TOP 20 places you should see in Madrid

One of the most pressing issues that haunt the tourist is what sights to see so that it is interesting, informative and what to remember after the trip. That's why TripMyDream decided to take the worry out of it and put together a list of 20 must-see places in Madrid so you won't miss anything.

1. Prado Museum

It is worth starting your visit to the Spanish capital with a visit to one of the most famous museums not only in the country, but also in the world - the Prado. This treasury contains a colossal collection of over 6 thousand paintings, over 400 sculptures, as well as various jewelry.

1 /1

What to do in Madrid, in Prado you can see the works of such famous Spanish masters as Goya, Velasquez and El Greco, as well as paintings by Italian and Dutch painters: Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, Rubens, Van Dyck and others.

Address: Paseo del Prado

Working hours: daily, except Sunday, from 10:00 to 20:00. Sunday and holidays - from 10:00 to 19:00. January 1, May 1 and December 25 are days off. On December 24 and 31, as well as on January 6, the museum is open from 10:00 to 14:00.

Ticket price- €14. For pensioners over 65, members of large families and youth card holders - €7. For children under 18 years old, students (18-25 years old) and people with disabilities, admission is free. You can enter the museum for free on Sundays and two hours before closing.

LIFE HACK: You can save a lot if you buy a Paseo del Arte card: it allows you to visit the three largest museums in Madrid - the Prado, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and the Reina Sofia Museum - with a 20% discount on tickets. Moreover, the card is valid for a year from the date of purchase.

You can learn more about famous canvases and understand the schools of painting on an excursion.

In Reina Sofia, unlike the pompous and traditional Prado, you can get acquainted with the history of art from the twentieth century to the present. In particular, the museum presents an extensive collection of works by avant-garde artists (Juan Gris, Picasso) and surrealists (Dali, Miro, Magritte). It is here that you can see the famous "Guernica" by Pablo Picasso.

1 /1

Address: Santa Isabel street, 52. The building is located next to the Atocha train station (walkable). You can also get there by metro (line 1 and 3, Atocha and Lavapies stations, respectively) or by bus.

Working hours: the arts center is open Monday and Wednesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 21:00.

Ticket price- €8, for temporary exhibitions - €4.

3. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Together with the Prado and the Reina Sofia Center, this museum is part of the so-called "Golden Triangle of Arts" - a small area in which various museums of the capital are concentrated.

In the museum, you can easily “get lost” for several hours, looking at the collection of paintings collected here, because it covers a period of 800 years! Here you can find paintings of all trends and styles: Picasso, Chagall, Kandinsky and Dali, as well as amazing works by Italian masters of the 13th-14th centuries. Everyone will find something to their liking: Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Impressionism and Post-Impressionism - the diversity of the collection will not leave anyone indifferent.

Address: Paseo del Prado, 8 (next to Banco de Espana metro station, line 2).

Ticket price- €10, for preferential categories of visitors - €7.

Working hours: permanent collection - from 12:00 to 16:00 on Monday and from 10:00 to 19:00 on other days. The opening hours of temporary exhibitions are always different, so you should check it on the museum website.

How to get there: you can get to the museum, except for the metro, by bus (№1, 2, 5, 9, 10, 14, 15, 20, 27, 34, 37, 41, 51-53, 74, 150)

Like many royal residences in Europe, today the Royal Palace is used only for official events, and the rest of the time it is open to tourists and guests. The building is beautiful in itself, but inside it impresses with exquisite interiors and a rich collection of works of art. In addition, the palace houses a museum and an observation deck with a magnificent view of the city.

1 /1

Address: Calle de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid.

Working hours: you can see how the Spanish monarchs lived daily from 09:30 to 17:00 (October - March) and from 09:00 to 18:00 (April - September).

Entrance ticket price– €10 (adult) and €5 (child).

What to see in Madrid? Of course, the main city square. One of the most beautiful squares in Madrid and the starting point for sightseeing, the Plaza Mayor attracts tourists for a reason. The square is surrounded around the perimeter by old houses with balconies, from where, in the old days, nobles and royalty watched the performances. In one of these houses, the former bakery Casa de la Panaderia in the northern part of the square, today you can go to admire the beautiful frescoes and medieval interior. The lodge is open every day from 11:00 to 14:00 and from 17:00 to 20:00.

1 /1

Plaza Mayor is especially beautiful in the evening, when the lights of numerous cafes under the arches and fancy lanterns on the square itself are lit. The square is easily reached on foot from Atocha train station in 15-20 minutes.

Another pearl of Madrid, which is simply a sin to miss. The name of the square was given by the sculpture of the goddess Cybele, which adorns the fountain located here (literally, Plaza de la Cibeles is translated as “Cybele Square”).

1 /1

The square is decorated with an ensemble of beautiful buildings: the Bank of Spain, the palaces of Linares and Buenavista, but the Cibeles Palace shines brightest of all. Built in the Art Nouveau style, this snow-white handsome man with graceful turrets looks like an ivory or pearl sculpture, especially if you come here in the evening when the palace is beautifully lit.

How to get there: you can get to the square from the Atocha station by bus number 10 (in the direction of Cibeles) and get off at the stop of the same name. Or walk for 20-30 minutes (a good way to see the city "live", and not from the window of transport).

If time permits, you should set aside a day and go to Escorial. Tourists are mainly attracted here not only by the palace itself, but also by the magnificent monastery of the 16th century, San Lorenzo del Escorial.

1 /1

The palace impresses with its size and slightly gloomy, restrained beauty, which makes it look more like a fortress than a traditional royal residence. There are two museums in Escorial: one is devoted to the history of the construction of the palace, and the other presents works of art of the 15th-17th centuries collected by the Spanish monarchs.

Address: Av Juan de Borbón y Battemberg

Working hours: from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00 (October - March) and from 10:00 to 20:00 (April - September).

Entrance ticket price- €10 and €5 (preferential). Free entry for children under 5 and persons with disabilities (upon presentation of supporting documents), as well as May 18 (Museum Day) and October 12. Also, admission is free on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 15:00 to 18:00 (October-March) and from 17:00 to 20:00 (April-September) and for those with a work permit in EU countries.

The most convenient way to get to Escorial from Madrid is in about 1.5 hours by train. To do this, at the Atocha station, take the C2 train (direction Chamartin) and get off at the final station. From there, change to C8 (direction El Escorial) and go to the terminus. The round trip will cost €16.

The capital is known not only for its majestic palaces and beautiful squares, but also for its beautiful cathedrals. One of these is the Almudena Cathedral.

Although the cathedral is relatively young (built in the 20th century), nevertheless, its beauty is not inferior to the capital's "veterans" like the Cathedral of St. Francis. The interior of the temple is designed in the traditional Gothic style, with an abundance of arched windows and stained-glass windows, which is why the inside is filled with light.

1 /1

Address: Calle de Bailen, 10

Working hours: in July-August from 10:00 to 21:00, the rest of the time - from 09:00 to 20:30.

Free admission.

How to get there? You can get to the cathedral by bus number 3, 39 and 148 from the Opera metro station.

9. Crystal Palace

This marvel of architectural thought is located in the Retiro Park, in the very center of Madrid. Built of metal and glass, the palace looks like a huge diamond shining in the sun. Inside there is an artificial lake with a staircase descending directly into the water, tropical plants and flowers are planted.

1 /1

Address: Paseo Republica de Cuba, 4

Working hours: The palace is open from Monday to Saturday from 11:00 to 20:00. Saturday - from 11 to 18:00. Free admission.

10. Buen Retiro City Park

If the sights of Madrid tire you, and you want to take a break from the noise of the streets and crowds of tourists in museums and palaces, you are welcome to the city park Buen Retiro. Located in the center of Madrid, this green oasis is the perfect place to rejuvenate and take a refreshing walk.

Here you can leisurely walk along the winding chestnut alleys, sit in the shade by the pond or look at the glass palace - in the evening in the light of the lights it's just a magical sight! And you can come here for the whole day and have a picnic (special places are equipped for this in the park).

How to get there? The Buen Retiro Park is located just behind the Prado Museum. The metro can be reached on the red line number 2, the station "Retiro".

This monastery, which is located on the Plaza de las Descalzas, should definitely be included in your tourist itinerary for any visitor to Madrid.

The monastery, whose name translates as "the monastery of barefoot princesses", was founded in 1559 by Infanta Juana of Austria and is famous not only for its impressive interior decoration, but also for its rich collection of art objects. What is art, you ask?

The thing is that this institution mainly accepted women of noble Spanish families and even royal blood, and each brought her dowry as a gift to the monastery. So a whole collection has gathered over the years, it’s not for nothing that Descalzas Reales was at one time the richest monastery in Europe!

1 /1

Today it looks more like a museum where visitors can see the works of Caravaggio, Rubens, Titian and other masters, as well as amazing tapestries, marble sculptures and a collection of silverware.

You can get here on foot from Atocha station in half an hour. This option is convenient not only because you save on transport, but you can also look at Plaza Major, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Descalzas and Plaza de San Martin along the way.

Address: Plaza de las Descalzas

Working hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 18:30. Sunday and holidays - from 10:00 to 15:00.

Ticket price– €6 (children under 5 years old - free of charge). It is worth considering that only guided tours are conducted in the monastery (groups of 20 people) and only in Spanish. The tour lasts about 45 minutes, so it's best to come here early to see everything.

If you think visiting temples is boring, then a visit to the Royal Cathedral of St. Francis will surely dissuade you from this.

In addition to the rich decoration and majestic interior (and how, after all - royal!), The cathedral is known for its impressive dome: with a height of 58 meters and a diameter of 33 meters, it is the largest in Spain. Another pride is the seven chapels painted by great masters such as Goya and Zurbarana.

1 /1

Working hours: Tuesday to Friday from 11:00 to 12:30 and from 16:00 to 18:30. Saturday - from 11:00 to 13:30.

Ticket price – €3.

How to get there? You can get there by metro (line 5, La Latina and Puerta de Toledo stations) or by bus (№3, 17, 18, 23, 31, 35, 36, 41, 50, 60, 65, 148, 749, C1, C2 ).

13. Temple of Debod

Did you know that in Madrid you can see a real ancient Egyptian temple? And for this you don’t have to step into another museum at all. The temple is located in the Del Oste park, so its visit can be combined with a walk in nature. It was a gift from Egypt to Spain for help in saving the temples from flooding.

1 /1

Working hours: You can look into the Egyptian shrine completely free of charge from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 20:00.

The temple and park are within walking distance of the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral.

Tip: the temple looks especially beautiful in the evening, when the lights turn on.

14. Casa de Campo Park

The locals call this green giant the "lungs of Madrid". Formerly a royal hunting ground, today the park is a favorite vacation spot for residents and guests of the capital. Here you can not only take a walk in the shade of the alleys, but also go to the zoo, ride the funicular or rides, and also have a picnic in the shade by the lake. In short, a great place to relax and unwind for the whole day.

The park can be reached by metro (Lago station on the blue line 10 or "Alto de Extremadura" on the gray line 6).

Right in the center of Madrid, there is an excellent place to relax and connect with nature. This, of course, is about the Royal Botanic Gardens. There are samples of flora from all over Spain, as well as from Europe and the Pacific Islands, there are greenhouses.

1 /1

Once here, you can safely “disconnect” from the hustle and bustle of the big city and enjoy the silence and amazing splendor of the plants collected here: birches, cedars, palm trees and a sea of ​​various flowers of all varieties and colors! And at the exit, you can buy fresh flowers or seeds to bring a piece of Madrid with you as a keepsake.

In addition to the fact that Madrid is actually the center of Spain, this city is also famous for its bloody "spectacle" - bullfighting. We offer you to get acquainted with the main sights of Madrid. Full of energy, culture, history and interesting landmarks, Madrid is a modern capital that allows you to fully experience the taste of real Spain. Wide avenues are crowded with tourists, and green parks harmoniously smooth out urbanization. Madrid doesn't have the traditional charm of Andalusia, or the beauty of Barcelona - instead, the city offers an immersive atmosphere. The city is constantly buzzing and in action.

Numerous art museums and monuments keep guests entertained for a siesta break. The world-class Prado Museum showcases an endless collection of masterpieces created during Spain's Golden Age. Madrid really wakes up in the evening, when the city's residents take to the streets en masse. An evening walk is a cherished ritual of the people of Madrid. If you have such an opportunity, try not to visit the capital of Spain during the summer, when there is an abnormal heat. Spring or autumn are the best times to appreciate the sights of Madrid.

Royal Palace

The most monumental building in Madrid is, of course, the Royal Palace, which once housed the Spanish monarchs. This building impresses not only with its size, but also with the elegance with which all its facades and interiors are finished, and the interior of the palace is generally considered one of the most beautiful in Europe!

Among the attractions of Madrid, the Royal Palace deserves special attention. This grandiose complex is the Spanish version of Versailles, designed to impress the world community. Built of granite and white Colmenara stone, the palace rises on a hillside overlooking lush green gardens. The royal complex was built for Philip V in the 18th century. The majestic neoclassical columns along the façade and Doric pilasters with designs by the sculptor Bernini were originally intended for the Louvre in Paris. There are also statues of Spanish kings on the balustrade.


The most striking feature of the interior is the imposing entrance hallway frescoed with "The Triumph of Religion and Church". The chambers of King Charles III are considered one of the most beautiful rooms in the Royal Palace, with Rococo masterpieces, Chinese antiques, chic marble floors and silk wall hangings. The Salon del Trono (Throne Room) is decorated with frescoes by Tiepolo, including The Majesty of the Spanish Monarchy, one of his finest works. Still used for state ceremonies, the Throne Room is clad in sumptuous red velvet and adorned with valuable tapestries, mirrors, furniture and chandeliers. All the walls of the palace are decorated with masterpieces: paintings by Velasquez, Goya, Rubens, El Greco and Caravaggio, as well as elegant Flemish and French tapestries. History buffs will want to visit the Royal Armoury, which contains 3,000 artifacts from the 16th century.

Madrid Escorial

Another amazing attraction of Madrid is the famous El Escorial, which many consider one of the architectural wonders of the world!

Cibeles Fountain

On Cibeles Square - the most famous square in Madrid, considered one of the most beautiful squares in the world - there is the Cibeles Fountain of the same name, which is the center of the celebrations of all the triumphs of Real Madrid. The sights of Madrid are not only museums, as it might seem to someone. The Cibeles Fountain is located in the most crowded place in the city and is one of the most emblematic monuments of Madrid. Built in 1782 by Francisco Gutierrez and Roberto Mechel, the impressive fountain features the Roman goddess Sibel riding a lion-drawn carriage. Behind the fountain is the Palacio de Cibeles cultural center, which hosts art exhibitions and workshops, conferences and concerts. It also has two restaurants and is close to one of Madrid's most popular shopping streets, the Gran Vía, with an excellent selection of cafes, hotels and theatres. Near the Gran Via is the famous Teatro de la Zarzuela, where you can watch the zarzuela, a unique type of satirical opera with songs accompanied by classical Spanish guitar music.

Another amazing modern landmark of Madrid is the so-called "Gateway to Europe" - two tilted skyscrapers, like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, facing each other.

Cathedral of Almudena

The most beautiful spiritual building in Madrid is the Almudena Cathedral, with the appearance of which an interesting story is connected.

Madrid bullfight

Speaking of Madrid, of course, we must not forget about the main entertainment of the local population - bullfighting, which many guests of the city simply do not understand.

Prado Museum

The main attraction of Madrid is the Prado Museum. Its world-class display contains over 5,000 paintings, rivaling the Louvre in Paris. It features mainly Spanish artists from the 12th century to the early 19th century, with many famous masterpieces of art. The Francisco Goya collection alone includes 140 works. The Prado Museum also covers Italian, Flemish, French, British, and German styles, as well as neoclassical Italian sculpture.


In more than 100 rooms on three floors, approximately 2,300 works are permanently displayed. Trying to see it all in one visit is unlikely to succeed, but if you focus on a certain route, then nothing is impossible. Prado offers special "routes" (self-guided tours) for certain works. These itineraries showcase the most famous pieces of the collection, including Velázquez's magnificent portrait of the Spanish royal family Felipe IV in 1656. Visitors can also use the museum's audio guide, which includes a tour of the museum's 50 masterpieces. The most die-hard art lovers can choose the full version of the tour, covering 250 works. After the tour, it is worth visiting the museum's souvenir shop and a cafe with a pleasant outdoor terrace. In collaboration with the Prado, the church of San Geronimo El Real at the back of the museum displays a remarkable set of 17th-century Spanish religious paintings.

Plaza Mayor

This graceful 17th century square was created during the reign of Philip III. The Plaza Mayor was the center of commerce and municipal life in Madrid, and the scene of ceremonial events including the proclamation of a new king and the canonization of saints. The square also served as a venue for bullfights, theatrical performances and noble tournaments. Today, the Plaza Mayor continues to be an important gathering place in Madrid. The cobbled pedestrian zone with many street cafes is quite popular with both tourists and Madrid residents. Restaurants offer a traditional atmosphere and local cuisine. On each side of the square are passages connecting it with the main streets of Madrid.

Puerta del Sol: Center of Madrid

Puerta del Sol was named after the emblem of the sun on the old city gate, located here earlier. This spacious city square is brightly lit by the rising sun. As a public transport hub (with several bus stops and Metro entrances), Puerta del Sol is also the "Kilometer Zero" from which all distances of the Spanish national road network are measured.


The Puerta del Sol has been the scene of many historical events, including the Spanish resistance to Napoleon on May 2nd, 1808, and the declaration of the second republic in 1931. Nowadays, it's just a great Madrid landmark to walk around and enjoy life. With a number of shops and cafes, Puerta del Sol is considered one of the liveliest squares in Madrid. Next to Puerta del Sol is Madrid's largest department store, El Corte Ingles, where you can shop. Also nearby is La Violeta, an old-fashioned patisserie that sells Madrid's traditional delicacy, purple lollipops.

Buen Retiro Park

The Buen Retiro Park is an oasis of peace in the middle of Madrid. Set back from busy streets, the 120-hectare park offers a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Buen Retiro was created for the Count-Duke of Olivares in the 17th century. From the main entrance on Independence Square, visitors get to the pool in the center of the park. From here, paths lead to a charming rose garden and a French garden. The Crystal Palace with its picturesque fountain is a magnificent attraction of the park. Visitors will also find other interesting fountains here, including Los Galapagos (Turtle Fountain), Fallen Angel, and La Alcajofa.


Here you are guaranteed a pleasant pastime among the locals, and in one of the outdoor cafes of the park you can have a coffee or a cold drink. The park also has an observatory, which was established in 1790. Near the Retiro Park is the most unusual pastry shop in Madrid Pastelera Vait, which offers delicious cakes, cookies, pastries, chocolates and hot chocolate. The Retiro Park is also in the Top 10 places to visit in Madrid.

Archaeological Museum of Madrid

The National Archaeological Museum is the most important museum in Madrid after the Prado. It was founded by Queen Isabella II in 1867 and has a rich collection of artefacts from prehistoric times to the 19th century. Archaeological finds are presented at exhibitions of ethnography, decorative arts of antiquity and ancient coins. The permanent collection includes exhibits from various periods from around the world - Egyptian mummies, Hispano-Roman art, Islamic archeology and Mudéjar pottery. The museum's library contains publications on art, history and archeology.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum presents an overview of European art from the 13th century to the end of the 20th century. Over 1,000 artworks on display cover the Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Romanticism, Impressionism, Fauvism, Expressionism, Modern Art and Pop Art periods. The museum also has an excellent collection of 19th century American art. This high caliber collection includes famous masterpieces: Rubens' Goddess and Cupid, El Greco's Annunciation, Albrecht Dürer's Jesus among the Physicians, Edward Degas' Dancer in Green and Vincent van Gogh's Les Vessenots. This is a less visited tourist attraction in Madrid, but no less interesting and exciting.

Modern Art Museum

Opened by Queen Sofia in 1986, the Reina Sofia Art Center is Madrid's avant-garde contemporary art museum. The sleek, modern building was designed by architect Antonio Alba and is reminiscent of the Pompidou Center in Paris, with three glass towers for elevators and a charming courtyard garden filled with all sorts of sculptures. The Spanish contemporary art collection includes outstanding masterpieces such as works by Joan Miro, Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí. The artworks are spread across different rooms in a vast exhibition space of 39,000 square meters. The museum also has a bookstore, cafeteria and restaurant.

Chapel of St. Anthony of Florida

Along the banks of the Manzanares River lies the Chapel of Saint Anthony of Florida, an important historical pilgrimage site and a popular tourist attraction in Madrid. This church still holds an annual festival in honor of Saint Anthony. Connoisseurs of Francisco Goya's work will be happy to see his frescoes here. The interior of the chapel is decorated with some of his finest work. The frescoes illustrate the theme of the miracle performed by Saint Anthony of Florida, as well as scenes from everyday life in Madrid. The master painted them at a turning point in his career before becoming a forerunner of modern art. The chapel is a national monument and is no longer used for religious services to protect the frescoes.

Basilica of San Francisco

The Basilica of San Francisco el Grande was created in 1761 for a Franciscan friary. The church was designed by Frei Francisco Caberas, who modeled the architectural plan for the Church of Santa Maria in Rome. The neoclassical façade and dome were added in 1770. The interior is dominated by a circular plan with an inspiring dome and six chapels. The chapels are covered in frescoes by Velazquez and Goya, and the church museum displays many religious art and artifacts.

Lazaro Galdiano Museum

The Lazaro Galdiano Museum displays the exceptional private collection of the financier Galdiano, housed in his Parque Florido mansion. The museum's collection comprises approximately 9,000 artworks housed in 30 rooms. From armor, coins and medals to jewels, baroque crystal and tapestries, the display is extremely varied. Be sure to check out a series of works by Spanish artists from the 16th to 17th century including El Greco, Goya, Velasquez, Murillo and many more. Among the masterpieces of the museum there are really unique things. Address: 122 Calle de Serrano, Madrid

Temple of Debod

Located in La Montana Park, the Temple of Debod is the most unique landmark in Madrid. This is an ancient Egyptian temple located in the middle of a modern city. A gift from Egypt, the Temple of Debod was moved to Madrid in 1968. The temple was created for King Adihalamani in the 2nd century BC and includes several shrines with a terrace on the upper level. The temple decoration is well preserved, and the gardens surrounding Debod with a pool and fountains create a magical calming effect.

Sorolla Museum

This charming museum is entirely dedicated to the work of Joaquín Sorolla, Spain's most famous Impressionist painter. Its beautiful bright rooms display a wide range of paintings and drawings by the artist. Be sure to check out the museum's lovely patio with its gurgling Andalusian-style fountain and decorative mosaics.

Gate of Alcala

The Alcala Gate is the main monument to the Spanish monarchs and one of the most recognizable landmarks in Madrid. This neoclassical triumphal arch was built by King Carlos III to celebrate the arrival of the monarchs in the Spanish capital. The monument was designed by Francesco Sabatini and erected between 1769 and 1778. The 30 meter graceful granite monument makes an amazing impression. The facade of the Alcala Gate is decorated with sculptures and decorative reliefs.

September 19, 2012 at 02:59:3 PM| Categories: Places , Travel , Photo , Architecture

Articles in this place:

Madrid is a historic city in Spain, which harmoniously combines the sights of medieval and modern architecture. Tourist routes through its memorable places will delight even the most captious guest.

The location of the Spanish capital is the central part of the Iberian Peninsula. The administrative center is characterized by a continental mountain climate with strong winds that bring cold air in winter from the Sierra de Guadarrama. It is hot in summer, but very comfortable in spring and autumn. The center occupies 607 km2, rising 646 m above sea level, and is divided into 21 districts.

Madrid (sights and the route through them will appeal even to sophisticated tourists) is a world-class city with a great cultural heritage, a bit similar to Paris, Rome and Barcelona:

• majestic buildings;
• park areas;
• museums with unique masterpieces of art;
• a large number of shops.

At night, no one falls asleep here, the city continues to sing, walk, dance incendiary in clubs and bars.

Best time to visit

It is better to walk around Madrid in autumn or spring, in summer there is a lot of scorching sun, heat and stuffiness. In winter, the Spanish city will be chilly due to the coolness and constant rains. In comfortable weather conditions, it is pleasant to stroll through unique sights, recreation areas, make purchases in well-known shopping places (Gran Via, Chueca, Calle Toledo, El Rastro, El Mercado de San Miguel).

How to get to Madrid. The cost of travel

Coming to a European city is not difficult. You can get to the Spanish capital by car and bus, as well as fly on international airlines, the airport is only 13 km from the center, where express buses run constantly. The ticket costs 5 €, the final destination is the railway station.

The same way, in a comfortable taxi, will cost 6 times more. 10 minutes from the first terminal of the airport is the 5th line of the green metro line, the train will quickly take you to the center. It is convenient that the tickets for both the bus and the metro are identical, the price is 1.5 - 2 €, depending on how many stations you need to pass (5 or 10).

Train service is another option for traveling in Spain. Europe is linked to Madrid and easily accessible from Paris, Barcelona, ​​Valencia, Milan and Lisbon.

Things to do in Madrid

Acquaintance with the city cannot take place without a gastronomic tour of restaurants. Traditional national cuisine is considered cosmopolitan, in the capital you can try dishes from all regions of Spain, also, for tourists, there are: oriental cuisine, Turkish eateries and fusion cuisine.

Traditional dishes of Catalonia:

• Galician Albariño and Ribeiro;
• Andalusian sherry;
• Catalan wine cava;
• Asturian cider.

Flamenco and bullfighting are tourist attractions in Madrid. In Corral de Moreira, the spiritual home of flamenco, the most beautiful dance show has been created for half a century. Similar performances can be seen in Las Carboneras, but it is recommended to buy tickets in advance, as well as confirm a table reservation.

Arena Toros-Monumental de las Ventas every Sunday from May to October offers to watch the best bullfighters in the country. Tickets from 3€ to 150€ are purchased online. It should be borne in mind that the allowable age is from 14 years old, if the children do not pass the age restrictions, a compromise option is the bullfighting museum, a tour of the largest arena in Spain, the cost is 10 €.

shopping

Tourists who are in the mood for successful purchases most often start with souvenirs. Many stop their views on the purchase of football paraphernalia: T-shirts, balls, figurines. The female half often purchases lace (from 30 €) and fans (from 5 €). Not uncommon - porcelain, which is highly valued in any country, as well as Spanish cosmetics, not inferior to Italian and French, based on olive oil.

Local products - another souvenir option:

Madrid, like other major cities, is famous not only for its sights, but also for shopping centers, walking routes along which are included in all excursions.

As well as shopping areas with numerous antique and jewelry stores:

1. Salamanca (Sol-Salamanca);
2. Cuatro Caminos;
3. Gran Via;
4. Argüelles;
5. Barquillo.

For unusual things, tourists go to the Rastro flea market, where you can find:

• National costumes;
• decorations;
• basketry;
• ceramics;
• dishes.

He works from morning to 3 in the afternoon.

For shopping to be successful, you need to remember:

1. Shops are open from 8 am to 8 pm. Lunch from 14.00-17.00. Shopping centers are open without interruption.
2. The best option is to come during the season of discounts and sales (after Christmas and before March, from July to early September).
3. It is not customary to ask for a discount in souvenir shops, but this does not apply to flea markets and food markets.

Food and drink

Madrid is popular with tourists for its mouth-watering Spanish cuisine. The area where the best tapas bars are located is the La Latina quarter. You can try chocolate from famous Spanish chocolatiers in San Gines and Valor. There is an opinion that you can’t go to Spain and not try the famous jamon, there are 2 types that differ in price and quality: Iberico and Serrano.

A tourist can dine in the oldest restaurant in the world - Casa Botin, where a dish costs from 25 €, after tasting lamb and suckling pig. Beer lovers are advised to visit the brewery "100 Montadios".

Here, with a glass of beer, they offer a choice of more than 100 variations of sandwiches from 2 €. Connoisseurs of restaurant chic are welcome at Ramses, where an unforgettable decor, together with an excellent menu, as well as surprises in the form of non-standard design of chairs and toilets, will not leave you indifferent.

Sights of Madrid. What to see on your own in 1-2 days

Connoisseurs of ancient and modern art can visit many of the famous monuments and museums in a day, or continue exploring for more days. You should start with Puerta del Sol - the square, the second name of which is the "Gate of the Sun", is considered the radial center of Spanish roads.

If you move along the main street of Calle Mayor, you will soon find yourself on Placa Mayor - the second main square, here stands the Baker's House, the monument of Philip 3, the Butcher's House. In summer, the Spanish Square is converted into a theater and music venues, hosts book fairs, and in winter - Christmas markets. Nearby is located the oldest market Mercado de San Miguel.

Continuing along Calle Mayor, you can see the Cathedral of Almudena, from the dome of which offers a unique view of the mountain range and the city landscape. Radom is the Royal Palace, which began to be built in 1737.

Walking along Calle de Bailen, Oriente Square and the Royal Theater located on it with statues of the kings of Spain open up. The next square along the way is no less interesting, here is a monument to Cervantes, the official name of which is the “Fountain of Literature”.

The first day of a walk around Madrid will be completed by Debod Park with an ancient Egyptian temple brought in 1968. In the evening, it looks especially beautiful and mysterious.

Madrid (attractions with a route for tourists, calculated for 1 day is listed above) deserves to be given a little more time to its architectural monuments. The second day the tourist can devote to museums.

It is recommended to start the tour from the famous Prado City Museum, where the works of European artists are placed, to continue acquaintance at the Reina Sofia Art Center, where avant-garde art objects are exhibited. In the Thyssen-Bornemisza museum complex, guides will tell you about the history of the development of Spanish navigation.

• Botanical Royal Garden;
• the entertainment center Cacha de Campo, which has an aquarium and an amusement park;
• Museum of America.

Royal Palace

The building of one of the main attractions of Madrid was built in the 18th century, it occupies 135,000 km2, in modern times ceremonial and official receptions are held here. In 2004, it celebrated the wedding of the heir to the royal family.

Versailles became the prototype: gray-blue facades, a harmonious architectural ensemble, and the interior decoration consists of marble and mahogany.

Inside you can observe a large number of paintings by Giacino and Tiepolo, frescoes by leading artists, as well as:

• front staircase;
• throne room;
• dining room;
• the Gasparini Hall;
• porcelain room.

To get to the Royal Palace, you need to take the metro to Opera, or use buses No. 3,39,148 or 25. Working hours from October to March from 10 am to 6 pm, from April to September - from 10:00 - 20:00. Entrance ticket (€):

Palace and Fountain of Cibeles

The junction of Paseo de Recoletos, Alcala and Paseo del Prado streets, where the fountain in honor of the goddess of nature is located, is one of the favorites among tourists. Here are the celebrations of the fans of the victorious matches of Real Madrid. Each of the 4 corners of the square are buildings of the late 18th - early 20th century.

Of particular note is the Cibeles Palace (Palacio de Cibeles) - formerly the Telecommunications Palace, built in 1918. The white building is reminiscent of a wedding cake. Its height is 40 m, its area is more than 12,000 km2. In 1993, it was included in the list of Spanish cultural heritage, after which it was reconstructed. You can enter the Palace for free from 10 am to 8 pm.

The tourist will be interested in:

• trading floor (reading room);
• "CentroCentro" (a venue for cultural events);
• exhibition halls.

"Gate of Europe"

The leaning 2 identical towers are the result of a complex architectural design by John Burgee and Philip Johnson. Their task was to make a creative design project, which they did, forgetting about right angles and typical designs. After government approval, the foundation stone was laid in 1989. The opening of the original twin buildings took place in 1996.

Today, these are the only inclined high-rise buildings in the world, which the Spaniards are very proud of. Each of the two 26-story buildings are directed towards each other by 15 degrees - this is 3 times more than the slope of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Gran Via street

This street is translated - "Big Road" and in absentia is considered the main avenue of Madrid.

It has been divided into 3 sections:

1. From Alcapa to Red de San Luis (there are houses with luxurious balconies and columns in the Neo-Renaissance style).
2. Before Callao (a mixture of American, French and modernist styles).
3. Ending with a square in American rationalism.

There are numerous well-known buildings, squares, cafes, bars, shops in Wol:

• Telefonika - the first urban skyscraper;
• bar "Chikote";
• area with 6 cinemas Plaza del Callao.

Plaza Mayor

The intersection of Calle de Toledo, Calle de Atocha and Calle Mayor is known by locals and tourists as a majestic, royal or folk square. Here, cafes and restaurants are open non-stop, street artists and musicians entertain visitors, merchants offer to buy souvenirs, stamps, coins.

The history of the Plaza Mayor dates back to the reign of King Enrique 2. The building of the royal bakery Casa de Panaderia entered the present with its original beauty, which since 1590 supplied the royal court with bread. The main function of this building is to hold important receptions. Later, the Academy of History, the Academy of Fine Arts were located here, today it is the city archive.

Puerta del Sol

"Zero km" - the point from where they begin to calculate the distance of Spanish roads. It is believed that if you enter which it is worth making a wish, it will certainly come true. Nearby is the symbol of the capital - a bear and a strawberry tree.

Nearby are the "gates of the Sun", previously an element of the wall of the ruined fortress. The semicircular square - Alcala, Mayor and San Jeronimo streets - is considered one of the important transport hubs of the city. Puerta del Sol has numerous trading places and cafes, souvenir shops and shops.

To get here, you can use public transport No. 26,16 and 3 or the metro (Puerta del Sol station).

Buen Retiro Park

Madrid, sights and itinerary for which you can develop yourself, is a green city with a lot of green areas.

One of these is the Buen Retiro Park, where there is something to be surprised at:

• channels;
• lake;
• bridges;
• monuments;
• flower beds;
• play areas;
• diversity of flora and fauna.

Local residents call the green zone, which occupies 1.4 km2, an object of cultural heritage. Previously, there were also chambers for turning to God, later - a luxurious palace.

After 1808 and the French attack, the building was completely destroyed, but the park, in 1869, was revived and opened to everyone. From the old building, only the dance-ball and ceremonial halls remained, where the Prado branch and the Spanish Army Museum are now located, respectively.

Casa de Campo park

Only in this park, guests of the Spanish capital will find a large number of original entertainments for children and their parents. On its opposite side there is a zoo with an aquarium - lovers of wildlife and the underwater world will like it. The modern amusement park has 48 attractions.

There are also numerous cafes and restaurants on the site, the space is divided into 5 zones:

1. Peace (Tranquilidad).
2. Machinery (Maquinismo).
3. Nature (Naturaleza).
4. Main street (Gran Avenida).
5. Children's zone (Infantil).

After the adrenaline received on the slides, you can relax and eat on the "main" street. If you want to be closer to nature, you should take food with you and organize a picnic on the grass.

Prado Museum

The building was built in the neoclassical style, designed by Juan de Villonueva, its construction lasted more than 2 decades and opened its doors in 1919. Initially, the collection included only 311 paintings by Spanish artists, but over time, the number increased to 5,000 paintings not only by local authors, but also by Italian and Flemish painters.

Gradually, the collection is supplemented by works by European authors. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm, on Sundays and holidays: from 10.00-19.00, the cost of a full ticket is 15 €, children under 18 and students can enter for free, pensioners ticket will cost 7.50 €. Convenient to get from the Atocha Banco de Espana station.

Reina Sofia Art Center

Connoisseurs of modern painting are recommended to visit the National Museum, which houses works by Picasso, Dali and Kandinsky. Together with the Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums, it forms the “golden triangle of arts”.

In 1986, the sculpture exhibition center was located here, later the building was rebuilt, and in 1988 it was given the status of National. The doors for tourists were opened in 1992, after 13 years 3 red buildings with glass elevators were added to the building.

The main exhibits belong to:

• Juan Gris;
• Joan Miro;
• Salvador Dali;
• Benjamin Palencia;
• Eduardo Arroyo;
• Eusebio Sempere.

The ticket price depends on the place of purchase.

On the website of the museum you can get information about the hours of free admission, usually weekdays from 7 to 9 pm.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

The gallery until the early 90s of the 20th century was the largest private collection. One of the components of the "golden triangle" offers its visitors the work of primitivists of Italian roots, as well as works of painters from Holland and Germany. Here you can find geometric abstraction, Russian constructivism and pop art.

The museum is located in the Villahermosa Palace - a 3-story building in red and white. Visitors can see the works of the great Van Gogh, Gauguin, Caravaggio.

In 2004, the museum was expanded by building an additional building. Now it’s hard for a tourist not to notice the elegant combination of an ancient palace and modern architecture.

The origins of the creation of the museum complex go deep into the late 19th century. It was August Thyssen who laid the foundation for a private collection, which his descendants continued to add to. After several generations of family heritage, several countries tried to get their hands on the unique collection.

The government received a small part of it, having acquired from the heirs, some copies were leased to the state for the exhibition.

Museum of America

In Madrid there is a place where there is a huge number of objects (more than 25,000) that allow you to find out the life of the Indians. The museum is very popular; the basis of the collected collection is made up of things from the pre-Columbian period.

It was the Spaniard Columbus who discovered America in 1492, and the Spanish colonization of the American continent continued until 1898.

In the Museum of America in Madrid, you can see many sights and artifacts brought by the colonists from America.

The museum has been open to the public since 1941; the current shelter was built in the neo-colonial style (American Baroque).

Thematic expositions available for review:

• knowledge and reality;
• religion and society;
• connections.

The most interesting products are:

• treasures of Quimbaya;
• silver vessels;
• a set of Maya breviaries;
• manuscripts;
• utensils of the Indians;
• mummy of an aborigine;
• gold items.

In addition, you can get acquainted with specimens of ethnographic and colonial type, soldier's weapons and robbers' carbines. The museum is open every day except Mondays. It costs 3 € to enter, preferential - 1.50 €, children and students visit for free.

National Library of Spain

The largest library institution previously consisted of private collections, but over time, the number of exhibits grew and the building could not accommodate the accumulated publications within its walls.

Planned the construction of a new building, now operating. Outwardly, the library resembles a palace crowned with figures of cultural figures. The hall surprises with exquisite decoration, all rooms are decorated with paintings and sculptures.

The space is divided into halls:

1. Chief (printed reproductions of the first books of Spain).
2. Goyas (unique photographs, drawings, book illustrations for atlases).
3. Cervantes (unique manuscripts, scientific treatises on the work of Spanish writers).
4. Barbir (information about music and musical instruments).

Lectures, exhibitions and seminars are often held here, which everyone can attend.

Royal Theater

The theater has been transformed, reconstructed and rebuilt more than once since 1708. It was opened in its present form in 1850. The first performance was staged by The Favorite, after which the theater developed and was held in high esteem. But, according to political convictions, parliamentary sessions were held here for some time.

Only in 1977, after the status of a historical monument, the theater began to follow its original purpose. Now there are 28 lodges, capacity - 1746 people. The premises in the building are decorated with monuments and canvases, the floors are covered with carpets.

Cathedral of Almudena

Locals say that the statue of Amulden was brought by the Apostle James in the 1st century. In turbulent times, the parishioners hid it so that when Madrid was recaptured from the Arabs, Alphonse 6 could not be found. And only years later, during one of the processions, stones broke off from the wall and the famous statue appeared.

The cathedral was created in the neo-Gothic style and dedicated to the Virgin Mary de la Almudena, the patroness of Madrid. Construction began in 1879 under the supervision of the architect Francisco de Cubas, but later the civil and world wars interfered, after which its construction was continued in 1950, and was consecrated only in 1993.

Escorial Monastery

There is a monumental building at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama. It was built in honor of success in the battle against the French. At the same time, both the house of the King of Spain (with a library and a pantheon) and the monastery remind of a great monarchy. The king's quarters are on the 3rd floor.

The escorial is a symbol of the "brazier" in which the saint was once burned alive.

The building includes:

• 300 cells;
• 16 patios;
• chapels;
• towers;
• over 80 stairs.

Here is a collection of 1600 works by painters of European origin, which Philip II began to collect.

Monastery of Descalzas Reales

The building is located on Puerta del Sol, the entrance ticket costs 6 euros. The second name of the monastery is “A Little Chronicle of Europe in the Times of the Habsburgs”. Visitors can feel compassion, fascination and wonder at the same time.

Descalzas Reales was founded in 1559 by Juana of Austria, who, after the death of her husband, decided to create a secluded monastery. After the monastery was ready, he accepted the girls of wealthy parents who ran away from home from obsessive unions of convenience. Young ladies came with gifts in the form of works of art. Gradually the monastery became an influential institution.

Today, 28 nuns live here.

Temple of Debod

The ancient Egyptian temple is located near the observation platform; the ruling circles of Egypt presented it as a sign of gratitude for saving the temples of Abu Simbel from flooding. From Plaza España, you can reach it in a few minutes on foot. The building was dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis.

Deboth sailed disassembled on a ship, and then was assembled in West Park. Doors for tourists were opened in 1972. The temple is open daily, except Monday, from 10 am to 8 pm. Admission is free for visitors.

Gate of Alcala

Previously, the road to Alcala de Henares passed here, the city gates performed only a symbolic function, and the fortress wall was destroyed. The construction of the gate lasted 14 years until 1778, Carlos 3 wanted to see a grandiose exit to the eastern city border.

The project was taken over by Francesco Sabatini, who had previously worked on the Royal Palace, the proposals of Ventura Rodriguez were rejected.

The neoclassical building consists of 3 archways with lion heads on the sides. The central span is decorated with 6 pilasters and 4 columns. The arch reaches 20 m. The inscription on it reads: "King Charles III, 1778". The sides are filled with statues of Arribas: Confidence and Courage, Justice and Wisdom.

Atocha train station

The history of the oldest railway station begins with the opening of the railway station in 1851 by the Queen. The composition went from Madrid to Aranjuez, where the royal house was located. Some time later, the station was on fire, in 1892 a new one was built: 2 pavilions with a wrought iron roof - a masterpiece of the 19th century. The reconstruction took place in 1992 before

Olympics, the old building became a place for retail outlets and cafes, and the platforms were moved. Under a canopy, a green area was organized with palm trees and tropical plants, turtles and birds.

At the station, a fortune-telling fair is held every week, everyone who wants to know his fate can come and tell fortunes on his hand, but it's not cheap. The railway station has become not only a functional place, but also a cultural center.

Arena Las Ventas

The largest bullfighting ground was erected in 1929 in the Mudéjar style. Nearby is the bullfighting museum, where you can get acquainted with the historical moments of famous fights for free, see the heads of bulls, costumes of bullfighters, posters from the past.

There are monuments on the square in honor of Sir Alexander Fleming, who discovered penicillin, as well as in memory of the bullfighter who lived in the 70s of the last century, who skillfully fought and beautifully stabbed the bull, but when he raised his hands up as a sign of the end of his career, the bull, miraculously turned out to be alive, pierced him with his horns. On the monument is engraved "torero died - an angel was born."

Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

A world-class sports ground - the second largest in Spain, for more than 65 years, the football field belongs to Real Madrid. Fans can live the day of their idol: look around in the locker room, sit on the football bench, get to know the 100-year history of the Madrid football club, which is displayed through the cups in the Trophy Hall.

When he headed the Bernabeu club, he decided that the players deserved a grandiose stadium, after which he laid the first stone in the construction, which lasted 2.5 years. On the opening day in 1947, there was a match between Spain and Portugal where the host Madrid won 3-1.

The stadium can accommodate 80,000 people, the European Cup final was held here, music concerts and mass events are organized.

The tour begins with a panoramic view, continues with a walk through the stands, visiting the locker rooms. At the end, when the opportunity arises to be on the playing field, everyone can feel what each of the players feels.

Flea market El Rastro

A large flea market in Europe with Spanish flavors gives tourists the opportunity to purchase everything from antiques to military paraphernalia. Such an assortment is not available in the most famous shopping centers: jewelry and clothes, records and stamps - everything that was stale in Spanish pantries. Here you can find valuable things. It is customary to bargain in the market, but it is recommended to be careful, pickpockets are operating.

The old market began its activity in the 16th century along Calle San Cayetano. But this place is not only for shopping, but also for walking. There is a theatrical atmosphere and cheerful fuss, music sounds. The market got its name from the word "rasto" - a trail, earlier animals were dragged along the street from the slaughterhouse, leaving a bloody trail. Times have changed, but the name remains.

San Miguel Market

An international place for buying and selling goods from foreign countries is famous for the fact that here you can find:

• black caviar;
• oysters from France;
• Galician seafood.

The building was erected in the 15th year of the last century in the form of metal structures. Stalls from two levels inside are finished with ceramic tiles, gas lamps are lit here in the cold season, and the counters have been transformed into tapas bars. The work is carried out around the clock, tourists do not leave San Miguel almost until the morning.

Warner Brothers Amusement Park

Madrid (the attractions, routes and places to stay described above in the article will help the tourist see all the most interesting, even if the trip is designed for 1-2 days) is a city of entertainment. The theme park about the heroes of films and cartoons of the film company (Tom and Jerry, Batman, Scooby-Doo) is located near the capital and is one of the most interesting.

There are several thematic areas:

• Hollywood boulevard;
• cartoon city;
• the world of superheroes;
• min film studio;
• Wild West.

Coming to Madrid with a child, it is worth allocating a whole day to visit the amusement park. Unforgettable impressions from colorful shows are guaranteed.

Excursions in Madrid: routes, prices

Madrid is a city for excursions, the sights here should be spent more than one day, the cost of routes with guides for tourists starts from 20 €.

Article formatting: Mila Fridan

Video about the sights of Madrid

TOP 10 attractions in Madrid:

Luxurious royal Madrid is one of the centers of European tourism. Millions of foreigners visit the city every year. The Spanish capital began to develop after the Bourbon dynasty ascended the throne in the 16th century. Then magnificent churches and palaces began to be built, monuments to the heroes of the nation were erected.

Walking along the Plaza Mayor and tasting tapas in the central market of San Miguel, you can feel the spirit of Madrid - strict, solemn and at the same time dynamic and looking to the future. The former greatness of the Spanish nation is carefully preserved in the treasures of the Prado Museum, sealed within the walls of the Palacio Real, immured in the stone pavement of Plaza del Sol.

A trip to the Spanish capital is a journey into the world of art, exquisite architecture and breathtaking gastronomy, as well as immersion in a vibrant and authentic culture.

The best hotels and hostels at affordable prices.

from 700 rubles/day

Where to go and what to see in Madrid?

The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.

1. Royal Palace

The real Spanish "Versailles", one of the most beautiful royal palaces in Europe, built in the 17th century. On the western side of the complex are the magnificent gardens of Campo del Moro. During the reign of the dictator Franco, the palace was nationalized, so the royal family no longer lives here, but only arranges official receptions. The rest of the building is open to tourists.

2. Cibeles Palace and Fountain

One of the main squares of the Spanish capital is the Plaza de Cibeles. There is a monumental fountain of the 18th century and a palace built in the early 20th century. Since 2007, the building has been the residence of the mayor of the city. In past centuries, the townspeople took drinking water from the fountain, and the palace building served as the main post office throughout the 20th century. Today, Plaza de Cibeles is a popular place for tourists and residents of Madrid.

3. "Gate of Europe"

Two skyscraper-towers on the Plaza de Castilla, built at an inclination of 15 ° to the surface of the base. The buildings were designed by American architects D. Burge and F. Johnson in 1996. The towers reach a height of 114 meters and contain 25 floors, private helipads are located on the roofs. This attraction has become a symbol of modern Madrid.

4. Gran Via

One of the main highways of the capital, as well as the main "walking street" for local residents. In the evenings, especially on weekends, hundreds of citizens come here for the famous Spanish "marcha" - a long walk from bar to bar (there are plenty of these establishments on Gran Via), during which you can chat, meet friends, drink a glass of wine and join the fun crowd of other idlers.

5. Plaza Mayor

The central square of Madrid, from where most of the famous tourist routes start. The Plaza Mayor appeared in the 17th century during the reign of Philip III. Since then, important state events have taken place here: executions, bullfights, coronations of Spanish kings, public holidays and formidable courts of the Inquisition. Nowadays, street artists, artists and curious onlookers gather on the square.

6. Puerta del Sol

The name of the place is translated from Spanish as the gate of the sun. Here is the famous symbol of Madrid - a bear propping up a strawberry tree. In the middle of the square there is a monument to Charles III. The Puerta del Sol is always full of people. Here, Christmas lottery sellers get lost in groups of Chinese tourists with huge cameras, and shopaholics run from one store to another in search of discounts.

7. Buen Retiro Park

A green area within the city limits, a favorite place for walking in Madrid. The park has many picturesque alleys, fountains, buildings of past centuries. Citizens come here with whole families on weekends to eat ice cream or take a boat ride on a small lake. In Spanish, the name of the park sounds like "good solitude."

8. Casa de Campo Park

An extensive park area, somewhat remote from the central quarters of Madrid. In the past, there were royal hunting grounds here. The park has a large zoo with an aquarium and dolphins, as well as an amusement area with dozens of slides, labyrinths and other carousels. There is also a whole street of Paseo de Gastronomy restaurants for hungry visitors.

9. Prado Museum

An invaluable collection of works of art, costing even the Louvre in Paris. Outstanding representatives of Spanish painting are exhibited here: Velasquez, Goya, El Greco Murillo. The Prado Museum owns extensive collections of Italian painters and paintings by masters of the Flemish school. The expositions opened for public visiting in 1819.

10. Reina Sofia Art Center

Included in the "golden" trio of art galleries in the Spanish capital, along with the Thyssen-Bornemisza and Prado museums. The exposition was opened in 1992. in the former building of the capital's hospital. The Arts Center was named after the Spanish Queen Sofia. The place is famous for its rich collection of modern art. The most famous painting is “Guernica” by the grandiose Pablo Picasso.

11. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Until 1993, the museum was a private collection of the Thyssen-Bornemisza family, then it was bought by the state. Here are the canvases of artists who have been “overlooked” at the Prado and the Reina Sofia Art Center. Works by Italian primitivists, Russian constructivists, Dutch and English painters are exhibited on a permanent basis. There are also many masterpieces in the style of pop art and geometric abstraction.

12. Museum of America

Museum dedicated to the discovery of the American continent. It has no analogues throughout Europe. There are collections showing the history and life of the indigenous population of America before the Spanish conquest. Visitors can look at weapons, household items, clothing, religious items of the Indian tribes. Also exhibited are the weapons of the conquistadors and examples of colonial art.

13. National Library of Spain

The country's largest collection of written and printed exhibits: books, maps, engravings, brochures, magazines, musical scores, posters. The library appeared during the reign of King Philip II at the beginning of the 18th century. The funds were constantly replenished by providing for safekeeping a copy of each printed work published in the country. Over the three centuries of its existence, the library has accumulated 26 million samples.

14. Royal Theater

The main opera stage of the capital has existed since the middle of the 19th century. As a result of wars and revolutionary events, the theater repeatedly lost its functions and alternately served either as a barracks, or a warehouse, or a building for parliament sessions. In 1977, the stage was returned to its original function, in 1997 only operas and other musical works were staged here.

15. Almudena Cathedral

The monumental and majestic Cathedral of Madrid, where magnificent public services are held and a festive mass is celebrated. The temple is dedicated to the Virgin Mary of Almudena, the patron saint of the Spanish capital. The foundation stone was laid by King Alfonso XII in 1884. The cathedral was finally completed only by the end of the 20th century. The architecture of the building is a mixture of neoclassical and baroque elements.

16. Escorial Monastery

The monastery is located about an hour from Madrid at the foot of the Sierra Nevada. The severe fortress served as the residence of the Spanish kings. Construction continued from 1563 to 1584. Despite the strict and rather simple appearance, the interior of the palace is striking in splendor and luxury. The ashes of all Spanish monarchs, starting with Charles V, rest here.

17. Monastery of Descalzas Reales

The current monastery of the XVI century in the city of Madrid, located near the Puerta del Sol. The monastery gave shelter to women from noble families who fled under its vaults from the hated and imposed relatives of the grooms. Thanks to the rich dowry of failed brides, the monastery quickly became one of the richest in all of Europe. In one part of the monastery there is a museum of painting.

18. Temple of Debod

Ancient Egyptian temple, which is about 2000 years old. It was originally intended to worship the god Amon, then became the center of the cult of the goddess Isis. The temple was donated to Spain by the Egyptian authorities as a token of gratitude for the rescue of historical relics damaged during the construction of the Aswan Dam. The structure was dismantled into stones, transported to Madrid and installed in the West Park.

19. Gate of Alcala

They are located on Independence Square in the center of the capital. The design is made in the neoclassical style, has three large and two small spans on the sides. The facade is decorated with a sculptural group and an inscription, where the name of Charles III is immortalized. In the 17th century, the road to Alcala de Henares passed through the gate. The monument became one of the symbols of the modernization of Madrid in the era of Charles III.

20. Atocha Station

The main and largest railway station in Spain, from where high-speed trips depart to all regions of the country, as well as commuter trains. The building consists of two terminals. The old terminal of the 19th century houses a tropical garden, cafes, shops and entertainment venues, the new one is used for its intended purpose for the departure and arrival of trains.

21. Arena Las Ventas

Arena designed for the famous Spanish national show - bullfighting. From May to October, bullfights are held here every Sunday, from April to November you can visit the bullfighting museum. Also quite often the site is used for concerts and festivals. The building appeared at the beginning of the 20th century to replace the old building located in the city center.

22. Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

The home arena of the popular football club Real Madrid. The stadium can be accessed with a guided tour, during which visitors can learn about the history of the team, see the Trophy Hall, look into the dressing room and sit in the stands. The arena can accommodate up to 80 thousand spectators. On the opening day of the stadium in 1947, Real Madrid played Portuguese side Belenenses and won 3-1.

23. El Rastro Flea Market

A shopping area or, more precisely, a flea market where you can buy interesting things - from antique furniture and musical instruments to sweets, rare books, clothes. The market is open on Sundays in the La Latina quarter. Not only tourists, but also locals often drop in here, as rare and necessary mechanisms and parts are often sold on the market.

24. San Miguel Market

Gastronomic market near Plaza Mayor. A bright metropolitan attraction where tourists flock to taste various Spanish tapas. Here you can taste fresh oysters with a glass of champagne or delicious jamon seasoned with herbs and spices. You can try delicacies endlessly, as each counter offers something different.

25. Warner Brothers Amusement Park

City of attractions in the suburbs of Madrid, covering an area of ​​55 hectares. Here you can have a wonderful rest with children. The park is divided into several zones: Hollywood Boulevard (the main alley), the world of superheroes, the city of cartoons, the Wild West, the film studio. Each zone is unique and interesting, there are exciting performances and fun rides everywhere.

Royal Palace - is the official residence of the Spanish royal family in the city Madrid but is only used for state ceremonies.The palace is owned by the Spanish state and run by Patrimonio National . The palace is located on Calle de Bailén Bailén, in the western part of Madrid, east of Manzanares river . Several halls in the palace are regularly open to the public except for state receptions.

The Royal Palace is Madrid's main attraction and boasts over 2,500 ornate rooms.Built in 1764, the palace has served as a royal residence since Carlos III.The last member of the royal family to reside there was Alfonso XIII in the early 1900s.

Official website: www.patrimonionacional.es

2. Plaza Mayor

The most famous of Madrid's many majestic squares, it is now the central square of Madrid and Spain. The history of the Plaza Mayor dates back to 1619, when it lay outside the city limits and was used for bullfighting.During the Spanish Inquisition, many accused heretics met their deaths there.The statue of Philip III on horseback stands in the center of the square.

3. Prado Museum

The Prado Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Madrid. In the museum building built inThe 18th century architect Juan de Villanueva houses one of the world's finest art collections.With over 7,000 pieces of art representing culture and history from the 12th century to the early 19th century,including Goya, El Greco, Ribera and Velázquez are undeniably the finest collection of Spanish paintings in the world.

4. Retiro Park

Known as the Parc del Buen Retiro or El Retiro is the largest public park in Madrid and Spain, the park has many beautiful gardens, fountains and buildings located near the city center.The Retiro Park began as a monastery in the 1500s. Then it became a royal parkwhen Philip II moved the court here in 1561, and at the beginning of the 19th century the park from the royal one became public. At the moment, the park is one of the main attractions of Madrid and not only locals but also tourists come here to relax.

5. Gran Via

Gran Via is considered the main street of Madrid and all of Spain. Gran Via is known as Madrid's Broadway because it is "the street that never sleeps." Grand Boulevard runs through the central part of Madrid.Completed in 1910, the Gran Via is lined with hundreds of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.The most famous building on the boulevard is Telefónica, which was the tallest building in Europe. If you are going to Madrid, then be sure to walk along the Gran Via.

6. Puerta del Sol

Another great attraction in Madrid is the Puerta del Sol. The square is located in the center of Madrid, Puerta del Sol, or "Gate of the Sun", this square, where hundreds of thousands of Spaniards and guests of the capital gather every time to celebrate the New Year.Recent improvements to the square have restricted car traffic and have turned the square into a place where tourists can stroll and admire the architectural monuments. area, also then the center or 0 kilometerradial network Spanish roads , it is from here that the entire network of Spanish roads take their countdown. This is one of the most famous and busiest squares in Spain.

7. Plaza de Cibeles

One of the most beautiful squares in Madrid, Plaza de Cibeles is surrounded by several neo-classical buildings, including the stunning Cibeles Palace, which was designed by architect Antonio Palacios.In the center of the square is a fountain, which is considered a symbol of the city - Fuente de la Cibeles. In the center of the magnificent fountain rises a statueRoman goddess Cybele on a chariot drawn by lions,the fountain once served as a source of water for domestic needs of nearby houses.

8. Temple of Debod

The Temple of Debod is the most unusual attraction in Madrid, it is located in the center of the Oeste Park, which is located near the Royal Palace.The Temple of Debod is the temple of the Egyptian goddess Isis and once stood on the banks of the Nile. During theDuring the construction of the Great Dam of Aswan in Egypt, several historical monuments had to be moved to save them from flooding.Spain provided Egypt with significant construction assistance, and as a token of gratitude, the Egyptian government donated the Temple of Debod to Spain in 1968.

9. Mercado de San Miguel

Madrid's main shopping attraction is, of course, the Mercado de San Miguel market, which is a short walk from the Plaza Mayor. Mercado de San Miguel is the most popular market among locals and tourists, where you can buy local products and delicacies. It is also the oldest market in the Spanish capital.

Official website: www.mercadodesanmiguel.es

10. Reina Sofia Museum (Museo Reina Sofia)

The Reina Sofia Art Center was built as an addition to the Prado Historical Museum.It was officially opened by Queen Sophia in 1992, originally built as a hospital, the museum was expanded in 2005, designed by the French architect Jean Nouvel.The Reina Sofia Museum is home to a wide range of works created by Spanish artists, including extensive art collections by Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí.

In a big city like Madrid, it's worth booking a guide for sightseeing tours.

Official website: www.museoreinasofia.es