Thinking about taking a trip to Madrid? Fall in love with Spain’s capital that’s rich with culture, history and food. This beautiful city sits in the heart of Spain and is full of energy. We’ve got a list of free things to do while you’re in Madrid so you can explore even on a budget. Stop by the many art museums to learn the history of Madrid or take a walk through El Retiro Park to experience 19th century architecture. This city truly has it all and is just waiting for you to come explore it!
1. Experience bullfighting at the Museo Taurino
If you want to get a complete Madrid experience, a must see is the bullfighting museum. Although seeing an actual bullfight costs money, you can check out the long history of bullfighting in Spain and get a chance to get up close to artifacts from the past. There are more than 150 pieces at the exhibition including bull heads and capes.
2. Take a walk in Madrid Río Park
This beautiful park is a popular area in Madrid for locals and tourists to take a break from the city and relax in an area filled with a variety of entertainment. On any given day you will find people in the park having picnics, watching plays or enjoying music festivals. The Madrid Río is a great place to go if you’re looking to take a break from the city life and stay within your budget!
3. Check out the beautiful items at El Rastro
If you’re looking to experience the hustle and bustle of Madrid, take a walk through this amazing open-air flea market. It’s the largest in all of Europe and is full of all different kinds of vendors including handmade items, clothes, jewelry and antiques. You might find something you didn’t even know you needed! The market is open every Sunday and it’s free to explore. Many visitors consider this market a must-see when visiting Madrid.
4. Set sail at El Retiro Park
This park is right in the center of Madrid and is beloved by locals. It is one of Madrid’s most popular parks and is full of people walking, biking and even spending time rowing in the famous boating pond. Although it does cost money to rent a boat (5.80 euros on weekdays and 7.50 euros on weekends) you can still admire the Monument to Alfonso XII which overlooks the lake. The park also has walking trails and a variety of playgrounds. Throughout the year there are special events like fireworks and a Book Fair.
5. Walk around the Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is home to the Spanish Royal family and has been for more than two hundred years. You can purchase tickets to enter the palace and go on a tour. However, we’ve found that touring the grounds outside the palace is another great option – and it’s free! You can also check out the palace on Wednesdays for free entry. This beautiful palace is surrounded by the Sabantini gardens and is the perfect place for a photo opportunity.
6. Gaze at all the art at the Museo del Prado
The Museo del Prado is one of Spain’s most famous art museums. It is home to collections by Rubens, Velázquez, Goya and Bosch. This museum is free from Monday to Saturday 6 PM to 8 PM and on Sundays from 5 PM to 7 PM. It’s celebrating 200 years in November 2019 which is an even better reason to visit this year!
7. Take off on an underground journey at Anden 0
Anden 0 or ‘Platform 0’ in English is Madrid’s old Chamberi metro station. It had been closed since 1966 just collecting dust under the streets of Madrid. It was reopened and is now a museum where visitors can learn the history of Madrid’s metro system. It’s free every day of the week – besides on Mondays when it’s closed. If you’re looking to take a step back in time while you’re in Madrid, this is one of the best ways to do it.
8. Explore Puerta del Sol
The most famous square in Madrid, this centrally located hub is a great place to dive right into the city’s culture. It’s a short walk to the Plaza Mayor and is surrounded by local cafes and restaurants. Many visitors go here to see the starting point of Spain’s 6 National Roads or one of the various statues around the square.
Are you convinced that Madrid is your next destination? Check out our latest flight deals to this modern city with plenty of historic charm! and use some of these places to go on your travels. Sightseeing for free is one of the most fun things you can do while in Europe, so start your journey today!
