The most unmissable things to do in Madrid in 2025

What is it? The most important art gallery in Spain.

Why go? Madrid's best-known (and one of its most important) attractions is housed in a gigantic neo-classical building, the construction of which was begun by Juan de Villanueva on the orders of King Carlos III in 1785. Originally planned as a natural sciences museum, by the time it opened in 1819, its purpose had changed: the Prado Museum was born as a public art museum (and was one of the first in the world) to display the royal art collection. In recent years, the Prado has undergone a very ambitious expansion programme. On one side, there is the remodelling of the Casón del Buen Retiro, an annexe opposite Retiro Park. On the other side, there is the 2007 extension, behind the main building, on the site of the San Jerónimo cloisters, a new and controversial cube-shaped building designed by Rafael Moneo, dedicated to temporary exhibitions.

Don’t miss: Astonishing works by Velázquez, Goya, Dürer, Bosch, El Greco, Rembrandt, and more.

What is it? The Casa de la Arquitectura, or House of Architecture, is a new museum space dedicated to the past, present and future of Spanish architecture.

Why go? This new museum gives visitors the chance to explore the legacy of Spanish architects, provides a space to share insights into a vision of the future of urbanism in Spain and allows the general public to engage with architecture and urbanism from another perspective.

Don’t miss: The chance to see work by more contemporary studios, which is also showcased here.

What is it? An old estate where María Cristina Borbón used to spend her summers. Later sold to the Marquis of Salamanca and then abandoned for many years, it’s now been partially restored.

Why go? In this little oasis in Carabanchel, you’ll find two palaces and some beautiful Romantic gardens. Plus, it’s free to visit.

Don’t miss: It has a hundred-year-old tree and even a small manmade river which used to be navigable, back in the day.

What is it? The home of Real Madrid FC.

Why go? This is one of the best stadiums in the world and an integral part of both Spanish and international football history. Experiencing a match from its stands is a must for any football fan, whether or not you support Real Madrid.

Don't miss: The Santiago Bernabéu Tour, which allows you to learn about the club’s history through interactive displays, historical objects, and the trophies they’ve won. It also gives you the chance to see inside the stadium when it’s nearly empty.

What is it? A grand late-baroque palace commissioned by Felipe V, built in granite and Colmenar stone. It features over 3000 rooms, some seriously nice gardens, soaring cielings and frescoes and more. 

Why go? Though still used for state occasions, much of it is open to the public. Visitors can explore opulent state rooms, Carlos III’s lavish private apartments, as well as the awe-inspiring Throne Room and the State Dining Room – and more. 

Don’t miss: On the first Wednesday of each month the Royal Guard stages a ceremonial Changing of the Guard in the courtyard, at noon.

🤫 Insider tip: The palace is closed to the public when official receptions or ceremonies are due, so it’s a good idea to check before visiting.

What is it? A museum space showcasing the artistic heritage of the Spanish monarchies, until now displayed in the National Heritage warehouses and the Royal Sites.

Why go? Aside from the architectural beauty of the building itself, the gallery offers the chance to view some previously unseen works or pieces commonly found in palaces and monasteries outside of Madrid.

Don’t miss: The building is organised downwards, so start at the top. On the first level, you’ll encounter paintings, jewellery, sculptures, and other Habsburgs items. A level below you’ll find artifacts related to the Bourbons. Plus there’s a room housing a significant archaeological discovery unearthed during construction, as well as another room dedicated to temporary exhibitions.

What is it? A new museum dedicated exclusively to immersive art.

Why go? Nomad Museo is an immersive experience that brings together digital art and artificial intelligence. Lights and special effects beckon visitors to explore the unknown, to let themselves be carried away by sensations and to become part of the art.

Don’t miss: You’ll find lots of new adaptations of classic artists, and new ways of bringing them into the world. The exhibition on Hieronymus Bosch, for example, was particularly good. 

What is it? The terrace of the newly inaugurated Hotel Montera Madrid, the first Curio Collection by Hilton in the capital, is located in a building from 1924, where neoclassical architecture is complemented by some underground touches, inspired by the eclectic nature of the city’s inhabitants.

Why go? This might seem like just another rooftop, but it has everything needed to become one of the best on Gran Vía (and there are quite a few). Cosmopolitan, design-oriented and  traditional, with Balinese beds and a panoramic rooftop that rises under the watchful eye of the most iconic clock on the street (the one on the Telefónica building), which is in your eyeline from anywhere on the terrace.

Don’t miss: ‘El cielo de Chicote’ is the hotel’s cocktail bar, which pays homage to Spain's first cocktail bar and is very close to the hotel: the Museo Chicote. From its tables (a replica of those in the legendary cocktail bar), you can see the neighbouring rooftops, the icons of Madrid’s summer terrace scene, from Picalagartos at NH Collection to the recently inaugurated The Thompson rooftop. What a view.

What is it? One of the most beautiful parks in the city.

Why go? In Alameda de Osuna in the district of Barajas, you'll find El Capricho (which translates as The Whim), a garden that is a splendid example of Romanticism and a monument to eighteenth-century taste. Within the 14 hectares lie an artificial river, lakes, woods, gardens, simulations of temples and other surprising nooks. The park's principal architect was Jean-Baptiste Mulot, a French gardener who had worked for Marie Antoinette, yet a large part of El Capricho is in the style of English gardens.

Don't miss: The romantic temples and statues dotted around the park.

What is it? El Corral de la Morería is a flamenco temple in the capital. Although the genre is originally from the south of Spain, Madrid has a strong flamenco tradition and many great singers and dancers have made their debut on this stage for over 60 years. 

Why go? OK, maybe you could accuse this place of being a bit touristy, but few places attract such famous tourists: Jennifer Aniston, Demi Moore, Sandra Bullock, Hugh Grant, and long before them, Hemingway, Ava Gardner, and Picasso have all been spotted soaking up the atmosphere in this iconic space.

Don't miss: If you want a great meal as well as a great show, they also have a restaurant that has earned a Michelin star (and a place on our list of Madrid’s best restaurants).