows, we recommend booking one of the many guided tours available so you don’t miss a thing and can fully enjoy the impressive paintings—such as those in the Hall of the Guards or the Throne Room—the imperial gardens (also designed by Sabatini), and the Royal Armory.

https://www.patrimonionacional.es/visita/palacio-real-de-madrid

2. The Almudena Cathedral:

It is Madrid’s cathedral and one of the largest in Spain. It was built in the 20th century and features a mix of architectural styles, ranging from Gothic to Baroque. Located on the site of a former mosque, it stands right next to the Royal Palace. Like the Royal Palace, admission is free, although an optional donation is requested.
There are also extended visiting hours for the museum and the dome, although there is a four-euro admission fee.

https://catedraldelaalmudena.es

3. The Prado Museum:

It houses one of the world’s most important art collections, featuring works by masters such as Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and Bosch. A must-see that can’t be fully explored in a single day; the museum’s own website offers different itineraries depending on how much time you have.
The main recommendation is to buy your ticket online and arrive first thing in the morning to avoid the long lines that usually form as much as possible.
It’s a world-class museum—a visit that’s always enjoyable and pleasant, and one you can’t miss.

https://www.museodelprado.es/

4. The Reina Sofía Museum:

It is located on the site of a former hospital, also designed by Sabatini and later expanded by Jean Nouvel,
Located in the center of Madrid, this museum focuses on contemporary art and features works by artists such as Dalí, Picasso, and Miró. In a short time, it has become a leading museum of avant-garde art and 20th-century art.

https://www.museoreinasofia.es/

5. The Plaza Mayor:

It is one of Madrid’s most iconic squares and the perfect place to have a coffee or a drink. It is next to Puerta del Sol and behind Calle Mayor.
Surrounded by historic buildings, this colonnaded square was the heart of Madrid during the Habsburg era. It was home to the most popular market of the 15th century and, over time, became the capital’s central venue for festivities and celebrations.

https://www.inclusion.gob.es/cartaespana/es/noticias/Noticia_0432.htm

6. Retiro Park:

It is one of the most beautiful places in Madrid and the city’s green lung, with more than 15,000 trees. It is a very large park and the perfect place to have a picnic, take a walk, or simply relax.
Furthermore, it is not just an ordinary park, as it features notable architectural elements and renowned statues, such as *El Ángel Caído* (The Fallen Angel), the only sculpture depicting the devil.

https://www.esmadrid.com/informacion-turistica/parque-del-retiro

7. The Crystal Palace:

It is a glass-and-iron structure designed by French architect Joseph Paxton for the 1887 Philippine Flora Exhibition. Now renovated and restored, it houses a collection of plants and flowers as well as various exhibitions from the Reina Sofia Museum, as it has been incorporated as one of its venues.

https://www.esmadrid.com/informacion-turistica/palacio-de-cristal

Finally, we’d like to remind you that if you’re traveling through Madrid and don’t know where to exchange currency, we recommend that you visit one of our offices, since it’s important to avoid exchanging money at airports and hotels. It may seem much more convenient and faster, but their exchange rates are usually above average, and you’ll end up losing money.
Don’t worry! Money Exchange has more than 30 locations where you can exchange currency easily and at some of the best exchange rates—and with NO COMMISSIONS. We make it easy for you so that your trip and exploration of Madrid are as comfortable as possible.
You can also make your reservation on our website, where you’ll see the exchange rate upfront—no surprises.