Must Visit Attractions In Madrid: Exploring The Spanish Capital In 24 Hours
Despite being the beautiful and bustling capital of Spain, Madrid is a city whose hotspots and must-visit attractions can be explored in just 24 hours – which is perfect if you want to use the destination as a gateway to the rest of the country!
From grand palaces and iconic squares to world-class stadiums and lush parks, Madrid’s charm lies in its ability to captivate visitors with its energy and culture so you will be kept busy and ready to gorge yourself on tapas when mealtimes arrive. ¡Feliz viaje!
Travel and Accommodation In Madrid
Madrid is served by incredible transport systems. Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport is only 30 minutes from the centre while Atocha Station and the excellent rail network makes getting in and around the city a breeze.
Remember that you must buy a metro card at any station to ride the trains.
For accommodation, staying near Puerta del Sol or Gran Vía is ideal for a short trip as it provides easy access to the must-visit attractions on this list. Some of the best include:
- Room Mate Óscar Hotel and Gran Hotel Inglés (luxury)
- Sleep’n Atocha and Catalonia Las Cortes (mid-range)
- Hostal Central Palace (budget)
Must Visit Attractions In Madrid
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Frankly, I’m surprised more travel guides don’t have this at the top of their must-visit attractions list for Madrid, but whether you support Real Madrid or not, strolling through the Santiago Bernabéu is the city’s highlight for any football fan. From what feels like endless rows of trophy displays and interesting interactive exhibits spending a few hours here offers a deep dive into how much the club have contributed to the beautiful game. Extra points if you plan your trip around an El Classico – that’s when you really get to immerse in one of the most important nights in Spain.
Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor
Every European city has a place that feels crowded and cosy all at one go, and in Madrid, this is it. These historic squares surrounded by elegant buildings are perfect for soaking up the city’s atmosphere and kicking back with some sangria or grabbing a quick coffee. Plaza Mayor, in particular, was once a site for markets and bullfights, but today it’s a vibrant space for dining.
Royal Palace of Madrid
The Royal Palace of Madrid is not only one of Europe’s most impressive (and largest functioning) royal residences but also a symbol of Madrid’s history and opulence, with its richly decorated interiors and sprawling gardens. A guided tour provides fascinating insights into Spanish royalty and the architectural marvels of the palace – but it’s just as fun to explore on your own and soak up the sights at your own pace.
The changing of the guard happens every Wednesday and Saturday, with the grander spectacle – the Solemn Changing of the Guard – taking place every first Wednesday of the month, showcasing a parade of horses and the Spanish Royal Guard as performed during the time of King Alfonso XII.
Retiro Park
Escape the football mania and crowded streets at Retiro Park, a tranquil green oasis in the heart of Madrid. Within its expansive 118 hectares, the park offers plenty to see and do, from the serene lake and the enchanting Crystal Palace to picturesque walking paths and sculptures. It’s a perfect spot to relax and recharge before your next adventure.
Las Ventas Bullring
Visiting Las Ventas Bullring is a unique and must-visit attraction in Madrid, offering a glimpse into one of Spain’s most iconic traditions: bullfighting. Opened in 1931, this stunning neomudéjar-style stadium is one of the largest bullrings in the world and stands as a symbol of Spain’s cultural heritage. While the controversial sport is not for everyone, a visit to Las Ventas provides a fascinating insight into its history as you take a self-guided tour of the bullring’s stunning architecture and museum showcasing artefacts and exhibits about the centuries-old bullfighting world.
Whether you choose to attend a bullfight during the season or simply admire the structure and learn about its significance, Las Ventas is a must-visit for anyone interested in Spain’s unique cultural traditions.
The Egyptian Temple In Madrid a.k.a Templo de Debod
While it’s popularity is growing, this attraction remains fairly hidden from many tourists and is a beloved sunset point for locals. Dedicated to the goddess Isis and the god Amun, this 2nd-century relic was the Egyptian government’s token of gratitude to Spain for helping restore the temples of Abu Simbel and now stands proudly in Madrid’s Cuartel de la Montaña Park. It boasts some of the best panoramic views of western Madrid and is a sight to behold when sun rays hit the walls and reflect off the surrounding pools at golden hour.
El Rastro Flea Market
From 9am to 3pm every Sunday and on public holidays, you can take part in a 400-year-old shopping tradition at El Rastro flea market, which stretches along the neighbourhoods of Plaza de Cascorro, La Ribera de Curtidores and Ronda de Toledo and features a labyrinth of open-air stalls peddling clothes, souvenirs, handicrafts, antiques and so much more.
Average Cost For 24 Hours In Madrid Per Person
Transport: £20
Accommodation: £75 (£150 per double)
Attractions: £100
Food and amenities: £80
Practical Information About Madrid
Location: Spain, Europe
National Language: Spanish
Currency: Euro
Neighbouring Countries: Portugal, France, Andorra