Exploring Spain: what to see in Madrid?

Madrid, the capital of Spain, is not only the center of the country's political and economic life but also amazes tourists with its cultural heritage and wealth of historical landmarks. This city perfectly combines majestic cathedrals, wide avenues, charming parks, and some of the best museums in Europe. The capital attracts millions of visitors every year, offering them countless opportunities to explore the local culture, gastronomy, and traditions.

Madrid is an ideal destination for those who love walking tours, as most of the city's landmarks are located within the central area. Convenient transportation makes it easy to reach various parts of the city and enjoy all its treasures. If you are planning to visit Madrid, we will tell you what to see and which places are a must-visit on your journey.

Royal Palace (Palacio Real)

One of Madrid’s main attractions is the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Spanish monarchs. This enormous structure, one of the largest palaces in Europe, impresses not only with its size but also with its rich interiors. The palace was built in the 18th century and was used to host important guests and official events.

Tourists can visit more than 50 luxurious rooms, including the Throne Room, the Armory, and the Royal Kitchen. If you’re already in Madrid, be sure to explore the interesting places near the palace as well. These include the Sabatini Gardens and Campo del Moro, which surround the palace and offer picturesque views. Don’t forget to take photos with this grand building as a backdrop, reflecting the magnificence of Spanish architecture.

Visiting the palace allows you to immerse yourself in the world of royal life and learn more about the history of the Spanish monarchy. This is a must-see place during your trip to Madrid.

Puerta del Sol Square (Puerta del Sol)

Puerta del Sol is the heart of the city, the historical and geographical center of the capital. It features the “Kilometer Zero” marker of Spanish roads. This square is a vital meeting point for both locals and tourists. Here, you can see the famous statue of the bear and the strawberry tree, the symbol of Madrid.

Puerta del Sol Square is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a popular spot for strolls and relaxation. On New Year’s Eve, grand celebrations take place here, with thousands of people gathering to welcome the New Year together, following the tradition of eating twelve grapes for good luck.

If you are looking for what to see in Madrid, you should start your journey with this square. It offers unforgettable impressions of the local atmosphere and serves as a wonderful starting point for further exploration of the city.

Plaza Mayor

Another significant historical spot in Madrid is Plaza Mayor, which for centuries has been the main hub of city life. Created in the 16th century, this spacious square is surrounded by grand buildings with red facades and arches, giving it a special charm.

Today, Plaza Mayor is a popular venue for various events, including markets, festivals, and concerts. It is also famous for its numerous cafes and restaurants where you can taste local delicacies, such as tapas or paella. The square has also become a favorite place for leisurely walks, where you can experience the spirit of old Madrid and take unforgettable photos.

Be sure to visit Plaza Mayor during your stay in Madrid to better understand the local culture and see what the capital looked like in past eras.

Prado Museum (Museo del Prado)

The Prado Museum is one of the most renowned galleries in the world, housing thousands of masterpieces of art. Its collection includes works by such masters as Velázquez, Goya, Rubens, and El Greco. Founded in 1819, the museum remains a significant center of Spain’s cultural heritage to this day. The most famous exhibits in the museum include:

1. “Las Meninas” by Diego Velázquez – one of the most important works of Spanish Baroque;

2. “The Third of May 1808” by Francisco Goya – an exceptional painting depicting war events;

3. “The Garden of Earthly Delights” by Hieronymus Bosch – a symbolic triptych inspiring countless interpretations.

Visiting the Prado Museum allows you to immerse yourself in the world of European art and experience the true atmosphere of artistic mastery. It is a place that should undoubtedly be included in your list of things to see in Madrid.

Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro)

Retiro Park is a green oasis in the heart of Madrid, where you can relax from the city's hustle and enjoy nature. Once part of the royal gardens, today it is open to everyone. The park spans about 125 hectares, making it an ideal spot for walks, picnics, or even boating on the artificial lake. If you’ve already been to Madrid, here’s what you can see in Retiro Park:

• The Crystal Palace (Palacio de Cristal) – an exquisite glass structure hosting exhibitions;

• The Moorish Pavilion (Pabellón Morisco) – an architectural masterpiece in Moorish style;

• The Monument to Alfonso XII – a massive monument overlooking the lake.

This park offers a perfect retreat during your visit to the capital, providing peace and beauty in the heart of the city. Retiro is also home to numerous sculptures, fountains, and picturesque alleys that make every corner of the park special. Here, you may encounter street musicians and artists, adding a unique charm to the park’s atmosphere.

Gran Vía

Gran Vía is the central artery of Madrid, known for its picturesque buildings, shops, theaters, and restaurants. This avenue, which began construction in the early 20th century, quickly became a symbol of modernity and luxury. It resembles New York's Fifth Avenue and is considered one of the busiest and most attractive tourist spots in the capital. Here, everyone can find something interesting:

• Theaters and cinemas offering a wide range of performances and movies, often with international show premieres;

• Shops of famous brands – on Gran Vía, you can find everything from designer boutiques to popular clothing stores;

• Restaurants and cafes where you can taste both traditional Spanish dishes and international cuisine.

If you’re wondering what to see in Madrid, Gran Vía is one of those places you simply cannot miss. Spending time here will give you a true sense of Madrid's modern rhythm.

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Estadio Santiago Bernabéu)

For football fans, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a true mecca. It is the home stadium of the legendary football club "Real Madrid," one of the most successful clubs in the world. The stadium has a capacity of over 80,000 spectators, and its history is closely tied to the greatest moments in European football. Tourists can take a tour of the stadium, where they have the opportunity to see:

1. The club's football trophies – a true hall of fame preserving the greatest victories;

2. VIP boxes – rooms where world stars and politicians stayed during matches;

3. The team's locker rooms – the place where players prepare for their great victories.

This tour gives visitors a behind-the-scenes look at football life and lets them feel the atmosphere of a big game. Whether you're a true football fan or simply interested in the history of the sport, Santiago Bernabéu should be on your itinerary.

Temple of Debod (Templo de Debod)

The Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple, gifted to Spain in 1968. It became part of Madrid's historical complex and is located in the western part of the city, near Casa de Campo Park. This temple was relocated from Egypt to save it from flooding during the construction of the Aswan Dam.

Visitors can admire not only the exterior architecture of the temple but also its interior rooms, which preserve elements of ancient religious culture. Thanks to its convenient location, the temple offers stunning views of the sunset, making it an ideal spot for romantic walks or unforgettable photos. To fully enjoy the temple's atmosphere, it is recommended to visit it:

• In the evening – when the setting sun illuminates the temple, creating an incredible contrast between the ancient architecture and the modern city;

• In summer – during this time, the temple looks especially impressive against the blue sky.

The Temple of Debod allows you to immerse yourself in millennia of history without leaving the bounds of a modern metropolis. That’s why this spot should be on your list when planning a visit to Madrid. The iconic landmarks of Spain’s capital allow you to experience the unique blend of cultures from different eras.

Queen Sofia Arts Center (Museo Reina Sofia)

The Queen Sofia Museum is one of the three main museum complexes in Madrid that form the so-called "Golden Triangle of Art." It is a place where you can explore the greatest works of modern Spanish art. The museum’s collection includes works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Joan Miró.

One of the museum's most significant exhibits is Picasso's “Guernica.” This monumental painting, depicting the tragedies of war, has become a symbol of the anti-fascist movement and humanism.

If you are planning a trip to Madrid, the Queen Sofia Arts Center offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of modern art and understand the depth of Spanish culture. Be sure to schedule a visit to this museum if you want to discover the diversity of Spanish creativity.

San Miguel Market (Mercado de San Miguel)

San Miguel Market is a true paradise for food lovers. Located in the very center of the capital, this market is famous for its wide variety of local dishes and delicacies. Visitors can try everything from fresh seafood to traditional tapas and the finest Spanish wines. When visiting the market, pay attention to:

1. World-class wines – Famous regions like Rioja or Ribera del Duero are well-represented with a broad selection.

2. Seafood – Fresh delights from Spain's coastal areas.

3. Sweets – A wide range of desserts that perfectly complete any meal.

San Miguel Market not only allows you to taste traditional Spanish dishes but also offers a chance to get closer to the local gastronomic traditions. It is a must-visit place for anyone looking to experience the true culture of Madrid.

Madrid Awaits: Travel Comfortably to Spain’s Capital with KLR Bus!

Whether you are interested in art, history, architecture, or gastronomy, the city of Madrid offers countless fascinating places to explore. This city, which blends modernity with tradition, provides tourists with unforgettable impressions at every turn. If you are planning a trip, make sure to include all the major landmarks in your itinerary, as each one reveals a new side of Spain’s capital.

To make your journey as comfortable as possible, choose reliable transportation with KLR Bus. Thanks to convenient bus routes and attractive prices, you can easily reach any corner of Europe and enjoy all the treasures it has to offer.