By Andrew Thompson
Madrid is one of the world’s top tourism destinations. It’s popular with visitors year round, but during the months of spring, from March to May, the city takes on a new look and feel as it emerges from winter and looks towards the long, hot summer days. The warmer weather, fewer rain days and new energy, coupled with several popular events, make spring one of the best times to visit Madrid. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Madrid at night, or intend ticking off the major tourist attractions loved by travellers from around the world, spring is a perfect time to visit. As the weather warms up the open air terraces of vibrant restaurants come to life, and as more visitors start to arrive it’s an ideal time to tick off some non touristy things do Madrid.
Things to do in Madrid in March 2019
If you’re wondering what to do in Madrid in March, you’ll be pleased to know it’s one of the best times to visit the Spanish capital. Not only is the weather usually superb, but there are also several popular events and festivals. March is the start of bullfighting season at the city’s major bullfighting ring, Las Ventas. Although this isn’t to everyone's’ taste, bullfights are one of the crazy things to do in Madrid that many visitors seek for the unique experience. If you prefer your entertainment slightly more refined, March is also the second and last month of Festival de Arte Sacro, a cultural festival that celebrates this particular style of music. There are performances in churches and theatres throughout February and March, many of which don’t have an entrance fee and are one of the best free things to do in Madrid. Towards the end of the month is also Noche de los Teatros, or World Theatre Day. It’s widely celebrated in the Spanish capital, and on March 27th there are several dance, drama and live musical performances running late into the evening.
Things to do in Madrid in April 2019
April is a particularly fun month to visit Madrid. Even if you’re only in the city for 48 hours and wondering what to do in Madrid in April, chances are you’ll find an interesting selection of cultural and sporting events, or even have your trip coincide with preparations for Easter. Although the month is often a rainy one, there’s no shortage of things to do in Madrid in April. In 2019, Easter, or Semana Santa, falls in the middle of April, and although Madrid is not particularly noted for its celebrations there is still likely to be interesting activity around the date, particularly in churches around the city.
April is also the month of the famous Madrid Marathon. The race, which takes place on the picturesque streets and parks of Madrid, attracts up to 15,000 runners and 90,000 spectators each year. If the full marathon sounds like too much hard work, there’s also a half marathon that offers equally impressive views. Music lovers wondering what to do in Madrid in April are also in for a treat. That’s because Festimad, one of the largest music festivals in Spain, kicks off at the end of the month.
Things to do in Madrid in May 2019: Festivals
May is one of the busiest months in the Spanish capital, thanks in large part to the most important local festivals taking place in the middle of the month. If you’re wondering what to do in Madrid for 3 days, apart from dining out on tapas, experiencing the day of San Isidro should be one of them. The honouring of Madrid’s patron saint is done via a busy programme of concerts and shows that appeal to all interests and ages. It falls on the 15th of the month, and is one of the best things to do in Madrid in May. The month is an important time for bullfighters, with the San Isidro Fair serving as one of the pinnacle of professional bullfighting in the country. During San Isidro Fair the world’s best matadors gather in the city’s famous bullring, and it’s an event high on the list of many travellers and fans of bullfighting.
Things to do in Madrid in May 2019: Sports and attractions
If you’re a fan of more tranquil sports, you’ll also know that May is the month of the Madrid Tennis Open, one of the city’s most important sporting events of the year and attending a match is easily one of the most popular things to do in Madrid in May. The event takes place on outdoor clay courts, and it attracts the best players in the world, along with thousands of fans, who come to revel in the city and the sport of tennis. May is also a great time to take in some of the city’s most famous attractions. With the weather heating up, it’s the perfect time to explore the iconic sights, and relax in the city’s beautiful parks. And if the tourist numbers start to get you down, there are plenty of gems hiding away to explore that only the most seasoned locals will know about. In all, May is an energetic, exciting time to be exploring one of the world’s most famous capitals.
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