If you're planning a trip to Madrid, there are several places that you should definitely visit. These are some of the most popular spots in the city.
The first place to check out is the Prado Museum, a famous art gallery that houses a vast collection of classical works from Goya, El Greco, and Titian. It's a must-see for any art lover!
1. Puerta de Alcala
Puerta de Alcala is one of Madrid's most iconic landmarks. Commissioned by King Charles III in 1778, it is a triumphal arch constructed from granite.
It was the first neoclassical triumphal arch in the world, and it's older than Berlin's Brandenburg Gate or Paris' Arc de Triomphe.
The neoclassical structure has stood the test of time as it's watched wars, revolutions, and other major events unfold. It's a must-see for visitors to the capital, whether you're looking for an unforgettable experience or just a good view of the city.
Located steps from El Retiro Park and within walking distance of the Cibeles Fountain, Hotel Hospes Puerta de Alcala offers 5-star accommodation near the city's top attractions. It's a popular choice with international travelers, from city breakers to vacationing families with kids.
2. Atocha Station
Atocha Station (Atocha-Cercanias) is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Madrid. It’s an iconic building and has a lot of history to offer visitors.
At Atocha-Cercanias you can catch high-speed trains to Barcelona, Cordoba, Seville, Malaga, Granada and many more destinations in southern Spain. Local commuter train lines leave from this station as well.
In the past, Atocha-Cercanias was a busy transport hub that served over 110 million passengers per year. But in the 1990s, a massive renovation transformed the old terminal into a beautiful tropical garden and a brand new trainshed with modern platforms.
3. National Archaeological Museum
One of the most interesting and fascinating museums in Madrid, the National Archaeological Museum brings together a huge collection of archaeological objects and relics. It offers a journey through time, from Antiquity to the present day.
This impressive museum is home to a stunning collection of artefacts from all over the world, including Iberian and Roman sculptures. It also showcases a range of items from the Near East and Egypt.
The National Archaeological Museum is a must-visit while in Madrid. It’s a fantastic place to learn about Spanish history and explore the region’s diverse cultures.
4. Retiro Park
Whether you like to wwalk, run, visit monuments, see exhibitions or simply sit back and relax with a picnic lunch in the sun, there's something for everyone in Retiro Park.
One of Madrid's largest public parks, Retiro boasts a range of attractions including sculptures and monuments, galleries, a lake, Velazquez Palace, the Crystal Palace and more. The rose garden La Rosaleda is a highlight, especially in May and June when it's in full bloom.
If you want to really get the most out of your visit, book a tour that covers more ground than just a stroll around the park. With this option, you'll get an introduction to the best-loved gardens and paths while enjoying a leisurely stroll through the heart of Retiro.
5. La Gran Via
La Gran Via is one of the main shopping areas in Madrid, and it's also home to hotels, cinemas, theaters, restaurants and cafes. It's a popular place to visit with locals and tourists alike.
The street was first planned in the 1850s, but it took decades to complete. When the road was finally built, architects hailed it as a showcase of early 20th-century revival architecture.
Tourists have been coming to the city to see it since 1904, when construction began. In fact, the media called it the “gran via” — a play on the Spanish word for great — because of how long it took to complete the project.
6. Palacio de Cibeles
One of the city's most iconic squares, Plaza de Cibeles is surrounded by some of Madrid's grandest buildings. It's home to a famous fountain and a rallying point for soccer fans, especially when Real Madrid wins a big match.
This area is also home to the Cybele Palace (Palacio de Cibeles), once the headquarters of Correos and now a Madrid City Council building. It also contains the CentroCentro, a cultural venue that can host events and exhibitions, as well as a top-floor terrace with excellent views of the city.
Another unmissable attraction is the Bank of Spain (Banco de Espana), built in 1884 and spanning over a century's worth of history. You can easily visit it on a self-guided tour or with a guided tour.
