Explore exciting things to do in Madrid.
Spain’s capital Madrid is so famous for its art and aesthetics, that it has World Heritage Site status. Hire a car in Madrid and enjoy this bustling and expansive Spaniard metropolis. Home to a myriad of historic landmarks, world-renowned museums, and galleries with endless opportunities for exploration and fun. So, pack your bags and start your engines, as we take you through an exciting tour of popular Madrid tourist attractions.
Prado Museum
C. de Ruiz de Alarcón, 23, 28014 Madrid, SpainNearby Car parks : Montalbán, Plaza de las Cortes, and Plaza Sánchez Bustillo
The crown jewel of Madrid, this iconic museum has stood in the city for over 22 years as one of Madrid’s key landmark tourist attractions. Today the museum is lined with a variety of artistic gems from the Spanish, Italian and Flemish schools of art.
The collection here includes everything from regularly changing exhibits to more iconic pieces such as works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco. It's one of the best experiences for art lovers in the city.
You can take guided tours of the exhibits for a more detailed perspective on the artists. It’s also a great idea to enquire in advance about any special exhibits that may be on display, so you can plan your trip accordingly.
Royal Palace of Madrid
C. de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid, Spain
Nearby Car parks: Garaje Fermar, Ópera Car Park, EMT Plaza España and Callao Smart Parking
For a taste of royalty, explore the regal grounds of the Royal Palace of Madrid. The ceremonial home of the royal family of Madrid, this place is located in over 135,000 square meters of land, making it the largest royal place in all of Europe.
Beautifully built with 18th century European architectural influences, this Madrid Attraction offers some interesting insights into the history of Spain and houses an exciting collection of weapons, armour and that will delight any history buff.
The palace also has a changing exhibition of art and artifacts, as well as a daily changing of the guard ceremony that is a popular attraction to catch whenever you’re on a trip to Madrid.
Retiro Park
28009 Madrid, Spain
Nearby Car parks: Monster Garage, Garaje Magicoca, Parking Narvaez
Want a break from long tours and just want to unwind? Drive over to Retiro Park in for a calming break in the heart of the city. Built over 125 hectares of land, this park offers many great picnic spots and strolls through its expansive gardens.
For the fans of photography, there’s some great scenes to capture as well such as the Crystal Palace, a stunning glass pavilion that hosts art exhibitions, and the Monument to Alfonso XII, a grand memorial located on a hill overlooking the park.
Flamenco in Madrid
Various locations across the city
It is impossible to talk about Spanish passion and expression without mentioning some beautiful flamenco. This enthralling performance brings together the world of dance and music in an intense dance, full of anguish and emotion that is sure to leave you tapping your feet as well!
As the capital of flamenco, you’ll find several great places in Madrid to enjoy this tradition in the city. From grand performances to local street dance , the city is full of flamenco, but some our favourite locations include Tablao Flamenco Torero, La Quimera and Cardamomo; all located in the heart of the city.
Puerta del Sol
28013, Madrid, Spain
Nearby Car parks: Calle Montera (100m), Gran Vía (180m), Plaza de El Carmen (250m)
In the middle of Madrid lies the city plaza, Puerta De Sol or the “Gate of the Sun”. An incredibly popular tourist attraction, this bustling city square is home to some of the busiest areas in oldest shops in town. Whether you’re craving a shopping spree or want a spot to start exploring the local life, this is the place to start your journey. Known for its iconic clocktower which has developed a tradition around it for celebrating the new year, you can find a route heading to almost all of Madrid from this radial city centre. Head up to the tower to view a beautiful panorama of the city or try out some of the delicious tapas and churros from one of the many food stalls in the plaza.
Gran Via
Strip from C/Alcalá to Plaza de España
Parking: Parking Isabel La Catolica, Parking Centro Madrid
While we’re already on the topic of shopping, take the next leg of your journey to Gran Via, the de-facto shopping district of Madrid. Known also as the ‘avenue of mortars’ due to its history in the Spanish Civil War, Gran Via houses some of the widest ranges of high-end fashion boutiques and popular chain stores. You can find everything from designer clothing to quirky local souvenirs when shopping here.
Looking for some entertainment? Watch a movie, ballet show or musical at some of the famous theatres and cinemas, including the famous Teatro Real and Teatro Lope de Vega on this avenue.
Finally end your day in style with some of the most popular bars, clubs, and restaurants in Madrid where you can relax and unwind for the night.
Football Fans rejoice! – Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and Cívitas Metropolitano Stadium
Av. de Luis Aragonés, 4, 28022 Madrid, Spain
Parking Available on-site
Visit these iconic stadiums to relish a true sport experience like never before. Home to Atlético de Madrid, this arena which recently hosted the UEFA finals in 2019 is a must visit destination for any football fan.
When visiting you can enjoy a variety of exciting and interactive tours including “We Are History Tour” where you explore the interior of the Metropolitano stadium and the Bernabéu tour, an interactive experience which allows you to view the ‘Best Club Ever’ hall and a room dedicated to Atlético Madrid’s legend Alfredo Di Stéfano, showcasing more than 100,000 items of football memorabilia.
Find out more about Civitas Metropolitano and Santiago Bernabéu Stadiums
Begin your journey through this historical city with a Hertz car hire in Madrid.