visit madrid family

THE 10 BEST Madrid Things to Do with Kids

Things to do in madrid with kids.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Parque del Retiro

2. Plaza Mayor

3. Gran Via

4. Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

5. National Archaeological Museum

6. Templo de Debod

7. Plaza de Cibeles

8. Puerta del Sol

9. Paseo del Prado

10. Palacio De Cristal

11. Estacion de Atocha

12. Parque Madrid Río

13. Barrio de Salamanca

14. Plaza de Santa Ana

15. Sweet Space Museum

16. Plaza de Oriente

17. Puerta de Alcala

18. Windobona Indoor Skydiving Madrid

19. Parque de El Capricho

20. Cibeles Fountain

21. Plaza de Espana

22. Zoo Aquarium de Madrid

23. Matadero Madrid

24. Barrio de Las Letras

25. Jardines de Sabatini

26. Parque del Oeste

27. Museo del Aire

28. Casa de Campo

29. Estádio Cívitas Metropolitano

30. Plaza de la Villa

What travelers are saying.

MADRID WITH KIDS: things to do, itinerary, and top tips

Posted on Last updated: 11 December 2023

Despite being the Spanish capital, Madrid is often overlooked as a family friendly city break in favour of Barcelona or Seville’s architectural charm. But this buzzing and grand city is a fantastic place to explore, and there is more than enough to fill two days in Madrid with kids thanks to fantastic parks, an excellent metro system, and churros for starters.

I visited Madrid with my eldest, Arthur, when he was 6 years old. I had previously done a 1:1 trip with his younger brother to Lanzarote , and I was keen to experience the same with Arthur, albeit on a shorter timescale to fit around school. The reason we picked Madrid? Well, it just came down to a cheap flight offer with Ryanair from Manchester airport, and we’re very pleased we jumped on the deal!

Arthur then returned to Madrid for goalkeeper training when he turned 10, which was a fantastic experience, but also an opportunity to explore Madrid further.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Madrid with kids or wondering if you should book a family holiday to Madrid, read on. Here we provide a two day itinerary, ideas for more things to do in Madrid with kids if you stay longer (including a section for football fans!), getting to and from the airport, as well as some family-friendly accommodation options.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, and I receive a small commission.

Best time to visit Madrid with children

We visited Madrid in January and I’ll be honest, it was cold. Much colder than I had anticipated. We even saw a flurry of snow! Whilst warmer weather would have been appreciated, it was a great time to visit as there were fewer crowds and accommodation prices lower.

I would honestly avoid July and August as the popular sights get extremely crowded and temperatures regularly climb above 35 degrees. That’s a great temperature for a beach holiday, but not at all ideal for a city break with kids .

Late Spring and early Autumn are probably the best times for a family trip to Madrid as temperatures are usually mild. If your kids are in school, you may want to consider either the May or October half-term holidays. In May, you would benefit from the long summer days; alfresco dining in one of Madrid’s many pedestrianised plazas late in the evening is an absolute treat.

But if you are totally flexible or just escaping for a weekend in Madrid like us, June and September are definitely the best months to visit because of the amazing weather and incredibly long days. It’s just a case of finding affordable family accommodation.

Tips for a family trip to Madrid

Madrid is a buzzing, busy city and there are a few things to consider:

• If visiting Madrid with a toddler or baby you may find getting around tricky with a buggy . Whilst there are lots of flat pavements and walkable areas, the public transport isn’t very buggy friendly. The metro is excellent in that it connects lots of different places and is easy to use, but only the very large stations have lift access and many only have stairs. Buses are slow and get very crowded. You may want to consider taking a carrier.
• Madrid is a very walkable city and it’s likely you will do a lot of walking. Consider wearing hiking boots . It may not look as cool, but I’m always grateful for wearing them.
• There are very few public toilets . Make sure your kids go whenever you see a toilet. Don’t wait around for the next one.
• When considering where to stay in Madrid with kids, it’s not necessary being in the city centre as the metro is so good. Consider staying further out, but close to a metro station , to perhaps get a better standard of accommodation for your budget.
• The Spanish operate on very different timings to us Brits. Most people adhere to a siesta between 2pm and 5pm, and people eat very late in the evening, often around 10pm, including families. Thankfully in Madrid there are many eateries open all hours and we never had a problem picking up a snack in the afternoon or grabbing dinner at 6pm. Although it may be worthwhile asking your accommodation for dining recommendations if eating earlier.
• English isn’t as widely spoken in Madrid as you may think it would be. A few Spanish words go a long way and it’s worth having Google Translate handy .
• If you are visiting Madrid with older kids, check out this guide to visiting Madrid with teens .

Our 2 days in Madrid with kids itinerary

We arrived on a Saturday evening to Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport, so we only had time to grab a bite to eat and enjoy a short wander to Puerta del Sol after checking in to our accomodation . But after a good night’s sleep we were ready for a city adventure!

Now there are A LOT of galleries and museums in Madrid including Museo del Prado and Centro de Arte Reina Sofia , all boasting world famous historical artwork, and these are some of the top things to do in Madrid for solo travellers . But when visiting Madrid with children (especially if visiting Madrid with a toddler or pre-schoolers), you perhaps need to be rather selective in where you go, unless you have any serious history buffs in the family. Instead, we decided to head to the markets and plazas to get our flavour of Madrid, found some dinosaur bones, and even took a little trip out of the city to Toledo.

Here is a map of all the places we visited in Madrid in 48 hours, and some extra ideas if you have more time.

Day 1 in Madrid

Start your day at El Rastro markets (take the metro to Puerta de Toledo ), Madrid’s most popular open air flea market, held every Sunday and public holiday during the year. It’s mainly clothes on sale, but you may be able to pick up a bargain. Arthur decided to spend his pocket money on a Real Madrid football shirt.

Then walk the ten minutes to Plaza Mayor , Madrid’s most popular public square that was once the centre of Old Madrid. Just the East of Plaza Mayor are the food markets of Mercado de San Miguel . This is a good snack stop, although this get very busy closer to lunch time.

Consider taking a the Hop on Hop Off Madrid City Tour to rest the legs and admire the city from the top or a bus. The metro is a great way to get around, but to really appreciate the architecture of the city a bus tour is a great idea.

Grab a picnic and spend a long lazy afternoon at the landscaped gardens of El Retiro Park . They are simply stunning and perhaps the best place to visit in Madrid for kids as there is open space to run, lots of playgrounds (see map below) and you can even hire a boat on the lake for a paddle.

However, El Retiro Park was sadly closed for our visit due to high winds. There have been previous fatalities caused by falling trees in high winds, so if the wind picks up to a certain level the authorities close the park. Check this website for notifications of closure.

So we had to find something else to do! Instead we ventured over to Faro de Moncloa , a 92-metre-high transmission tower with an observation deck. The views on a clear day are fantastic and it’s interesting seeing the network of roads across the city. Do note that it is closed on a Monday. There are only fast food restaurants at the metro stop over this way, so try and grab something in the city before hand.

To finish the day (yes, we were still going strong!) we took the metro to Gregorio Marañón to visit the Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales . This Natural Sciences Museum is split in two. Head to the entrance on the far left first. This is the main entrance and where you purchase tickets (adults €7, children €3.50). This half of the museum is devoted heavily to taxidermy. Budding palaeontologists need to head to the entrance on the right hand side of the building to investigate fossils and see dinosaur skeletons.

Faro de Moncloa and the National Museum of Natural Sciences are also good options for things to do in Madrid when it rains .

Day 2 to Toledo

The medieval town of Toldeo is only a 30 minute train journey from Madrid and an absolute must for anyone visiting Madrid. You can get the bus, which is slightly cheaper, but the train is much quicker and more comfortable. Otherwise you can book a day tour from Madrid to Toledo .

We wandered from our hostel to Puerta del Sol , which is where all roads in Spain radiate from. There are always roving characters around tempting your children to take a photo with them (make sure you have change). From Sol take the metro direct to the impressive Atocha Station .

Atocha Station is the largest railway station in Spain and can be difficult to navigate, so allow lots of time to find your way. You will need to purchase and book a specific train time for your journey to Toldeo. Trains depart every hour or half hour in the morning and every hour in the evening. Tickets are about €13. Train times are subject to change, so  check the latest train times at Rail Europe  before you depart for the day. 

Once you arrive at Toledo Station, you may want to do the Toledo City Tour Bus Tour that waits right outside.

However, if you want to explore under your own steam (like us), it’s a 20 minute stroll to the city walls via Puerta de Alcántara , and then we suggest you just wander and get lost, stumbling across palaces and churches along the way. Many of the streets are pedestrianised or have very little traffic, so your little ones are free to run, jump and explore.

Top things to see in Toldeo include:

• Catedral de Toledo – one of the top 10 cathedrals in Spain
• Alcázar – a very large military museum in a 16th century palace
• Sinagoga del Tránsito – a beautiful synagogue built in 1355
• Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes – a 15th-century church with grand cloisters

There are also lots of souvenir shops selling swords and gear for budding knights, and there is an abundance of family friendly eateries. Arthur particularly enjoyed the pizza here .

More ideas for things to do in Madrid for families

If you’re looking for more family things to do in Madrid, you may be interested to learn that there are some fantastic amusement parks in and around the city. Many of these are shut in the winter months, so check the websites for opening times.

• Parque Warner Madrid – a theme park to the south east of the city boasting a total of 42 rides with 6 rollercoasters.
• Parque de Atracciones de Madrid – the official amusement park of Madrid. Located in the Casa de Campo, the 20-hectare park has a total of 36 rides, 7 rollercoasters, and 3 water rides across 5 zones, including Nickelodeon Land.
• Aquópolis Water Parks – there are actually two close to the city of Madrid;  Aquopolis San Fernando de Henares  (west of Madrid) or  Aquopolis Villanueva de la Cañada  (east of Madrid).
• Zipline Adventure Park Madrid – zip lines and tree top adventures for kids aged 13+.

In addition, nature loving kids would enjoy an afternoon exploring the different ecosystems and animals at Faunia , including kangaroos, meerkats, crocodiles and even dinosaurs!

And finally, we should perhaps fit in a museum. Does your little one like robots? Then a visit to the Robot Museum is a must, as it houses one of the largest robot collections in the world. Book on to a guided tour lasting 45 mins. You can only do this on the day of your visit, but you can do this online. At 4pm Monday to Friday there is an English tour. Check the website for opening times and tickets prices, and note that it is closed on a Sunday.

Football fans visiting Madrid

Madrid is known as one of the world’s premier footballing cities with two top division (La Liga) sides (Real and Atletico) based in the city. Both clubs offer stadium tours and you can attend a match if it happens to coincide with your visit.

Real’s stadium (the Santiago Bernabéu ) is located right in the heart of the city, whilst Atletico’s ( Civitas Metropolitan Stadium ) is a few kilometres from the centre. Both are accessible by metro and Atletico’s is also easy to reach by your own vehicle (and has lots of parking spaces on non-match days).

The stadium tours are both very similar, giving you the chance to view the trophy rooms, media centre, dressing rooms and pitch side access. We actually preferred the Atletico version as it was slightly quieter with better access, although both are recommended. You’ll also get to visit the club shops after the tours, prices of the replica kits veer towards the expensive side, although they’re the same price you’d pay online.

Buying tickets for matches can be tricky, depending who they are playing and the stage of the season. Tickets for the big games (Real versus Atletico and either Madrid side versus Barcelona) will be especially hard/expensive to purchase. Another complication is that kick-off times aren’t confirmed until very close to the match day, sometimes only a couple of weeks beforehand, which makes planning harder. Keep in mind that some matches don’t kick-off until 9pm local time, meaning a finish time of close to 11pm!

It’s easiest and most reliable to book tickets via the respective club’s websites, or at the stadium itself. You’ll find a multitude of ticket agencies operating online but approach them with caution as there will be a high price mark-up and there’s always a risk of counterfeit tickets.

Do try and attend a game if you can though, Spanish football fans are rightly considered some of the most passionate in the world and watching a match with 70,000+ fans in attendance is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

There’s another team based near Madrid called Getafe. It’s usually easier to get tickets for their matches but it lacks some of the prestige of the other two clubs.

How to get around Madrid with kids

Madrid is a very walkable city and we did A LOT of walking. But when little legs get tired and when you want to venture further afield, the metro is extremely good and very easy to navigate.

We bought a three day tourist card from the metro station at the airport. This covered all travel on public transport in the city for our stay, including getting to and from the airport to the city centre. Check the website for up to date pricing. Kids under the age of 11 are half price, and children under the age of 4 travel for free.

You may also want to consider doing the Hop on Hop off City Bus Tour . If you are visiting Madrid with kids age 10+, you may want to do a segway tour !

If you’re planning to use the metro, you’ll first need to buy a Metro card (available from ticket machines or some newsagents) for €2.50 which you then load tickets onto. You’re able to use one card for multiple people, so families can just buy one and add everyone’s ticket onto it. Simply tap at the ticket gate when you’re making your journey for each person in your group.

Getting to and from Madrid airport to city centre

If you’re wondering how to get from Madrid Airport to the city centre , it’s actually quite straight forward. There are Metro stations both at Terminal 2 and Terminal 4. You can easily walk to T2 from T1 and T3. Trains leave every 5 minutes between 6.00 am and 2.00 am. Line 8 goes straight to the Nuevos Ministerios Metro station in the centre of Madrid, taking just 12 minutes.

If you are heading to Atocha station, or your accommodation is nearby, consider taking the Renfe commuter train, known as Cercanías . From the airport (terminal 4), the C1 and C10 trains take thirty minutes to reach Atocha station, also passing through a few useful city centre stations (including Chamartín and Nuevos Ministerios ) on the way.

Tickets for the train can be bought on the ground floor of T4 arrivals and cost €2.60. We had some trouble getting our UK credit card to work with the machines so it’s not a bad idea to have some cash handy in case you need it. Check the official Renfe website for timetables, maps and other information.

Read this guide if you are doing a long layover at Madrid Airport.

Where to stay in Madrid with kids

Accommodation in Madrid is on the pricey side, even in low season, and we found budget accommodation got booked up quickly even in mid January!

We stayed at Casa de Huespedes Dolce Vita . This is a good budget choice, in a central location and includes breakfast, although it severely lacks any sound proofing. As it was just my son and I we stayed in a double room with shared bathroom. There is one triple room, but no larger rooms to accommodate larger families.

If you are looking for a good family hotel in Madrid you should check out:

• Petit Palace Plaza Mayor (⋆⋆⋆⋆) – very central, modern and free bike hire.
• Iberostar Las Letras Gran Via (⋆⋆⋆⋆) – very central, full of character, seasonal rooftop pool with spectacular views. 
• SmartRental Collection Centric II (⋆⋆⋆⋆) – self catering apartments, seasonal pool, central.
• Vértice Roomspace (⋆⋆⋆) – 15-minutes train ride from Madrid city centre.
• Ok Hostel Madrid (⋆⋆) – basic family rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

Fancy some luxury with a rooftop pool? Then check out these hotels in Madrid with rooftop pools . They look utterly incredible!

You may also like to read: Lanzarote with kids: off the beaten track The best ALTERNATIVE European city breaks with kids A Northern Spain road trip: Santander to Barcelona and the Pyrenees

Madrid With Kids: 12 Fun things to Do

Madrid is a great destination for travelers for many reasons . It has a wide range of cultural activities, history, green spaces, and great food options. And Madrid with kids is no exception. It’s a very family-friendly destination with a wide offer of things to do with children of all ages. 

Whether your kids love playing outside or visiting fun and hands-on museums, they’ll love discovering the European city of Madrid.

So, if you’re looking for a family getaway to this incredible city, here are our 12 favorite things to do in Madrid with kids  and a few fun day trips from Madrid.

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links . If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost . Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you .

ities in Madrid.  AllTrails  is our app to look at trails report and see if the trail is kid-friendly.

Our 12 favorite things to do in madrid with kids, 1. visit the retiro park.

Retiro Park is a must-see attraction to visit in Madrid with kids. 

In this UNESCO World Heritage Site park , there are many fun activities. You can rent a rowing boat , visit the Crystal Palace or simply let your kids play in one of the many playground s. 

It’s the perfect place to visit on a sunny afternoon in Madrid . We highly recommend having a family picnic ! But you can also find numerous cafes and snack carts throughout the park.

2. Go on a Kid’s Tour in Prado Museum

Prado Museum is home to some of the most impressive collections of art . This art museum is a great one to go to with kids.

The general entrance for children at the Prado Museum is free . However, if you’re worried about how much fun your kids will have at the museum, we recommend booking a kid’s tour .

Across Madrid is one of the best tours for kids to visit this museum . The tour lasts 2 hours and a half , but it’s packed with interactive activities for your kids to learn about art while having fun.

Book your Prado Museum G u i d e d Kids Tour here!

3. Spend the Day at Parque de Atracciones

If you’re after a day full of adrenaline with your kids, then you want to visit the Parque de Atracciones amusement park.

Are your kids fans of  Sponge Bob, Dora the Explorer, or the Rugrats by any chance? If so, they’ll love visiting this theme park. 

The theme park has plenty of areas to enjoy with kids. The Nickelodeon Land is the one for the youngest kids.

At Nickelodeon Land, they can enjoy a ride or watch their favorite cartoons in action in the shows organized in the park . The Parque de Atracciones amusement park also has many roller coasters for older kids.

Book your Parque de Atrcacciones Amusement Park here!

4. Attend a Football (Soccer) Tour or Santiago Bernabéu Stadium Tour

Football (or soccer) is the biggest sport in Spain . And Madrid is home to two popular soccer stadiums: Santiago Bernabé u (the Real Madrid stadium) and Wanda Metropolitano (the Atlético de Madrid stadium).

If your kids love soccer, have a look at the tours that take place in these two stadiums.

At Santiago Bernabéu stadium , you’ll get to see the Real Madrid C.F. Museum and have a panoramic view of inside the stadium. Tours are around 12 euros per person.

Book your Madrid: Bernabéu Stadium Tour here!

5. Go on a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

A different way to explore the city is by going on a hop-on hop-off bus tour.

It’s a comfortable way to discover the main sights of Madrid and learn about them.

Although you can go on this with kids of any age, teens who are interested in Spain’s culture and sights would definitely appreciate doing this activity.

But a hop-on hop-off bus tour is also a great way to navigate around the city. There are many stops all across the city, and the bus tickets are valid for 24 hours . It can be an alternative to using public transportation.

If you are planning on staying a few days in the city, I recommend doing the bus tour at the start of your trip . After the tour, you’ll have a better idea of what the city has to offer and where things are located. It’s a good introduction to the city .

Book your Madrid: hop-on- hop-off Bust Tour here!

6. Visit Madrid Río Park

Another beautiful green space in Madrid is the Madrid Río Park . It’s parallel to the River Manzanares.

This park is perfect for adventure families that want to go for a scenic walk . You’ll be able to let the kids burn off energy in one of the 17 play areas you can find across the park.

Your kids will absolutely love these play areas that have swings, hanging bridges, climbing vines, and so much more.

7. Ride-on Madrid Cable Car

Older kids or teens will enjoy the cable car ride from Moncloa to Casa de Campo . During the 15-minute ride, your family will be amazed by the views.

If you’re planning to visit the cable car with younger kids, you can take a stroller or pram onboard.

8. Spending your day at Parque Warner

Parque Warner is another incredible theme park located just outside Madrid . 

You can easily spend a full day in this amusement park as there are plenty of attractions for all ages. 

Smaller kids will love coming across some of their favorite cartoons, while teens will be crazy about all the adrenaline-packed attractions.

Book your Parque Warner Entry Ticket here!

9. Go to the National Museum of Natural Sciences

A guaranteed fun activity for kids of all ages is visiting the National Museum of Natural Sciences .

In this science museum, there are plenty of interactive exhibitions to keep your children entertained. They can find a huge dinosaur skeleton, a rock garden with fossils, and exhibitions to learn about animals.

10.  Take photos at the Museum of Illusions in Madrid

There isn’t a more interactive and hands-on museum than the Museum of Illusions of Madrid . 

It consists of several rooms in which adults and children can enjoy different visual , experimental, and educational experiences . And nothing is what it seems!

One of our favorite parts is the Rotated Room , which is perfect for family photos .

Book your Museum of Illusions of Madrid here!

11. Exploring Casa de Campo Park

Casa de Campo is the largest public park in Madrid which makes it perfect for adventure and active kids that love playing outdoors.

In the park, you’ll find many features and attractions, like a beautiful lake in the middle of the park , the Madrid Zoo and Aquarium , and the Madrid cable car .

In the summer, your family can visit the outdoor public swimming pool , one of the most popular spots for locals to go for a swim on a warm day.

12. Learn about El Ratoncito Pérez at Ratón Pérez Museum

An excellent plan for young children is to visit the Ratón Pérez Museum .

If you’re wondering who Ratoncito Pérez is, he is the equivalent of the Tooth Fairy in Spain. This mouse brings children a little present (usually money) in exchange for their fallen tooth.

The museum is filled with drawings and stories of this famous character.

It’s a great way to teach your kids something related to Spanish culture!

Book your Casita-Museo de Ratón Pérez tour here!

Best Day Trips from Madrid

Avila .

Avila is the capital and the most populated municipality of the Avila province . The city is known for its infamous medieval walls known as the Town of Stones and Saints , built by Roman architects back in the day.

The town near Madrid is enchanted with picturesque views of cathedrals, 11th-century walls, and the Basilica of St. Vincent . Avila has several day tour options to suit your preferences, including small groups, full-day, and skip-the-line guided tours. 

Things to Do and See in Avila: 

• Visit the Avila Walls (medieval palace) 
• Visit the Los Cuatro Postes  
• Check out the Basilica de San Vicente (an absolute must) 
• Take a hike to Gredos Mountains . 

How to Get from Madrid to Avila 

Avila is around 109 km away from Madrid, which should take around an hour and a half to reach there. To get there, you can either rent a car , get on a bus at Ruta for Avila, or by train through Renfe Viajeros. 

Book your Avila Tours from Madrid here!

Toledo 

Toledo is Spain’s beating heart and soul , as locals say. The walled city on a hilltop is, in fact, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The city of Madrid is paved with cobblestone streets and buildings made from old stones.

Toledo is nicknamed the “city of three cultures ,” with Christians, Jews, and Muslims living alongside each other in peace and harmony. Going on a day trip to Toledo from Madrid will surely not disappoint. 

Things to Do and See in Toledo :

• Book a tour to see the Cathedral Primada.  
• Explore the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes or book a day tour here .
• Visit Puerta del Sol .
• Discover your way into the El Greco Museum .  

How to Get from Madrid to Toledo: 

Toledo is approximately 72.4 km away from Madrid, but don’t worry; there are many ways to get there. This includes getting there by using rideshare (the cheapest option), train, bus, or taxi (the priciest but most convenient, I’d say). 

Book your Toledo Tours from Madrid here!

San Lorenzo de El Escorial 

San Lorenzo de El Escorial , or El Escorial de Arriba , is both a town and municipality in Madrid. The city is home to the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial , one of Spain’s most famous Renaissance monuments.

The monastery was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1984 . In addition, the city has plenty of days tours to choose from in Madrid to immerse yourself into Spanish history truly, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, and get in touch with mother nature. 

Things to Do and See in San Lorenzo de El Escorial: 

• See the infamous monastery of El Escorial .  
• Trek through the Bosque de La Herrería to be in one with nature
• Discover El Escorial’s Insect Park , with multicolored butterflies as the center of attraction. 
• Savor El Escorial’s family-run restaurants with traditional tapas and meat-based dishes fill your bellies. 

How to Get from Madrid to San Lorenzo de El Escorial

San Lorenzo de El Escorial is roughly 58 km from Madrid or a 50-minute journey , a manageable distance, we’d say.

There are various ways to get there. This includes by train (from the Madrid Sol train station), by bus on the 687 (from the Madrid Moncloa bus station), or by car using a rented car or taxi. 

Book your  San Lorenzo de El Escorial Tours from Madrid here!

Chinchón, a genuinely underrated small town in Spain , is one of the most overlooked places to visit . The city is mainly known for its prominent central plaza (Plaza Mayor) , garlic festival in autumn, and spring liquor festival.

And, of course, how can you not get a taste of one of Spain’s best delights, right? If there are two words to sum up, this beautiful town, its food, and its architecture. 

Things to Do and See in Chinchón: 

• Check out Plaza Mayor .
• Visit the Bodega del Nero wineries and vineyards.  
• Enjoy picturesque views of the Mirador de la Iglesia 
• Feast Chinchón’s traditional foods, such as empanadas 

How to Get There from Madrid to Chinchón

Getting to the city from Madrid should only take about 50 minutes as it’s only about 61 km apart. There are two ways to get there, either by bus 337 or by car (using either a taxi or a rented car). 

Aranjuez is a perfect blend between the lush greens of nature and the glowing lights of the city. Back in 2001, Aranjuez was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its rich history.

Aranjuez is widely known for its majestically massive palaces, nature, and a hotspot for golfing in Spain . To make the most out of your visit, check out the following Madrid tours and itineraries below. 

Things to Do and See in Aranjuez: 

• Visit the Royal Palace of Aranjuez .
• Take a stroll in the gardens of Casa del Labrador. 
• Visit Isle Garden .
• Have a picnic by the Tagus River in the summer. 

How to Get from Madrid to Aranjuez 

Generally speaking, Aranjuez is about 49 km away from Madrid , so no matter what mode of transport you choose, it should take about 50 minutes. To get to Aranjuez, you can either take a cab, a 423 bus ride, or the C3 train, or you can always rent out a car. 

Book your Aranjuez Tours from Madrid here!

Alcazar de San Juan 

The town is located in the autonomous community of Castile-La Mancha, central Spain . Alcazar de San Juan is known as a traditional village in La Mancha and is home to ancestral houses from the 17th to 19th centuries, where you can spot several windmills .

The city is packed with religious buildings , such as the Santa Clara and Santa Quiteria parish churches and museums, and is also well known for the city’s infamous carnival called Carnavalcázar .

Things to Do and See in Alcazar de San Juan: 

• Take a stroll in Parque Alces Park.  
• Visit the Molinos de Alcazar de San Juan .
• Unwind at the Complejo lunar de Alcazar de San Juan. 
• Immerse yourself in the Museo Hidalgo museum .

How to Get from Madrid to Alcazar de San Juan

The city is about 153 km away from Madrid, so prepare for the pretty long journey ahead. You can get there using the 276 train (the fastest option), by bus, or by car. 

Rascafria 

The city is located in Sierra de Guadarrama at Alto del Lozoya Valley . It is one of the most sought-for destinations by tourists for its richness in culture, history, and nature.

Rascafria is widely known for its Monastery of El Paular . Its traditional style of architecture and its closeness to nature make it the perfect destination for outdoor activities and rural explorations. 

Things to Do and See in Rascafria:

• Engage in some outdoor activities at Penalara Natural Park . 
• Visit the Monastery of El Paular or book a tour here to experience the monastery .
• Take a stroll in Bosque Finlandes Rascafria .

How to Get from Madrid to Rascafria 

Rascafria is a 104-km journey from Madrid and should take about at least an hour to get there. You can get there using a train, bus, taxi or drive your rented car (the cheapest and fastest option). 

Guadarrama National Park 

Guadarrama National Park is one of Spain’s most significant national parks , stretching over 34,000 hectares, surrounded by majestic mountains over 2,000 meters tall ! For all you outdoor enthusiasts, this is the perfect place for you!

The park is enriched with lush greens and enchanted with a variety of wildlife (particularly mammals) such as roe deers, wildcats, otters, badgers, Iberian ibex, and voles are just some of the many species you can find there. 

Things to Do and See in Guadarrama National Park: 

• Go horse-riding  
• Skiing 
• Hiking 
• Wildlife spotting 
• Zip-lining 

Make sure you bring the right footwear. It is advisable to bring hiking boots and a pair of insoles for hiking.

How to Get from Madrid to Guadarrama National Park

Guadarrama National Park is about 120 km away from Madrid, a roughly two-hour journey. There are three ways to get there, either by bus, train or car. 

Book From Madrid: Day Trip to Guadarrama National Park here!

Alcala de Henares

Alcala de Henares is a city located just in the northeast of Madrid. The city is notoriously known for its literary heritage, irresistible tapas, and vineyards. It is home to a formerly medieval university, now known as the University of Alcala. 

Things to Do and See in Alcala de Henares

• Walkthrough Calle Mayor to explore local street shops and restaurants.
• Feast the infamous tapa at Indalo .
• Have a night out at the Green Irish Pub nightclub .
• Check out the Alcalá Film Festival and the Don Juan performance during these times. 

How to Get from Madrid to Alcala de Henares 

The city is only about 42 km away from Madri d, making it about an hour’s worth of commute. To get here, you can either use the C2 train or cab (the priciest option) or rent out a car (the fastest option). 

Book From Madrid: Alcala de Henares d a y   t r i p   here!

Ribera del Duero 

Ribera del Duero is known as a Denominación de Origen Protegida (DOP) situated in Spain’s northern plateau.

It is widely known as one of the highly recognized wine-producing Madrid regions in Castilla y Leon , with its Tempranillo red wines . Wine tasting tour is an absolute must and definitely goes without saying. 

Things to Do and See in Ribera del Duero: 

• Stroll by the River Duero .
• Visit the infamous Madrid castles such as Peñafiel (Valladolid) and Peñaranda del Duero (Burgos).
• Explore the Monastery of Valbuena .
• Visit the city’s finest wineries or book a wineries guided tour  from Madrid.

How to Get from Madrid to Ribera del Duero

Ribera del Duero is 182 km away from Madrid , a roughly 2-hour journey . You can get there in two ways: taking the bus or renting a car (the faster option). 

Book your top things to do in Ribera del Duero here!

Cuenca 

Cuenca is a city with strong cultural roots located in the autonomous community of Castile – La Mancha. The town is mainly known for its infamous hanging houses, which are also a UNESCO World Heritage site .

The city itself has a medieval essence, with cobblestone streets, old mansions, and a town square. Cuenca is indeed a hidden gem not known to many.

Things to Do and See in Cuenca: 

• Take a visit to the Hanging Houses of Cuenca . 
• Visit the Museo de Cuenca for a deep dive into the history of Spain. 
• Visit Posada San Jose to start the day with breakfast and a sight to behold.
• Enjoy picturesque views from the Mirador del Cerro del Socorro.

How to Get from Madrid to Cuenca

Cuenca is about 171 km away from Madrid , so you should expect a roughly 2-hour journey ahead . To get here, you can either take a train (the fastest option), the bus (the cheapest option), or drive your rented car. 

Book your Cuenca Tours from Madrid here!

Getafe 

Getafe is a city on the south-central side of Madrid, Spain. Aside from some of its prominent buildings, such as the Piarist seminary and the 16th-century Church of Santa María Magdalena , Getafe is also a military aviation center that manufactures aircraft and military equipment. 

Things to Do and See in Getafe: 

• Visit the Catedral Santa Maria Magdalena .
• Check out Cerro de Los Ángeles .
• Visit the Coliseum Alfonso Perez football stadium . 

How to Get from Madrid to Getafe 

Getafe is only 6.6 km away from Madrid, or a 30-minute journey ahead . It is one of the most well-known cities close to Madrid. There are multiple ways to get there: the 463 bus, the C3 train, or you can take a taxi, as it is not too expensive.  

Salamanca 

Salamanca is inherently one of the most beautiful cities in Madrid , located in the northwest of Spain.

The city is known for its sandstone architecture and its infamous historical University of Salamanca. The city was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage site back in 1988. 

Things to Do and See in Salamanca: 

• Visit the Salamanca Cathedral.  
• Check out the Casa Lis museum . 
• Have a look (and take some pictures) at the Casa de las Conchas . 
• Take a food tour and try out some tapas. 

How to Get from Madrid to Salamanca 

Salamanca is 215 km away from Madrid, so you should expect a 2.5-hour journey ahead of you. There are three ways to get there. You can either drive a rented car, take the train via Chamartin, or hop on the Auto Res Express bus.

Book Salamanca Tours from Madrid here!

Las Rozas Village 

Las Rozas Village is known as one of the biggest towns located northwest of Madrid, Spain.

It is notoriously known to be a shopping hotspot with various branded stores and boutiques selling top-notch shoes, clothes, and so on. The main reason? Discounts and tax-free shopping for non-E.U residents. 

Things to Do and See in Las Rozas Village: 

• Visit the Paris Park .
• Unwind and have some fun at the Carlos Sainz Center Las Rozas for some go-karting and tasty delights. 

How to Get from Madrid to Las Rozas Village 

Fortunately, Las Rozas Village is only 24 km away from Madrid, or 30 minutes of commuting . To get there, you can either take a cab, rent out a car, or take the 625 or 629 bus. 

Pedraza 

Pedraza has been known as a historical site since 1951 and remains one of the most beautiful main squares located in Castilla y León. The village is known for its cobblestone streets and homes from the medieval era. 

Things to Do and See in Pedraza: 

• Explore your way into history and the Pedraza Castle .
• Visit the Ignacio Zuloaga museum . 
• Take a stroll in the Puerta de la Villa.
• Take a peek at the San Juan church.

How to Get from Madrid to Pedraza 

Pedraza is about 132 km away from Madrid, or a 1.5-hour trip . The easiest way to get there is by car, and it is also the most convenient as there are no buses that can take you there directly. 

Parque Warner Madrid 

The infamous theme park is the go-to place for families, DC superhero fans, and of course, children. There are various attractions to choose from.

There are five themed areas, including Super Heros World , Hollywood Boulevard , Old West Territory, Movie World Studios, and Cartoon Village . Easily making it one of the best places in Madrid.

Things to Do and See at Parque Warner Madrid: 

• Ride the thrilling Batman: Arkham Asylum ride in DC Superheroes World .
• Get a splashing ride on the Cataratas Salvajes in the Old West Territory . 
• Enjoy a relaxing ride on the Cine tour at Movie World Studios. 
• Chase the thrill on the coaster express in the Old West Territory.

How to Get from Madrid to Parque Warner Madrid

Parque Warner Madrid is only 30 km away from Madrid or about a 30-minute commute . You can get here using either a car (best option) or train, or bus (412 and 413).

Book your Parque Warner Madrid Tours here!

Segovia 

The city is located in the Northwest of Madrid, in the autonomous community of Castile-León, and is home to famous Spanish landmarks – medieval Alcázar and the Segovia aqueduct.

Interestingly, the city earned a spot on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site List back in 1885.

Segovia has several Madrid to Segovia day trip options to choose from. This includes group tours (for a more budget-friendly option) or private tours (for a more personal and self-paced exploration). 

Things to Do and See in Segovia: 

• Check out the Segovia castle . 
• Visit the Roman aqueduct.
• Feast the infamous suckling pig at Restaurante José Maria.
• Sip a glass of vermouth at the Segovia Cathedral Square . 

How to Get from Madrid to Segovia 

Regardless of how you choose to get there, Segovia should take about an hour from Madrid (the distance from Madrid to Segovia is approximately 97 km away).

There are three modes of transport to choose from, including renting a car, hopping on a bus (cheapest option), and by the AVE speed train from Madrid to Segovia.

 Book your Segovia tours from Madrid here!

A few things to know when planning a family vacation to Madrid.

Here are a few things to know when planning a trip to Madrid.

✈️ Book your flight to Madrid.

Find cheap flights to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) using Google Flights or  Skyscanner ,  where you’ll be able to compare different airline tickets for MAD, including some low-cost ones.

🚗 Rent your car

You can rent a car directly from Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) or wait until you are in town. I recommend you compare pricing on  DiscoverCars . You can also  rent a campervan from Escape Campervans  in Madrid.

Do you need a car in Madrid? You don’t necessarily need a car in Madrid if you’re planning on staying around the Strip. But you might want to rent a car if you wish to explore the surroundings, including the Chamberi, Bario de Salamanca, Retiro, and many more.

🛏️ Book your hotel in Madrid

Booking.com  is a great search engine for hotels in Madrid and the surrounding area. For the ultimate Madrid vacation with kids, I highly recommend you stay in Salamanca . It is a vibrant and safe neighborhood that offers access to many great attractions, such as Retiro Park, the Plaza de Colón, and numerous museums. It also has plenty of restaurants and shops for families to explore.

You can look at the following:

• Melia Madrid Serrano
• ICON Embassy
• Novotel Madrid Center
• Wellington Hotel & Spa Madrid

🎟️ Book your Madrid tours

Viator  and  Get Your Guide   are two great websites for finding fun tours in and around Madrid, such as the   Madrid: Horse Riding in Sierra del Guadarrama National Park and the  Madrid Prado Museum Private Guided Tour for Kids and Families .

📱 Download a few apps to help you plan your Madrid vacation

The  GoWhee app  is the perfect app for finding fun kid-friendly activ

F.A.Q Madrid With Kids: 12 Fun Things to Do

Is madrid good for children.

Yes, Madrid is a fantastic city for children . Madrid is home to numerous parks, museums, and attractions tailored to children and adults alike. The city has many beautiful restaurants that offer the needs of families with young children, making it an excellent place for kids to explore and have a good time.

What to do in Madrid with 5 year old?

If you’re visiting Madrid with your 5-year-old and looking for something to do in Madrid, good thing! There are plenty of family-friendly activities available. The city has several excellent museums offering interactive exhibits, such as the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia , the Museo de Ciencias Naturales , and the Museo del Prado . Plenty of parks and playgrounds also exist, including Retiro Park and Parque Juan Carlos I . Other fun activities include visiting the zoo or aquarium at Faunia Madrid , a boat tour on the Manzanares River , or a day trip to Warner Bros World Madrid theme park .

What area to stay in Madrid with kids?

Chamberí and Salamanca are two of the best areas to stay in Madrid with kids. Chamberí is known for its parks, playgrounds, restaurants, and bars . It has easy access to public transportation. Salamanca is a much more upscale area of Madrid, but there are still plenty of attractions for families— including parks, museums, and shopping centers . Both areas offer plenty of family-friendly activities for children.

Is Madrid or Barcelona better to visit with the kids?

When it comes to visiting Spain with kids , both Madrid and Barcelona have a lot to offer. Madrid is known for its many museums, parks, and outdoor activities , while Barcelona is renowned for its bustling city life, delicious food, and vibrant culture . Depending on what you’re looking for in a vacation with your family, either city could be the right choice. Madrid is an excellent option for an educational trip that combines history and culture. But if you’d like to experience the unique Mediterranean lifestyle of Spain, Barcelona is the place to go.

What is the safest area to stay in Madrid?

The safest areas to stay in Madrid are Retiro, Chamberí, Salamanca, Sol, Malasaña, Chueca, and La Latina. These are Madrid’s most famous tourist areas and offer a good balance between safety and city life. They have plenty of attractions nearby as well as a vibrant nightlife. You should also check out the local neighborhoods for a more authentic experience.

Final Thoughts: Madrid With Kids: 12 Fun Things to Do

A trip to Madrid with kids can be an exciting and memorable experience for parents and children alike. It is a place that can provide fun and learning experiences for everybody.

From the stunning Prado Museum to the colorful Paella Festival, there are a variety of activities that children and adults can enjoy. There are also lots of parks and kid-friendly museums that kids will love.

Whether you’re looking to explore the history, sample local cuisine, or bask in the sunshine, Madrid has something for everybody.

So why not plan your next family vacation in Madrid? 🙂

Related Articles

If you enjoyed this article, you might also like to read the following articles:

• Hiking in Spain in April: What to Know & Our Best Trails
• Spain Itinerary: A 14 Days Family Adventure

Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.

Black Friday: Up to 15% off selected tours

Prices shown include discount | Offer ends November 28th at 11:59pm PST

Home / Blog / Destination / Spain / Madrid / How to Spend 3 Days in Madrid with Kids: The Perfect Family Itinerary

How to Spend 3 Days in Madrid with Kids: The Perfect Family Itinerary

Spain’s incredible capital is full of fun for the whole family. It’s got plenty of history and culture that will fascinate adults, while still featuring plenty of kid-friendly sights . However, planning the perfect trip for everyone involves thinking ahead more than a trip sans kids. This itinerary for spending 3 days in Madrid with kids will leave everyone happy. Get ready to enjoy a fun, fulfilling trip the whole family will remember forever.

Casa Museo de Ratón Pérez

Just a two-minute walk away from the tour ending point in Puerta del Sol, you’ll find this charming museum kids will adore. Here in Spain, it’s not the tooth fairy who visits children who have lost a tooth—it’s a little mouse known as El Ratoncito Pérez ! At Casa Museo de Ratón Pérez , kids will have a blast experiencing this unique Spanish tradition.

According to local legend, Ratoncito Pérez actually lives in the little house at the museum! Kids will have a blast seeing where the little mouse and his family live. There’s also a small art museum featuring various artists’ interpretations of this beloved character. You can even see some of the baby teeth belonging to famous historical figures that he’s collected over the years.

Mercado de San Miguel

At this point, the kids might be tired. Remember that there’s no shame in heading back to your hotel for a little R&R! In fact, Spanish culture actually encourages a midday nap. Don’t be afraid to embrace the siesta!

When you’re ready to head back out, take the metro to Sol and enjoy the short walk to the most iconic and popular of Madrid’s many fresh food markets . The Mercado de San Miguel is a true feast for the senses. There are plenty of great options here, from simple Spanish favorites to otherworldly delicacies you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re traveling with picky or adventurous eaters, there’s something for everyone.

Family picnic

While you’re at the market, be sure to pick up some fresh, local products to enjoy on a family picnic. Continuing west from San Miguel, there are some lovely green spaces where you can relax and eat your leisurely meal while the kids play. Plaza de España is always a popular choice, and Campo del Moro park behind the Royal Palace is lovely as well. As a bonus, it has a playground.

Start off the second of your 3 days in Madrid with kids by heading to the city’s most popular park! Gorgeous Retiro is full of activities the whole family can enjoy. Take a relaxing boat ride along the lake, check out the glistening Crystal Palace, and let the kids play to their hearts’ content on one of the dozens of playgrounds inside the park.

Prado Museum

It may not seem like an art museum full of centuries-old masterpieces would be all that interesting for kids. However, the Prado is one of Madrid’s must-see sights, and there are plenty of ways for kids to enjoy it as well! Consider booking a guided kids’ tour or renting the children’s audio guide. With a little bit of added context, kids will love marveling at the museum’s  beautiful masterworks.

Just down the street and a little ways down from the Prado, you’ll find another fascinating cultural center the whole family will love. Exhibitions at CaixaForum change regularly, but there’s always something going on. They offer unique, hands-on workshops and activities for children, so be sure to check out what’s on and learn something new as a family!

Casa de Campo

Your 3 days in Madrid with kids are almost up. Make the most of this last day by starting things off at Casa de Campo . The largest of Madrid’s myriad parks, there’s no shortage of family fun to be had here. Visit Madrid’s lovely zoo located inside the park, take a boat ride around the lake, ride the cable car and more.

Royal Palace & Armory

Escape the midday heat by heading to Madrid’s stately, grandiose Royal Palace after a morning spent enjoying the park. Kids will be awestruck by the luxurious splendor awaiting them beyond the palace’s majestic entrance! Your palace ticket includes a visit to the Royal Armory, which is just off of the main entrance square. Don’t miss the chance to see real-life suits of armor, gilded swords and more.

Temple of Debod & Plaza de España

After spending a few hours exploring the inside of the palace, kids will probably want to blow off some steam and run around. Enjoy a leisurely walk north along Calle Bailén, where you’ll eventually come to Plaza de España. This impressive plaza is home to a monument honoring Spain’s greatest literary icon: Miguel de Cervantes, author of the epic  Don Quijote .

Just across the way, you’ll find a real treasure from Ancient Egypt. The Temple of Debod is an actual ancient Egyptian temple that the Egyptian government gifted to Spain. It was carefully dismantled, moved to Madrid and reconstructed brick by brick. The area around the temple is a nice park where kids can play while you relax. If you get hungry, Casa Mingo (Paseo de la Florida, 34) is a great nearby family-friendly food option .

I need more info to make english guided kids tour in prado museum and the royal palace and armory to plan for the 20 th and 21st november

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

3 Days in Madrid: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

How to spend 3 days in madrid: the best itinerary + where to stay.

You’re planning to spend 3 days in Madrid and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you the perfect itinerary to visit Madrid in 3 days.

I will start this guide with my best tips to avoid queuing in front of Madrid’s most famous tourist attractions. You will see, you are going to save a lot of time!

Then, I will give you my optimized 3-day itinerary, with all the best things to do for each day.

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Madrid in 3 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. The Madrid City Pass

3 days in madrid: must-see attractions:, one last tip for a perfect 3-day stay in madrid, a. plaza mayor, b. san miguel market, c. la almudena cathedral, d. the royal palace of madrid, e. the royal theatre, f. san ginés chocolaterie, g. the temple of amon, h. attend a flamenco show, a. reina sofia museum, b. royal botanical garden, c. el retiro park, d. the prado national museum or the thyssen-bornemisza museum, e. the cybele palace, f. circulo de bellas artes, a. santiago bernabéu stadium, b. las ventas bullring, c. shopping in salamanca, d. chueca district, where to stay in madrid, visiting madrid in 3 days with family, more things to do and see in madrid in 3 days, map of your 3-day itinerary in madrid, heading to madrid for 3 days: flight prices, you’re traveling in spain these articles will help you, my best tips to save time at madrid’s must-see attractions.

To discover the main tourist sites, including the renowned museums such as the Prado or Queen Sofia , there can sometimes be over an hour’s wait!

If you’ve already visited the Colosseum in Rome or the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona , you probably have an idea of what to expect and how quickly it gets crowded at the entrance…

But let me reassure you, it doesn’t have to be that way!

To save a lot of time during your 3-day trip to Madrid, there are at least 2 very simple solutions.

Here they are:

The first solution to see as much as possible and save money is to buy the Madrid City Pass.

This pass is extremely convenient and comes with a significant advantage : all the skip-the-line tickets for the most famous sites will be sent directly to your email! You won’t need to waste time upon arrival to pick them up.

There’s also no need to exchange them at the attraction’s ticket office or print them out, simply present them on your smartphone.

To visit Madrid in 3 days, it’s by far the best solution!

Here’s what’s included in the Madrid City Pass:

• A skip-the-line ticket for the Royal Palace of Madrid (included in the first day) – You will be asked for a date and an approximate time.
• A skip-the-line ticket for the Prado Museum (planned for the second day) + an audio guide to download on your mobile – Here too date and time need to be specified.
• A ticket for the Hop On Hop Off bus valid for a full day + audio guide included
• An audio guide to download for a self-guided city tour.

When booking, you can also choose an additional option including:

• A public transport card to use the metro and bus for 3 days in Madrid
• A private transfer from the airport to your accommodation.

Finally, after ordering your Madrid City Pass , you will receive a 10% discount code valid on an unlimited number of tours* such as the Thyssen Museum , the Queen Sofia Museum or even the Bernabeu Stadium of Real Madrid.

*You must book your tours on the same website to use the promo code.

To buy your Madrid city pass now, simply click on the button below:

2. Skip-the-line Tickets for Madrid’s Tourist Attractions

The second solution for quick access to main tourist sites is to buy your skip-the-line tickets one by one, depending on your sightseeing schedule.

There are many available, for both the museums and for other must-see attractions or activities in Madrid during these three days.

I’ve put together a list of those that might interest you that match the itinerary I will describe shortly after.

You just need to click on the links to book them and I will also mention them as we go along in the article.

• Guided tour of the Royal Palace
• Flamenco Show
• Prado Museum
• Queen Sofia Museum
• Guided tour of the National Museum Queen Sofia
• Thyssen Bornemisza Museum
• Santiago Bernabeu Stadium Tour
• Las Ventas Bullring + Museum
• Zoo Aquarium of Madrid
• Teatro Real: Fast Track Entry + Audioguide
• Segway: Guided Tour
• Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!) , you should really book your accommodation.

As Madrid is one of the most touristic cities in the world , the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in Madrid by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at  traveler’s favorite hotels in Madrid.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in Madrid, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

3 Days in Madrid: The Best Itinerary

Let’s now start your 3-day itinerary in Madrid!

For each day, I will give you all the details you need to plan your visits + a map that will allow you to visualize the itinerary a bit better.

I’m assuming you will be staying in Madrid for 3 full days and that you will be using the Madrid City Pass or skip-the-line tickets . It’s the best way to save time and money during your stay!

If you still have questions after reading this guide (or need help organizing your holiday), don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section located at the very end of this article.

I will be glad to help you plan your trip 😄.

So, how to visit Madrid in 3 days?

Day 1 of Your Madrid Itinerary

Day 1 Visits:

A. Plaza Mayor B. San Miguel Market C. The Cathedral D. The Royal Palace E. The Royal Theatre F. San Ginès Chocolateria G. The Temple of Debod H. Flamenco Show

I suggest you start off your 3 days in Madrid by heading to Plaza Mayor.

This iconic square is the heart of the Spanish capital and is always bustling. A variety of cafés and restaurants here will allow you to start the day with a good cup of coffee.

Take the opportunity to admire the beautiful buildings such as the Bakery House (the first building constructed) or the Butcher’s House, as well as the arcades that add so much charm to Plaza Mayor.

If you’re looking to get a city map , head to the Madrid Tourist Information Office on the square, located in the former Casa de la Panaderia (Bakery House).

Next, make your way to San Miguel Market , just a hundred meters by foot from Plaza Mayor.

With its 19th-century glass and steel structure , you can’t miss it.

This traditional market offers fruits, vegetables, and local cured meats and cheeses is sure to delight food lovers. The interior is really charming with tables and chairs where you can savor your purchases.

Another plus is that you can taste everything before you buy and there are plenty of delicious tapas choices, each as tasty as the next.

If you’re not hungry at that moment, don’t worry, the market is open every day from 10 a.m. to midnight and even later on weekends. You’ll surely have a chance to return during your 3-day itinerary in Madrid!

To continue the day, I recommend heading to La Almudena Cathedral.

It’s just a 5-minute walk away, heading up Calle Mayor from the market. With an entry fee of just €1 , it would be a shame to miss out!

Unlike other famous cathedrals in Europe, Madrid’s is quite recent as its construction was completed in 1993 . It still took nearly a century to finish, after several long pauses in construction.

This resulted in a mix of different architectural styles: the exterior is neoclassical, the interior is Gothic, and its crypt is Neo-Romanesque. As a fun fact, it’s the only cathedral in Spain to have been consecrated by a pope.

Its modern design features stunning, brightly colored stained glass windows and ceiling frescoes.

The cathedral also has a small museum about the history of the monument (admission €6).

Adjacent to the cathedral, you’ll find the Royal Palace , another must-visit during your 3-day trip to Madrid.

The former official residence of the kings of Spain is among the largest and most beautiful palaces in Europe. Although the royal family no longer lives there, it’s still used for official ceremonies and receptions.

Taking a Royal Palace tour (also known as the “Palacio de Oriente”) will allow you to discover over twenty rooms, including:

• The Royal Armory with its impressive collection of weapons and armor
• The state rooms, such as the throne room or the ballroom
• The Royal Chapel, where Stradivarius violins are displayed
• The Royal Kitchen
• The Pharmacy
• The Painting Gallery with 70 works from great Spanish masters

After admiring the striking paintings and decorations inside, don’t miss a stroll in the Sabatini Gardens and the Campo del Moro , located behind the palace as they are also well worth a visit. Entry to the gardens is free.

Skip-the-line tickets for the Madrid Royal Palace are included in the Madrid City Pass .

You can also choose to take a guided tour of the palace . And you know what? This guided tour is so good it comes with a “satisfied or refunded” guarantee!

Book by clicking the green button below:

Exiting the palace through Plaza de Oriente, you’ll find yourself right in front of the Royal Theatre.

Ranked among the best operas in Europe for its exceptional acoustics , you can take a tour of its interior . You’ll gain access to the boxes, the auditorium , and exhibition halls.

Tickets can be booked directly here .

Or, you might just opt to admire its exterior.

You simply can’t spend 3 days in Madrid without trying the capital’s iconic dessert: a chocolate con churros!

And it just so happens that the best place to enjoy it is only a 5-minute walk from the theater. Yes, I’ve really thought of everything to make your 3-day stay in Madrid perfect! 😆

So, head over to San Ginés Chocolaterie and you must order the fresh churros to dip in thick and creamy chocolate. You’ll thank me later.

To digest, I then suggest a short 20-minute walk to the Temple of Amon.

From the chocolaterie, first head to Plaza de España , giving you the chance to see one of Madrid’s other famous squares. 

To the west of the square, enter the Mountain Park where the temple, also called “Temple of Debod,” is located. You’ll be surprised to find an Egyptian temple, built in the 2nd century BC.

It was gifted by Egypt to Spain in gratitude for its help in saving (among others) the Temple of Abu Simbel which was threatened by the waters due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam.

Inside, the temple houses a small museum (free of charge) recounting its history and offering insights into Egyptian civilization. Only about twenty people are allowed inside the temple at the same time, so there may be a wait.

Built beside a water expanse, the temple is very photogenic at dusk, when it lights up and reflects on the water.

Feel free to wander around the park to enjoy beautiful views of Madrid , especially of the Royal Palace. At sunset , it’s really nice!

If you’re wondering what to do in Madrid over three evenings, you should definitely attend a flamenco show.

In Madrid, one of the most well-known places to experience this traditional dance and singing performance is Tablao Torres Bermejas . It’s very popular and booking is therefore necessary.

You’ll have a choice of several showtimes. The performance lasts 1 hour.

To book your flamenco evening in Madrid, just click here:

If there’s no availability for this tablao, I also recommend another renowned place: Café Zyriab . They offer a high-quality show, and the setting is more intimate.

You need to book your tickets directly here!

Day 2 in Madrid: What to Do and See?

The visits for day 2:

A. Reina Sofia Museum B. Royal Botanical Garden C. El Retiro Park D. Prado National Museum / Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum E. Cybele Palace F. Circulo de Bellas Artes

For your second day of the 72-hour stay in Madrid, start by visiting one of the must-see museums: the Reina Sofia Museum.

You can reach it on foot or by metro (station del arte).

This prestigious museum houses a magnificent collection of contemporary Spanish artworks, with the centerpiece being the famous “Guernica” by Pablo Picasso.

In addition to Picasso, you will also be able to admire works by Dali and Joan Miró.

To visit the museum and avoid lining up at the entrance, you really need to get your skip-the-line tickets in advance by clicking the following button:

And if you prefer having a guided tour of the museum to get all the explanations about the artworks, just click here:

As you leave the museum, reach the Royal Botanical Garden of Madrid in just 5 minutes by foot.

With its hundreds of trees and flowers from around the world, it’s the ideal place to stroll and get some fresh air after the crowded museum halls. Don’t miss the greenhouse with its exotic plants.

The entrance fee to the garden is 6€.

After the garden or simply if you don’t feel like paying, you can also wander the paths of El Retiro Park, which has free admission.

The park is huge and you can take the opportunity to discover:

• The Crystal Palace, a glass pavilion hosting temporary exhibitions – Free access
• The Statue Walk or “Paseo de la Argentina” with its statues of Spanish monarchs
• The Great Pond where you can rent boats
• Velazquez Palace, an annex to the Reina Sofia Museum also housing exhibitions – Free access
• The Monarch Alphonse XII Monument with its bronze equestrian statue
• The Rose Garden
• The Perennial Plant Garden.

Segway tours are also available in the park. It’s the best way to not miss any of the most beautiful places with the help of your guide!

You can book this activity by clicking on the button below:

For the next part of the day, I suggest you return to the museum scene , and not just any museum but one of the most important in the world: The Prado National Museum.

It is located next to Retiro Park.

Here too, you can admire remarkable paintings from the 14th to the 19th century . The visit is truly complementary to that of the Reina Sofia Museum in terms of the periods covered.

You will find works by Francisco Goya, Diego Velázquez, and Hieronymus Bosch.

In addition to paintings, you can also enjoy thousands of drawings and prints.

A must-do during your 3-day itinerary in Madrid if you’re an art lover!

Alongside the Prado and the Reina Sofia, there’s another famous museum in Madrid: The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum . It is located in the same area as the other two.

Again, people come for paintings by Monet, Gauguin, or Rubens.

You need to purchase your skip-the-line tickets for the Thyssen Museum right here.

To avoid museum fatigue, I recommend you choose between the Prado and the Thyssens, based on your preferences.

Skip-the-line tickets for the Prado Museum are included in the Madrid City Pass.

If you don’t have the pass, the best option is to buy your ticket in advance by clicking the button below:

After your museum visit, stroll along Paseo del Prado to reach the Cybele Palace.

The former Communications Palace is one of Madrid’s most beautiful monuments.

It houses a cultural center which offers free exhibitions but most importantly, provides a beautiful panorama of the city from the restaurant terrace on the sixth floor and from the viewpoint located on the eighth floor.

Access to the viewpoint costs 3€.

In the same vein, you can also relax on one of Madrid’s rooftops.

Located a 5-minute walk from the Cybele Palace, the Circulo de Bellas Artes and its terrace offer a 360° view of the capital. The place is really nice with couches and umbrellas, perfect for sipping a drink and enjoying the view.

Expect to pay 5€ for access to the terrace plus the cost of drinks.

Day 3 in Madrid: Places to Visit

Visits for day 3:

A. Santiago Bernabéu Stadium B. Las Ventas Bullring C. Shopping in Salamanca D. Chueca District

On the last day , for those interested in football, a visit to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a must during your 3 days in Madrid.

The easiest way to get there is to take the metro to the Santiago station.

During the visit to the Real Madrid club’s stadium , you can walk on the pitch as well as explore the players’ locker rooms and admire the club’s trophies.

You really need to book your tour in advance by clicking the button below:

Next, take the metro to the Las Ventas stop. You will arrive directly in front of Madrid’s bullring.

Whether you are opposed to bullfighting or not, I still recommend visiting as it is the largest in Spain and its architecture is truly beautiful.

To learn more about this part of Spanish culture and bullfighting, you can also visit the interior of the bullring and the bullfighting museum.

You can book your ticket for Madrid’s bullring + museum + audio guide by clicking here:

A 3-day trip to Madrid wouldn’t be complete without a little shopping session!

About 2 km from the bullring (accessible on foot or by metro), head to the Salamanca district.

Along Serrano Street and the perpendicular streets, you’ll find many stores of international brands (Zara, Mango) and luxury boutiques (Vuitton, Gucci).

In the heart of Madrid , you’ll also find a wide selection of shops along Gran Via , the city’s main shopping thoroughfare.

If you want to end your three-day Madrid itinerary on a high note, you should spend your last evening in the Chueca district.

This area is the hub of Madrid’s nightlife.

Go have a drink in one of the numerous bars, check out the trendy restaurants and perhaps continue by dancing in a nightclub!

I’ve now given you most of my advice on how to visit Madrid in 3 days!

But there’s one essential step left: booking your hotel. It would be nice to know where you’ll be sleeping during those 3 nights in Madrid.

To help you, I’ve prepared a selection of the best hotels to stay in Madrid:

• OK Hostel Madrid : Hostel located 700 meters from Plaza Mayor and 200 meters from a metro station. Dormitory bed starting at 16€ per night, breakfast for 3€. Strong points: ideal location, very friendly welcome, cleanliness, and modernity of the dormitories. You can also have a meal for 10€. In short, nothing to complain about, it’s our top pick for value for money! Note that the hostel also offers double rooms starting at 75€ per night.
• Ibis Madrid Centro Las Ventas : Located next to Madrid’s famous bullfighting arena and 100 meters from a metro station. Spacious and modern rooms starting at 60€ per night with an additional breakfast option for 7.95€. Strong points: views of the bullfighting arena from the rooms, very substantial breakfast buffet.
• B&B Hotel Puerta del Sol : Ideally located 100 meters from Puerta del Sol and 400 meters from Plaza Mayor. Very quiet and comfortable rooms starting at 89€ per night with a breakfast bag (water, fruit, and chocolate pastries) included every morning. Strong points: free drinks and fruit available 24/7, perfect location, and lovely staff.
• Only YOU Hotel Atocha : Located right next to El Retiro Park. Comfortable, spacious, and stylish double room starting at 190€ per night, breakfast for 21€. Strong points: beautiful hotel, attentive staff, extensive breakfast options, location (10 minutes walk from the center and airport shuttle 5 minutes away), decor, ambiance. It’s the perfect choice for a luxury stay in Madrid!

Are these hotels fully booked or not exactly what you’re looking for?

You should read my other article featuring a wider selection of accommodations . Very conveniently, the hotels are sorted by neighborhood and budget.

You just have to click here to read it: The Best Hotels to Stay in Madrid.

For those who have planned to visit Madrid with family for 3 days , no worries. The Spanish capital is very well suited for this type of stay.

Since it’s not very extensive, there are no long distances to travel and everything can be easily done on foot or by metro.

Among the family-friendly activities for 72 hours in Madrid , I’m sure they will love:

• The trip to San Miguel Market, especially if they can taste everything!
• The visit to the Royal Palace with its sparkling rooms. The armory will appeal to both big and small boys!
• Tasting churros and chocolate
• A walk in Retiro Park
• The stadium tour
• Discovering the animals at the zoo, which can be easily included in the last day’s program.

You can also choose to spend a day at Warner Park, an amusement park near Madrid. Information and bookings by clicking here!

And there you have my itinerary for visiting Madrid in 3 days!

If you wish to include other activities or are looking for more places to visit , you should also read my article entirely dedicated to Madrid.

This complete guide to the Spanish capital includes all the things to do and see so you can finish your 3-day holiday in Madrid having seen all the must-see attractions.

To read it, just click on the following link: What to Do in Madrid? The Ultimate Guide!

To help you visualize your itineraries for these 3 days in Madrid, I’ve created a map listing the places to visit day by day . You can display the map legend by clicking the button at the top left with a little arrow. You will then be able to see the routes for each day.

Since flight prices to Madrid can vary greatly, it’s a good idea to compare them as soon as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparison tool, in partnership with Skyscanner. It’s the guarantee to get the best rate.

Do you need help organizing your 3-day itinerary in Madrid? Feel free to ask me any questions in the comments.

Discover all my articles about Spain : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Spain are listed there.

• Barcelona: Top 25 best places to visit
• Madrid: The 21 best things to do
• 2 days in Barcelona – The best itinerary to visit the city in a weekend
• 3 days in Barcelona – The best 72-hour itinerary in the Catalan capital
• 4 days in Barcelona – The best day-by-day program
• 5 days in Barcelona – The ultimate itinerary for visiting the Catalan capital
• One week in Barcelona – My detailed 7-day itinerary!
• 2 days in Madrid – The best way to visit the city in a weekend
• 3 days in Madrid – The best itinerary for visiting the city in 72 hours
• 4 days in Madrid – The ultimate itinerary for visiting Spain’s capital!
• 5 days in Madrid – The best detailed day-by-day itinerary!
• Where to stay in Barcelona? My guide of the best places to stay for all budgets
• Where to stay in Madrid? All the best areas and hotels to stay in Madrid as a tourist

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

Related Stories

2 days in Edinburgh: Itinerary for your weekend +my best tips

5 days in Edinburgh: the perfect Itinerary (first time visit)

Gozo quad rental: The definitive guide

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Website (optional)

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Middle East
• North America
• Cheap car rentals: my best advice
• Back to Homepage

Get prepared for Madrid

Jun 12, 2023 • 6 min read

As long as you keep an eye on your valuables, you should be fine to walk Madrid's streets any time of day or night © F.J. Jimenez / Getty Images

So you’re thinking about visiting Madrid ? You’ve made an excellent choice. Spain’s capital is an extremely friendly destination that happily accommodates tourists while still retaining its unique identity.

Duck down any side street, away from the souvenir stalls selling magnets and flammable flamenco frocks, and you’ll discover pretty little squares, dusty 100-year-old artisanal shops and the somber doors of cloistered convents. 

Although I’ve been living here for 10 years, I continue to be surprised by the city, which, though small, seems to contain infinities. It’s particularly magical at sunset, when residents come out in force to walk their dogs, nip into the shops or have a caña – a small, chilled glass of beer with a good head of foam. 

While other cities might feel frenetic, Madrileños always take life at their own pace. This is particularly important to bear in mind when you’re waiting to order a drink! Service is invariably slow, yet delivered with a winning smile. Still, it’s nice to feel that in the heart of a busy metropolis, nobody is rushing things. Here's everything you need to know ahead of your trip to Madrid. 

1. Give yourself at least two days

Madrid is a compact, walkable city, but you’ll still need at least two or three days to get a proper handle on it. If you want to add in day trips to nearby Toledo , Segovia and Cuenca , give yourself at least a week. 

2. Know how to get into the city

While  the metro is the best way around town , it’s not necessarily the best way in, especially if you have a lot of luggage. From the Madrid airport's Terminal 4, you can catch the Cercanias train to Atocha via Chamartín and Nuevos Ministerios. From T1, T2 and T3, look out for the bus that takes you to Atocha. This will save you a long walk to the metro station. A taxi from the airport to the city center costs a fixed €30 rate. 

3. Be ready for all seasons

Outside of summer, Madrid’s weather is notoriously changeable. This is particularly true in autumn and spring, when you might find yourself in shorts and a T-shirt only to start shivering when the sun sets.

In terms of style, anything goes. Spaniards are easygoing about fashion, though they will have a good laugh at your expense if they spot you wearing short sleeves in winter. Men should be aware that going topless in the city is frowned upon, even in the hottest months.  

4. Pack some earplugs

Madrid is unapologetically noisy: conversations in bars are loud and dramatic, train carriages buzz to the beat of tinny speakers and on weekends citizens party way into the wee hours. 

The best way to cope is to bring earplugs and make sure you book a room facing away from busy roads. Check reviews to ensure your hotel isn’t right next to a bar. That being said, night owls will have a blast . 

5. Go exploring on foot

Madrid’s metro is efficient, clean and cheap. However, you can walk to most places within the center. It’s a great way to get to know the city, and you’ll find Spaniards more than happy to point you in the right direction. Unfortunately, many are so keen to show off their local knowledge that they might confidently give you incorrect information when unsure. If you spot a flicker of hesitation, take what they say with a pinch of salt!

6. Don’t stress about tips

Tipping is not the norm for most Spaniards, though some like to leave a euro or two. Understandably, this means that waiters don’t go the extra mile to please. If you are happy with the service, don’t be afraid to tip generously. When paying by card, you can ask taxi drivers and waiters to add the tip to the bill. 

7. Go ahead and bring the kids

Madrid is a child-friendly city. Restaurant owners go out of their way to accommodate children, and you’ll often be offered a high chair if you come with a toddler in tow. You can also find playgrounds scattered around the city beside bars with outdoor seating, where parents can have a grown-up drink while keeping an eye on their kids. Plaza de la Luna is particularly good for this. 

8. Spread the love

Spaniards love to gush over cute dogs and babies alike. So if you’re traveling with a child or a pooch, expect to get a lot of attention. Conversely, don’t be afraid to coo over other people’s adorable offspring/pets – part of the joy of visiting Madrid is striking up conversations with friendly locals. 

Madrileños are also really relaxed about PDA, and you’ll often see oblivious young lovers in intimate clinches. In the town center, gay couples can walk down the street hand in hand and kiss publicly without anyone batting an eyelid. 

9. Don’t take offense

Happily, Madrid doesn’t have the same problem with overtourism as Barcelona, though you might see angry graffiti railing against tourists in some areas. This is especially true in Lavapiés , which has been particularly badly hit by gentrification. If you’re worried about your impact on the local economy, avoid Airbnb. 

Generally you’ll find most businesses are pleased to deal with tourists. Don't be offended, however, if they don’t respond in English to your questions; while younger staff tend to be confident speakers, the older generation was not taught the language and can be shy to engage. They may well get over their reticence if you have a bash at some basic Spanish. 

10. Do take some safety precautions

Be wary of pickpockets on the metro: opportunistic thefts are common, and clueless tourists are a prime target.

As long as you keep an eye on your valuables, you should be fine to walk the city streets at any time of day or night. But be extra vigilant on the narrow sloping streets down towards Lavapiés, near Tirso de Molina metro and the tunnels by Plaza de los Cubos. There's been a spate of muggings targeting victims out alone and drunk late at night. 

Lastly, watch out for daylight robbery in restaurants and bars. Make sure you see a menu before going in. Bill padding is the most common scam here, and without a price list to check, you may find yourself losing out to unscrupulous establishments.  

11. Don't be afraid to drink the water

The first line of Madrid’s motto is, “I was built on water.” This is a reference to the abundant underground springs that used to bubble up underfoot. These may be long gone, but the excellent water pumped in from the nearby mountains is a source of pride to Madrileños. To me, it tastes much better than the bottled variety. 

Explore related stories

Mar 13, 2024 • 7 min read

Set out for history, natural beauty and delicious flavors on these five road-trip itineraries, which will show you the best of Spain.

Feb 13, 2024 • 7 min read

Sep 30, 2023 • 4 min read

Aug 4, 2023 • 11 min read

Jul 26, 2023 • 6 min read

Jul 14, 2023 • 3 min read

Jul 13, 2023 • 5 min read

Jun 21, 2023 • 6 min read

Jun 19, 2023 • 8 min read

Jun 13, 2023 • 6 min read

Madrid   Travel Guide

Courtesy of pvicens | Getty Images

23 Top-Rated Things to Do in Madrid

The Spanish capital has its own brand of hustle and bustle, providing visitors with an authentic experience across an urban landscape of green spaces and fortress-palaces. Madrid can be enjoyed across tastes and budgets, whether it's dining at

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

El Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro) El Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro) free

To the east of central Madrid,  Parque del Buen Retiro (El Retiro Park) can be translated as "Garden of the Pleasant Retreat," and that's what it is – a sprawling swath of lush greenery filled with formal gardens, lakes, cafes, playgrounds and more. This 300-acre park previously housed Felipe IV's palace and gardens, and wasn't open to the public until the late 19th century. In 2021, it was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site along with Paseo del Prado as "a landscape of arts and sciences."

Today, you can still rent a rowboat before heading to the  Palacio de Cristal  (Crystal Palace), which holds regular art exhibitions. You can also stop and smell the roses in the  Rosaleda (Rose Garden), which boasts more than 4,000 roses; May and June are the best months to see them in full bloom. Plus, for those traveling with little ones, the Teatro de Titeres hosts puppet shows most weekends. To the south lies a fountain where uncannily, the angel Lucifer stands before his fall from grace. Madrileños claim that the Ángel Caído (Fallen Angel) statue is the only one in the world depicting the Prince of Darkness before his transformation.

Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado) Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado)

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Paseo del Arte Pass allows you to visit the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen- Bornemisza museums for 32 euros (about $35), saving 20% of the three tickets' combined prices. You can buy it online or at any of the three museums and it's valid for one year. – Julienne C. Raboca

One of Madrid's most famous museums, the elegant Museo Nacional del Prado, is consistently touted by travelers as a must-see. Opened in 1819 at the encouragement of Queen Maria Isabel de Braganza (King Ferdinand VII's wife), the museum contains more than 7,600 paintings and 1,000 sculptures featuring Spanish, Italian and Flemish styles of art. Among the most famous works featured include Velazquez's "Las Meninas," Bosch's "The Garden of Earthly Delights”, and El Greco's "The Nobleman with his hand on his Chest." Travelers note that sometimes it can be difficult to get close to the most famous paintings, recommending that visitors come during off-peak hours for the best chance of seeing these works without hordes of others.

Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real) Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Time your visit with the changing of the guard ceremony on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Every first Wednesday of most months, the Solemn Changing of the Guard is staged by 400 people and 100 horses as it was done in the 19th century. – Julienne C. Raboca

One of the largest palaces in the world, this royal residence housed the kings of Spain from the mid-1700s to the early 1900s. Although the royal family does not currently live in the palace, it is still considered their official residence. It is also thought to be the largest royal palace in Western Europe with a total of 3,418 rooms, only some of which are open to the public, including the popular armory room and royal pharmacy.

Popular Tours

Three Cities in One Day: Segovia, Avila & Toledo from Madrid

(2304 reviews)

from $ 130.90

Avila & Segovia Tour with Tickets to Monuments from Madrid

(4374 reviews)

from $ 75.60

Madrid & Royal Palace Walking Tour Skip the Line Tickets

(733 reviews)

from $ 42.55

Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum

The Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum is named for the family from which the collection was acquired by the Spanish state in 1993. Housed in the intimate Villahermosa Palace, the museum has nearly 1,000 works of art gathered from the 1920s to the 1980s by a Swiss baron and his father. Before being persuaded by his Spanish wife to accept her country's $350 million offer, Thyssen was reportedly courted by heads of state for the $2 billion private collection, which at the time was surpassed only by that of Queen Elizabeth II's. The collection traces the history of Western art with examples from every important movement, from German Expressionism to Russian Constructivism and 19th-century American art. Artists featured include Dürer, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, Rubens, Van Gogh and more. 

Recent visitors offer rave reviews of Thyssen-Bornemisza, praising its easily navigable layout, as well as the all-encompassing history of Western European art presented in the buildings. Travelers also commend the museum's gallery cafe for lunch. Mixed opinions were offered on which museum was superior – this one or the Prado – but many noted a more pleasant experience at Thyssen-Bornemisza due to fewer crowds, friendly staff and better natural light from which to see the more colorful artwork.

Gran Vía Gran Vía free

Madrid's bustling Gran Vía is at the heart of the city, a prime spot for shoppers and architecture buffs. Built in the early 1900s in an effort to decongest the city, Gran Vía spans nearly a mile and is packed with shops and restaurants. The avenue was home to Spain's first skyscrapers and marked the beginning of modernization in Madrid. Try a traditional bocadillo de calamares (calamari sandwich), buy a new outfit from the five-story Primark flagship store or catch a show at Teatro Lope de Vega. 

Start your journey where the street intersects Calle de Alcalá. There you'll find Círculo de Bellas Artes, a cultural center best known for its sweeping rooftop views. You'll have to pay 5 euros (about $5.50) to get to the top, but once there, you can enjoy a drink while soaking in the sunset. From this viewpoint, you can't miss the iconic Metrópolis Building presiding over the beginning of Gran Vía with a dome on which a winged Victoria statue rises. You may have to wait in line, but previous visitors agreed the views are worth it.

Plaza Mayor Plaza Mayor free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Take a breather from all the walking at Hammam Al Ándalus, an Arabic-style bathhouse a few steps from Plaza Mayor where you can dip into pools of varying temperatures, book a massage or get stretched on a hot stone bed. –  Julienne C. Raboca

This square, located in the heart of Madrid, is more a must-experience attraction than a must-see one. Surrounded by cafes and bars, Plaza Mayor practically begs passersby to take a seat, order a coffee or glass of wine (depending on the time of day) and people-watch. Not only do throngs of tourists pass through, but multiple street performers plant their feet here to entertain. The square starts getting busy around 2 p.m. and will grow increasingly lively as night falls.

Mercado de San Miguel Mercado de San Miguel free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For alternatives to the upmarket Mercado de San Miguel, visit Mercado San Antón or Mercado de San Ildefonso. These innovative food markets are popular social spaces in Madrid's Malasaña and Chueca neighborhoods. – Julienne C. Raboca

Mercado de San Miguel, a market built of beautifully ornate glass and cast iron, is a popular stop for tourists to Madrid, especially since it is located right outside of Plaza Mayor . Opened in May 1916 as a local food market, Mercado de San Miguel became the city's first gourmet market in 2009. Here, visitors can purchase wine, grab a cocktail, juice or coffee, snack on a variety of ready-to-eat tapas, or pick up ingredients for lunch or dinner from the fruit, seafood and meat stalls. San Miguel Market's most famous stands include Michelin-starred chef Jordi Roca's homemade and natural ice creams at Rocambolesc, and the traditional tapas at Madrí by Arzabal.

Lavapiés Lavapiés free

The neighborhood of Lavapiés boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. It is believed that Lavapiés was once the Jewish neighborhood of Madrid, with remnants of a Jewish cemetery on Salitre Street. After 1492, the area continued to attract waves of immigrants, becoming a popular district known for its corralas , small affordable houses that accommodated new residents. Today, Lavapiés showcases architectural gems, such as the Corrala de Sombrerete, and is home to the largest second-hand market in Madrid, the Rastro . The neighborhood is also adorned with historic buildings, like the Pías de San Fernando Schools and the old Inquisition Prison, alongside significant cultural centers like the Reina Sofía National Museum of Contemporary Art .

Lavapiés embraces its multicultural character, reflected in its diverse festivals, international influences, and support for emerging art, exemplified by the C.A.L.L.E. urban art festival. In the second week of August, the streets are adorned to celebrate the traditional Verbena de San Lorenzo, honoring the patron saint of the basilica located in the district. Another notable event in Lavapiés is Tapapiés, a food festival that showcases tapas and music and usually takes place during the month of June.

Welcome Tour to Madrid in Private Eco Tuk Tuk

(1266 reviews)

from $ 48.55

Flamenco Show & Special Menu at Torres Bermejas in Madrid

(1250 reviews)

from $ 30.55

Madrid Tapas and Wine Tasting Tour

(2297 reviews)

from $ 87.28

Temple of Debod Temple of Debod free

The Temple of Debod, located in Parque de la Montaña, just behind the newly renovated Plaza de España, is a must-see attraction known for its historical significance and unique setting. Gifted to Spain from the Egyptian government, the temple dates back to the second century B.C. and was transported stone by stone to Madrid. Its preservation is a result of Spain's assistance in protecting the ancient sites of Abu Simbel from flooding caused by the construction of the Aswan Dam in Egypt. The temple's decorative motifs and projections help tell its fascinating story, and it is particularly enchanting when illuminated after sunset. Reconstructed on the hill of with its original orientation from east to west, visitors will be able to see scale models, videos and audiovisual material inside to enhance their understanding of its significance.

Reviews from travelers proffer mixed opinions. Some visitors mention long wait times to enter the temple, with only a few people allowed inside at a time. However, others acknowledge that the wait (and uphill climb) is worthwhile, admiring the hieroglyphics and mummy exhibits. Others, hesitant to endure the wait, chose to admire the temple from the outside, still appreciating the site's historical value, convivial atmosphere and beautiful views of the city. With luck, the moat around the temple will be filled with water when you go, creating a reflection pool that photographers love to capture.

Reina Sofía Museum Reina Sofía Museum

The  Museo Nacional   Centro de Arte Reina Sofía or Reina Sofia Museum is Madrid's modern, contemporary art gallery and – along with the Prado and the Thyssen-Bornemisza – makes up the city's "Golden Triangle of Art." The Reina Sofia displays almost 2,000 pieces from its vast collection, including art by Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró. However, probably the most famous work is found on the second floor: Pablo Picasso's "Guernica" is the museum's crowning jewel.

Reina Sofia Museum's main building, in front of the Atocha train station, is composed of two connected buildings. Located on the site of the former Hospital de San Carlos, the 18th-century Sabatini Building has been declared one of Spain's Historic-Artistic Monuments of National Interest. Opened in 2005, the Nouvel Building is a contemporary annex designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel, who also designed Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Barrio de Salamanca Barrio de Salamanca free

If you find yourself surrounded by designer stores and elegant restaurants, you've probably stumbled into Madrid's Salamanca neighborhood. Salamanca is one of the fanciest areas of the city, and its main streets – Calle de Serrano, Calle de Goya and Calle de Velázquez – are some of the most expensive. Often compared to New York City's Fifth Avenue or London's Bond Street, Calle Ortega y Gasset has been nicknamed the "Golden Mile" because it's studded with posh brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Cartier. The equally famous Calle de Serrano begins near the corner of Buen Retiro Park next to the Puerta de Alcalá monument and ends in Plaza de la República Argentina.

Even if you have no plans to purchase, Salamanca is a great place to spend a sunny afternoon strolling and window-shopping, according to previous visitors. There are many upscale hotels  in the area as well as unique dining experiences and museums. The National Archaeological Museum is Salamanca district's cultural gem, displaying artifacts from Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome along with a collection of Iberian sculptures. In the summer, its spacious terrace is open to enjoy.

Matadero Madrid Matadero Madrid free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Explore Madrid Río Park, a recreational area along the Manzanares River that has transformed this part of the city. Hop on a bicycle and discover the revitalized riverside admiring the newly built Arganzuela and Perrault bridges. – Julienne C. Raboca

What was once an old slaughterhouse is now a hub of art and culture in Madrid's Arganzuela neighborhood. Along the banks of Manzanares River, Matadero Madrid offers travelers a chance to see many creative facets of the city all in one place, including a theater complex, a film archive, citizens' laboratory and two restaurants.

Malasaña Malasaña free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Discover the hidden gem of Iglesia de los Alemanes. This Baroque church, founded by Felipe III in the 17th century, is like a lesser-known Sistine Chapel . Admire its unique elliptical design and breathtaking frescoes; guided tours are available. – Julienne C. Raboca

Malasaña, a vibrant district in Madrid, is bordered by Gran Vía , Calle Fuencarral, Calle Carranza, and Calle de San Bernardo. Named after Manuela Malasaña, a key figure in the events of the Dos de Mayo Uprising in 1808, the district holds historical significance. Plaza del Dos de Mayo, located at the heart of Malasaña, commemorates the rebellion against Napoleon's occupation and pays tribute to brave captains Luis Daoíz and Pedro Velarde.

Toledo and Segovia Full-Day Tour with an Optional Visit to Avila

(2148 reviews)

Toledo Tour with Cathedral, Synagoge & St Tome Church from Madrid

(3458 reviews)

from $ 78.55

Prado Museum & Royal Palace Skip the Line Guided Tour

(659 reviews)

from $ 70.91

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Estadio Santiago Bernabéu) Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Estadio Santiago Bernabéu)

The Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, located north of central Madrid, is the city's main  fútbol  (soccer) stadium and the domain of the world's most successful club: Real Madrid. It was named after the legendary Madrid manager, who presided over the club for 35 years. After its opening in 1947, the stadium was completely refurbished leading up to the 1982 World Cup, which it hosted.  Fútbol  is an integral part of Spanish life, and the stadium's sheer size is an example of this (it can accommodate more than 80,000 fans).

In 2019, Real Madrid began remodeling Santiago Bernabéu. Among its new features are a retractable roof and a removable pitch that can be reassembled, which allows the stadium to be used for other events like concerts, conventions and other sports.

Casa de Campo Casa de Campo free

While Buen Retiro Park may be more famous, Casa de Campo is Madrid's largest public park and boasts almost 7 square miles of natural space. Originally used as hunting ground by the Spanish royal family, it was opened to the public in the 1930s and is now loved by outdoor enthusiasts as a more natural escape compared to the manicured lawns of El Retiro.

Many people enjoy simply strolling around the park or having picnics on the grass, but there are also plenty of activities in the sprawling grounds. In the southeast corner of Casa de Campo, there's a large lake with boat and kayak rentals available. When you work up an appetite from boating, there are restaurants located around the lake. The park also features a large outdoor pool perfect if you need to escape Spain's summer heat.

Sample tapas in Barrio de La Latina Sample tapas in Barrio de La Latina

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Immerse yourself in the tradition of Galician-inspired pintxos and beer by visiting La Latina's top restaurants. Sample  carrilleras  (beef cheeks) at La Musa Latina near Basilica de San Miguel, or freshly-made Spanish-style brie tortillas and craft beer at Pez Tortilla. –  Julienne C. Raboca

Famous for its tapas scene, Barrio de La Latina is a vibrant neighborhood in the heart of Madrid that offers a mix of history, tapas culture and lively atmosphere. With its narrow, winding streets dating back to the Middle Ages, this small area packs a punch when it comes to experiencing the city's essence. The neighborhood gets its name from Beatriz Galindo, a renowned writer and humanist known as "La Latina" due to her grasp of the Latin language. The area is steeped in history, with buildings that reflect its medieval origins. Plaza de la Cebada (Barley Square) and Plaza de la Paja (Straw Square), once bustling markets, still bear witness to the neighborhood's commercial heritage.

Gateway of the Sun (Puerta del Sol) Gateway of the Sun (Puerta del Sol) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: On a cooler day, head to one of the city's most historic restaurants, Lhardy. The place will take you back in time with its elegant decor; try Madrid's best cocido madrileño , a traditional stew of chickpeas, vegetables, pork and lamb. – Julienne C. Raboca

The true center of Madrid, Puerta del Sol has been the heart of Madrid since the 17th century. During King Felipe V’s reign in the early 18th century, six roads were built from the city, referenced by a brass plaque on the south side of Sol. The plaza's most recognizable feature is thus called "kilometer zero," the point from which all distances in Spain are measured. The renowned plaque is undergoing a 21st-century visual update, replacing its square tile with a compass rose design featuring metallic embellishments and border indications pointing toward major Spanish cities.

Segovia Segovia free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Rent bicycles from Segovia's Plaza Mayor to discover the city's green belt or to visit the small market that sets up on the square every Thursday morning. – Julienne C. Raboca

Accessible via an approximately 30-minute high-speed train ride is the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Segovia – a perfect daytrip from Madrid. The city's star attraction is the remarkably preserved Roman aqueduct, a stunning architectural feat dating back to A.D. 50. Explore the historic center, which showcases impressive landmarks like the Alcázar fortress, a 16th-century Gothic cathedral and several Romanesque churches. Wander through Plaza del Azoguejo to marvel at the aqueduct's majestic tiers of arches, and don't miss the chance to climb the tower of the Alcázar for breathtaking views; this 11th-century royal palace is rumored to have inspired Walt Disney's Cinderella castle. Charming restaurants near Plaza Mayor offer local specialties like roast suckling pig ( cochinillo ) or milk-fed lamb ( lechazo ). Segovia is also home to a green belt that will lead you to a leisurely stroll along the scenic riverbank. To learn more, stop by the visitor center, which offers guided tours and night walks to uncover Segovia's legends.

Paella cooking Class in Madrid with Bottomless Wine Pairing

(508 reviews)

from $ 114.55

Private Visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid and the Prado Museum

(142 reviews)

from $ 259.65

Prado Museum Small Group Tour with Skip the Line Ticket

(1058 reviews)

from $ 60.61

Plaza de Cibeles (Cibeles Plaza) Plaza de Cibeles (Cibeles Plaza) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're in Madrid for the holidays and want to get into the winter wonderland spirit, head to the palace's magical Glass Gallery, which transforms into a 3,200-square-foot ice rink from December to January. – Julienne C. Raboca

Cibeles Plaza together with Cibeles Palace are in the heart of Madrid's tourist map. Declared a Cultural Heritage Monument in 1993, Palacio de Cibeles (or Cibeles Palace) was formerly the city's main post office, but now serves as Madrid's City Hall. Located at the intersection of Calle de Alcalá (which leads into Sol ) and adjacent to Paseo del Prado/Paseo de Recoletos, Plaza de Cibeles draws tourists for its stunning architecture. The plaza's fountain features the Roman goddess Cybele ("the Great Mother"), who represents fertility, driven in a chariot being pulled by two lions. The goddess has unofficially been adopted by the city's fútbol (soccer) team, Real Madrid. When Real Madrid, or the Spanish national team, win a title, the city holds a parade that ends in Plaza de Cibeles with one of the players fastening the team's flag to the goddess.

Take a daytrip to Toledo Take a daytrip to Toledo

U.S. News Insider Tip: For a breath of fresh air, hike the 4.4-mile El Tajo trail. It will take around two hours to complete this moderately challenging route, but it offers mountain views, historical landmarks, the Alcántara Bridge and panoramic vistas of Toledo along the Tagus River. – Julienne C. Raboca

Once you've soaked up Madrid's sights, consider escaping the bustling city with a daytrip to nearby Toledo. It takes just 30 minutes by train to reach the "City of Three Cultures" from downtown Madrid, and it's a worthwhile visit for anyone looking for history, world-renowned architecture or riverside hikes with views of heritage sites.

Catch a flamenco performance Catch a flamenco performance

An art form born in Andalucía around the 15th century, flamenco expresses the emotions of life through dance, guitar-playing and song. The rhythm of this classic Spanish dance pulses through the streets of Madrid and provides great entertainment for tourists and locals alike. Although flamenco originated in southern Spain, dancers from far and wide come to the capital city to showcase their talents. When you're visiting Madrid, you would be remiss if you didn't set aside time for a flamenco show.

The toughest part is deciding which Madrid tablao – or flamenco venue – to choose for your flamenco experience. The city is home to one of the oldest and most famous flamenco houses in the world, Corral de la Morería, which has held shows at its city center location since 1956. It's highly regarded as the best place to watch performances, and it's not rare to see celebrities, politicians and even the king of Spain in the audience. What's more, it's home to a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Chocolatería San Ginés Chocolatería San Ginés

Chocolatería San Ginés, located in a passageway within walking distance of Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol , is a renowned chocolate shop that has been serving hot chocolate with churros since its establishment in 1894. Steeped in history, it offers a glimpse into the tradition of enjoying chocolate as a restorative drink, a custom that dates back to the discovery of cacao in America. In the past, street chocolatiers in Madrid sold this beloved beverage, particularly in Puerta del Sol, where late-night revelers and early morning walkers would partake in hot chocolate to ward off the chill. Chocolatería San Ginés preserves this culinary heritage and continues to entice visitors with its delightful combination of crispy churros and rich hot chocolate.

Travelers' reviews of Chocolatería San Ginés highlight its popularity, which often leads to queues. However, visitors are impressed by the efficient and speedy service despite the crowd. The quality of the chocolate and churros receives praise, even from those who aren't typically chocolate lovers. The suggestion to try the fresh Spanish orange juice is also a recurring recommendation. While the seating inside the shop can be tight, many suggest opting for a takeaway order to enjoy the experience outside. During peak times, such as summer, visitors may need to wait for 15 to 20 minutes to secure a table to dining inside.

El Rastro Market El Rastro Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Head to nearby San Fernando Market for lunch afterward. The newly refurbished, covered market has craft beer and authentic Latin American eats alongside an excellent vermouth stall and the unique La Casquería, a bookstore selling books by weight.  – Julienne C. Raboca

Exit the La Latina metro station on a Sunday and wander down Calle de las Maldonadas to one of Spain's most popular open-air flea markets, El Rastro. Dating back to the 15th century, the market starts at Plaza de Cascorro and is primarily concentrated on Calle de la Ribera de Curtidores, ending at Ronda de Toledo. The streets, also including Calle San Cayetano, are lined with hundreds of merchants selling everything from leather goods and ceramics to art and antiques and even everyday household items.

Toledo Private Tour with Guide and Private Driver from Madrid

(348 reviews)

from $ 654.58

Toledo Half or Full-Day Guided Tour from Madrid

(3354 reviews)

from $ 60.00

Madrid City Tour Hop-On Hop-Off

(2694 reviews)

from $ 27.27

Things to Do in Madrid FAQs

Explore more of madrid, best hotels.

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

10 Things to Do with Your Family in Madrid

Madrid’s best family-friendly places.

Madrid is a cosmopolitan city renowned for its cultural heritage and art museums. The most visited city in Spain also hosts a great range of family friendly things to see and do. You’ll find many exciting indoor and outdoor kids’ attractions within a 10 km circle around the city center.

From large amusement parks to zoos to public gardens equipped with children’s playgrounds, your little ones will have a great time in Madrid . Don’t forget to take them to sample churros dipped in hot chocolate! Check out our selection of things to do with your family in Madrid so your youngsters will have fun in the capital city of Spain.

Parque de Atracciones de Madrid

20 hectares of fun and excitement.

One of the most popular amusement parks in Madrid, Parque de Atracciones de Madrid is located only 4 km west of the city center. The park is divided into 4 zones: Maquinismo (machines), Naturaleza (nature), Tranquilidad (relax) and Nickelodeonland (for the kids). Featuring modern attractions such as Abismo , an impressive rollercoaster, the variety of the rides at hand in each zone ensures great fun for the whole family. The park also hosts 9 restaurants and 7 booths selling ice-cream and other sweet treats.

Location: Casa de Campo, s/n, 28011 Madrid, Spain

Open: July – August from 12 pm to midnight. Opening hours vary during the rest of the year

Zoo Aquarium de Madrid

See the pandas in one of the largest animal parks in spain.

Home to over 6,000 animals from 500 different species, the 20 hectare Zoo Aquarium de Madrid is one of the largest animal parks in Spain. Installed 6 km west of the city center, it’s fairly easy to get there by public transportation. Dolphins, monkeys, wildcats and more – you’ll find all the kids’ favorite animals here. The highlight of the zoo is the chance to see giant pandas. Clean and tidy, well laid-out and featuring 6 dining and snacking options, the Zoo Aquarium de Madrid is a very pleasant place to spend the day.

Huertas in Madrid

10 Great Restaurants in Madrid

Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales in Madrid

Parque warner madrid, thrills and fun in a theme park dedicated to american movie theater.

Enter the extraordinary world of American movies in this great theme park located 23 km southeast of Madrid city center. From DC Comics heroes like Superman and Batman to cartoon characters such as Scooby-Doo and Bugs Bunny, all the park’s rides, attractions and shows follow famous Hollywood’s film personalities. Over 12 restaurants and food stalls dot the park. Do not miss the parade held daily at 7.30pm on Hollywood Boulevard.

Location: M-506, 28330 San Martin de la Vega, Madrid, Spain

Open: Opens daily at 11.30 am. Closing time varies between 6 pm and midnight

A well-thought-out zoo and botanical garden

Faunia is both a zoo and a botanical garden. Established 9 km east of the city center, it’s acclaimed for the way it treats and keep animals. Insects, mammals, birds, reptiles and fish comfortably live in their respective reconstructed ecosystems. Faunia is famous for hosting one of the largest penguin parks in Europe. Here, you can have a really close look at the animals, some of them – for instance the prairie dogs – freely roam the entire park. There are 6 restaurants and snack stalls at hand for you to take a break during your visit.

Location: Av. Comunidades, 28, 28032 Madrid, Spain

Open: Opens daily at 10.30 am. Closing time varies between 4 pm and midnight

Binge on churros

Treat your children with a classic spanish snack.

Extremely popular in Spain, churros are oblong-shaped fried dough pastry snacks, usually sprinkled with icing sugar. The most famous places in Madrid to treat your children with these delicious nibbles are Chocolateria San Gines on Pasadizo San Gines, Chocolateria Valor on Paseo de las Acacias, and Churreria Los Artesanos 1902 on Calle de San Martin. Don’t worry if you can’t get to one of these venues as churros are so sought-after that you can find them all around the city.

Buen Retiro Park

Enjoy a grand day out in the heart of madrid.

Buen Retiro Park (Park of the Pleasant Retreat) is a 1.4 sq km public park located near the center of Madrid. Besides the well-kept gardens, beautiful statues and refreshing ponds, the park hosts a good choice of attractions and activities for children of all ages. Exercise areas, children’s playgrounds, puppet shows, rowboat tours or feeding the ducks on the Estanque Grande del Retiro – there are plenty of things to do for the whole family while roaming the park.

Location: Plaza de la Independencia, 7, 28001 Madrid, Spain

Open: Daily from 6 am to midnight in summer, and from 6 am to 10 pm in winter

Carlos Sainz Go-Kart Center

Pump up the adrenalin.

Get ready for an exciting time at one of the best kart circuits in Europe. The complex features both indoor and outdoor circuits, each of them with a length of 450 meters. Modern and extremely professional, the indoor track features a live timing system. Each session lasts 10 minutes, and you get all your performance statistics when you finish. Carlos Sainz Go-Kart Center is located a mere 2 km west of Madrid city center. There’s a bar and restaurant on site. It’s best to make a reservation beforehand as the center is extremely busy.

Location: Calle Sepulveda, 3, 28011 Madrid, Spain

Open: Monday–Thursday from 6 pm to 11 pm, Fridays from 6 pm to midnight, Saturdays from 10 am to midnight, Sundays from 10 am to 11 pm

Phone: +34 90 217 0190

Plenty of outdoor activities for children

Madrid Rio is a gigantic outdoor park that stretches for 2 km along the Manzanares River, just south of Madrid city center. Featuring a skateboard park, a soccer field and many play areas, it’s a great place to spend the day when the sun shines. The exciting activities at hand include ziplines, huge slides, rope bridges, log structures and more. Most of the playgrounds’ equipment is made of sustainable materials. Many bars and restaurants can be found right next to the park.

Location: Puente de Toledo, S/N, 28019 Madrid, Spain

Open: 24 hours

Shop at Lobo Feliz

"we are what we play".

If you want to treat your children, take them to Lobo Feliz (Happy Wolf), an original, educational toy store located just north of Madrid city center. You’ll find wooden toys that drive creativity and imagination here. None of the toys sold here work with electricity or batteries. Sustainable and stimulating, you’ll find great toys to insure the best development of your young children at Lobo Feliz.

Location: Calle de San Mateo, 28, 28004 Madrid, Spain

Open: Monday – Saturday from 10.30 am to 8.30 pm

National Museum of Natural Sciences

Take a journey through the history of earth and its inhabitants.

The National Museum of Natural Sciences is a very interesting, educational place to visit with children. Home to over 6 million pieces, it takes you through the history of Earth and its inhabitants. Stuffed animals, coins, objects, minerals and plants – there’s a lot to see in this museum. The highlights of a visit here include the skeletons of a Megatherium and of a Diplodocus. It’s easy to get to the National Museum of Natural Sciences as it’s located just north of the city center.

Location: Calle Jose Gutierrez Abascal, 2, 28006 Madrid, Spain

Open: Tuesday – Friday from 10 am to 5 pm, Saturday – Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm (closed on Mondays)

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

Start planning your trip

Related stories.

10 Best Scenic Walks in Madrid

10 Best Road Trips Near Madrid

Calle de Fuencarral in Madrid

How to Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid

10 Common Scams in Madrid

Keep exploring.

• Cabo de Gata
• Castell-Platja d'Aro
• Chiclana de la Frontera
• Conil de la Frontera
• Costa del Maresme
• Fuerteventura
• Gran Canaria
• Ibiza Island
• Lloret de Mar
• Mallorca Island
• Roquetas de Mar
• San Sebastian
• Santiago de Compostela
• Torremolinos
• Tossa de Mar
• Balearic Islands
• Basque Country
• Canary Islands
• Costa del Sol
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Netherlands
• Northern Ireland
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom

Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific

Mexico and central america, middle east, north america, south america, top destinations.

• Hotels in Las Vegas
• Hotels in New York
• Hotels in Chicago
• Hotels in Orlando
• Hotels in New Orleans
• Hotels in San Diego
• Hotels in Nashville
• Hotels in San Francisco
• Hotels in Los Angeles
• Hotels in Miami
• Hotels in Paris
• Hotels in Denver
• Hotels in Washington
• Hotels in Austin
• Hotels in Atlanta
• Hotels in San Antonio
• Hotels in Boston
• Hotels in Atlantic City
• Hotels in Key West
• Hotels in London
• Hotels in Virginia Beach
• Hotels in Seattle
• Hotels in Anaheim
• Hotels in Dallas

Top Countries & Regions

• Hotels in Aruba
• Hotels in Turks and Caicos
• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Bermuda
• Hotels in Malta
• Hotels in Jersey Shore
• Hotels in Maui
• Hotels in Puerto Rico Island
• Hotels in Kauai
• Hotels in Oahu
• Hotels in Cape Cod

Support & FAQs

Website feedback.

• Review a property

For Suppliers, Affiliates, and the Media

• Affiliate with us
• Expedia Partner Solutions
• Promote with us
• Travel agents

User terms & Privacy

• Terms & Conditions
• Do not sell my personal information
• About our ads
• Legal Information

List your property

• Hotels near me
• Travel Guides
• Vacation Rentals

* Some hotels require you to cancel more than 24 hours before check-in. Details on site.

© 2024 Hotels.com is an Expedia Group company. All rights reserved.

Hotels.com and the Hotels.com logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Hotels.com, LP in the United States and/ or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

wait a moment

• Write For Us

Your Guide to A Family Vacation in Madrid in 2024

Are you weary of taking your family on the same old vacations each year? Why not try somewhere new? Discover the fascinating Spanish metropolis, Madrid. The home to Real Madrid. This magnificent city is the ideal travel destination because of its fascinating history, lively culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. Madrid has a ton of family-friendly activities to keep everyone occupied! If you’re eager to plan unforgettable Family Vacation in Madrid in 2024, you’re in luck. This guide includes all the information you need to plan a family-friendly trip to Madrid, choose the best hotels, find the must-see landmarks, and more.

Planning Travels : Best Time to Visit : Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons to visit Madrid because of the great weather, fewer crowds, and cheaper lodging costs. Language: Although Spanish is the official language of Spain, many people also speak English in the central parts of large cities like Madrid. Currency: Euro Getting Around: Madrid has a comprehensive public transit network that serves the whole city and beyond, and it is spacious, reasonably priced, and effective. Inexpensive and user-friendly are the metro and bus, while cercanías, or commuter trains, connect the city to other cities, facilitating convenient day getaways. Travel Advice: Although pickpocketing and other small crimes are uncommon, Madrid is a relatively safe city. Always be mindful of your surroundings and keep a watch on your possessions. When to Visit Madrid … April through June and September through November are usually the best months for travel to Madrid with kids. The Madrid weather is usually pleasant throughout these months, so touring the city is more comfortable without having to struggle with extreme temperatures. The atmosphere is lively, and there are numerous outdoor activities and festivals that both you and your kids can enjoy. Peak Season vs. Shoulder Season July and August are popular travel months when you’ll find plenty of activities and tourist spots open, but it can get very hot and crowded. On the other hand, the shoulder months (May to September) give nice weather, fewer tourists, and often cheaper prices.

Where to Stay in Madrid

Picking the appropriate area to serve as your temporary residence base is crucial while visiting Madrid with children. Pick a hotel with parking in Madrid. Choose hotels near Madrid that are close to family-friendly activities, have convenient access to public transit, and have plenty of delicious dining choices nearby. Make sure you always pick a hotel with parking in Madrid, as it will save you time and hassle.

Here are a few of our top choices for communities that are great for families:

👉 Hotel Chamartin Madrid – The Hotel Chamartin The One is the ideal option for your family’s Madrid holiday. The hotel is well located between Chamartin station and Paseo de la Castellana. It provides good access to the suburban rail and metro, allowing you to get about the city quickly and easily. They also provide close parking as well as a wide range of leisure alternatives in the neighborhood, such as a spa, gym, stores, eateries, and much more!

👉 ILUNION Pío XII Madrid – Hotel ILUNION Pío XII is conveniently situated next to Chamartín train station. It is one of the best hotels near Chamartin Madrid and is perfect for anyone seeking accommodation with their family in Madrid. Located close to the Paseo de la Castellana business district, it’s easily reachable from the M-30.

👉 Only You Boutique Hotel Madrid – Situated in a 19th-century palace, the 45-room Only You Boutique Hotel Madrid blends contemporary design with traditional Spanish-style architecture. Visitors can savor meals at the Younique Arts Club, a distinctive location where cuisine and art collide. The club creates a unique dining experience by showcasing exhibits by national and international artists.

👉 Sleep’n Atocha – Conveniently located in the heart of the city, Sleep’n Atocha is not only affordable but environmentally sustainable as well. The hotel is committed to ecologically friendly measures, such as recycling, utilizing items with little environmental effect, and using non-toxic cleaning supplies. As of 2019, the hotel has achieved carbon neutrality. This inexpensive jewel is a fantastic option for your stay in the capital city because of its lovely style and excellent location.

How to Travel in Madrid

It might be difficult to navigate a new city with your whole family, especially when you’re still getting used to it. But when it comes to transportation, Madrid could surprise you with how tourist-friendly it is. The public transit system in the city is user-friendly, well-run, and well-organized. And for those who like to walk, you’ll find that strolling between the city center’s key attractions is pretty scenic.

👉 Cabs & Car Seats – Taking a taxi is sometimes the easiest method to get to Madrid with young children. A taxi provides a secure and comfortable journey to get your family where they need to go since managing children and baggage may be challenging.

You can use the official TXMAD app, which is available on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store, to hail a cab in Madrid. You can also use the Cabify app if you need a car seat. Just be sure to pick the Cabify Kids option so you can choose the required seat size.

👉 Metro – The Madrid metro is one of the fastest and can get you wherever you need to go swiftly. The trains are usually the most convenient way to go about Madrid with children since they run often and the system is easy to operate. The following are a few of the busiest central stations that include accessible amenities like elevators and more:

• Atocha Renfe
• Nuevos Ministerios
• Plaza de España

👉 Buses – With around 200 routes crisscrossing the city, Madrid’s vast bus network is among the easiest to navigate while traveling with family. The EMT-operated, capacious blue buses provide amenities that are family-friendly. In fact, a lot of the more recent buses have kid-specific seats installed.

Eating in Madrid

Mealtimes can be difficult while traveling with family. But fear not—dining out in Madrid with family need not be at all stressful. Bars and restaurants in Spain provide a warm welcome to families with children. Entire families, with young children included, often eat meals outside till late at night.

It’s important to remember that kids’ meals are seldom available in Spain. Children, on the other hand, consume whatever the grownups eat.

You can find these delectable and family-friendly selections in restaurants all across Madrid:

• Croquetas: Spanish children love these crunchy, creamy croquettes. Although cured ham, or jamón, is the most common filling, you can also get them filled with chicken, mushrooms, salt fish, and other ingredients.
• Albóndigas: Spain’s version of meatballs are simple and delicious on their own, even if they don’t come with pasta.
• Tortilla de patatas: Made with potatoes and eggs, tortilla de patatas is a reliable option that will satisfy even the fussiest palates.
• Churros con chocolate: Here, an explanation is unnecessary since these mouthwatering goodies are self-explanatory!

Top Family-Friendly Tours

• Madrid City Tour – An easy way to see Madrid with family is to take a hop-on-hop-off bus trip. You get to choose where to get off, and the double-decker buses are typically really thrilling for youngsters.
• Segway Tour – A Segway tour can offer your family’s city discovery and added excitement. Just bear in mind that there are weight and age limitations for many Segway trips.
• Flamenco Shows – Take your family to a Flamenco performance for a true taste of Spain. There are several family-friendly locations that also serve meals.

• Prado Museum – One of the best galleries in Europe, the Prado Museum, has amazing paintings that even young children can admire. Seek family excursions with guides who have the experience and knowledge to keep young minds attentive.
• Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales – The National Museum of Natural Sciences is a family favorite with its interactive exhibitions and interesting exhibits like dinosaur fossils.
• CaixaForum – This cultural center offers family-friendly events, seminars, and exhibits.

Best Architectural Wonders

• Royal Palace of Madrid – The magnificent Royal Palace, with its intriguing armory and exquisite chambers, is an absolute must-visit.
• Almudena Cathedral – This magnificent church, with its stunning stained-glass windows and magnificent patterns, is next to the Royal Palace.
• Plaza Mayor – This famous square is a perfect spot for families to relax, people-watch, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Kids’ Destinations

• Zoo Aquarium Madrid – Among the largest zoos in Europe, this one houses more than 6,000 species, including the renowned Giant Panda.
• Parque Warner Madrid – At this Warner Bros. theme park, guests of all ages can enjoy shows and rides inspired by beloved characters such as Bugs Bunny and Batman.
• Retiro Park – A vast green paradise in the middle of Madrid, perfect for picnics, boat rides, and family puppet performances.

An Estimate Cost of a Madrid Trip (Family of 4) The cost of a trip to Madrid can vary significantly based on the itinerary, airline, and time of year. This is an overview in general: Flights: Depending on the airline and how far in advance you buy, a round-trip ticket should cost between $600 and $1500 per person. Accommodations: For a family-friendly hotel, budget between $100 and $250 per night. Food : At a mid-range restaurant, plan on spending $30 to $50 per person for each meal. Tours & Activities: Prices start at $20 per person for basic activities and go up to over $100 for more opulent ones. Transport : A 10-trip metro ticket costs around $13, making public transit reasonably priced. A family of four may wind up spending anywhere from $4,000 to $8,000 or more for a week-long vacation, depending on their activities and dining choices.

Final Takeaway

Madrid is an amazing spot for a family getaway, full of exciting activities, cultural adventures, and delicious food. With this guide, you’ve got everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip that’ll charm every member of the family. So grab your bags and get ready to discover all the magic Madrid has to offer!

2-Day Travel Guide: How I Showed My Family Madrid in 48 Hours

When I found out my family wanted to visit me in Spain, I began drafting the best 2-Day Travel Guide: Madrid Itinerary I could possibly think of to introduce them to Madrid.

At the time, I was living as an expat in Spain with no plans of ever leaving.

In this post, I’ll be sharing the travel guide itinerary I created for the trip both my parents and sister took to meet me in Madrid!

HOW TO SEE MADRID, SPAIN IN TWO DAYS

My family had a total of 7 days in Spain. I scheduled 2 of their 7 days in Madrid!

Here’s how to tour Madrid in 2 days!

MADRID TRAVEL GUIDE: DAY 1

Madrid-barajas airport (aeropuerto adolfo suárez-madrid barajas).

My family flew direct from the USA to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport. I took Madrid’s Metro Line 8 from the city center to meet them for their arrival at 12 PM.

From there, I suspected they’d be tired from their long day of traveling so I hailed an Uber to quickly and conveniently transport the 4 of us back to the city center where they could take a quick siesta , see my studio apartment, and then kick off their first-ever tour of Spain!

FUENCARRAL STREET ( CALLE DE FUENCARRAL )

In my family’s case, they were visiting to see my home in Spain. I lived in a studio on one of the most famous streets in Spain: Fuencarral Street . (You can check it out in this post!)

Even though we started their trip here because they wanted to see my studio, Fuencarral Street is a destination on its own that I’d recommend to anyone visiting Madrid!

My family spent an hour at my studio and then walked this street for 1 hour.

THE ROYAL PALACE OF MADRID (PALACIO REAL DE MADRID)

The Royal Palace of Madrid is one of my favorite attractions to see in Madrid.

The Palace is incredibly beautiful and full of history. The outside architecture is so majestic while the inside will leave you astounded by how regal its design is.

You can easily spend a few hours here if you go inside and do the guided tour. My family had a lot to see and didn’t want to wait the long line so we admired the palace from the outside while also spending time at the next stop on this list!

Advertisement:

THE ROYAL PALACE GARDENS (LOS JARDINES DEL PALACIO REAL)

The Palace’s surroundings consist of some of the most amazing gardens I have ever seen. They are so intricately designed and meticulously maintained.

If you are a nature lover, you’ll surely appreciate a peaceful visit to the Royal Palace Gardens.

VISITING THE FRIENDLY SPARROWS IN MADRID (LOS PAJARITOS CON SEÑOR PÁJARO)

Okay, this may not be the most typical item to include on an itinerary, but I knew I had to include it on ours.

Since I earned the trust of some wild birds in Madrid , I wanted to introduce them to my family.

In the video above, you can see my dad and my sister trying to hold my sparrow friends.

We spent half an hour enjoying the fresh air and saying hello to the little birds! 🐦

TEMPLE OF DEBOD (TEMPLO DE DOBOD)

Are you interested in visiting an Egyptian temple that was transported from Egypt to the center of Spain?

You can learn more about the Temple of Debod in this post where I wrote about it!

When I was traveling with my family, I added this to our itinerary!

We didn’t go inside this time, but it was still interesting to explain to them its historical significance as we walked by it.

TAPAS! (SMALL SPANISH APPETIZERS)

At this point in the day, we needed a tapas break! We went to none other than Tapa Tapa: one of Madrid’s most popular tapas bars!

They tried popular Spanish foods like croquetas, boquerones fritos, and had some refreshing mojitos and tinto de verano to pair.

For me, the food was one of the best aspects of traveling in Spain!

THE GRAN VÍA (GRAN VÍA)

Another famous street you need to visit in Madrid is the Gran Vía .

Back when my family visited, the central Gran Vía metro stop was closed for reconstruction. Since then, the construction has finished and the station reopened. The newly renovated metro station is really nice!

You can easily to get to Gran Via from most of the major Metro lines.

Along this busy street, there’s no shortage of interesting shops to visit and small stores and bars to browse.

My home was on Fuencarral Street right off of Gran Vía so this street was very familiar territory for me; an area I loved to walk around aimlessly while just taking in my surroundings.

THE METROPOLIS BUILDING (EDIFICIO METRÓPOLIS)

At the corner of Gran Vía and Calle de Alcalá you will find the iconic Metropolis Building.

This building is famous in Madrid. We snapped a photo together here while on our walk to the next stop!

EL RETIRO PARK (EL RETIRO)

We walked through El Retiro which is one of the biggest parks in Madrid.

Ninth stop: El Retiro Park

We had amazing weather that day so we also decided to rent a paddle boat for an hour and spent some family-bonding time out on the water.

I have to say, I think this was the highlight of the day and remains one of my fondest memories.

THE CRYSTAL PALACE (EL PALACIO DE CRISTAL)

Within El Retiro, you will find Madrid’s Crystal Palace .

This 19th century glass conservatory is famous in Madrid. If you’e already going to El Retiro, you can’t skip a visit to the Crystal Palace.

From here, we had dinner together and then went back to their hotel room. My family saw a lot in one day and they arrived in Spain that same morning. By this point in the evening, their jet lag was setting in and I believe everyone needed some rest.

MADRID TRAVEL GUIDE: DAY 2

On Day 2, my family woke up feeling rejuvenated and ready to see whatever else I wanted to show them during their last 24 hours in Madrid.

CHOCOLATE & CHURROS AT SAN GINES (CHOCOLATERÍA SAN GINÉS)

In Spanish tradition, chocolate with churros is typically eaten for breakfast.

I took my family to Madrid’s most famous Chocolatería: San Ginés .

There, they sampled delicious melted chocolate with a variety of churros and porras!

Many Americans don’t know what porras are. I prefer them more than churros!

VISIT MADRID’S TOWN SQUARE (PLAZA MAYOR)

Plaza Mayor is one of Madrid’s most famous squares and it’s not far from San Ginés.

(A 2-minute walk).

My family liked this plaza so much that we came back in the evening to have dinner here at one of the lovely restaurants with outdoor dining. We ordered sangria, paella, and more.

SOL: MADRID’S “GATE OF THE SUN” SQUARE (PUERTA DEL SOL)

Another short walk away, you will find Sol.

(A 4-minute walk).

Sol is another popular city square in Madrid.

It’s an open area with little coverage from Madrid’s intense sun. There’s not necessarily much to do here, but this is a pretty area to walk around and it connects you to a lot of other places.

Remember to look at the famous Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree .

VISIT THE CHUECA NEIGHBORHOOD! (CHUECA)

Chueca is a lovely part of Madrid’s capital. It’s known for being LGBT-friendly and it’s essentially Madrid’s most famous gayborhood .

Chueca welcomes all people and is home to the famous San Antón Market. There, you can grab a bite to eat from any of the market-style vendors selling tapas or head straight for the rooftop to enjoy a cocktail from the bar!

Chueca’s metro stop is lined with pride rainbows all year to celebrate the city’s inclusivity.

VISIT MADRID’S FLAGSHIP PRIMARK STORE (PRIMARK)

Before the Birmingham Primark location opened in 2019, Madrid was known for having the largest Primark in the world .

Even though it doesn’t hold that title anymore, Madrid’s store is a massive one and still deserves a visit! You never know what interesting and inexpensive bargains you may find while shopping at Primark.

You’d think they were giving away free stuff with the way people constantly flood into this store.

HOTEL RIU PLAZA ESPAÑA ROOFTOP (HOTEL RIU / FORMERLY EDIFICIO ESPAÑA)

From here, we went to my parent’s new hotel. They booked a room at the RIU which had just opened at the time! (It literally just opened. It was the RIU hotel’s opening week!)

We were some of the first guests to stay there when Edificio España finally reopened!

From the hotel, we enjoyed the remarkable views of Madrid from the glass viewing deck as well as priority access to the lovely rooftop bar and pool area.

DO YOU HAVE EXTRA TIME IN SPAIN?

My family saw a lot in 2 days and at this point, we all wanted to relax and enjoy the hotel’s amenities as well as each others company.

For the extra adventurous traveler, you can occupy extra time on Day 2 in the following ways:

• Visit The Prado Museum
• Respectfully visit Religious Places of Worship
• Take a Hop On/Hop Off Bus Tour
• Learn the history of Madrid on a Free Walking Tour

Here’s some other ideas if you have at least another 24 hours or more in Spain!

VISIT BARCELONA (BARCELONA)

Visit Barcelona! It’s a hugely popular city in Spain that many tourists visit. If you enjoy art, architecture, and/or spending time at the beach, I’d really recommend the city to you.

(Note: This was how we spent some of my family’s extra time in Spain! Coming soon.)

TAKE A DAY TRIP TO A NEARBY CITY (TOLEDO / SEGOVIA / ALCALÁ DE HENARES)

From Madrid, you can easily travel to any of these 3 nearby cities for a quick day trip!

Read about my visit to Segovia, Spain:

• 6 Things To Do During a Day Trip to Segovia, Spain
• El Alcazar De Segovia: The Spanish Castle That Inspired Walt Disney
• Sampling The Legendary Suckling Pig of Segovia

Read about my visit to Toledo, Spain:

• Did You Know Toledo Is Famous for Its Marzipan?

3. ALCALA DE HENARES

Read about my visit to Alcala de Henares:

• Taking a Day Trip from Madrid to Alcalá de Henares

SAYING OUR GOODBYES (HASTA LUEGO)

Saying our goodbyes until the next time was difficult. Especially as I watched their taxi drive them away to leave for the airport.

Being away from family is probably one of the greatest challenges that comes with life as an expat.

I can’t express how grateful I am that my family made such a big effort to visit me in my home overseas. It touched me in such a major way to see them in Spain and I’ll forever be grateful to have these memories with them.

Author: Rocky Trifari

I’m bookmarking this for when I visit Madrid next spring. Thanks for the inspiration, Rocky! It looks like you and your family had fun there.

You’re welcome, Earl! I hope it gave you some helpful ideas on where to begin with planning your trip to Madrid! 🙂

Comment Here: Cancel reply

Where to stay in Madrid with Family: 9 Best areas

In this post, I will help you to find Where to stay in Madrid with family , the best areas to stay in Madrid with kids and the best family-friendly hotels in Madrid for all budgets.

Madrid offers a plethora of family-friendly neighborhoods for an unforgettable holiday. From the vibrant city center with its cultural attractions to the peaceful suburbs with parks and playgrounds, there’s an area to suit every family’s needs.

Where to stay in Madrid with Family?

The best areas to stay in Madrid with family are Retiro, Salamanca, Chamberí, Puerta del Sol, Huertas, La Latina, Lavapiés, Gran Vía, Malasaña due to their convenient access to attractions, family-friendly amenities, and a safe environment. 

When choosing accommodation, consider factors like proximity to public transportation, family-friendly amenities, and the size of the room or apartment.

Additionally, reading reviews from other travelers can provide valuable insights into the suitability of a particular hotel or rental property for families.

Map of best areas to stay in Madrid with Family:

9 Best areas to stay in Madrid with Family are:

Retiro is the best overall area to stay in Madrid for families due to its combination of beautiful green spaces, family-friendly attractions, safety, accessibility, and accommodation options.

The neighborhood is home to the stunning Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro) , one of Madrid’s most famous and beloved green spaces. The park offers numerous family-friendly activities, such as picnicking, boating on the lake, and cycling. It provides a safe and enjoyable environment for children to play and explore nature.

Within Retiro Park, you can find the Crystal Palace , an iconic glass pavilion that hosts temporary art exhibitions; Estanque del Retiro , which is a large artificial lake where you can rent a rowboat and paddle around the lake; 

Located at the edge of the Retiro Pond, the Monument to Alfonso XII is an impressive monument dedicated to the former Spanish king. You can climb the grand staircase to reach the top and enjoy panoramic views of the park.

Retiro is in close proximity to several family-friendly attractions, include:

• The Prado Museum , houses a vast collection of art, including works that can capture the interest of children. 
• The Reina Sofia Museum , houses Picasso’s iconic painting, Guernica
• The Naval Museum , to learn about Spain’s maritime history
• The CaixaForum Madrid , an art and cultural center, offers interactive exhibitions and workshops suitable for families.
• The Royal Botanical Garden , a peaceful oasis and an excellent place to take a leisurely stroll and learn about different plant species.
• The Teatro de Títeres de El Retiro , charming puppet theater offers shows for children

Retiro is generally regarded as a safe and peaceful neighborhood , making it an ideal choice for families. The area is well-maintained, and its streets are relatively calm, providing a serene atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

Retiro boasts a diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, and eateries that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Families can find a variety of options, including child-friendly menus and establishments with outdoor seating where children can enjoy their meals.

Retiro is centrally located, and is well-connected by public transportation , with several metro and bus lines serving the area. This accessibility allows for easy day trips to other attractions in the city, ensuring that the whole family can enjoy the various sights and activities Madrid has to offer.

Retiro offers a range of accommodation options suitable for families, including hotels and apartments. Many of these establishments cater specifically to families by providing amenities such as larger rooms, cribs, and play areas. 

Best places to stay in Madrid in Retiro with family:

• Luxury ($$$):  Hospes Puerta de Alcalá
• Mid-range ($$):  Madrid – Retiro, an IHG Hotel
• Budget ($):  NH Madrid Atocha

2. Salamanca

Salamanca is an excellent choice for a family holiday in Madrid due to its combination of safety, central location, family-friendly amenities, cultural attractions, shopping and dining options, educational opportunities, and convenient transportation links.

Salamanca is known for its upscale and elegant atmosphere , featuring wide tree-lined streets, luxury boutiques, high-end restaurants, and exclusive residential areas. Salamanca is one of the most affluent areas in Madrid and attracts locals and tourists looking for a sophisticated shopping and dining experience.

Salamanca is adjacent to the city center. It offers easy access to major attractions , museums, parks, and shopping areas, allowing families to explore the city conveniently.

The neighborhood boasts a range of family-friendly amenities, including parks, playgrounds, and green spaces. The iconic Retiro Park is nearby, offering vast open areas, boating activities, and even a children’s train ride.

Salamanca features numerous art galleries, museums, and theaters, providing opportunities for families to engage in cultural activities and enjoy performances suitable for all ages.

Families can explore educational attractions like the National Archaeological Museum, National Museum of Natural Sciences, Sorolla Museum, Lázaro Galdiano Museum, or the Wax Museum.

You can visit the Puerta de Alcalá , a neoclassical triumphal arch that serves as one of the main gateways to the city. It is located in Plaza de la Independencia which is a popular spot for taking photos and meeting points.

If your family enjoys sports, head to the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium , the home of Real Madrid. Take a guided tour of the stadium, visit the trophy room, and walk through the players’ tunnel for an exciting behind-the-scenes experience.

Enjoy a leisurely walk at Paseo de la Castellana , an iconic boulevard that runs through the Barrio de Salamanca and offers beautiful views of the city and impressive architecture.

Salamanca is a shopper’s paradise, with its prestigious boutiques, luxury brands, and stylish stores. Calle de Serrano, Calle de Velázquez, and Calle de Goya are the Golden Mile where you can find fashionable items for the whole family.

You can visit the Mercado de la Paz , a traditional market to experience local flavors. Browse through the fresh produce, sample tapas, and discover a wide range of gourmet products. It’s a food lover’s delight.

The neighborhood also offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes , catering to different tastes and preferences, including options suitable for children. Your family can enjoy a traditional Spanish breakfast of churros dipped in thick hot chocolate at the Chocolateria San Ginés.

Salamanca is well-connected to the other parts of Madrid via public transportation, including metro lines and buses. It is served by Velázquez, Serrano, and Ventas metro stops. This makes it easy for families to navigate the city and reach other attractions quickly.

Salamanca is known as one of the safest neighborhoods in Madrid . It has low crime rates and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal place for families with children.

Salamanca offers a range of accommodation options , including luxury hotels, serviced apartments, and family-friendly establishments. Many of these accommodations provide amenities and services tailored to meet the needs of families.

Best places to stay in Madrid in Salamanca with family:

• Luxury ($$$):  BLESS Hotel Madrid – The Leading Hotels of the World
• Mid-range ($$):  ICON Embassy
• Budget ($):  BYPILLOW Velázquez 45

3. Chamberí

Chamberí is a great choice for a family holiday in Madrid due to its pleasant atmosphere, convenient location, and family-oriented amenities.

The area is well-equipped with various amenities that cater to families , including parks, playgrounds, and recreational areas. You’ll find green spaces like Parque de Santander and Parque de Canal de Isabel II, which are perfect for leisure activities with kids.

The Parque del Oeste is just a short walk from Chamberí, where families can visit the Temple of Debod, a reconstructed ancient Egyptian temple, or take a ride on the Teleférico de Madrid cable car to Casa de Campo for panoramic views of the city. 

Chamberí itself offers some interesting cultural spots, such as the Museo Geominero, Sorolla Museum, and the Andén 0 (Chamberí Metro Station Museum), where you can learn about Madrid’s history and art.

The neighborhood is known for its diverse range of restaurants and cafes , offering both traditional Spanish cuisine and international flavors. You’ll have plenty of dining options to choose from, including family-friendly establishments.

Chamberí features various shops and boutiques, including those specializing in children’s clothing and toys, especially on Calle de Fuencarral.

There are local markets such as Mercado de Chamberí and Mercado de Vallehermoso , where you can find fresh produce and  local delicacies. S

Chamberí is well-connected to other parts of the city , making it easy to access Madrid’s main attractions. You can reach popular sites like Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Prado Museum within a short commute.

Madrid, in general, is a safe city, and Chamberí is considered one of the safest neighborhoods . It has a low crime rate, providing peace of mind for families during their stay.

Best places to stay in Madrid Chamberi in with kids:

• Luxury ($$$):  Melia Madrid Princesa
• Mid-range ($$):  Exe Moncloa
• Budget ($):  Leonardo Boutique Hotel Madrid

4. Puerta del Sol 

Puerta del Sol is indeed considered one of the best areas to stay in Madrid for families . It is located in the heart of Madrid, making it a convenient base for exploring the city. 

Many major attractions such as the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and Gran Via are within walking distance or a short metro ride away. Being centrally located saves time and effort in commuting, especially when traveling with children.

The area is well-connected with public transportation options , including metro lines, buses, and trains. This accessibility makes it easy for families to navigate the city and explore different neighborhoods without much hassle.

Some of Family-Friendly attractions and activities in and around the square are:

• The Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree , a famous bronze statue, is a popular meeting point. Kids will enjoy taking pictures with the bear.
• the Royal Palace , where you can watch the Changing of the Guard
• the Correos Building , Madrid’s main post office, where you send a postcard home
• Take Horse-drawn carriage rides to explore the city.
• The Plaza Mayor , a grand square offers beautiful architecture, outdoor cafes, and vibrant street performers.
• Kilometer Zero Marker , fun activity for the family to gather around and take picture

Puerta del Sol is known for its lively atmosphere and street performers. You’ll find musicians, magicians, living statues, and more. Stop and watch a performance that catches your attention, and don’t forget to tip if you enjoy it.

Puerta del Sol is surrounded by shopping streets like Preciados and Gran Via , which offer a wide range of shops catering to different tastes and budgets. Families can find everything from popular international brands to local boutiques. 

There are also numerous restaurants and cafes in the area, providing a variety of dining options to suit different preferences and dietary requirements.

Madrid is generally considered a safe city , and the area around Puerta del Sol is no exception. The presence of police and security personnel adds to the sense of security, making it a comfortable place to stay for families.

As a popular area, Puerta del Sol can be quite busy and noisy. It has a ton of accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury. Due to its prime location, the prices of hotels tend to be higher than other neighborhoods.

Best places to stay in Madrid in Puerto del Sol with family:

• Luxury ($$$):  Four Seasons Hotel Madrid
• Mid-range ($$):  Arenal Suites Puerta del Sol
• Budget ($):  Apartamentos Mayor Centro

5. Huertas 

Huertas is an excellent choice for many families visiting the city because it offers a combination of central location, cultural attractions, and family-friendly amenities.

Huertas is centrally located , making it easy to access many of Madrid’s popular attractions. It is within walking distance of the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, and the Reina Sofia Museum, which are all excellent cultural destinations for families.

Huertas is known for its pedestrian-friendly streets and charming atmosphere. The neighborhood features narrow, cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings, making it pleasant for leisurely strolls with the family.

Huertas has a rich literary and artistic history . It was home to famous Spanish writers, including Miguel de Cervantes and Lope de Vega. The Cervantes Birthplace Museum and the Lope de Vega House Museum, providing an opportunity for educational and cultural experiences.

The Calle de las Huertas is the main street of the neighborhood and is lined with historic buildings, bookshops, and trendy bars. The Mercado de Antón Martín nearby is a bustling market and is a food lover’s paradise.

Huertas has several plazas and the nearby Retiro Park is where families can relax and enjoy outdoor activities. Plaza de Santa Ana , the main square in Huertas, has numerous cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating.

Huertas has a wide range of restaurants that cater to families . You’ll find traditional Spanish cuisine, as well as international options to suit different tastes. Many eateries in the area offer child-friendly menus and have a welcoming atmosphere for families.

Huertas is well-connected to the rest of the city through public transportation, including metro and bus lines. This makes it convenient for families to explore other areas of Madrid easily, such as the Gran Via shopping district, the Royal Palace, and the Puerta del Sol.

Huertas has plenty of choices of accommodation, including hotels, apartments, guest houses, and B&B for all budget families.

Best places to stay in Madrid in Huertas with children:

• Luxury ($$$):  NH Collection Madrid Palacio de Tepa
• Mid-range ($$):  Vincci Soho
• Budget ($):  Apartamentos Moratín Las Letras

6. La Latina

La Latina is a fantastic area to stay in Madrid for a family holiday due to its central location, cultural charm, outdoor spaces, the famous El Rastro Market, and the overall family-friendly atmosphere.

La Latina is situated in the heart of Madrid , making it convenient for exploring the city. It is close to many popular tourist attractions, including the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and Puerta del Sol. 

La Latina is one of Madrid’s oldest and most traditional neighborhoods, known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. Exploring the picturesque streets and squares such as Plaza de los Carros and Plaza de la Paja are a delightful experience for both adults and children.

The area boasts several beautiful parks and green areas , including the lovely Parque de la Cornisa, Jardín del Príncipe de Anglona, and Las Vistillas Garden, which offers a scenic view of Madrid’s skyline and provides ample space for children to play. 

La Latina is renowned for its lively tapas scene. It is filled with traditional taverns and tapas bars on Cava Baja street where families can savor authentic Spanish cuisine. 

La Latina is home to El Rastro, Madrid’s most famous open-air flea market. Held every Sunday and public holiday, it attracts locals and tourists alike. Children can enjoy searching for unique treasures, and the lively atmosphere adds to the fun.

Another popular market is the Mercado de la Cebada , a great place to discover local produce and regional specialties. You can enjoy a meal or snack at one of the food stalls, and even participate in cooking workshops organized for children.

Families can visit San Isidro Museum to learn about  the history and culture of Madrid, climb to the top of the Basilica of San Francisco el Grande for panoramic views of the city.

La Latina has many choices in accommodations. If your family travels on a budget, you can easily find budget-friendly hotels and apartments.

Best places to stay in Madrid in La Latina for family with kids:

• Luxury ($$$):  Hyatt Centric Gran Via Madrid
• Mid-range ($$):  Pestana CR7 Gran Vía Madrid
• Budget ($):  Petit Palace Cliper-Gran Vía

7. Lavapiés

Lavapiés is a vibrant neighborhood located in the heart of Madrid that offers s everal advantages for families. Lavapiés is known for its multicultural atmosphere, artistic scene, and diverse community.

The neighborhood is home to numerous art galleries, theaters, and cultural centers, making it an ideal place to engage children and expose them to different forms of art.

Families can explore the neighborhood’s vibrant street art at Calle del Doctor Fourquet and Calle de Argumosa, enjoy live performances, or visit museums like the Reina Sofía Museum, which is within walking distance.

Lavapiés is close to Retiro Park or the botanical gardens , providing a refreshing break from the bustling city atmosphere.

Lavapiés has cultural and historical attractions for the whole family to explore such as the Teatro Valle-Inclán, La Casa Encendida cultural center, Spanish Film Archive, Museum of Popular Art and Traditions, the La Tabacalera with interactive exhibits suitable for all ages.

The area boasts a wide range of culinary options, including international cuisines and traditional Spanish dishes . Families can explore the diverse food scene, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.

Lavapiés is conveniently located in a central location, with well-connected bus and metro lines . The Atocha Train Station is nearby, making it easy access to Madrid’s Barajas Airport, and the rest of the city.

Lavapiés provide various accommodation options. It is indeed one of the best areas to stay in Madrid on a budget due to its more affordable prices compared to other popular neighborhoods.

Best places to stay in Madrid in Lavapies with family:

• Mid-range ($$):  Hard Rock Hotel Madrid
• Budget ($):  limehome Madrid Calle Ave María – Digital Access
• budget ($):  Sofía by Madflats Collection

8. Gran Via

Gran Via is a popular choice for families visiting Madrid. It is located in the heart of Madrid, making it convenient for exploring the city’s attractions. Many popular tourist sites such as Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Royal Palace are within walking distance or a short metro ride away.

Gran Via is known for its vibrant atmosphere and lively entertainment scene. The street is lined with shops, boutiques, and department stores where you can find everything from fashion to souvenirs. 

Additionally, there are theaters, cinemas, and entertainment venues that offer shows, musicals, and performances suitable for all ages.

Gran Via is well-connected to the rest of the city through public transportation. The area has several metro stations and bus stops, making it easy to explore other parts of Madrid with your family.

Madrid, in general, is considered a safe city for tourists, and the area around Gran Via is no exception. The streets are well-lit and usually bustling with people, providing a sense of security for families.

Gran Via offers a wide range of accommodation options suitable for families. There are numerous hotels and apartment rentals available, ranging from budget to luxury, providing various amenities and family-friendly services.

Best places to stay in Madrid in Gran Via with kids:

• Luxury ($$$):  The Principal Madrid, Small Luxury Hotels
• Mid-range ($$):  Catalonia Gran Vía Madrid
• Budget ($):  Hostal Delfina

9. Malasaña

Malasaña is often considered one of the best areas to stay in Madrid for a family holiday due to its vibrant atmosphere, central location, and family-friendly amenities.  

Malasaña is situated in the heart of Madrid , making it convenient for exploring the city’s major attractions. Many popular landmarks, such as the Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Gran Via, are within walking distance or easily accessible by public transportation.

Malasaña is known for its rich cultural and historical heritage . The neighborhood has a bohemian vibe and is associated with the counterculture movements of the 1980s. 

Families can explore the narrow streets filled with traditional shops, cozy cafes, and historic buildings, which provide a glimpse into the city’s past.

Some of the family-friendly activities in Malasaña are:

• Plaza del Dos de Mayo , a lively square that has playgrounds, open spaces, and benches where children can play and families can unwind.
• Conde Duque Cultural Center , the cultural center with a range of family-friendly activities
• ABC Museum of Illustration , with special exhibitions and workshops for children
• Calle Velarde and Calle Espíritu Santo , for unique boutiques and vintage stores

Malasaña is considered a safe area. It is a well-established and well-populated neighborhood, and you can feel secure walking around with your family during the day or evening.

Best places to stay in Madrid in Malasaña with family:

• Luxury ($$$):  VP Plaza España Design
• Mid-range ($$):  Dear Hotel Madrid
• Budget ($):  Arizonica Suites
• Where to Stay in Madrid First Time
• 11 Safest Areas to stay in Madrid for tourists
• Where to stay in Madrid on a budget
• How Many Days in Madrid: 5 Day in Madrid Itinerary

Summary – Where to stay in Madrid with kids?

In conclusion, Retiro, Salamanca, Chamberí, Puerta del Sol, Huertas, La Latina, Lavapiés, Gran Vía, Malasaña are some of the best places to stay in Madrid with family . They provides plenty of family-friendly accommodations and acitivities for children of all ages.

Overall, Retiro in my opinion is the best area to stay in Madrid for family because it offers a combination of green spaces, cultural attractions, and family-friendly amenities while being centrally located.

About Author: Linda Smith

I'm Linda Smith, the Hotel Expert, an experienced travel blogger who passionate about traveling. I'm here to share with you all my travel experiences and tips. I cover a wide range of travel topics, specializing in sharing information about the best areas, neighborhoods, and hotels in each city. I hope all these things will make your travel easier.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

10 Best Madrid Hotels for Families Visiting Spain with Kids

Posted on Last updated: January 3, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » Spain » 10 Best Madrid Hotels for Families Visiting Spain with Kids

Sharing is caring!

Looking for the best hotels in Madrid for families? Here’s the ultimate list of the top family-friendly places to stay in the capital of Spain for the ultimate family vacation!

This list of the best family-friendly hotels in madrid was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

While it may not be the first destination that pops to mind when you think of a family vacation, Madrid is actually a great place to visit with kids.

We’ve personally done it with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers and it’s an awesome family vacation spot.

Home to a wide array of museums, parks, and delicious food (hi, land of churros!), the capital of Spain can be a great city for children. This is especially true if you’re interested in a vacation that mixes fun and culture.

Below is a list of the best areas to stay in Madrid with kids as well as recommendations on family-friendly hotels to stay at!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Madrid blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Madrid with kids.

Popular Madrid Tours/Activities

• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour (great way to see the sights while resting)
• Prado Museum (this is a skip-the-line ticket and tour)
• Sweet Space Museum Entry Ticket (fun for Instagram photos)
• Toledo Half-Day Tour from Madrid (perfect length for families)
• Flytographer photo shoot (they are easy to book are really affordable)

Kid-Friendly Madrid Hotels

• Líbere Madrid Palacio Real (family rooms with kitchens and A/C)
• ICON Embassy (family rooms with bunk beds and A/C)
• H10 Puerta de Alcalá (family rooms with A/C and a pool)
• INNSiDE by Meliá Madrid Gran Vía (family rooms in a great location with A/C)
• The Madrid EDITION (lots of family rooms with A/C and a pool)

Where to Stay in Madrid with Kids

When it comes to choosing the best neighborhoods in Madrid for families, several factors come into play. These include safety, family-friendly amenities, parks, and accessibility to attractions. 

Here are some of the top neighborhoods in Madrid that are considered great for families.

Sol is considered the central hub of Madrid and an excellent choice if your kids are a little older and interested in history.

Plenty of the top attractions to check out in the city are here. These include the lively Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace , and the Almudena Cathedral .

The entire family will love this neighborhood as it offers a perfect blend of modern attractions and traditional Spanish culture. You will also find lots of shops, restaurants, and a very vibrant atmosphere here.

Retiro is known for homing the iconic Retiro Park . It’s considered a great neighborhood to stay in Madrid with kids because it has ample green spaces, recreational activities, and playgrounds.

It’s close to many major attractions like the Palacio de Cristal. Kids will love visiting the park for picnics and boat rides along the lake whenever they need a break from sightseeing.

This neighborhood is very well-connected via public transport, so visiting other parts of the city is a breeze.

Moncloa-Aravaca

Home to the sprawling Casa de Campo park, Moncloa-Aravaca boasts one of the city’s largest green spaces where families can enjoy the outdoors, be it by hiking, cycling, or checking out the Madrid Zoo .

Aside from that, there are also cultural attractions here such as the Royal Palace of el Pardo for a dose of history.

Another great neighborhood to stay with kids in Madrid is Salamanca. It has beautiful streets, a great ambiance, and lots of wide streets featuring beautiful architecture and parks.

Salamanca is also considered very safe, not to mention it is well-connected to the rest of the city.

Chamberí

Chamberí isn’t a neighborhood per se but rather a mix of several residential districts right in the heart of Madrid.

This is a wonderful place to stay because, despite its centric location, Chamberí doesn’t feel at all touristy and provides that local experience you may be after. 

Here, you’ll find plenty of green space, a low-key ambiance, and tons of local restaurants and bars. 

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND guarantee that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

Top 10 Hotels in Madrid for Families

Now that you know the best areas in Madrid to stay at, here’s a list of the best Madrid hotels for families. These offer family-friendly amenities and large rooms so everyone can have a comfortable stay.

Hotel Catalonia Gran Vía

Hotel Catalonia Gran Vía in Madrid is a family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms and a convenient location.

The family rooms have one king bed plus a bunk bed for children. This means everyone will be super comfortable during their stay! Check rates here .

This beautiful hotel offers family amenities like high chairs and cribs. Plus there are lots of family activities and attractions nearby. 

Moreover, depending on what time of the year you’re visiting Madrid, you can also enjoy the hotel’s rooftop pool, which comes with glorious views of the city. Check the latest rates and availability .

Ayala 63 – The Arc Collection

Located in the Salamanca district, Ayala 63 – THE ARC COLLECTION is a fabulous choice to stay in Madrid with kids.

More than rooms, this hotel offers luxurious apartments. Some of these come with two rooms so everyone can have their space during their time in Madrid. Check rates here .

Aside from that, the hotel offers plenty of services, including cribs, high chairs, and babysitting services in case you want to explore the city or head out to explore Madrid during the evening with your partner.

One of the highlights of this hotel is its location. You’ll be within walking distance of some of the top attractions in the city. These include El Retiro Park and the Prado Museum as well as lots of shops and restaurants. Check the latest rates and availability .

SmartRental Collection

If you’re looking for a spacious place to stay in Madrid with kids that feels more like a home rather than a hotel, the SmartRental Collection is a great option to consider. 

These apartments are designed to provide a home-like experience with all the amenities you need to enjoy your stay. Check rates here .

Each apartment in the SmartRental Collection can sleep four or more people. This makes it perfect for families (you can choose from one, two, or three-bedroom apartments).

The apartments are fully equipped with modern appliances. Plus they are located right in the heart of Madrid and close to major attractions, restaurants, and shops. Check the latest rates and availability .

SLEEP’N Atocha – B Corp Certified

Another great family-friendly hotel in Madrid is SLEEP’N Athoca , which features family rooms with four single beds.

This means it’s perfect if you have older kids who don’t want to share a bed. Check rates here .

In addition to that, SLEEP’N Atocha offers a range of other amenities that families will appreciate. Plus the hotel is just a short walk from the Atocha train station, which is a major transportation hub.

From there, you can easily get to other parts of the city as well as to other destinations in Spain for day trips! Check the latest rates and availability .

Hotel NH Collection Madrid Suecia

The Hotel NH Collection Madrid Suecia is a 5-star hotel located within walking distance of numerous attractions. These include the Gran Vía, Puerta del Sol, the Retiro Park, and Prado Museum, to name just a few!

Family rooms can fit up to 5 people, offering king-size beds as well as twin beds so everyone can have their own space. They also come equipped with children’s amenities like cribs, high chairs, and kid-friendly bath products.  Check rates here .

Among the hotel’s highlights are its fantastic dining options. Breakfast brings you a delicious buffet spread, where you’ll find a variety of options to suit every taste.

Lunch and dinner are also available at the on-site restaurant, which serves a blend of Spanish and international cuisine.

When you’re done exploring the city, you can relax and take a dip in the rooftop pool which offers stunning views of the city. Check the latest rates and availability .

Hotel Riu Plaza España

Set in the heart of the city in the beautiful Plaza España, this hotel offers an unbeatable location that is perfect for sightseeing with your family.

Famous attractions located within walking distance include Plaza Mayor, Puerta de Sol, and the Royal Palace. Check rates here .

Your kids will love the hotel’s swimming pool, which offers a dedicated area for children to splash and play.

Meanwhile, you can relax on one of the comfortable sunbeds surrounding the pool and head over to the rooftop terrace later for gorgeous views of Madrid or enjoy one of the on-site restaurants.

The hotel offers family rooms with a sofa bed as well as rooms with two double beds. Check the latest rates and availability .

Get Our FREE Madrid Travel Planner

Petit palace lealtad plaza.

Set in the beautiful Retiro district, Petit Palace Lealtad Plaza is a great choice for a hotel if you want to stay in an area of Madrid with lots of beautiful parks and a more low-key ambiance.

One of the best things about Petit Palace Lealtad Plaza is that their family rooms can sleep up to five people. This is perfect for families with multiple children or for those who want to bring grandparents along on their trip. Check rates here .

The hotel also offers a variety of services and amenities that are perfect for families. For example, they have a free bike rental service, which is a great way to explore the city with your kids. They also offer a free breakfast buffet every morning, which is a great way to start your day off right.

If you’re traveling with young children, you’ll be happy to know that the hotel offers free cribs and high chairs upon request. They also have a children’s play area. This is a great way to keep your kids entertained while you relax in the hotel.

Moreover, the famous Retiro Park is right across the street. It’s perfect for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll.

You’re also within easy reach of the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, to name just a few! Check the latest rates and availability .

Hyatt Regency Hesperia Madrid

If you’re looking for a luxurious hotel that can accommodate your family of four or more, the Hyatt Regency Hesperia Madrid might be just what you need. 

This hotel is located in the heart of Madrid, close to many of the city’s top attractions and landmarks.  Check rates here .

It’s perfect for families because of its spacious rooms. There is a variety of room types that can accommodate families of different sizes. 

In addition to its ample rooms, the Hyatt Regency Hesperia Madrid also offers a range of amenities that are perfect for families. For example, the hotel has a swimming pool that is open during the summer months, as well as a fitness center and sauna. 

If you’re traveling with young children, there are babysitting services upon request. This can give you the freedom to explore the city on your own.  Check the latest rates and availability .

Iberostar Las Letras Gran Via 

This family hotel offers tons of different room options. Some of them come with single beds for everyone to have their own space and even rooms with large beds as well as a sofa bed.

They come equipped with all the amenities you need to make your stay as comfortable as possible, including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Check rates here .

This hotel is located in the heart of Madrid, on the famous Gran Via street. This means you’ll be within walking distance of many of the city’s main attractions. 

One of the best features of this hotel is its rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of the city and a rooftop pool where you can cool off on hot summer days. Check the latest rates and availability .

Catalonia El Retiro

Set just a stone’s throw away from El Retiro Park, Catalonia El Retiro is a great place to stay with kids in Madrid if you want to be at a great location but still away from the main buzz of the city.

The Catalonia El Retiro has a variety of room types that can sleep four or more people. For example, the Family Room can accommodate up to four people, and the Family Suite can accommodate up to six people.  Check rates here .

As mentioned earlier, this family hotel is right around the corner from Retiro Park, which is a great place to take your family for a picnic or a stroll. 

In terms of amenities, the Catalonia El Retiro has plenty to offer. The hotel has a fitness center, a spa, and an outdoor pool.

There’s also a restaurant on-site that serves delicious Spanish cuisine, as well as a bar where parents can enjoy a drink or two. Check the latest rates and availability .

Best Family Hotels in Madrid Spain FAQs

What is the best safe area to stay in madrid.

The best areas for families in Madrid include Centro, Salamanca, and Retiro, which are central, safe, and close to the main attractions.

What is the most central area to stay in Madrid?

The most central area to stay in Madrid is the “Centro” district, particularly the areas around Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor. These neighborhoods are in the heart of the city and offer easy access to a wide range of attractions, shops, restaurants, and public transportation options.

Are there family-friendly hotels in Madrid with swimming pools?

Yes, many hotels in Madrid feature outdoor or indoor swimming pools, which can be a great amenity for families.

Do Madrid hotels offer family rooms or suites?

Many hotels in Madrid offer family rooms or suites, which can provide extra space and comfort for families traveling with children.

Are there Madrid hotels near parks and green spaces?

Yes, numerous hotels are situated close to parks such as the Retiro Park, a great spot for family picnics and outdoor activities.

Can I find hotels in Madrid that include breakfast?

Yes, many Madrid hotels offer breakfast included in the room rate, which can be a convenient option for families.

Are there Madrid hotels close to the main attractions like the Prado Museum?

Yes, there are plenty of hotels in Madrid that are conveniently located within walking distance of major attractions, including the Prado Museum.

Are there kid-friendly restaurants near Madrid family hotels?

Absolutely, Madrid is a city that loves kids and has numerous family-friendly restaurants close to many hotels.

What’s the best boutique hotel in Madrid for families?

The best boutique hotel in Madrid for families often depends on specific needs, but the Only YOU Boutique Hotel Madrid is frequently recommended for its spacious rooms, central location, and family-friendly services.

Is it easy to find air-conditioned rooms in Madrid?

Yes, it’s generally easy to find air-conditioned rooms in Madrid. The city can get quite hot, especially in the summer, so most hotels offer air conditioning for comfort.

What’s the best metro station to stay near?

The best metro station to stay near in Madrid depends on what attractions you plan to visit. However, staying near the Sol, Gran Via, or Callao metro stations puts you in the heart of the city with easy access to many popular sites.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Madrid Wrap Up

Even though Madrid may not sound like a super family-friendly city, the capital of Spain has a ton to offer for families who love culture and history.

When choosing where to stay in Madrid with kids, there are tons of options available if you know where to look, so I hope this list of the best Madrid hotels for families helped you choose the perfect accommodation for you!

Looking for more Madrid travel resources? Check out my Madrid travel tips , best day trips from Madrid , things to do in Madrid with kids , best Benidorm day trips , how to plan a trip to Spain , Europe travel tips , and hidden gems in Spain !

Unlock Your Free eBook

Our exclusive eBook, Top 10 Unforgettable Family Adventure Destinations , is your ticket to a world of wonder and excitement. Get your free copy today!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

5 Days in Madrid: Ultimate 5-Day Itinerary

5 days in Madrid: what to do and see?

Are you going  to leave for 5 days in Madrid  and are you wondering what to visit?

You are in the right place!

With  my itinerary to visit Madrid in 5 days , you will be able to easily plan your days.

I will first give you  my tips for not queuing  in front of the main tourist sites and then I will detail  the program to follow from day to day.

At the end of the article, I have also prepared  my selection of the best hotels to stay in Madrid as well as some  ideas for visits for a family trip .

All accompanied by  my advice to make the most  of your stay in the Spanish capital.

So  what to do in Madrid in 5 days? 

Table of Contents

Visit Madrid in 5 days: the best itinerary

I’m getting to the heart of the matter with this 5-day Madrid itinerary.

It includes  the route to follow for each day  and  a map  to help you find your way around the city.

At the level of the visits that I included, I assumed that you took  the Madrid City Pass  or  skip-the-line tickets  in order to avoid queuing and wasting too much time.

If you still have questions after reading everything, do not hesitate to ask me your questions in the section dedicated to comments, at the very end of the article.

So, here is the 5 days Madrid itinerary!

Day 1: Discovery of the Center

The visits of day 1:

A. Plaza Mayor B. San Miguel Market C. Cathedral D. Royal Palace E. Royal Theater F. San Ginès Chocolate Factory G. Temple of Amun H. Flamenco Show

A. The Main Square

Let’s go for this  first day of this 5-day stay in Madrid  that I suggest you start on  the Plaza Mayor.

This large square  built in 1690,  in the center of which sits the  statue of King Philip III,  represents the heart of the city.

All around the Plaza Mayor, you can  admire the arches and the very beautiful  baroque buildings:  the house of the Bakery , the  house of the Butcher  and  the arc of the Cutlers.

In summer , the crowd is dense and takes advantage of  the friendly atmosphere  of the place to  have a drink  or a coffee on the terrace, eat in the restaurant,  stroll or go shopping.

In winter , it is the magic of Christmas that invites itself with impressive  decorations and lights  and  the chalets of the Christmas market. 

Tips for you Madrid itinerary:

The Madrid Tourist Office  is in the Plaza Mayor, in  the old Casa de la Panaderia  (bakery house). Useful info to know if you want to take a map of the city for example.

B. San Miguel Market

A few steps from Plaza Mayor, now head to  Mercado San Miguel  (San Miguel Market).

This traditional , glass-covered  market is a major tourist attraction in Madrid.

With  its colorful stalls , its multitude of  local products  and its  free tastings , it is a hit with locals and visitors alike. It is therefore an opportunity to come  and taste the charcuterie, cheeses  and other delicious products of the Spanish sun.

The market is open daily from 10 a.m. to midnight  and even later on weekends. You can therefore also visit it in the evening and take advantage of the tables and chairs set up there for dinner.

C. The Almudena Cathedral

Continue your journey in Madrid through  the Almudena Cathedral . This monument is one of the most important in the Spanish capital.

The cathedral is only  5 minutes walk from the market  and it has an amazing peculiarity:  on the outside  it represents the architectural style of  classicism  and  on the inside it is gothic.  The result is really interesting.

The advantage is also that you can  visit it for only €1  per person. The best for large families!

D. The Royal Palace of Madrid

I now suggest you  visit the Royal Palace , a place not to be missed during your  5-day Madrid itinerary.

The Palacio Real is recognized as one of the  most beautiful palaces in Europe  and we must admit that it is really superb!

This palace  built in the 17th century  can be admired from the outside with a  stroll through its sumptuous gardens , but also from the inside where you can  visit magnificent rooms  such as  the Hall of Columns , the  Halberdiers Hall , King Charles’s bedroom II or  the Salon des Miroirs.

I recommend the  super interesting guided tour  which allows you to better  understand the history of the Palace.  It is also so good that it is  guaranteed “satisfied or refunded”.

Booking a guided tour  also allows you to  avoid queuing , as does having your  Madrid City Pass  since the latter includes a  skip-the-line ticket for the Royal Palace .

E. The Royal Theater

Just opposite the Palacio Real , you will find  the Royal Theater of Madrid  (el Teatro Real) erected  in Plaza d’Oriente .

Built between 1817 and 1850 , this theater has  such exceptional acoustics  that it is one of  the most prestigious opera houses  in all of Europe.

The program lives up to its reputation, with the greatest  international lyrical artists  regularly performing there.

Visiting Madrid in 5 days is also an opportunity for fans to spend  an unforgettable evening at the opera . You can reserve your seats on the Teatro Real website (watch out for the cheapest seats which often hide part of the stage).

If you just want  to visit the theater and have access to the dressing rooms , the various performance halls and the exhibitions, that is also possible. The  visit with audio guide  is very interesting and  can be reserved by clicking here! 

F. The San Gines chocolate factory

After all these visits, it’s time to  take a break . And not just any!

You are very close to one of the  best chocolate shops in all of Madrid , so this is the perfect opportunity to indulge.

The  San Ginès chocolate factory  has been open  since 1894  and offers the best  chocolate Churros  in the city.

This dessert is a real institution of street  food in Spain, an essential delicacy to taste absolutely.  And by going to the San Ginès chocolate factory, I assure you that you will not be disappointed.

The chocolate factory is also  open 24 hours a day , useful if you can’t live without it!

G. The temple of Amon

At the end of the day, one of the best places to be in Madrid is  the Temple of Debod.

And that’s where I suggest you go now (on foot in 20 minutes or via metro line 3 in about 25 minutes).

Also called  Temple of Amun , it is a  real Egyptian temple  imported from Egypt and rebuilt on site in 1972.

It houses several  restored vestiges of ancient Egypt  and is located in  the West Park , in a superb setting which gives the opportunity to take magnificent photos (especially at sunset).

Admission is free , so anyone can enjoy it.

To reach the temple on foot  from the chocolate factory:

• Pass by Plaza de España,  another famous square in Madrid
• To the west of the square, you will find access to the park where the temple is located.

Do not hesitate to take a walk in the park, it offers  beautiful views of the city.

H. Attend a flamenco show

Leaving for 5 days in Madrid is also an unmissable opportunity  to attend a flamenco show .

This  traditional dance  originating from  Andalusia  and listed as an  intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO  is an integral part of  Spanish artistic culture .

You can attend  performances in  tablaos,  small intimate establishments that feature musical performances, or in theaters.

One of the best known  and which offers a  show of excellent quality , with talented artists and a magnificent setting is  the tablao Torres Bermejas.  On the other hand, you will have to  reserve your tickets   in advance in order to be sure of having space.

That’s enough to spend a great first evening in Madrid!

If the tablao is full, I also recommend another  place known in the capital  for its magnificent flamenco show  : Café Zyriab .

Tickets can be booked directly here! 

Day 2: Things to Do

The visits of day 2:

A. Queen Sofia Museum B. Royal Botanical Garden C. Retiro Park D. Prado National Museum / Thyssens Bornemisza Museum E. Cybele Palace F. Circulo de Bellas Artes

A. The Queen Sofia National Museum

After a good night’s sleep, it’s time to set off again to discover  Madrid.

I suggest you start this  second day  with a museum:  the Queen Sofia National Art Center , one of the most important museums in Madrid.

You can admire a very  fine collection of paintings from the 19th century to the present day , including the famous  Guernica by Picasso. 

Consider taking a skip-the-line ticket to avoid having to queue for a long time at the entrance.

To have  more explanations on the exhibited works,  the museum also organizes  guided tours . 

B. The Royal Botanical Garden

After visiting the museum, go to the  Royal Botanical Garden  located up next to the Prado Museum (which you will visit a little later).

This beautiful garden is home to a host  of plant species from around the world.  There is even a large greenhouse with rare  tropical species . It is a very pleasant visit, in a  peaceful setting.

It takes about 2 hours for the walk. For the entrance, count  6 euros per person. 

C. Retiro Park

Your 5-day Madrid itinerary continues in the greenery, this time at Retiro Park  (Parque El Retiro).

It is the main  green lung of the capital  and it is very pleasant to walk there to enjoy the sun,  admire the scattered monuments  (including the Palace of Velasquez, the Crystal Palace, the monument to Alfosio XII, etc.) ,  statues  and water points.

You can even take a  boat trip  if you feel like it.

In the Retiro Park,  guided segway rides   are also offered!

It’s really nice to visit the park differently and enjoy an  original walk  while discovering  the most beautiful corners of the park.

D. Visit to the Prado National Museum or the Thyssens Bornemisza Museum

In Madrid there are  3 must-see museums  : the Queen Sofia Museum (which you visited this morning),  the Prado Museum  and  the Thyssen Bornemisza Museum.

To vary the visits a bit, I don’t suggest you visit all 3 during your 5-day stay in Madrid, because that might be a bit much.

At this stage of the itinerary, I therefore suggest that you choose between visiting the Prado Museum and that of the Thyssen Bornemisza Museum. They are  very close to each other , only 5 minutes walk.

The first is one of the  largest art museums in the world . It exhibits a  very rich collection of paintings  from the 14th to the 19th century (Goya, Bosch, Velasquez, etc.).

I also remind you that the  skip-the-line ticket for the  Prado Museum is included in  the Madrid City Pass.

If you don’t have  the Madrid pass , the best way to avoid queuing is  to buy your entrance ticket in advance   by clicking here.

The Thyssen Bornemisza Museum exhibits works  dating from the Middle Ages to the 20th century .

For example, there are  paintings by Gauguin, Monet and Rubens.

Skip-the-line tickets for the Thyssens Museum can be purchased directly here.

E. Cybele’s Palace

After visiting the museum of your choice, I suggest you go through  the Cybele Palace  along  the Paseo del Prado  and then up the street.

This  former communications palace  converted into a  cultural center  is also one of the  most beautiful monuments  in the city.

There are  free exhibitions  but above all  two magnificent panoramas  of Madrid on the 6th floor (at the level of the restaurant terrace) and on the 8th floor (at the level of the watchtower whose access costs 3 euros).

F. Círculo de Bellas Artes

To  end this second day  in style, I recommend another  superb view  of the city: head for  the Circulo de Bellas Artes.

This  private cultural center  in the center of Madrid is famous for its  panoramic roof terrace  which offers breathtaking views of the entire capital. It is also the most beautiful view of the city according to connoisseurs.

The roof terrace of the Circulo de Bellas Artes is  accessible to everyone . There’s even a bar so you can  sip a drink while admiring the sunset from the rooftops of Madrid.

Day 3: Places of Interest in Madrid

The visits of day 3:

A. The Santiago Bernabéu stadium B. The Las Ventas bullring C. Shopping in Salamanca D. The Chueca district

A. The Santiago  Bernabéu stadium

Let’s go for this  third day of visit  in the Spanish capital.

To continue this 5-day Madrid itinerary, on this beautiful morning I suggest you visit the Santiago Bernabéu stadium,  the legendary stadium that belongs to the  Real Madrid football club.

Football fans will be delighted to  walk on the pitch ,  visit the locker rooms  and admire  the collection of trophies. 

The visit must  be booked in advance   by clicking here.

B. Las Ventas Bullring

After the stadium visit, take  the metro  to  get off at the Las Ventas stop.

You will arrive directly in front of  the bullring  of the same name,  the largest in Spain . They are really  very beautiful from the outside.

However, you should know that they are regularly the scene of the killing of bulls during bullfights and that they also house  the bullfighting museum . Bullfighting may be part of  Spanish culture , but it is logically debated.

However, nothing prevents you from staying outside and admiring the beautiful architecture of the arenas and then moving on to the next step.

If you are interested, you can also  discover its interior by booking your  Madrid bullring ticket + museum + audio guide by clicking here.

C. Shopping in Salamanca

I now suggest a little  shopping session in the Salamanca district  that you can quickly reach on foot or by metro from the bullring.

Walk along  Serrano street and the perpendicular streets  to find many  fashion boutiques , from the most accessible to the big luxury brands.

You can also take the opportunity to have a drink and enjoy a  pleasant relaxing afternoon. 

You can also shop on the city’s  main shopping street ,  Gran Via,  in central Madrid.

D. The Chueca Neighborhood

For your  third evening in Madrid , I recommend  the Chueca district.

It is a very lively  area where you can experience  Madrid’s nightlife . There are many trendy restaurants, bars, pubs and nightclubs  .

This is the opportunity to spend a  wild evening with friends or as a couple before starting the last two days of your Madrid 5-day itinerary.

Day 4: Excursion to Toledo

Your first three days in Madrid will have allowed you to do a fairly complete tour of it and see the most interesting sites.

For this  fourth day , I suggest you leave the city and  visit Toledo , a magnificent  medieval city  mixing Christian, Jewish and Muslim cultures and  listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is only  1 hour drive  from the capital.

Excursions  with round trip transport and guide included  are organized from Madrid. I offer you  3 to choose from: 

• Option 1:  Free discovery of the neighborhoods of Toledo
• Option 2:  A day in Toledo with a visit to 7 emblematic monuments included
• Option 3:  Tour of Toledo and Segovia.

You will be picked up by a  shuttle from Madrid  and you will spend a  full day in Toledo.

Your guide will take you on a  guided tour of the city  and point out the monuments to visit. You will then have all the rest of the day to  roam the city freely  and  visit the places you want.

For this outing,  entrance tickets  for tourist sites are  not included,  it will be at your expense.

Book this excursion to Toledo from Madrid.

This excursion is essentially the same as the previous one except that it  includes in its price the entrance to 7 monuments  (with priority access) including  the Church of Santo Tomé  and  the Synagogue of Santa Maria La Blanca.

Entrance to  Toledo Cathedral  is optional.

This excursion is really  the most complete  and the best to visit Toledo.

It is reserved by clicking here.

If you want to move a little faster in  Toledo  to also have time to  visit Segovia , this option is the perfect choice.

You will start with a  guided tour of Toledo  then you will discover Segovia, ending with a visit  to the Alcazar , one of the most  famous castles in Spain.

Click here to  book this day  

If you don’t like organized excursions, you can also choose to  reach Toledo by train from Madrid  and organize your visit to the city as you wish.

Day 5: Other Excursions around Madrid

You have the chance to  spend 5 days in Madrid  and therefore have time to  visit AND the city AND its surroundings.

For  this fifth day,  I am once again offering you  several excursions  that you can choose according to your preferences:

Option 1: Discovery of the vineyards of the Madrid region

This organized day includes the  guided visit of 3 wine cellars  followed by a  tasting of local wines  in the picturesque countryside around Madrid.

This excursion includes  round-trip transportation  and can be booked online here.

Option 2: Guided tour of the Royal Monastery of El Escorial and the Valley of Los Caidos

This  5-hour guided tour  takes you on a  discovery of the Royal Monastery,  a symbol of Spanish power in the 16th century. A splendid building, listed as a  UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On the way back, the shuttle will take you to a stop at  Valle de Los Caidos  (“the Valley of the Fallen”) where there is  a basilica carved into the mountain  where nearly  30,000 soldiers  who died during the Civil War are buried.

General  Franco,  the dictator who ruled Spain for more than 35 years was  buried there until 2019  when his remains were transferred.

To  book this excursion,   it’s here.

Option 3: Guided tour of Cuenca

By choosing this excursion, you will visit another  historical site  in the region of Madrid  classified as a UNESCO heritage site.

Cuenca is a  city built on the cliff  (a bit like  Ronda  in  Andalusia  ), made up of  hanging houses  and  historical monuments  that give it a very special atmosphere.

The visit includes a guided part and a free part.

Option 4: Excursion to Avila and Salamanca

Avila and Salamanca  are two important cities located around Madrid that you can discover during this  organized day.

They each have a  very beautiful cathedral  and other  historical monuments.

You’ll start with a visit to Salamanca and end in Avila before being taken back by shuttle bus to Madrid.

Accommodation in Madrid

Now that you have a good idea of  ​​how to visit Madrid in 5 days,  let’s move on to the next step,  choosing and booking your hotel!

To help you, I have made a   selection of the best hotels to stay in Madrid  according to your budget:

• OK Hostel Madrid  : Youth hostel located 700 meters from Plaza Mayor and 200 meters from a metro station. Bed in dormitory from €16 per night, breakfast at €3. The pluses: ideal location, very friendly welcome, cleanliness and modernity of the dormitories, possibility of having a meal for 10€. Note that the hostel also offers double rooms from €75 per night.
• Ibis Madrid Centro Las Ventas  : Located next to Madrid’s famous bullring and 100 meters from a metro station. Spacious and modern room from €60 per night and breakfast at an additional €7.95. The pluses: view of the arenas from the rooms, very generous buffet breakfast.
• B&B Hotel Puerta del Sol  : Ideally located 100 meters from Puerta del Sol and 400 meters from Plaza Mayor. Very quiet and comfortable room from €89 per night with a breakfast bag (water, fruit and pain au chocolat) included every morning. The pluses: free drinks and fruit available 24 hours a day, ideal location and lovely staff.
• Only YOU Hotel Atocha  :   Located right next to El Retiro Park. Comfortable, spacious and stylish double room from €190 per night, breakfast at €21. Most: the magnificent hotel, the available and attentive staff, the huge choice at breakfast, the location (10 minutes walk from the center and airport shuttle 5 minutes away), the decoration, the atmosphere.  This is the best choice for a luxury stay in Madrid! 

If these hotels are full or do not correspond to your desires, you will find a  larger selection of accommodation  in my dedicated article.

Click here to read it:  The best hotels to stay in Madrid .

Visit Madrid in 5 days with the family

If you plan to  go on a trip to Madrid for 5 days  with your children, know that the city is perfect for a  family stay.

The visits and activities to do are varied  and can satisfy everyone’s tastes. Children will especially like:

• The Mercado San Miguel  with its colors, its flavors and its unlimited tastings
• The impressive Royal Palace
• The Sans Ginès chocolate factory  (obviously!)
• Picnic and/or boat trip in  Retiro Park
• The Bernabe stadium  u if they are football fans.

If you have kids and they like rides, you can  replace the guided tour on day four  or day five with  a day at Warner Park.

It is an  amusement park located on the outskirts  of Madrid and which allows you to spend a good day of fun with the family. Round-trip shuttles allow you to get there easily and are to be reserved at the same time as your entrance tickets.

Information and reservations for Warner Park by clicking here!

If they are too small for amusement parks, you can also take them to  Madrid Zoo Aquarium  which is one of the largest in Spain.

Entrance tickets to Madrid Zoo can be   purchased directly here!

More things to do and see in Madrid in 5 days

This  itinerary to visit Madrid and its surroundings  in 5 days is already  super complete,  but if you want to  add or modify  my program of visits a little, I advise you to consult my detailed  tourist guide .

You will find there  all the things to do  in the Spanish capital. Perfect for concocting a  route perfectly adapted to your tastes  during this 5-day vacation in Madrid.

To read without further delay by clicking here:  What to do in Madrid? The ultimate guide!

Map of your 5 day Madrid itinerary

To help you visualize your  itineraries during these 5 days in Madrid,  I made you a map listing the  places to visit day by day . You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button with a small arrow. You will then be able to view the routes for each day.

Need help organizing your 5 day Madrid itinerary? Do not hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments.

Are you going to Spain? Read also

Discover all our articles on Spain : all articles on Spain are listed here.

• What to do in Spain?  The TOP 30 places to see in Spain
• Barcelona: The Top 25 Must-See Places
• Visit Barcelona in 2 days  – The best route to visit the city in a weekend!
• Visit Barcelona in 3 days  – The best 72h itinerary in the Catalan capital!
• Visit Barcelona in 4 days  – The best day-to-day program!
• Visit Barcelona in 5 days  – The ultimate itinerary to visit the Catalan capital!
• Visit Barcelona in 1 week  – Our detailed day-by-day itinerary!
• Visit Madrid in 3 days  – The best route to visit the city in 72 hours!
• Visit Madrid in 4 days    – The ultimate itinerary to visit the capital of Spain

Subscribe to Newsletter

Receive news and updates straight in your inbox, related articles.

3 Days in Malaga: Itinerary with Top 15 Things to Do

2 Weeks in Andalucia: Ultimate 14-Day Andalucia Itinerary

1 Day in Cadiz: Itinerary with Top 12 Things to Do

5 Days in Andalucia: Ultimate 5-Day Itinerary

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Work Abroad
• Teach English Abroad
• Teach English Abroad Blog

Twenty- Four Hours in Madrid

April 18, 2024

Programs for this blog post

Authored by:.

As the temperature begins to rise in Madrid, so does the number of people coming to visit this awesome city. I have had the pleasure to host and play tour guide to quite a few family and friends who have visited me while in Madrid, and I think I have created the ideal 24 hour agenda. 

How to Start

To begin, Madrid is not a city that you vacation in, it’s a city that merits exploration. With this mindset, we are getting up bright and early. If you’re staying in the center, then this will help you explore with a lot more ease. In my opinion, most of the popular sites are in the city center. I will also add that if there is a best day to visit Madrid, I would say Sunday. For this reason, I am creating an agenda based on a SUNDAY (there will be certain things that are only open on Sunday). 

At 8 am or 9 am, head to Gran via to get the coveted photo in front of the Schweppes sign. There is minimal traffic at this time, and you may be able to get the photo during a pedestrian crossing. But please do not risk your life for this picture, it is not worth it! 

After this, walk or take the bus (001 bus is free and tourist friendly) down Gran via to enjoy a typical Spanish breakfast at La Primera. Here, they have a budget friendly breakfast menu where they serve one of the best tortilla de patatas that I’ve ever tasted, along with a side of fruit and breakfast beverage of choice. This restaurant is also nicely located for people watching down on the Gran via. 

Let’s Get Walking

After breakfast, you now hopefully have enough energy to enjoy El Rastro. El Rastro is an outdoor flea market located in the La Latina neighborhood. You can get there via metro or by walking from Gran via. It is about a 20 minute walk, but may take a little longer due to foot traffic. Depending on the route you take, you may be able to pass through Sol. Sol is a big square that has a lot of commercial shopping for name brands but it's also a square that has a lot of history. However, even if you do not have someone to guide you to the square, there is still much to see in my opinion. 

Once at El Rastro, you will find everything, from jewelry, Moroccan leather, boutique dresses, paintings, and basically half of Madrid. It is the place to be on a Sunday. Here at El Rastro, the price is not always fixed so be prepared to barter.  You should also always keep your bag close to you; pickpocketing is common here, especially if you’re speaking English. The market spans for a few blocks and ends at 4pm. 

12 pm-2 pm: After El Rastro, I suggest a walk towards Museo De Prado from La Latina. This may take 20 to 30 minutes depending on the route you take. The ideal path is called “Paseo del Prado”. Along this path, you will pass by Cibeles, the Thyssen museum, and the Neptune Fountain. The Museo de Prado is an ideal place to visit for the afternoon, even if you just wanted to see where it was located. Outside of the Prado entrance local artist sell their work. I also  find it noteworthy because it’s huge and hosts prominent artists’ works like Velazquez and Goya. 

2-5 pm: After Museo de Prado, comes El Retiro, which is only a 5 minute walk up a slight incline from Prado. Here is what is referred to as the Central Park of Madrid. You could spend a whole day in this park, that’s how grand it is. This isn’t just any old park, this park has a pond, a library, tennis courts, and a crystal house that host different exhibits throughout the year.  If it’s a sunny day, you could enjoy a paddle boat ride in the pond, or enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants located in the park center (warning: prices here will be higher than outside of the park because of how touristy the area is).  

An Afternoon With Views

After El Retiro, you have to see the sunset! But where to go? There are so many choices. If you want to be around the locals, there is the Temple de Debod, a popular gathering sight for both tourists and locals. It is located by an old Egyptian temple, and many people bring their own blankets to watch the sunset. There is often live music from street musicians and laughter in the air. But if you are exhausted and want to relax and sit with a drink in your hand, then I highly recommend the Dear hotel rooftop. It’s free, and there is a rooftop bar that allows you to look over the Gran via avenue and enjoy the sunset. 

If you still aren’t pooped after all this, then it is a cultural must to see a flamenco show! There are many to choose from and some flamenco shows offer a drink and snack with the ticket purchase. If you are worried about picking the right one, just know that if the title has tablao in it, it will be authentic. My personal favorite is La Cueva de Lola. I went with my mom, and we were able to enjoy drinks and a show with our purchase. 

How to Finish

Because we never know what the next day will hold, you have to say goodnight to Madrid with chocolate and churros. Now, the popular spot to go to is San Ginés, but I personally prefer 1902, which is a few steps away from San Ginés. At 1902, the space is small, but clean and intimate with a touch of old school vibes. The waiters are dressed in clean white coats with accented gold buttons. You can also see the churros being made right at the entrance of the store. When I visit 1902, I always ask for the churros without gluten because they are made fresh. There is nothing better than warm churros and hot chocolate. Now for my readers from the USA - be mindful that this hot chocolate is thick and sweet, not really the drinkable kind that we are used to in the States. 

And with all that done, you can say that you've seen Madrid! Links to all the places mentioned will be posted at the end, along with some other useful ones.

https://restaurantelaprimera.com

https://www.dearhotelmadrid.com/en/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=google-my-business

https://www.lacuevadelola.com/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwuJ2xBhA3EiwAMVjkVLspMbuYE2WT-dhw2d9FE59qIuFycA8d8MfpTuUwwKoqyA9PI5UhHxoCyEMQAvD_BwE

https://chocolateria1902.com/

https://www.citylifemadrid.com/flamenco-in-madrid/

https://www.citylifemadrid.com/rooftop-terraces-overlooking-madrid/

Related Posts

The 8 Hardest Parts About Teaching English in Madrid

Throughout the application process to teach in Madrid, I was fed the idea that teaching abroad was this picture-perfect lifestyle and that it was accessible and easy. I had done... keep reading

• Cultural Differences
• Impressions & Reflections
• Learning the Language
• Tips & Advice
• Why Teach Abroad?

Misconceptions in Madrid

Moving to Madrid last August was my first time ever in Europe. Understandably so, I was really overwhelmed with everything I had been told about Europe, and specifically Spain, without... keep reading

Is it Possible to Live off of 1000 Euros a Month? (with a Spending Chart)

After 7 months of living in Madrid, I have finally learned how to manage my money. I also learned that it IS possible to live off of your teaching stipend... keep reading

© 2024 CIEE. All Rights Reserved.

• Privacy Notice
• Terms & Conditions

Engineer Your Finances

Top 10 Vacation Destinations for Families

Posted: March 8, 2024 | Last updated: March 8, 2024

When you’re looking for a great destination for a family vacation, some cities have more for families to do than others. When a city isn’t priced too high, has plenty that kids want to do, and has plenty of places to go that are family-friendly, the city will score high.

Not everywhere has the right activities for a family vacation, but some certainly do. According to Your Baby Club , these are the best places to take the fam on your next vacation.

Madrid, Spain

Scoring the best, this is a city that has an enormous amount of things for kids to do. It has 299 attractions that are perfectly kid-friendly, more than 1,000 places for accommodations, and a low pollution score.

London, United Kingdom

There’s plenty to see and do in London and an enormous number of parks and other kid-friendly areas. It has 316 nature spots and more than 8,000 restaurants that are perfect for families.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a great place for families because of its many beach activities and other things to do within this sprawling city. The city has plenty of natural spots to visit as well as museums and other sights to see.

Tokyo, Japan

This enormous city has no end to its things to do, and it’s quite safe for a major city. It has plenty of fun restaurants that kids will love, including its cat cafes and theme restaurants. Its pricing is a bit high, but its array of kid-friendly activities is hard to beat.

Paris, France

Seeing the Eiffel Tower and traveling to the top is just one of the things families can do in this romantic and artistic city. You can consider a river cruise and the many restaurants and cafes that allow dogs.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The warm weather and amazing buildings make this a draw for visitors from around the world. It isn’t priced too high, and it has the tallest building in the world for kids to experience.

Rome, Italy

A trip to Rome can be incredibly educational and interesting for people of all ages. The many ruins and architectural marvels around this city make it worth a visit for the whole family.

Las Vegas, United States

Want to see a show? There’s a lot more in Las Vegas than just gambling. The city features world-class shows and a lot of kid-friendly places to visit. Seeing the Sphere alone is worth the trip.

Athens, Greece

Situated in a picture-perfect setting, this ancient city has a lot to experience from both its past and its present. Everyone in the family will enjoy the sights it has to offer.

Orlando, United States

There’s no end to the amazing attractions that can be found in Orlando. From Universal Studios Florida to Walt Disney World, there are places to go that a family will always remember.

The 20 Most Spectacular Waterfalls in the U.S.

Waterfalls are among the top outdoor attractions people like to visit. Their effects range from soothing to inspiring to awe-inducing, and although they’re most common in mountainous areas, there are waterfalls in every U.S. state.

With more than 17,000 documented waterfalls in the country, any list of the best is going to be subjective, but you won’t be disappointed by the ones here.

20 U.S. National Parks Everyone Should Visit At Least Once

Our National Park System is one of the country’s greatest treasures, and it’s often been called “America’s Best Idea.” Currently, there are 63 national parks from the Pacific (American Samoa) to the ocean south of Florida (Dry Tortugas) and from the Arctic to the tropics.

Most people won’t get a chance to visit them all, so if you could only visit 20 and just one time each, which ones should they be? Here are our recommendations:

The 15 Most-Visited Countries in the World

The world is big, and there are countless places to explore. Some countries attract many more visitors than others. Countries that are popular with tourists often have a lot to see and do, as well as friendly people and great food.

According to Insider Monkey, these countries have the most visitors every year.

The 5 States With the Best Roads (And the 5 That Are Just the Absolute Worst)

The state of the roads is important to everyone who travels over them. Virtually everyone notices when the roads are bad. The journey becomes bumpy and shaky and may even damage your vehicle.

Some states are doing a better job with their road quality than others. According to USAFacts, these are the states that have the best roads and the ones that do the worst job on their roads.

The 30 Most Beautiful Places People Must Visit

There’s no way you could ever come up with a definitive list of the world’s most beautiful places. However, if you ask around, some places come up a lot more frequently than others do.

Not in any particular order, the following are some of those places that people mention over and over again.

More for You

19 Things People Treat As Safe That Actually Are Pretty Dangerous

18 Vintage Boy Names No One Else Is Using Yet

A 20-year LeBron James NBA Playoffs streak is over

Putin Ally Draws Red Line for 'Legitimate Targets' in NATO Country

10 most ‘overpriced’ tourist attractions in the world – and three are in the US

Culver's Vs Five Guys: Which Burger Chain Is Better?

Six easy ways to lose an inch from your waist – in a week

People Who Don’t Show Empathy Usually Have These 18 Traits

Crumbl Is Finally Selling Smaller Cookies After Hearing Our Pleas

The films everyone should see at least once before they die, according to critics

Drew Barrymore Launched a Brand New Shade In Her Kitchenware Line, and It’s Perfect for Any Space

Michael Jordan taking notice of young NBA star

I Lost 50lbs With 3 Lifestyle Changes

The Only Way You Should Store Peanut Butter, According to SKIPPY

NYPD responds to AOC, says officers 'have to teach' anti-Israel mobs the 'consequences of their actions'

13 Things You Need to Order from the McDonald’s Secret Menu

Scientists have discovered the maximum age a human can live to

Netflix hit watched more than 21 million times in its first three days

Criminal Minds: Every Main Character's Fate at the End of the Series

These Are the Best Exercises to Burn Belly Fat As Fast As Possible