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Spain’s capital city is a popular travel destination because of its incredible historic architecture, outstanding cultural experiences and of course, it’s delicious food! Like many other capital cities, for example, London and Lisbon, many activities come with a hefty price tag. But this is not the cause of everything. Madrid has some unmissable ‘things to do’ that are open and ready to welcome you. Here are 10 of our favorite free ‘things to do’ in Madrid.
Free in Madrid #1: Puerta del Sol
The most famous square, in Madrid, is Puerto del Sol, meaning the door of the sun, is the epi-center of city (0km). All major roads, in Spain, lead from here. The plaza is a vibrant part of the city and is always full of tourists and locals alike. Its surrounded by shops to buy souvenirs, café to try churros and tasty Jamonerias, which serve the best jamón aka dry-cured ham. Unmissable features include:
- The giant neon Tio Pepe sign, you’ll need to look up to see this.
- This is the official Coat of Arms of Madrid, which is a statue of The Great Bear, leaning against a strawberry tree and has been the city emblem since 1212.
- Get a foot selfie, with the plaque on the floor that demonstrates the exact point of KM.0.
Free in Madrid #2: Palacio Real (Royal Palace)
If you are an EU or Latin American citizen you can experience the Palacio Real for free, Monday to Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. (October to March) and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (April to September). Otherwise, it costs €34. Remember to have your national ID card, passport or driver’s license ready for proof of citizenship.
For everyone else, schedule your vacation to coincide with International Museum Day, March 18th or October 12th, a Spanish National Holiday.
Free in Madrid #3: Museo del Prado, Madrid
To experience the best art available for free in the city, head to Museo del Prado, at Paseo del Prado s/n, 28014 Madrid. It stores some of Spain’s greatest artworks. Normally, you need to buy an admission ticket, but from Monday to Saturday, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. and Sunday, 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. it’s totally free.
Not sure about Madrid? Check out Spain’s other top destinations in ‘The Best Cities in Spain to Visit‘
Free in Madrid #4: Templo de Debod
Within Parque del Oeste, you can explore an incredible piece of Egyptian architecture, which dates back to the 2nd century BC. The Templo de Debod was asked to be recited by UNESCO, in 1968, because a newly constructed dam put the monument at risk of being destroyed. Egypt agreed and chose to give it to Spain, as a thank you for their help in saving the Abu Simbel temples.
You can spend about an hour here admiring the structure, taking pictures and admiring the city views. Be warned! It is strictly prohibited to enter the water. Security guards will ask to leave if you enter the water, even at 110 °F.
Free in Madrid #5: Museo Tiflológico
For a truly interactive and free experience visit Museo Tiflológico, at Calle Coruña, 18. This unique museum doesn’t have the boring “no touching” policy that every other museum has. The Museo Tiflológico was primarily designed for the blind, but everyone is welcome. Every minute here is interesting and fun, as you learn about Spain in a totally new way. It’s definitely worth adding this museum to your itinerary.
Free in Madrid #6: Panteon de Goya (Goya’s Tomb), Madrid
Francisco de Goya is one of Spain’s most famous and loved painters. Toward the end of the 18th Century, Goya’s work was adored by the aristocracy, which leads to him becoming the official royal painter.
His greatest masterpiece was the clothed and nude ‘Majas,’ which is displayed at Museo del Prado (#3). To see more of his artwork for free, visit his place of burial, Panteon de Goya, at Glorieta San Antonio de la Florida, 5 28008.
Free in Madrid #7: Anden 0, Madrid
Add something unique to your Madrid itinerary by visiting an original underground metro station. Built-in the early 1900s, and abandoned in the 1960s, Anden 0 (Platform 0) holds an interesting part of Madrid transport history. It takes about 45 minutes to explore and opens daily at 11 a.m.
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Free in Madrid #8: El Parque del Buen Retiro, Madrid
You cannot leave Madrid without a walk through its most magnificent public park, El Parque del Buen Retiro. It is located a stone throw away from the city center.
Stroll through the parks 15,000 trees and rose garden, take pictures, admire the lake and chapel ruins, people watch and visit the Crystal Palace for free!
Free in Madrid #9: Museo Taurino
Bullfighting has been part of Spanish culture for centuries; in fact, it has become somewhat of a stereotype when many people think about Spain. However, while the national spectacle may be a tradition for some, its popularity is decreasing due to an awareness of animal cruelty. In some parts of Spain, it has never been embraced. But, if you are interested to learn more about this historic sport visit Museo Taurino, the bullfighting museum, which is always free to enter.
Free in Madrid #10: Monument of Cervantes
Finally, we suggest a free attraction that everyone visiting Madrid should visit. It is the monuments of Miguel de Cervantes in Plaza de España.
Spanish Author, Miguel de Cervantes, wrote: “the first modern novel” in the early part of the 17th century, which is now described as the best piece of literature ever written. This special book is, of course, Don Quixote.
Plaza de Espana captured all the literary favorites of Don Quixote including its Author. This great statue of Cervantes was commissioned in 1915, on the 300th anniversary of the book’s publication. Since then, bronze statues of the protagonist Don Quixote and his companion Sancho Panza have been added, plus other important characters. The beauty in the sculptures, surrounding fountains and flowers is breath-taking. You can really feel the pride of Spain here. If you haven’t read the book, here is an English translation.
