Top Things To Do In Madrid

Tailoring each tour to your wishes by locals who love their city

Tourist couple posing in a lush green park on a sunny day in Madrid

Top things to do in Madrid

From exploring cool neighborhoods to eating with the locals to seeing iconic sites, these are some of our favorite experiences

When in Osaka
make sure to try
“kushikatsu”!

See the city like
you would with a friend who lives there

See all

When in Osaka
make sure to try
“kushikatsu”!

See the city like
you would with a friend who lives there

Wondering what to do in Madrid?

The energy in Madrid is like nowhere on earth, and it’s easy for the seductive Spanish capital to bewitch you with its buzzing nightlife, beautiful medieval architecture, and artistic heritage spanning centuries. The myriad things to do in Madrid will enchant any type of traveler, from art- and architecture-lovers to culinary connoisseurs to rowdy revelers. But the city is anything but predictable, and you might find that some of the most memorable things to do in Madrid – taking sunlit siestas, eating churros for breakfast, planning day trips to ancient neighbors, and browsing tiny boutiques – aren’t necessarily the ones you’ll find on a top 10 travel list.

Meet some of our Madrid local hosts

Like the people who travel with us, they have different backgrounds and interests – but they’re all so passionate about the place they call home, they choose to spend their free time sharing it with the like-minded travelers matched to them.

We’ve handpicked them and we’ll match you to your perfect one!

Tourists exploring a popular neighborhood in Madrid with a local

Art and architecture for the ages

The city is a paradise for art-lovers – exploring its world-class museums and galleries is one of the most exciting things to do in Madrid. Madrid’s enviable art scene is spilling over not only with masterpieces by home-grown icons Goya and Velázquez, but famous works by other Spanish painters like Picasso and Dalí. The city’s stunning architecture itself is part of its artistic appeal. From medieval mansions and opulent royal palaces to Baroque buildings and sleek, contemporary angles, Spain’s rich architectural history is proudly on display as the beautiful backdrop for Madrid.

Tourists enjoying tapas at a local tapas bar in Madrid with a local guide

Spanish food at its finest

From paella in Valencia to the hearty casseroles of Cataluña, Spain’s cities have their own regional cuisines – and Madrid is the place you’ll find them all. Spain’s six national roads meet in the heart of Madrid, so it’s no surprise the city’s food scene represents flavors from all over Spain. Whether you head to an old-school tapas bar for century-old Spanish snacks like patatas bravas and Iberian ham or try out trendy fusion food and experimental tasting menus at upmarket restaurants doing fearless riffs on the classics, the food-related things to do in Madrid are equally delicious.

Tourists crossing a road on a night out in a vibrant neighborhood in Madrid

The city after sunset

When night falls, the list of things to do in Madrid only gets longer. You might join locals for a convivial feast under a centuries-old ceiling (or grab some traditional Spanish snacks at a tiny tapas bar), before getting swept along in a tide of happy revelers on their way to the city’s pulsating clubs, cozy bars, and cool cocktail lounges. Dancing until dawn not quite your scene? There are plenty of equally exciting things to do in Madrid at night. See a flamenco show, visit a museum, or simply stroll down twinkling city streets where restaurant tables spill out onto the sidewalks.

Madrid travel tips and inspiration from our Travel Magazine

Find essential city info, travel tips and the best things to do in Madrid and around the world recommended by our local hosts

Latest reviews from our guests

Our tour of Madrid was an unforgettable experience. From the iconic Oso y el Madroño, we explored the city's history and cultural treasures. Mariña's expertise brought landmarks like the grand palace and the breathtaking opera house to life. Her captivating storytelling immersed us in Madrid's past. We enjoyed a visit to a hidden gem—a quaint taverna tucked away in a picturesque corner. It provided a perfect place to relax and savor local flavors. The tour also included a visit to the Museo de Historia de Madrid, deepening our understanding of the city's heritage. This must-do tour combined rich insights, well-chosen locations, and hidden gems. Thanks to Mariña, we left with a newfound appreciation for Madrid and an eagerness to explore more.

April 2024

Ange & Kevin T
Had a lovely tour with Gonzalo. It was a cold morning but surely he made it a fun walk. Gonzalo contacted us prior to the tour have brief understanding on our expectation. He was flexible and adjusted to our pace and preference. He surely delivered and from the heart. Plus point, he took very nice pictures! Recommended!

October 2023

Luly J
Knows his history. If you love to walk then Antonio is your guide.

October 2023

Charlene R
Alba was the best tour guide! Extremely knowledgeable and super friendly. I’m now familiar with some of the best sites in Madrid.

October 2023

Brian F