What to see in Madrid? The most and least famous places of art and historical interest in the Spanish capital
We have said it several times, the Spanish capital is a city rich in art and history, so you will be spoiled for choice of what to see in Madrid. The city is in fact rich in museums and places of historical and artistic interest capable of satisfying everyone’s tastes.
So, what to see in Madrid?
Even if you are not particularly art lovers, consider a visit to the Prado Museum: it is not possible to leave Madrid without having admired the most important works of Goya, Velazquez, Bosch, Rubens, Titian preserved here. If you are short on time, organize a guided tour through the masterpieces preserved here or book HERE an entrance without queues that will certainly save you a lot of time.
If you have already visited the Prado, then there are the other great museums of the Paseo del Arte: the Reina Sofia and the Thyssen Bornemisza, but also the Caixa Forum is worth a visit both for the architectural interest of the building (the beautiful vertical garden) and for the beautiful temporary exhibitions it offers.
Are you a lover of ancient history and art? The National Archaeological Museum of Madrid has a very interesting collection of ancient artifacts and is generally less crowded with tourists.
Is it not for you to be locked in a museum for hours?
Then head to Matadero, a real open-air construction site for new artistic trends, from theater to cinema, from art to performance, or stroll through the avenues and groves of the Retiro Park. Go to the evocative Temple of Debod and, while you are there, get off at the Sabatini’s Gardens, a delight in Italian style and from there admire – even only from the outside – the Royal Palace and the Cathedral of the Almudena. Or move away from the more touristic center and visit the beautiful Sorolla House-Museum, which with its shady gardens is perfect for a break from the summer heat.
Are you a Goya lover but don’t want to face the throng of the Prado Museum?
Go and visit the wonderful frescoes made by the Spanish royal painter at the Hermitage of San Antonio de la Florida, one of the most beautiful and least known places in Madrid.
In short, the problem of what to see in Madrid does not arise: the Spanish capital offers an incredible variety of museums and art venues for all interests. We show you in these pages not only the “musts”, but also our favorites, a little off the beaten track. Choose the one that suits you best and enjoy your stay in the city, remembering to regularly intersperse your tour de force with a few stops in the most typical bars for a caña and some tapas, as real madrilenians would do!