Madrid is a city of endless possibilities.
From its world-renowned museums and art galleries to its beautiful parks and architecturally-stunning buildings there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Madrid.
And while the city is certainly worth exploring as a whole there are some sights that are simply not to be missed.
If you’re planning a trip to Madrid be sure to add these 10 stunning sights to your must-see list:
1.
The Royal Palace of Madrid
A visit to Madrid would not be complete without a stop at the Royal Palace.
This vast and opulent palace is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family and it’s easy to see why.
The exterior of the palace is just as breathtaking as the interior with its grandiose facade and beautifully-manicured gardens.
Be sure to catch a glimpse of the changing of the guard ceremony which takes place daily at noon.
2.
The Prado Museum
No trip to Madrid is complete without a visit to the world-renowned Prado Museum.
Home to some of the most important works of art in the world the Prado is a must-see for any art lover.
From Spanish masterpieces by Velazquez and Goya to works by international artists like Rembrandt and Bosch the Prado has something for everyone.
Even if you’re not an art lover the museum is still well worth a visit for its breathtaking architecture and stunning setting.
3.
The Retiro Park
The Retiro Park is one of Madrid’s most beloved landmarks.
This vast public park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some fresh air.
The park is home to a number of attractions including the Crystal Palace a beautiful glass conservatory; the Prado Museum; and the Retiro Pond where you can go for a leisurely rowboat ride.
4.
The Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
No visit to Madrid would be complete without a stop at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium home of the legendaryReal Madrid football team.
Even if you’re not a sports fan the stadium is worth a visit for its sheer size and grandeur.
A tour of the stadium includes a visit to the locker rooms the press room and the VIP area as well as a walk through the tunnel that the players use to access the pitch.
If you’re lucky you may even get to see a match!
5.
The Gran Via
The Gran Via is one of Madrid’s most famous streets and it’s easy to see why.
This bustling avenue is home to a number of important landmarks including the Metropolis Building the Telefonica Building and the Gran Via Theater.
The street is also home to a number of shops restaurants and cafes making it the perfect place to do some people watching.
6.
The Almudena Cathedral
The Almudena Cathedral is one of Madrid’s most important religious landmarks.
This massive cathedral took over 100 years to build and is one of the largest in Spain.
The cathedral is home to a number of important works of art including a painting by Goya and a statue of the Virgin Mary.
The Almudena Cathedral is also the final resting place of Madrid’s patron saint San Isidro.
7.
The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is one of Madrid’s most important art museums.
Housed in an 18th-century palace the museum features a collection of over 1000 works of art spanning a wide range of styles and periods.
From Renaissance masterpieces to 20th-century works by Dalí and Picasso the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum has something for everyone.
Be sure to check out the museum’s temporary exhibitions which are often devoted to a specific artist or theme.
8.
The Puerta del Sol
The Puerta del Sol is one of Madrid’s most iconic landmarks.
This central square is the perfect place to start your exploration of the city.
The Puerta del Sol is home to a number of important landmarks including the Real Casa de Correos the clock tower and the statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree.
The square is also the starting point of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
9.
The Plaza Mayor
The Plaza Mayor is one of Madrid’s most beautiful squares.
This grandiose square was built in the 16th century and was the site of a number of important events in Spanish history.
The Plaza Mayor is home to a number of important landmarks including the Casa de la Panadería the Palacio Real and the Iglesia de San Miguel.
10.
La Gran Vía
La Gran Vía is Madrid’s most famous street and is often likened to Times Square in New York City.
The street is a hive of activity day and night with plenty of shops restaurants and bars to keep you entertained.
It’s also home to some of Madrid’s most iconic buildings such as the Edificio Metropolis and the Telefónica Building.