Madrid is a city full of wonderful places to visit.  Madridisuserfriendly has selected those we consider a MUST! Note that we try to keep the information listed here as updated as possible, however we recommend that you check the website for each listing before visiting.




MUSEO DEL PRADO
now open every day of the year except January 1, May 1 and December 25
It goes without saying that you cannot come to Madrid without a visit to the Prado. Considered one of the great art museums of the world, it is Madrid’s biggest attraction. The unique collection contains more than 8000 paintings by masters including Goya, El Greco and Velázquez. There are also temporary exhibitions in addition to the main collection. You can buy advanced tickets on the website to beat the queues, which might be a good idea to beat the huge queues on weekends

Web: www.museodelprado.es
Address: Paseo del Prado, Metro: Atocha (L1) or Banco de España (L2)
Entrance: General entry 12€, although some discounts apply. Entrance and guided tour 19.50 € Free for under 18 and for students under 25 Open from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. The Museum closes on Sundays and holidays at 7 p.m. The temporary exhibitions are at an extra cost. Entry is free after 18.00 Tues-Sat, after 17.00 on Sundays and on a number of public holidays.

Temporary exhibitions: On at the moment: Treaures from the Hermitage 8th November- 26th March 2012

Madridisuserfriendly advice: Go several times for an hour or so. You could combine a visit to Prado with a visit to a neighbouring museum like the Reina Sofia or the Thyssen- all are within a quick walk of each other.

Nearby: Retiro Park, the Thyssen Bornemisza, Cibeles Fountain, the Reina Sofia, Hotel Ritz, Hotel Palace, La Dolores bar, (recommended to enjoy the Spanish tapas, not bad pricewise)




MUSEO NACIONAL REINA SOFIA
Spain’s national museum of modern art and home of Picasso’s Guernica. You will also find works here by Dali, Miro and Van Gogh. Even on its busiest days, the light and airy space is a delight. Try its views from the exterior elevators.

Web: www.museoreinasofia.es
Address: Plaza del Emperador Carlos V, s/n. Madrid, Metro Atocha (L1).
Open: Monday to Saturday: from 10:00 to 21:00; Sunday: 10:00 to 14:30.
Closed: Tuesdays; Jan. 1 and 6, May 1 and 15, Sept. 9, Dec. 24, 25 and 31

Entrance: General admission 6€, although some discounts may apply. Temporary exhibition entry: 3€. Free entry after 19.00 on weekdays, after 2.30pm on Saturdays, all day Sunday and on some public holidays. Nearby: Museo del Prado, Thyssen Bornemisza, Atocha Station, Caixa Forum, Retiro Park

MUSEO THYSSEN-BORNEMISZA

Web: www.museothyssen.org Address: Paseo del Prado, 8, Metro: Banco de España (L2) or Atocha (L1) Open: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 19:00; 10:00 to 15:00 on December 24 and 31. Closed: Mondays and January 1, May 1 and December 25. Entrance: general ticket 8€ although some discounts may apply. Entry to temporary exhibitions at extra cost. You can buy tickets online. Nearby:  Paseo del Prado, Plaza de Neptuno, Museo del Prado, Cibeles Fountain, Retiro Park, Puerta de Alcalá, Hotel Palace, and lots of very interesting small restaurants and bars

EL RASTRO
The legendary Sunday market in La Latina still attracts locals and visitors alike. Here you will find everything from handicrafts, second hand clothes to antiques. Feel free to haggle with the vendors and come around 10 or 11am to get the best buys and to avoid the crowds. It starts from Plaza de Cascorro and stretches down Ribiera Curtidores and its surounding streets.  A good place for antiques hunters is the Galerias Piquer.

Metro: La Latina (L5) or Tirso de Molina (L1) Open: From around 10am to 2.30/3pm Warning:Hold on to your belongings as there are many pickpockets and be warned it gets very crowded after around 11am! Around El Rastro:  La Taberna Almendro- this bar is very peculiar inside and famous for its wine and bocadillos.  El Viajero- normally crowded. NY style, you can eat or just have a drink. Visit its fantastic terrace at night. Fábrica de Churros- “chocolate and churros” is a Spanish classic, usually enjoyed at 6 in the morning after a hard night out! The Fábrica makes the churros in front of you!

REAL MADRID STADIUM “BERNABEU STADIUM”
The Prado of football stadiums! Home of Spain’s most illustrious football club, Real Madrid, founded in 1902. Visitors can discover the trophy room, player tunnels and benches, dressing rooms and step onto the pitch viewing gallery.  From its restaurant you can enjoy a panoramic view of the inside of the stadium. The service and food are not great, but football aficionados won’t notice! Great for kids. Lots of bars and restaurants around the stadium and a TGI Friday's for kids.

Web: www.realmadrid.com Address: Paseo de Castellana, Metro: Santiago de Bernabeu (L10). Open: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 – 19:30, Sundays and holidays: 10:30 - 18:30. Opening times may vary on match days- check website. Closed: Christmas and New Year's Day Entrance: Children 11€, adults 16€. Can be bought online.

REAL ACADEMIA DE BELLAS ARTES
The Fine Arts Academy is best known for its Goya self –portraits and accommodates a number of temporary exhibitions (check website for details). This museum doesn’t get  as many visitors as The Prado, Thyssen or Reina Sofia Museums but is worth a visit. Visitors can climb onto the rooftop viewing gallery for spectacular city views. The building also includes a cinema, theatre and a restaurant- see website for listings.

Web: www.circulobellasartes.com Address: Calle Alcalá, 13, Metro: Sevilla (L2) Open: (Exhibition spaces) Tues-Sat 9am-2pm, 5pm-9pm, Sundays 11am-2pm. Roof terrace closed on weekdays, restaurant open every day until 1am.

THE CAIXA FORUM
Chances are if you are walking along Paseo del Prado on your way to the Prado museum you will spot a very strange building with a wall of plants. In 2008 this disused petrol station was transformed into a very exciting exhibition space by the La Caixa bank. It looks just as cool on the inside as it does on the outside and it's worth stopping by for the free exhibitons here as well as to see its very swish staircase. There is also a great giftshop and a cafeteria on the topfloor which has views over Paseo del Prado and the Letras district.

Web: obrasocial.lacaixa.es Address: Paseo del Prado 36, Metro: Atocha (L1) Nearby: Retiro Park, Atocha Station, Letras neighbourhood, the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen Bornemisza, Cibeles and Puerta de Alcalá

PUERTA DEL SOL 
 (the bear and tree), the symbol of Madrid as well as the Casa de Correos (the post building with the clock tower). It's a very bustling area and you are in one of the main Madrid shopping areas with many traditional and contemporary shops. In June 2009, Sol station opened connecting it to the local train network, and the entrance itself is an attraction.    Maybe you will be lucky and meet the last shoeshines still in Madrid although their service is expensive. Be on the lookout for pickpockets as it's a very busy area!

Metro: Sol (L1, L2, L3) Interesting fact:  As the clock chimes  midnight on December 31, madrilenños traditionally come here to eat twelve grapes. It's supposed to bring good luck! Near Puerta del Sol: La Violeta shop- famous for its candies of violet flavour. Casa Labra- very old bar, specialist for its croquettes of cod and tuna with tomato.  Lardhy- famous for its cocido madrileño (typical Madrid stew).. Chocolateria San Ginés- very famous for its chocolate with churros (long doughnuts). Casa Diego- right on Puerta del Sol, a traditonal shop selling Spanish fans.

PUERTA DE ALCALÁ
Dating from 1774, this neoclassical gateway to Madrid is dramatically lit at night. We can say the Puerta de Alcalá and the Cibeles statue are emblematic of the City of Madrid. 

Location: Calle del Alcalá/Plaza de Independencia, Metro: Retiro (L2) Around Puerta de Alcalá:  Calle Serrano (expensive shops), Calle Alcalá, Plaza de Cibeles, Retiro Park, The Prado

PLAZA DE TOROS
Is bullfighting an art or a blood sport? Even in Spain we have different opinions. But whatever your feelings are you will be impressive by the worlds most important bullring. The bullfighter outfits sometimes weigh up to 5kg (11 pounds) with gold embroidery. The season starts in May, during the Feria de San Isidro when some 30 bullfights take place. There is a Bullfighting Museum next to the ring. A visit here may not be for everyone's taste.

Location: Plaza de Toros, Ventas, Metro: Ventas (L2, L5)

PLAZA DE ORIENTE
An elegant and lively square in front of the Royal Palace and behind the Teatro Real or opera house. Lots of cafés and restaurants in the area, although the service and value for money is not always very good. The shady park in the middle makes a great place for an ince cream stop during the hot summer months.

Metro: Ópera (L2, L5, R) Closeby: The Royal Palace, Sabatini Gardens, Basilica de San Francisco el Grande, La Latina District

PLAZA MAYOR
 Here you can find the beautifully painted town hall and in the centre is the statue of the horseman. On Sunday mornings there is a street market of stamps and old coins, and in December a Christmas market is held here. Although it may look like the perfect place for a tapa or a drink, be warned that at times the service can be poor and many establishments rip off tourists. For better service, head south to La Latina.

Metro: Sol (L1,2,3) or La Latina (L5) Around Plaza Mayor:  Calle Mayor (street with a lot of traditional and souvenir shops), Puerta del Sol, Calle Arco de Cuchilleros, La Latina district,

PLAZA DE CIBELES
Casa de America (or Linares Palace- here they have many free exhibitions and other cultural events), the Banco de España and the Bolsa (stock exchange). A bit further along you have Puerta de Alcalá and Retiro Park.

Location: Calle Alcalá between Paseo del Prado and Paseo de Recoletos. Metro: Banco de España. Around Cibeles: Banco de España (national bank), Palacio de Comunicaciones (Central Post Office), Casa de America/Linares Palace, Paseo del Prado and its art museums, Calle Alcalá, Retiro Park, Puerta de Alcalá

PARQUE DEL RETIRO
The Retiro, Madrid's green space in the centre, will linger in your memory, particularly if you see it in late spring or early autumn when its colours are most vivid. Long ago, a palace was here and some traces can still be found today. Here you can enjoy the lake (boat hire available), impressive monuments, ancient trees and the extravagant crystal palace (used as an art space). There is even a ruined chapel. The park always has a great atmosphere, especially on weekends when it comes alive with musicians and other entertainers. Look out for puppet shows for children. It's a great place to explore by bike. Right next to the park is the botanical garden, which is worth a visit. There are a number of entrances including the one on Calle Alfonso XII near Atocha Station and Calle Alcalá, the other side of the Puerta, by Retiro metro.

Web: www.parquedelretiro.com Metro: Retiro (L2) or Atocha/Atocha Renfe (L1) Around Parque del Retiro:  Puerta de Alcalá, Calle Serrano, Botanical Gardens, Paseo del Prado

CASA DE CAMPO
Located in south west of Madrid and away from the centre, Casa de Campo is a massive open space, much bigger than Central Park or Hyde Park. You can walk for hours here in unspoilt nature, or if you are looking for activities, there are sports facilities, a large lake with hire boats, an amusement park, aquarium and a zoo- said to be one of the best in Europe. The Teleférico (cable car) connects the park with Parque del Oeste in the centre of Madrid and the journey is 11 minutes. There is also an outdoor swimming pool very popular with madrileños in the summer.

Metro: Batán or Lago (both L10). The Teleferico leaves from near Monlcoa Metro (L3, L6).

PARQUE DEL OESTE
Another of Madrid's most attractive green spaces is ideal for a summer walk as it's less busy than the Retiro. We recommend taking the Teleférico (cable car trip) from here  to Casa de Campo for superb views over the city. Entry free. 

Location: Paseo de Camoens, Metro: Moncloa (L3, L6) We do not recommend visiting  the park after dark!

PALACIO REAL
The vast 18th Century Royal Palace, built on the remains of a moorish fortress is an outstanding historical monument, although nowadays the Spanish royal family no longer live here. It is said that it is one of Europe's largest royal palaces and you can spend many hours wandering around the stately rooms decorated in exquisite marble and delicately painted frescoes. You can also visit the Royal Armoury, where you can see fine examples of artefacts from periods of war as well as the old pharmacy. Next to the palace are the picturesque Italianate Sabatini Gardens and the Parque de Moro. From the castle you can enjoy  spectacular views of the mountain ranges surrounding Madrid.  

The Changing of the Guard takes place at noon on the first Wednesday of the month, except July, August and September. Catch it if you can. Web: www.patrimonionacional.es/Home/Palacios-Reales Address: Plaza de Oriente, Metro: Ópera (L2,L5,R) Open: October to March - Monday to Saturday: 09:30 - 17:00; Sunday and holidays: 09:00 - 14:00. April to September: Monday to Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00; Sundays and holidays: 09:00 – 15:00. Closed: 1,6 January; 1, 15 May; 12 October; 9 November, 25 December. May also be closed on some other state occasions. Entrance: General ticket (inlcudes palace, armoury and pharmacy) 8€ or 11€ with visit the the galleries inlcuded. Alternatively you can buy entry for the just the galleries (2€) or the armouries only (3.45€). Guided visits are also available for a couple of Euros extra and sometimes discounts may apply. The park and gardens are all free. Nearby: The cathedral, Basilica de San Francisco, the opera house, La Latina

MUSEO DEL TRAJE
Dress up in 18th Century clothing at Madrid's most exciting new museum. Since it opened in 2004 the Museum of Costume has made its mark on the Madrid culture stage. Far more than just clothes (14 galleries), the collection is a history of how Spanish society has changed over the century. We recommend a visit, great for kids, especially girls! The museum has quite a chic restaurant. In summer you can dine out on the terrace.

Web: museodeltraje.mcu.es/ Address: 18. Avenida Juan de Herrera, 2. Metro: Moncloa (L3, L6) Open: Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30 - 19:00; Sundays and holidays: 10:00 - 15:00; Thursdays (July and August): 9:30 to 22:30. Closed: Every Monday Monday, Jan. 1 and 6, May 1 and 15, Dec. 24, 25, 31. Entrance: 3€,  free entry for kids.

MUSEO SOROLLA
Museum dedicated to the life and works of the 19th century, Spanish impressionist, Joaquin Sorolla (1863-1923) in his former home. Born in Valencia on the coast, he wanted to create an oasis of peace for himself in the busy city. It has a lovely peaceful garden. Madridisuserfriendly believes this is one of the best of Madrid’s “home museums”. We recommend it.

Web: museosorolla.mcu.es Address: Paseo General Martínez Campos, 37, Metro: Iglesia (L1) or Rubén Darío (L5). Open: Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30 to 15:00; Sundays and holidays: 10:00 to 15:00; Wednesdays: 9:30 to 18:00. Closed: Mondays, Jan. 1, May 1, Dec. 24, 25, 31, and all local holidays. Entrance: 3€, free entrance on Sundays and for children.

MUSEO LÁZARO GALIANO
An eclectic collection of of art objects. There cannot be many museums like this, and it is surprisingly unknown to many madrileños. Every time you go there is always something new to discover in this dazzling collection of treasures. José Lázaro Galiano was an avid art collector and upon his death, he donated his entire collection to the state. The collection includes paintings by greats such as Bosch, Murillo, Rembrandt, Zurbaran, El Greco, Velázquez.

Web: www.flg.es Address: Calle Serrano 122, Metro Serrano (L4) or Rubén Darío (L5) Open: 10:00 to 16:30 Closed: Tuesdays and on public holidays Entrance: 4€, free on Sundays and for under 12s.

MUSEO DE AMÉRICA
Outstanding museum dedicated to the art and culture of the Americas. The Museum of America comprises of a wide a collection of artefacts from the different cultures of the American continent.  Located in the Moncloa neighbourhood.

Web: museodeamerica.mcu.es Address: Avenida Reyes Católicos, 6, Metro: Moncloa (L3,L6) Open: Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30 to 15:00; Sunday and holidays: 10:00 a 15:00; Thursday afternoon: 16:00 to 19:00 Closed: Every Monday, Jan. 1, May 1, Dec. 24, 25, 31, Entrance: 3€. Free entry on Sundays and some holidays and special occasions Discounted entry may also be available.

ERMITA DE SAN ANTONIO
Superb Goya frescoes adorn the chapel where the 18th century Spanish painter is buried. This Hermitage is a national monument to Goya’s memory.

Interesting fact: San Anthony is the patron saint of sweethearts, and on June 13, women come to pray for a husband! Address: Paseo de Florida, metro: Príncipe Pío (L6,L10,R). It's ten minutes walk from here Open: Tuesday to Friday: 9:30 to 20:00; Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 to 14:00; August: Tuesday to Friday: 9:30 to 14:30; Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 to 14:00 Closed: Mondays and holidays; Entrance: free.

CATEDRAL DE LA ALMUDENA
Madrid was for many years the only major European city without a cathedral- it took almost a hundred years to build the first cathedral and was inaugurated in 1993 (however one would think it was much older). Due to its long construction period, the architecture, reflects years of changes in building styles. The Basilica de Francisco el Grande a bit further down Calle Bailén is also worth a visit (perhaps even more so) for its decadently painted interior and Goya frescoes.

Location: On Calle Bailén, next to the Royal Palace, Metro: Ópera (L2, L5, R)

TEATRO DE LA ZARZUELA
This wonderful light opera is one of Spain’s best kept secrets.
The Zarzuela Opera is a typical Spanish genre where words, songs and dance scenes are interconnected. It was first performed during the time of Philip IV at the Palace of Zarzuela near Madrid, present home of the present monarchs of Spain, King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia, hence the name Zarzuela. Since the XIX century, the Teatro de la Zarzuela s where you can see the best Zarzuela, unique to Spain and is a visit not to be missed. Check website for listings.

Address: Calle Jovellanos, Metro: Sevilla (L2)