Madrid is the exciting heart of Spain, and after just four days there, I quickly understood why it is known for its cultural scene and lively atmosphere. One of the best things about this trip was discovering 9 free things to do in Madrid!

In this blog, I’ll share tips on how to make the most of your experience while you’re there, without having to break the bank. If you’d like a digital itinerary on the go, be sure to check out my free digital travel plan.

Free Things To Do

1. Have a Picninc at Parque Del Retiro (El Retiro Park)

Escape the city’s busy energy by visiting Parque del Retiro. This park offers a peaceful environment with a lake, greenery, and historic monuments. Here you can enjoy leisurely walks, boat rides, and relaxation in the heart of Madrid. It’s also the perfect place to have a lunch picnic with friends and family, or to simply sit in the open area and enjoy reading a book. What I loved about this park is that they have curated various spaces for anyone to simply sit with nature, and enjoy a beautiful day out.

Tip: Be sure to book your boat ride in advance, and you can book here. Also, while I didn’t personally encounter the need, local advice suggests that the park cafes are the best places for restroom facilities. It’s also recommended to have your own toilet paper with you.

2. Visit Palacio De Cristal (Glass Palace)

This glass palace in Retiro Park combines the beauty of the park with modern creativity, and it’s simply breathtaking from the moment you step into the building. Here, you’ll find stunning art installations and exhibits. With its beauty, it’s no surprise that this is a popular spot for pre-wedding photoshoots and wedding ceremonies.

3. Admire Plaza De Cibeles

Plaza de Cibeles is a historic palace turned cultural center. Here, you can get into exhibitions, events, and a rooftop with stunning city views, all within a historic setting.  At night the palace is beautifully illuminated and lit up so if you happen to be in the area at that time of the day, definitely stop by. Throughout my stay in Madrid, I intentionally walked by this Plaza at least three times, simply because I was so fascinated by it. When you see it for yourself, I’ll let you decide if it’s worth three visits, or if I was simply being dramatic. 

4. Visit Biblioteca Nacional

Enjoy your inner bibliophile at this free library with over 25,000 manuscripts. This museum is a must-see for all booklovers. It has an extensive collection that includes centuries of literary history and offers quiet space for reading and reflection. Here, you’ll also find exhibits of illuminated manuscripts, as well as interactive displays.

5. Explore the Grounds of Palacio Real de Madrid (Royal Palace of Madrid)

Visiting the Royal Palace of Madrid means you get to experience the grandeur of one of Europe’s largest palaces. This palace was everything that you would expect royalty to be. Looking at the beautifully designed gardens and the stunning craftsmanship of the palace’s exterior, I definitely felt like I was admiring a regal masterpiece. Unfortunately, the palace wasn’t open to visitors on the day that I went; however, normally you will be able to go in and see the luxurious rooms, historical chambers, and the Throne Room, all of which allow you to learn more about Spain’s royal history.

6. Catedral de la Almudena (The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Royal Almudena)

In the heart of Madrid is this stunning Cathedral. It is known to have been consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993. One of its notable features is the crypt, the final resting place of many Spanish royals. The building itself is quite unique with a Neo-Gothic exterior, complemented by a light filled interior as well as a bright aesthetic.

7. Explore Gran Vía

Madrid’s famous street, Gran Vía has a lively atmosphere to say the least. Here, you’ll find some of the most well-known fashion brands, such as Primark, Zara, Stradivarius, Bershka and many more. Coming from Canada, where in-person access to most of these favorites is not an option, I had to go on a shopping spree to make sure I took advantage of the opportunity. There are also many places to dine, watch a show, and simply enjoy the city’s energetic feel. However, it’s important to note that during peak periods (all day on weekends and after 4pm on weekdays), the streets of Gran Vía will be very crowded, which can be unpleasant especially with warmer temperatures. The quietest times to shop are on weekdays before noon.

8. Wander Through Plaza Mayor (Town Square)

Plaza Mayor is an attractive square with charming arcades and a statue of Philip III. You can enjoy café culture, shopping, and street performances in this central spot. Being here was a reminder that Madrid is definitely a city that values social interactions and shared experiences.

9. Experience Egypt at Templo De Debod (Temple of Debod)

The Temple of Debod was gifted to Spain by the Egyptian government in 1968. Originally located in Debod, a village in southern Egypt, the temple, along with other monuments, faced threats from the construction of the Aswan High Dam in the 1960s. However, it was saved through UNESCO-led efforts, with Spain playing a significant role, leading to its relocation as a grand gesture of gratitude.

This unique attraction is now located in Parque de la Montaña in Madrid, offering lovely surroundings and a beautiful view of the sunset. While it may not match the grandeur of Egypt’s iconic temples, it remains a charming and serene place to visit in Madrid.

Bonus Activity

Day Trip to Segovia

While this isn’t a free thing to do, it’s a great idea to escape Madrid for a day and visit Segovia. You can explore its UNESCO-listed aqueduct, fairy-tale castle, and charming old town. You can also enjoy its history, scenic streets, and local cuisine at various restaurants in the small town. For a bonus experience, try Cochinillo de Segovia (Segovia suckling pig) at any of their local restaurants. It’s definitely not for everyone (myself included) but it’s something you need to try for yourself.  

The opportunities to make memories in Madrid are abundant. Here is a list of more experiences and activities, as well as guided tours in Madrid.

Final Thoughts

From the iconic landmarks and world-class monuments, to the lively streets and energy of the city, this Spanish capital gave me an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a short trip or an extended visit, Madrid will leave you with incredible memories that’ll keep you wanting to return. If you do plan on visiting Madrid, I hope you’ve found this blog resourceful. Feel free to share this with your friends, family and social media networks. 

¡Hasta la próxima vez!