Prado Highlights: Famous Paintings & Hidden Gems

Exterior of the Prado Museum in Madrid decorated with columns, with a statue out in front

If there’s one must-see attraction in Madrid, it undoubtedly has to be the Prado Museum. It’s undoubtedly one of the world’s greatest collections of art—but with over 2,000 paintings (and hundreds more sculptures, prints, and drawings), it can be hard to know where to start. For that reason, planning what you want to see in […]

Madrid with Kids: How to Plan the Perfect Family Trip

A little girl carrying a clipboard while walking through a busy city with a young boy and two women

With its glamorous palaces, plentiful parks, and sweet treats galore, visiting Madrid with kids makes for a memorable vacation that everyone will love. This guide will help you make your dream family getaway a reality. Madrid—and Spain in general—is the perfect place for a family getaway. There are plenty of things to do for kids, […]

Toledo Day Trip from Madrid: Top Things to See, Do, Buy, & Eat

Panoramic view of Toledo, Spain at sunset taken from across a river.

Toledo is a journey back in time and a feast for all five senses—both at the same time. Centuries-old buildings line streets that the ancient Romans once walked. The story of Muslims, Christians, and Jews lives on around every corner. Rustic family-run taverns cook the hearty regional recipes that have sustained locals for generations. It […]

50 Free Things to Do in Madrid

Busy city plaza with a statue of a bear eating from a strawberry tree in the foreground.

You don’t have to break the bank to make the most of Spain’s vibrant capital. In fact, many of these free things to do in Madrid are among the best ways to enjoy the city, period. So go ahead and put your wallet away—here’s how to make the most of Madrid without spending a single […]

48 Hours in Madrid: 2 Days in Madrid Itinerary

Exterior of a large, grandiose royal palace as seen from across an expansive plaza on a clear day.

Home to world-class art museums, breathtaking architecture, and a dining scene in a class of its own, Madrid is a true feast for the senses. If you only have 48 hours in Madrid, you’ll want to make the most of every moment. Follow this itinerary to experience the Spanish capital at its best—from the legendary […]

Rooftop Pools in Madrid: An Insider’s Guide

When the dog days of summer hit, there’s no better place to be than poolside. That’s especially true when it comes to rooftop pools. Hanging out by the pool is always a must in summer. But when you’re practically on top of the world surrounded by stunning views of Madrid, it gets even better. These […]

Romantic Things to Do for Valentine’s Day in Madrid

two people cheersing

Spain is one of the world’s most passionate and romantic destinations. So if you’re thinking of spending Valentine’s Day in Madrid, you’ve made an excellent choice! El día de San Valentín may not be the most Spanish of holidays—its roots actually date back to ancient Rome. That said, Madrid is the perfect place to celebrate without […]

The Ultimate Self-Guided Walking Tour of Madrid

Large statue of a man on horseback in the middle of a public square.

With so much to history, culture, and incredible food to be found in Spain’s capital city, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But as you’ll find out, the vast majority of its must-see sites are located smack dab in the center. They’re perfectly walkable from one another—which means a self-guided walking tour of Madrid is the […]

Madrid in February: 7 Best Things to See & Do

Group of people in winter clothes standing in a city plaza.

This post was originally published on January 22, 2016 and was updated on December 5, 2022. It may be low season, but here in Madrid, we’re keeping busy and staying warm. As the European equivalent to the city that never sleeps, there’s always something going on in Spain’s bustling, vibrant capital. We’re talking world-class museums, […]

Madrid in January: Best Things to See & Do

A statue of a bear eating from a tree, partially covered in snow.

Here in Spain, the holiday season doesn’t end when January first rolls around. In fact, there’s plenty of festive fun happening all month long! Spain’s gorgeous capital isn’t just one of the best places to celebrate the new year—it’s also a great place to spend some time at any point in January. Here’s everything you […]

Step Back in Time at 7 Centennial Establishments in Madrid

Casa Labra has been a favorite Madrid bar for more than a century.

Madrid is a fascinating mix of historic and modern. On streets such as Calle Fuencarral, you can find symbols of globalization and modernization such as Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, and an Adidas shop. However, nestled amongst the commerce, you will find the small Virgen de la Soledad chapel, dating back to 1712.  But the hidden gems […]

Madrid in December: Best Things to See & Do

Large stone gateway decorated with blue holiday lights with pink and white flowers in front.

Bundle up and get ready to indulge in plenty of seasonal treats. The holiday season has officially arrived in Madrid, and we couldn’t be more excited! There are plenty of fun activities in store when it comes to what to do in Madrid in December. If your holiday itinerary includes the Spanish capital (and it […]

Madrid in November: Best Things to See & Do

Clay jars and steel pots of stew simmering on a stove.

Madrid in November – it’s the calm before the holiday storm. Before you know it, the Spanish capital will be all decked out for Christmas and Three Kings Day. We love the festive winter atmosphere in the city, but the last few days of autumn are a time worth taking advantage of as well. As […]

Madrid in October: Best Things to See & Do

Orange trees in a park on a fall day with a small lake and clear glass structure in the background.

Madrid bursts with colorful energy at the arrival of fall. After the summer crowds clear out and low season sets in, Madrid takes on a much more relaxed vibe. Pleasantly sunny days and crisp, lively nights bring the best of both worlds. Fall in Madrid is beautiful, with some of the best weather of the […]

Madrid in September: Best Things to See & Do

A crowd of people gathered around to watch a band of street performers play.

While most places see September as the beginning of fall, summer fun is still in full swing here in Madrid. The city enjoys pleasantly warm temperatures, but not the scorching heat common in July and August. And as locals return from their beach vacations, the city retains its authentic atmosphere. If you’re visiting Madrid in […]

Madrid in August: Best Things to See & Do

Exterior of a large brick and stone building with people standing in line under shady umbrellas outside.

This blog post was originally posted on July 2, 2018 and was updated on July 1, 2019. The dog days of summer are in full swing, but Madrid still boasts plenty of fun in the sun throughout August. From days spent lazing by the pool with a drink in hand to sultry summer nights taking […]

5 Free Museums in Madrid You Should Check Out

The National Archaeological Museum is a must during your 10 days in Madrid!

Not much can top an afternoon spent in one of Madrid’s many museums—except when that afternoon comes free! That’s right, Spain’s capital city is home to some of the most revered history and art museums in the world, and several of them also offer free entry for guests. So if you love the Prado but […]

Madrid in July: Best Things to See & Do

A person lying in the grass next to a body of water to tan in the sunshine.

During the scorching summer months, Madrid is full of life. Festivals pop up throughout the city, celebrations fill the streets, and people take to the bars for beer and tapas. The weather may be sweltering, but who says that’s going to stop madrileños from having fun? Visiting Madrid in July is hot—we’ll just say it […]

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