{"id":7129,"date":"2021-03-16T01:19:00","date_gmt":"2021-03-16T00:19:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/madridfoodtour.com\/?p=7129"},"modified":"2021-03-16T01:19:00","modified_gmt":"2021-03-16T00:19:00","slug":"five-free-things-to-do-in-madrid","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/devourtours.com\/blog\/five-free-things-to-do-in-madrid\/","title":{"rendered":"50 Free Things to Do in Madrid"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

You don’t have to break the bank to make the most of Spain’s vibrant capital. In fact, many of these free things to do in Madrid are among the best ways to enjoy the city, period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

So go ahead and put your wallet away\u2014here’s how to make the most of Madrid without spending a single euro!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Statue
You can experience some of Madrid’s most iconic sights for free! Photo credit: Alejandro Cartagena<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With plenty of gorgeous parks and gardens<\/a>, museums<\/a> that are sometimes (if not always) free, and awe-inspiring monuments, it’s easy to enjoy Madrid in a budget-friendly way. If you know where to look, you can even eat for free to an extent!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But more on that in a bit. Without further ado, here are the best free things to do in Madrid that every visitor should add to their bucket list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n

Palaces<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. Palacio de Longoria<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This Art Noveau-style palace in the heart of Chueca cuts a striking image, standing out from the crowd of residential buildings that surround it. It’s one of the few buildings of its kind in Madrid, with an impressive iron and glass dome and a striking main staircase inside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Exterior
With its unique modernist architecture, Palacio Longoria wouldn’t look out of place in Barcelona! Photo credit: Luis Garcia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

2. Royal Palace<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ready to get up close with the royal side of Spain? Madrid’s spectacular Royal Palace does cost money for the interior visit, but you can still get a sense of the grandeur of Spanish royalty by wandering the palace grounds. Head to the Sabatini Gardens to take in awe-inspiring views of the palace in all its glory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Madrid's
Madrid’s royal palace is one of Europe’s most impressive. Photo credit: Luis Quintero<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Parks, Gardens, & Green Spaces<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

3. Retiro Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

No list of free things to do in Madrid would be complete without the city’s most famous green space. Retiro is the perfect place to take a relaxing stroll (or a siesta!) to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Small
A visit to Retiro is a Madrid must!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4. Campo del Moro<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Campo del Moro gardens near the palace draw their inspiration from royal England. Queen Maria Cristina designed the gardens in the 19th century, inspired by English-style gardens and the inherent romanticism of the natural world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Large
The Campo de Moro gardens make you feel like you’ve been transported to a lush English countryside estate. Photo credit: Claudia Schillinger<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

5. Madrid Rio<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Inaugurated in 2011, Madrid Rio is one of the Spanish capital’s newest parks. It offers dozens ways to enjoy the great outdoors right in the heart of Madrid, with running and cycling paths, plenty of green space, playground areas for kids, and even a makeshift “beach!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Walking
You could easily spend an entire day relaxing and enjoying all there is to do at Madrid Rio. Photo credit: Nicolas Vigier<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

6. Casa de Campo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Retiro may be Madrid’s most famous park, but Casa de Campo is by far the largest (it’s five times bigger than New York’s Central Park!). It’s the perfect place to go hiking and get up close with nature, all with the urban heart of Madrid just a hop, skip, and a jump away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Lake
The Casa de Campo lake on a beautiful fall day. Photo credit: Jorge CG<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

7. The Rose Garden in Parque del Oeste…<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This award-winning garden is home to hundreds of different varieties of rosebushes. It’s a beautiful place to spend an hour away from the chaos of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Close
Just a handful of the thousands of gorgeous roses at Parque del Oeste! Photo credit: Bobo Boom<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

8. …and the Rose Garden in Retiro!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Can’t make it out to Parque del Oeste? No worries. On the other side of the city center, Retiro Park also has its own beautiful rosaleda<\/em>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Small
Retiro’s rose garden is one of the most romantic places in Madrid. Photo credit: Felipe Gabald\u00f3n<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

9. Atocha’s Tropical Forest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This particular green space in Madrid isn’t located outside. In fact, you might even walk past it while arriving in the city at the Atocha train station! However, the impressive indoor forest is unlike any other space on earth. (How many other train stations can say they have thousands of plants from around the world under their roof?)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Tropical
Atocha’s fascinating indoor forest makes it one of the world’s coolest train stations. Photo credit: Jean-Pierre Dalb\u00e9ra<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

10. Parque del Capricho<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This beautiful park is well worth visiting any time of year. However, head there in late winter\/early spring for a real treat as the almond blossoms start to bloom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Walking
Parque del Capricho is a gorgeous green oasis in Madrid. Photo credit: Viviendo Madrid<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

11. Parque Tio Pio<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A bit off the beaten path, Parque Tio Pio is one of Madrid’s best-kept secrets. Head here at sunset<\/a> for one of the most spectacular evening views in town. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Urban
A dramatic view of Madrid’s skyline from Parque Tio Pio. Photo credit: Julio GM<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

12. Parque de Berlin<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Would you believe us if we told you that one of the best free things to do in Madrid is to see the Berlin Wall? This unique park, aside from being a gorgeous little green space, is also home to several pieces of the infamous wall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Statue
Like Madrid, a bear is one of the symbols of Berlin\u2014as seen by this statue in the park! Photo credit: Xuanxu<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

13. Quinta de los Molinos<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Like Parque del Capricho, Quinta de los Molinos is also home to dozens of beautiful almond trees that spring into bloom in late winter. The space regularly hosts family-friendly cultural events throughout the year, making it one of the best free things to do in Madrid for guests of all ages. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Pale
The gorgeous almond blossoms in Quinta de los Molinos! Photo credit: David Ceballos<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Museums<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

14. Museo de San Isidro<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Discover the story of Madrid dating back to the Paleolithic period in a house once inhabited by St. Isidore (Madrid’s patron) himself. Here, Madrid’s history is laid out in three easy-to-follow sections: prehistory, Muslim Madrid and the Christian reconquest, and the life and times of the museum’s eponymous saint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. Madrid History Museum<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Madrid History Museum picks up right around the time where the San Isidro Museum left off. Here, you can continue your exploration of local history from the mid-16th century up until the present day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Large
The building that houses the Madrid History Museum is a gorgeous Baroque structure. Photo credit: Basix2013<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

16. Museo del Prado<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As Spain’s foremost collection of European masterpieces, the Prado<\/a> doesn’t always have free entry. But if you’re trying to save some euros and don’t mind the crowds, visiting during the free hours (Monday\u2013Saturday from 6\u20138 p.m., and Sundays and holidays from 3\u20135 p.m.), is an incredible way to experience this world-class museum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Brick
The Prado is an art lover’s dream come true.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

17. Reina Sofia Museum<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If modern art is more your style, you won’t want to miss the Reina Sofia<\/a>, another one of Madrid’s excellent art museums<\/a>. The home of Picasso’s iconic Guernica and hundreds of other 20th century masterpieces, the museum is open for free Mondays and Wednesdays\u2014Saturdays from 6\u20138 p.m, and Sundays from 1:30\u20132:15 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Crowd
Seeing Guernica in person is a moving experience. Photo credit: Saint Louis University Madrid Campus<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

18. Casa Museo Lope de Vega<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Lope de Vega was one of the most prolific writers in the history of Spanish literature and forms part of one of the genre’s greatest generations alongside Cervantes, G\u00f3ngora, and more. His former home is now a free museum<\/a> in Madrid, where you can step back in time to 17th-century Spain and walk in the footsteps of one of our greatest literary figures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

19. Archaeology Museum<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Madrid’s Archaeology Museum holds treasures from prehistory and the ancient world all the way up to the Renaissance period. Entrance is free on Saturday afternoons and Sunday mornings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Exterior
The Archaeology Museum is one of Madrid’s most fascinating places for history buffs. Photo credit: Emilio<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

20. Museum of Natural Sciences<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Free on Sunday afternoons after 5 p.m., the Museum of Natural Sciences<\/a> is a fascinating place to discover more about the world we live in. Their exhibitions showcasing topics ranging from biodiversity to human evolution are excellent, and they also offer a great activities program for kids and families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Two-story
Learn something new at the Museum of Natural Sciences! Photo credit: Rub\u00e9n Vique<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

21. Open-Air Sculpture Museum<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Want to check out Madrid’s world-class art scene but don’t want to be stuck inside a museum on a beautiful day? Head to the Open-Air Sculpture Museum on Paseo de la Castellana. Under the overpass connecting Calle Juan Bravo and Calle Eduardo Dato you’ll find a surprising collection of abstract sculptures from some of Spain’s foremost contemporary artists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Churches & Chapels<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

22. Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The iconic Spanish artist Goya painted the frescoes at this Neoclassical chapel, and it’s also his final resting place. It’s one of the lesser-known free things to do in Madrid, and you won’t be disappointed by the breathtaking masterpieces that lie within.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Ceiling
The jaw-dropping Goya frescoes inside the chapel. Photo credit: Jl FilpoC<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

23. Bas\u00edlica de San Francisco el Grande<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This famous basilica just south of the Cathedral is impressive in its own right, but the awe-inspiring dome will truly take your breath away. It also houses dozens of masterpieces by some of the most iconic Spanish artists in history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Marble
The main chapel at the Basilica. Photo credit: Jos\u00e9 Luis Filpo Cabana<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

24. Almudena Cathedral<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Madrid’s grandiose cathedral isn’t as old as you might think, having only reached completion in 1993. That said, it’s earned its reputation as one of the most impressive churches in Spain despite its short history. While a small donation of \u20ac1 is appreciated upon entry, you are also welcome to access the cathedral for free. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"View
The Almudena Cathedral as seen from the Royal Palace. Photo credit: Erica Zhao<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Exhibition Centers & Cultural Spaces<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

25. El Matadero<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A former slaughterhouse turned cultural center near Madrid Rio, El Matadero<\/a> is one of the most happening spaces in town. Their agenda includes a diverse array of art exhibitions, live performances, film screenings, and so much more offered by artists from all over the world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Large
Matadero offers tons of incredible cultural programs for free. Photo credit: Fred Romero<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

26. La Tabacalera<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

La Tabacalera<\/a> was once an old tobacco factory and is now one of Madrid’s foremost visual arts spaces. Home to fascinating installations and one of the best street art collections in town, they also host regular classes, workshops, and performances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Set
Colorful street art at La Tabacalera! Photo credit: Fred Romero<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

27. Fundaci\u00f3n Telef\u00f3nica<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you’ve watched the Netflix hit Cable Girls<\/em>, you might recognize the Telef\u00f3nica<\/a> building on Gran Via. Today, the famous skyscraper hosts a regularly rotating schedule of fascinating free exhibitions showcasing the most visionary artists from around the world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Large
No matter what’s on at Telef\u00f3nica, you’re sure to find something fascinating. Photo credit: Jose M Martin Jimenez<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

28. Casa Encendida<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A sociocultural center dedicated to promoting the arts, solidarity, the environment, and education, Casa Encendida<\/a> offers something for everyone. Their exhibitions, performances, and screenings showcase artists from all walks of life, and they even host regular free activities for kids, too. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Overhead
A free concert on La Casa Encendida’s incredible rooftop terrace! Photo credit: La Casa Encendida<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

29. CentroCentro<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Just about everyone passing between Retiro and Gran Via is struck breathless by the magnificent Cibeles Palace, which today mainly functions as Madrid’s city hall. But it’s also home to the fascinating CentroCentro<\/a> exhibition space showcasing contemporary art. While the space itself is one of the best free things to do in Madrid, we also recommend paying the small fee to access the terrace to take in incredible views of downtown Madrid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Large
The stunning Palacio de Cibeles, home of CentroCentro. Photo credit: Quique Olivar<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

30. Palacio de Cristal<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We already talked about Retiro Park, but its shimmering Crystal Palace deserves a spot of its own. Aside from being a beautiful little oasis, the space also hosts contemporary art exhibitions hosted in partnership with the Reina Sofia museum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Crowd
The Crystal Palace’s gorgeous design and unique exhibitions make it a must for architecture and art lovers alike. Photo credit: Sergei Wing<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Foodie Activities<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

31. Eat Free Tapas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Madrid isn’t quite Granada when it comes to giving generous free tapas with every drink you order. But there are<\/em> plenty of spots in the capital that still observe this tradition\u2014you just have to know where to look. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Two of our favorites are Quevedo (in the Huertas neighborhood) and El Urogallo, both of which serve incredible free tapas with your drinks. You could easily enjoy a meal for the price of a few ca\u00f1as<\/em>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Meat
Yes, you CAN get free tapas in Madrid that are bigger than a dish of chips or olives!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

32. Mercado de San Miguel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Madrid’s best-known gourmet market often gets a bad rap these days for being too touristy. But while you’ll definitely find more tourists than locals at the Mercado de San Miguel<\/a>, it’s a great place to start familiarizing yourself with dozens of different types of Spanish food all under one roof. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you’re new to Spanish cuisine, take a few laps around the market to get a sense of what different dishes are called and what they look like. You can eat there, or take what you’ve learned to another bar or restaurant now that you know a little more about what to look for. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Wrought
The Mercado de San Miguel is worth visiting for the beautiful architecture alone!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

33. See the World’s Oldest Restaurant: Botin<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While a meal at Botin<\/a> will obviously cost you, a pilgrimage to this historic restaurant is one of the must-do free things to do in Madrid for foodies. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Wood-paneled
Botin has been a Madrid icon since 1725.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

34. Picnic in the Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Once you’ve gotten your hands on some food and drinks to enjoy, an al fresco picnic in one of Madrid’s gorgeous green spaces is the perfect way to spend a beautiful day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Picnic
A picnic is the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful weather in Madrid. Photo credit: Kate Hliznitsova<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

35. Visit a Food Market<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Food markets<\/a> are among the best places to experience local life in Spain at its most authentic. Head to the one nearest you and spend some time wandering among the stalls, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of these neighborhood shopping and gathering spaces. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Vendor
At Madrid’s most traditional markets, the vendors are often proud locals whose families have been selling their products for generations.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Iconic Places<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

36. Temple of Debod<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It might surprise you to learn that you can visit an authentic Ancient Egyptian temple right here in Madrid! A gift to Spain from the government of Egypt, the Temple of Debod is an especially beautiful place to catch the sunset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Nighttime
You don’t have to go to Egypt to get a taste of ancient history. Photo credit: Willian Justen de Vasconcellos<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

37. Plaza Mayor<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Madrid’s most grandiose square provides some of the most unbeatable photo ops in town. Bonus points if you visit during the holiday season when the picturesque Christmas market is in full swing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"View
You can’t visit Madrid without spending some time in the Plaza Mayor.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

38. Puerta del Sol<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Just down the street from Plaza Mayor lies an equally iconic square: Puerta del Sol. Get your picture taken with the famous statue of a bear and strawberry tree, and be sure to stand at the exact geographic center of Spain, Kilometer 0 (marked by a plaque on the ground in front of the Real Casa de Correos building).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Busy
The famous statue in Puerta del Sol is a symbol of Madrid.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

39. Gran Via<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Head north from Puerta del Sol and you’ll find yourself on Madrid’s busiest urban street, Gran Via. Here, you can get lost in the hustle and bustle of city life like no place else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Nighttime
Gran Via on a beautiful evening. Photo credit: alevision.co<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Live Events<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

40. See Live Music<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Good news: you can see incredible live music in Madrid<\/a> for free! Many of the city’s most beloved venues for shows host great shows for no cover charge. Be sure to check each place’s website or social media accounts for the most up-to-date info before you go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Trumpet
Seeing great shows in Madrid doesn’t have to break the bank. Photo credit: Sam Browne<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

41. Watch the Changing of the Guard<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Head to the Royal Palace every Wednesday and Saturday to catch this breathtaking spectacle from 11 a.m.\u20132 p.m. The first Wednesday of the month is especially noteworthy, as it’s when the more elaborate Solemn Changing of the Guard\u2014performed the same way as it was 150 years ago\u2014takes place. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Group
Members of the Spanish Navy take part in the Changing of the Guard. Photo credit: Contando Estrelas<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Explore Madrid’s Neighborhoods<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

42. Literary Huertas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Madrid’s Literary Quarter, also known locally as Huertas, is a living tribute to some of the greatest Spanish writers in history. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Start in Plaza de Santa Ana to check out the statues of Federico Garc\u00eda Lorca and Pedro Calder\u00f3n de la Barca, both of whom were poets and playwrights. From there, make your way down to Calle de Cervantes. Here, you’ll find the former homes of two more icons of Spanish literature: Cervantes himself (author of Don Quixote<\/em>) and Lope de Vega.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Next, swing down to the Convento de las Trinitarias Descalzas, a historic convent that today houses Cervantes’ remains. Finish your journey with an aperitif at Casa Alberto, which for nearly two centuries has been a favorite haunt of Madrid’s literary scene. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Stone
As you explore Huertas, check out the phrases from Spanish literature and poetry adorning the ground throughout the neighborhood!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

43. Chic Salamanca<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

North of Retiro Park lies Madrid’s most fashionable barrio<\/em>, Salamanca. With its wide avenues and clean gridlike layout, it’s one of the easiest and most relaxing places for a walk in Madrid, as well as a great spot for people-watching. And while shopping at any of the sleek designer stores here will set you back, window shopping is free! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Start in Plaza de Col\u00f3n and make your way up Paseo de la Castellana a little bit. Then head east to cut over to Calle Serrano, one of Madrid’s premier shopping streets lined with upscale brands. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Pedestrian
Salamanca is a beautiful neighborhood for a stroll. Photo credit: Alejandro<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

44. Historic Austrias<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The oldest part of the city, Madrid de los Austrias is a beautifully preserved section of the center that will transport you back in time. A self-guided walking tour<\/a> through this area is one of the best free things to do in Madrid, and a great way to experience Bourbon Spain in all its glory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Start in Plaza de Oriente and take a moment to enjoy the stunning views of the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral. Head east to make your way into the heart of the neighborhood. Keep an eye out for landmarks such as the San Miguel Basilica and Plaza de la Villa\u2014a modest, unassuming square that was once the city’s most important!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finish your adventure at Plaza Mayor. While it’s not free (though it is cheap!), we definitely suggest getting a calamari sandwich from La Campana just outside the square to snack on!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Three
Plaza de la Villa is home to some of the most important historic buildings in Madrid.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Great Free Things to Do in Madrid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

45. Estaci\u00f3n de Chamber\u00ed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The old Chamber\u00ed metro station, unused since the 1960s, was abandoned for decades. Recently, however, a restoration project brought it back to life. Today, you can step inside this historic metro station and journey back in time\u2014it looks exactly as it did back when it opened in 1919.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Colorful
Colorful vintage advertisements still line the walls of Chamber\u00ed station. Photo credit: Miguel Bustos<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

46. Vest\u00edbulo de Pac\u00edfico<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Can’t get enough vintage subway stations? Vest\u00edbulo de Pac\u00edfico (at the Pac\u00edfico metro stop) is an equally impressive space that preserves the same structures that were there during the station’s heyday in the 1920s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

47. El Rastro<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sunday<\/a> is a day for taking it easy and roaming through the largest open-air flea market in Europe: El Rastro<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Rastro is a weekend staple for many and visiting is a must during your time in Madrid. Packed with visitors perusing stalls and haggling for lower prices, the main boulevard of El Rastro is a sight to behold. From clothes to live birds to antique furniture, you’re sure to find something unexpected along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Stall
Be sure to schedule in a stroll through the Rastro if you’ll be in Madrid on a Sunday.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

48. See the View from El Corte Ingl\u00e9s Callao<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Some of the best viewpoints in Madrid are atop rooftop bars, where you’ll have to pay a cover charge just to get in. Not at El Corte Ingl\u00e9s in Callao, just off of Gran Via. Head up to the ninth floor to enjoy jaw-dropping views over the urban heart of Madrid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Overhead
The incredible view from El Corte Ingl\u00e9s in Callao! Photo credit: Kadir Celep<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

49. Learn a New Language<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Want to brush up on your Spanish? There are dozens of free language exchanges happening all over the city. Check out sites like Meetup or even local Facebook groups for expats to see what’s taking place soon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Group
A language exchange is a fun way to make new friends while learning a new skill at the same time!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

50. Visit the Mercado de Motores<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Once a month, the Mercado de Motores<\/a> sets up shop in the Museo del Ferrocarril. Part artisanal market and part live performance space, it’s the perfect place to do some shopping, dance, catch some live music, and even enjoy some great food!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"People
The Mercado de Motores is such a fun place to spend the day! Photo credit: Teresa Castandedo<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Free Things to Do in Madrid: FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What are some non-touristy things to do in Madrid?<\/strong>

Head out of the city center and into Madrid’s residential neighborhoods to explore a side of the city many tourists don’t see. Some of Madrid’s greatest hidden (and free!) gems can be found in these areas, including many parks and gardens, local cultural spaces like El Matadero, and historic spots like Chamber\u00ed Station.<\/p> <\/div>

What is the best way to get around Madrid?<\/strong>

Nothing beats seeing Madrid on foot. In addition to being free, the city is also very walkable, and many famous sights are within walking distance of each other. If you’re tired or need to get somewhere further out, Madrid’s public transportation system<\/a> is easy to use, cheap, and efficient. <\/p> <\/div>

What is the most popular place in Madrid, Spain?<\/strong>

The area between Gran Via and Calle Mayor is home to some of Madrid’s most popular sights, including Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol. <\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

Update Notice: This post was originally published on January 26, 2018 and was updated with new text and photos on March 16, 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

You don’t have to break the bank to make the most of Spain’s vibrant capital. In fact, many of these free things to do in Madrid are among the best ways to enjoy the city, period. 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