There are so many places to see and visit in this city and here’s our list of ten places to visit in Madrid.
Photo Credits (Flickr CC): Madrid Centro by DavidHT
1. Plaza Mayor – This is the best known plaza in Madrid and this beautiful square is now one of the main stops on any tour in the city. The plaza was originally built outside the city walls and this square has played host to a lot of events such as bullfights, markets, symphonies, tournaments and executions but today it is full of tourist shops, cafes and restaurants. A good place to visit and wander around the square.
Photo Credits (Flickr CC): Plaza Mayor by Cruccone
2. Mercado de San Miguel – This can be found just near the Plaza Mayor. It’s an indoor market, recognizable by its distinct iron posts. Mercado de San Miguel was built in 1913 and the market is full of a assortment of delicious and affordable food products. If you like to shop or just wander around the market it is still worth it to enter the place for the sights and smells of dried ham, great wine, freshly baked breads and other treats.
Photo Credits (Flickr CC): Mercado de San Miguel by Gotardo
3. Plaza de España – This plaza is a beautiful and prominent square that is located on the northwest side of the central district, adjacent to two of the tallest buildings in the city; The square has a large fountain and a sculpture of Cervantes and his famous Don Quixote and Sancho Panza characters.
Photo Credits (Flickr CC): Plaza de España by rjhuttondfw
4. Naval Museum – This is a beautiful museum that displays a wide array of interesting collections about Spanish maritime history. The museum also has Juan De La Cosa map and it is the oldest known map showing America. The entrance to the museum costs €3 and is free on Saturdays and Sundays.
Photo Credits (Wikimedia Commons): Naval Museum by Luis Garcia
5. Reina Sofía National Museum and Art Center – This museum exhibits Madrid's best collection of modern art and that collection includes many of Pablo Picasso's most revered works including the renowned Guernica. The museum also houses some masterpieces by Miró, Kandinsky, Dalí, Bacon, and more. The museum offers free entry during Sundays 3:00 to 7:00.
6. Museo de Historia de Madrid - This museum was previously the municipal museum of Madrid and it is dedicated to the history of Madrid from 1561 to present. The entry to the museum is free, so come and check it out.
Photo Credits (Wikimedia Commons): Museo de Historia de Madrid by Luis Garcia
7. Parque del Capricho – This park is one of the most beautiful parks in the city which was built in 1797-1839 and it has a strong Romanticism influence. The park was declared as a historic garden. This place is a must see because it has lakes with swans and ducks, labyrinths, palaces, squares and fountains makes this a really lovely place to visit.
Photo Credits (Wikimedia Commons): Parque del Capricho by Espartosa
8. Zoo Aquarium Madrid – The place to go to if you want to see some Pandas, pet the Lemurs, watch some Dolphin show, and enjoy the Bird show. The entrance fee costs differently from adults €22.90 and for children €18.55.
Photo Credits (Flickr CC): Zoo Aquarium Madrid by alecea
9. La Casa de Campo - The park is located at the rear of the Palacio Real which used to belong to the Royal family. Much of the park has been taken to smaller activity parks such as the Zoo but in general it's peaceful and is still relaxing.
Photo Credits (Wikimedia Commons): La Casa de Campo by Edescas2
10. Rosaleda del Parque del Oeste - The rose garden of Madrid, the place is located in the same park as the Templo de Debod. If you like roses and are in Madrid when they have flowered. The garden holds an international competition yearly. The entry to the garden is free.
Photo Credits (Wikimedia Commons): Rosaleda del Parque del Oeste by Luis Garcia
These are just some of the interesting sights that can be found in Madrid. There are more places to see and discover.
Have you been to Madrid? Feel free to share your tips and recommendations.