Feel the dynamic vibe of Madrid, a city that promises new thrills every time. Madrid mixes historic charm with modern innovation, offering something for every traveler. From must-see landmarks to hidden corners, there's always something to explore. Get ready to discover the city's pulse and make the most of your visit with our expert tips and insights.

Don't forget to check our eSIM for Madrid page before planning your travel.

Best Things to Do in Madrid

Try the Churros at San Ginés

• When you get to Madrid, make churros your first stop.

• These iconic snacks come with rich dipping chocolate and are a citywide favorite. 

• For an authentic experience, visit Chocolateria San Ginés, a beloved spot since 1894.

Marvel at the Beauty of Palacio de Cristal

• The Palacio de Cristal, an iron-and-glass masterpiece originally designed as a greenhouse, is worth a special visit.

• Now an off-site exhibition space for Museo Reina Sofia, you never know what treasures you’ll find on display inside.

Visit Barrio de Las Letras and Calle Cava Baja

• Javier Navarra shares that the true character of Madrid is found in neighborhoods where modern innovation blends perfectly with deep-rooted tradition.

• In Barrio de las Letras, you'll discover where Spain's famous authors lived and worked. 

• In La Latina, visit Calle Cava Baja, lined with bars and taverns that reflect the city's historic charm.

Shop for Souvenirs at the El Rastro Flea Market

• Open every Sunday and on public holidays in the La Latina neighborhood, this open-air market attracts thousands of shoppers with vendors selling everything you can imagine, from clothes to souvenirs. 

See a Flamenco Show at Cafe Ziryab

• Cafe Ziryab features various dancers and flamenco performances in a warm and classic setting.

Discover Museo Nacional del Prado

• The Prado Museum is one of Madrid's biggest cultural landmarks, showcasing famous Spanish artworks like Goya's "Black Paintings" and Velázquez's "Las Meninas."

• The collection goes beyond Spain, with famous paintings from Caravaggio and Bosch.

Stroll through the Rose Garden of Retiro Park

• In Retiro Park, you can take your time in the rose garden or rent a boat to row on the Great Pond. This man-made lake has a long history and was even used by the Spanish royalty in the 17th century for battles.

Visit the Royal Palace

• The Royal Palace boasts over 3,400 rooms, showcasing incredible treasures of the Spanish crown. 

• Although the Spanish royals don't live here anymore, it remains an official residence for the Head of State and is one of the few such palaces worldwide that welcomes the public.

Pop into Almudena Cathedral

• Almudena Cathedral, located right next to the Royal Palace, was built in the 19th century and features a Neo-Gothic interior. 

• There’s no admission fee to enter, and it's certainly something to appreciate.

View Picasso's Most Famous Work at Museo Reina Sofia

• Considered Pablo Picasso’s most famous painting, "Guernica" is a massive masterpiece on a canvas that's 11 by 25 feet.

• It defines the horrors of the Spanish Civil War. You can find this iconic piece on permanent display at the Reina Sofia Museum in Madrid.

• The museum also houses a large collection of works by Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró.

Shop in Salamanca

• For a premium shopping experience in Madrid, head to the Salamanca neighborhood. 

• Del Pozo highlights, "It's the city's top shopping spot," featuring both local stores like Mantequerías Bravo and major designers like Loewe, which has its main store there.

Hang around Plaza Mayor

• Madrid's largest plaza is a remarkable public space, surrounded by beautiful neoclassical buildings. 

• Filled with street performers and various restaurants, it's a popular spot for tourists but still feels open and welcoming.

Center Yourself in Sol

• Surrounding Puerta del Sol, one of Madrid’s busiest neighborhoods, Sol is at the center of Madrid and, more literally, the center of Spain. 

• Look for the marker in the middle of the plaza that marks Spain's Kilometer Zero. 

• This is the starting point for all the major roads that leave Madrid and head toward all corners of the country.

Get a Reservation at One of the World’s Oldest Restaurants

• Sobrino de Botín has been certified as one of the world’s oldest restaurants, serving traditional Castilian cuisine for three centuries. 

• The four-floor establishment preserves the tavern-like atmosphere of its early days, as parts of the building date to 1590.

Visit the Temple of Debod

• The Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple located in Madrid's Parque de la Montaña, featuring a beautiful reflecting pool.

• This temple, a gift from Egypt to Spain.

• It includes a small museum about ancient Egypt. The site offers a romantic sunset spot with panoramic city views.

Wander around Matadero Madrid

• It is a large cultural center for the arts. 

• Matadero Madrid showcases dynamic art exhibitions and offers a comprehensive schedule of events, including films, plays, and live music.

Head to the Top of Círculo de Bella Artes

• To visit the rooftop terrace at Círculo de Bellas Artes, you'll need to pay a small fee. 

• Get your tickets in the lobby between 2-4 p.m. or after 9 p.m. 

• The sunset views of Gran Via are stunning, and the terrace is open until 1 a.m. most days. 

• Don't miss the breathtaking Metropolis Building from this vantage point.

Explore Roman engineering on a day trip to Segovia.

• Observe the ancient Roman water bridge in Segovia or explore the Alcázar de Segovia, a castle with incredible towers that is said to have partially inspired Cinderella Castle in Walt Disney World.

Stay Connected in Madrid with Roamless eSIM

Transform your travel experience with Roamless eSIM, the essential tool for any modern traveler. Here's how it enhances your journey:

• Multi-country support: Effortlessly explore multiple destinations without the need to swap physical SIM cards at each border.

• Device compatibility: Keeps you connected with smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, ensuring your tech works perfectly together.

• Instant activation: Get online as soon as you land. Activate your eSIM prior to departure for hassle-free connectivity upon arrival.

• Flexible data packages: Choose data plans that match the length of your stay, tailored specifically for your needs.

• No physical SIM required: Keep everything digital. This SIM simplifies connectivity, making it easier to stay in touch while navigating new cities.

Uncover Madrid's activities with easy connectivity using a Global eSIM, the ultimate tech solution for reliable online access wherever you go.