Unique things to do in Madrid
There are so many unique things to do in Madrid and when I visit the capital city, I always find some new and cool things to explore each time I visit. I’ve compiled a list of my favorite and unique things to do and places to visit around the city to give you a flavor of why its so fun to visit the capital of Spain.
So, in no particular order, here’s some of my favorite things to do in Madrid
Visit La Latina district on Sunday and check out el Rastro
You can do two cool things in one morning to all day if you want to hang out longer in the La Latina district and also check out the el Rastro or flea market that happens every Sunday starting at 9am. I would advise going early to avoid the crowds which really pick up after 11am and pack the main thoroughfare at La Ribera de Curidores
Check out my post on visiting La Latina and El Rastro here for more inspiration.
Street Art Tour in Malasaña
Malasaña is known for its vibrant street art scene. Take a walking tour to discover the murals and graffiti, which often reflect the city’s social and political culture. You’ll find hidden gems around every corner.
Check out these tours below:
Madrid street art tour by bike
Egyptian Temple of Debod
An unusual place to enjoy and experience is the Temple of Debod which dates back to the 2nd century BC which is a unique treasure that was a gift from Egypt to Spain. The temple is located at Cuartel de la Montaña Park which is right next to Plaza de Espana. A flooding situation in Egypt that would have destroyed the temple with the completion of the Aswan Dam, The Egyptian government gifted the temple to the Spanish government.
The best time to visit the temple and gardens is around sunset to nighttime when the monument is lit up and a wonderful site to visit.
Eat at one of the oldest restaurants in Europe
The iconic Botin restaurant just off Plaza Mayor square is known as the oldest restaurant in Madrid and all of Europe. Well known for it’s delicious suckling pig and also the lamb prepared in traditional Castilian style. that is a culinary treat that is a must try dish. The restaurant established in 1725, makes it as the oldest restaurant in the world and is a signature classic traditional cuisine served in Madrid.
Botin Restaurant – website
Calle Cuchilleros 17, 28005, Madrid.
Rooftop views and tapa tasting
Enjoy a rooftop view with drinks and tapas tasting tour. This tour gives you a chance to try many local bars and a rooftop bar along with enjoying some local tapas.
Check out this tapas and drinks tour here for more details.
Experience one of the best views of Madrid
The Cerro del Tío Pío in the Puente de Vallecas area is a group of seven small hills, popularly known as “the seven tits”. You can walk and walk until the sun goes down, with the sunset bathing a panoramic view of Madrid. Sunset time is probably the best time to enjoy the area, relax and watch the sunset and end of day looking out to Madrid city.
The San Fernando market
This unique market is in the heart of the Lavapiés area. It offers everything from traditional stalls, such as butchers and greengrocers, to stalls offering the highest-quality Spanish and international foods worth exploring and coming here hungry. The market is also located close to the El Rastro street market, which you can wander around afterwards.
Related – Check out my post to visiting El Rastro here for more inspiration.
Flamenco Shows in Madrid
Experience the passion of Flamenco, Spain’s traditional dance and music. You can watch this traditional style of dance at many venues performed in the city and here are some of the best below:
Flamenco show with dinner and drinks in Madrid
Flamenco show with artists talk and drink
Madrid’s oldest Flamenco show and drink
Retiro Park Rowboat Ride
Rent a rowboat in Retiro Park and paddle around the beautiful Estanque (large pond). It’s a relaxing and picturesque experience, and you can also visit the Crystal Palace and the Rose Garden within the park.
Related – Check out my post to visiting Retiro park here for more details
Churros and Chocolate in San Ginés
Head to Chocolatería San Ginés, one of the oldest chocolate shops in Madrid, and indulge in a classic Spanish treat: churros dipped in thick, hot chocolate. It’s a delightful experience, especially in the early morning or late at night.
This classic bar has expanded to a compound with traditional white marble tables and counter areas. Popular timeframes to visit in the early hours of the morning or late at night after partying all night in Madrid.
San Gines website here
Address: Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5, Centro, 28013 Madrid, Spain
Museum Night at the Golden Triangle
Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art, comprised of the Prado Museum, Reina Sofia Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, is a must-visit. Some museums offer special evening hours or events, providing a unique atmosphere to appreciate art.
The museums are not home to the worlds most impressive and valuable art collections but make it accessible to visit three of the most significant museums in the city and strategically located to other points of interests and monuments in the city center.
Visit the Prado museum at night
Reina Sofia Museum ticket with audio guide
Thyssen – Bornemisza Museum entrance and guided tour
Tapas Tasting Tour
Explore the culinary scene by going on a tapas tasting tour. Visit local bars and try a variety of small dishes, accompanied by Spanish wines. Each place has its own specialty, so you’ll get a taste of Madrid’s diverse food culture.
We share some of the best tapas tours in Madrid below
Madrid Tapas tasting tour and drinks
Madrid Wine and tapas tasting tour
Evening tapas and drinks tasting tour
Day Trip to Toledo or El Estorial
While not in Madrid, consider taking a day trip to the nearby historic cities of Toledo or Segovia. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites with rich histories and stunning architecture. Toledo is a short regional train ride that you can easily do on your own if you are adventurous. You can easily take a regional train to visit the historic site at El Estorial on your own if you want to tour independently.
Check out this post on visiting both locations below:
Visit to the historic site of El Estorial, Spain
Check out these guided day tours to visiting Toledo or El Estorial
Toledo with 3 Monuments and Optional Cathedral
Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen
Check out these other posts on visiting Madrid
If you are exploring more of the capital city at Madrid, check out my other posts to visiting the city and doing all these fun and unique activities and places to visit.
Free things to do in Madrid, Spain
Conclusion on unique things to do in Madrid
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