Are you planning a trip to Madrid soon? If yes, then here are some of the best things to do in Madrid, especially if it is your first time here!
If you are planning to spend 10 days in Spain, then you cannot skip Madrid.
Not because it is the capital, but because it is a beautiful city with history and culture.
From museums to gorgeous parks to rooftop sunsets, there is no shortage of amazing things to do in Madrid for first-time visitors..
This is why I have prepared this Madrid Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss anything important and make the most of your time here!
Keep reading on my list of 15 Unforgettable Things to Do in Madrid for First-Time Visitors for your trip inspiration!
Madrid for First-Timers: Why This City?
I know that a lot of people skip this for Barcelona because it is not as famous.
But you should still visit this city, especially if you are traveling to Spain for the first time. Why?
Well, because Madrid is walkable and easy to navigate. The food is amazing here, and it is home to some of the best art museums in Europe.
Plus, you have a happening nightlife here, and it makes the perfect base for day trips.
In short, if you’re visiting Spain for culture, history, food, and authentic city energy, then this is the perfect city to visit.
15 Unforgettable Things to Do in Madrid for First-Time Visitors
Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid
One of the most iconic things to do in Madrid for first-time visitors is to visit the Royal Palace of Madrid.
It doesn’t matter if you don’t want to learn about monarchy; the architecture and the grandeur of this place will blow your mind.
With more than 3,000 rooms, elaborate chandeliers, frescoed ceilings, and the impressive Royal Armory, this place is more than just a residence.
If you don’t want to be stuck in long queues, then go early in the morning in summer.
Book Now: Madrid: Royal Palace Skip-the-line Guided Tour
Book Now: Madrid: Royal Palace Fast-Access Admission Ticket
Wander Through Plaza Mayor
Another thing you cannot miss in Madrid is walking into Plaza Mayor.
Honestly, I love how it looks with its symmetrical red façades, the surrounding balconies, and the grand archways.
What is more fascinating is that this place has been home to markets, bullfights, and celebrations for centuries.
You can sit down for a drink here and watch street performers, and enjoy your first taste of Madrid.
Book Now: Madrid: Welcome to Madrid Guided Walking Tour
Book Now: Madrid: Panoramic Route City Tour
Stand at Kilometer Zero in Puerta del Sol
Of course, if you are looking for the best things to do in Madrid for first-timers, then you cannot miss standing at Kilometer Zero.
It is a short walk away from Puerta del Sol.
This small plaque shows where all major roads in the country begin.
You’ll also see the Bear and the Strawberry Tree statue, Madrid’s emblem, here.
Book Now: Best of Madrid: 3-Hour Guided Bike Tour in Small Groups
Explore the Prado Museum
For museum lovers, if there is one thing you cannot miss, it is the Museo del Prado.
This stunning museum is home to the world’s finest collection of European art and a must-do in your Spain itinerary.
Since it is quite huge, don’t try to see everything here at once.
Focus on admiring masterpieces like Goya’s dramatic works or Velázquez’s Las Meninas.
Just keep a few hours for this museum, not a full day, or else you’ll feel exhausted.
Book Now: Madrid: Prado Museum Entry Ticket
Book Now: Madrid: Prado Museum Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket
See Picasso’s Guernica at Reina Sofía
Reina Sofía Museum is also one of the top things to do in Madrid for modern art lovers.
Of course, the highlight is Picasso’s Guernica.
Trust me, standing in front of it feels very different from what you see in a book.
This museum is also a great place to understand Spain’s history and artistic voice.
Book Now: Reina Sofía Museum Ticket with In-App Audio Guide
Book Now: Reina Sofía Museum Entrance Ticket
Relax in El Retiro Park
\After museums and monuments, if you want a break and want to just relax in the city, then head to El Retiro Park.
It is like the city’s living room where locals jog, picnic, enjoy music, row boats on the lake, and more.
If you are planning a trip in the summer, then do stop here in the evenings to refresh yourself.
You can pause and marvel at the local life instead of running to the attractions.
Eat Tapas at Mercado de San Miguel
For all the foodies out there, one of the top things to do in Madrid is a visit to Mercado de San Miguel.
This is the best place to understand the local food culture.
This historic market is located near Plaza Mayor and offers small portions of classic Spanish dishes under one roof.
Don’t forget to try jamón ibérico, croquetas, olives, and a glass of vermouth here.
Also, remember that dinner usually starts around 9 PM in this city, so plan accordingly.
Book Now: Tapas & Wine Tasting Tour with Local Guide
Book Now: Tapas & Wine Tour with Visit to an Indoor Rooftop
Things to do in Madrid: Watch a Flamenco Show
Of course, no visit to Spain is complete without watching the local Flamenco show.
This deeply emotional and dramatic performance originated in southern Spain, but Madrid is one of the best places to watch it.
I would advise you to choose a smaller venue for a more authentic experience rather than a large production.
Book Now: Live Flamenco Show with Food and Drinks Options
Book Now: Live Flamenco Show with Food and Drinks Options
Things to do in Madrid for first-timers: Walk Along the Gran Vía at Night
One of my favorite things to do in Madrid at night was walking along the Gran Vía after sunset.
The buildings light up, theaters glow, and rooftop bars fill with people watching the skyline.
I love how the city comes alive at night, and if you walk here, you’ll understand why locals rarely eat early or don’t go back home soon.
Book Now: Madrid: Top Pub Crawl with Drinks and Free Nightclub Entry
Book Now: Madrid: Tour with Tuk Tuk Zero: The Best of Madrid in 2h 15min
Things to do in Madrid: Explore La Latina
Still wondering what to do in Madrid?
Well, then, don’t forget to explore La Latina. This is where you find old streets, traditional taverns, and lively Sunday markets.
This is one of the Madrid neighborhoods that feels authentic and slightly less polished than the touristy sites.
If you visit here on a Sunday, then don’t miss the El Rastro flea market.
You also have to try the tapas and vermouth on the terrace and watch the locals pass by.
Book Now: Madrid: Street Art Tour with Local Graffiti Hunter
Book Now: Madrid: Guided Food Tour with Tapas Tastings and Drinks
Things to do in Madrid: Discover the Elegance of Salamanca
Another great place to visit in the city is the Salamanca.
Here, you will find wide boulevards and upscale shopping spots.
So, it feels more residential and cleaner than the city center.
This is the perfect place to see the sophisticated side of Madrid, which is in contrast to its historic side.
Book Now: Madrid: Guided Pub Crawl Madrid Experience and Club Entry
Book Now: Madrid Magical: Hidden Gems and Views Walking Tour
Take a Day Trip to Toledo
If you have some time and want to enjoy some short day trips from Madrid, then Toledo is perfect.
You can reach here with a quick train ride.
I love how this hilltop city feels medieval. You will find winding streets, Gothic architecture, and amazing views here.
If this is your first time to Spain, then this is a great place to add to your Spain itinerary to see how diverse this country is.
Book Now: Madrid: Toledo & Segovia Tour w/ Cathedral, Alcazar & Lunch
Things to do in Madrid: Visit Segovia for Its Roman Aqueduct
Another fun day trip that you can take is to Segovia, which is famous for its impressive Roman aqueduct and fairytale-like Alcázar.
The aqueduct was built without mortar and is still standing tall.
This is a great place to learn about Spain’s historic engineering and charming streets that complement Madrid’s urban lifestyle.
Book Now: Madrid: Segovia and Toledo Tour, Alcazar, and Cathedral
Things To Do In Madrid Essentials Packing List
Here are my tips on how to pack lightly. using a carry-on when traveling. And WHY it is almost a necessity!
This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.
These RFID sleeves are another solution.
This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry on all my trips.
My daughter gifted me this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday.
It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.
I never leave home on a trip without a non-disposable water bottle.
Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would work well for you as well.
This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great for a daily go-pack.
These quick-dry slip-on Aqua shoes will be useful at European beach resorts.
These men’s quick-dry trunks are essential.
For women, this one-strap one-piece bathing suit is amazing.
Consider bringing along quick-dry super-absorbent microfiber towels.
This wet-dry bag with handles is a good option.
These unisex polarized sunglasses come in many lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable, too.
If you like aviator-style sunglasses, these polarized aviators may interest you.
As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from your qualifying purchases.
Where to Stay in Madrid for First-Time Visitors
Yes, the first question you would be asking is where to stay in Madrid.
Well, it depends on your interests, but no matter which barrio you choose, you don’t have to worry.
Sol / Centro
If you are visiting Madrid for the first time, then Sol/Centro is the perfect choice.
You are within walking distance of most major attractions in Madrid, such as the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and Gran Vía.
Hotel Regina – Hotel Regina is perfect for first-time visitors who want to walk everywhere without relying on transport.
They have modern and comfortable rooms and easy access to sightseeing, shopping, and restaurants.
Malasaña
It is trendy, creative, and full of personality, with vintage shops, indie cafés, and lively nightlife.
7 Islas Hotel – 7 Islas Hotel is the perfect boutique hotel here. It’s stylish, and you are close to the cool cafés, vintage stores, and some of the best nightlife in the city.
Salamanca
This Madrid neighbourhood is ideal for luxury travelers, families, or anyone who wants comfort and safety over late-night shenanigans.
Hotel Wellington – I find Hotel Wellington to be classic, elegant, and refined, perfect for families and luxury travelers. They have spacious rooms, a beautiful outdoor pool, and a quiet setting.
La Latina
This area is known for its tapas bars, historic streets, and Sunday markets.
So, it is perfect for food lovers and travelers who want an authentic Madrid vibe while staying close to the city’s main attractions.
Posada del León de Oro – Posada del Leon de Oro is a charming boutique hotel in this neighbourhood and perfect. You have direct access to Madrid’s traditional tapas scene.
How To Pack Light On Your Next Trip Using Only A Carry-On