City trip to Madrid

A trip to Madrid offers endless possibilities. Therefore, it is important to know what you should not miss, especially on your first visit. Whether you prefer to explore the cultural side of the city or enjoy a more relaxed visit, we will tell you what you absolutely must see.

The heart of Madrid

“Puerta del Sol” means Gate of the Sun, but in reality, it is probably the most famous square in Spain. Here you will find the Kilometer Zero marker, from which all major roads in Spain start, and the famous statue Oso y Madroño (Bear and Strawberry Tree), the symbol of Madrid.

Not far from there, you can visit another important square in Madrid, “La Plaza Mayor”. Built around 1590, it is now one of the city’s central meeting points. At the frequently held markets, vendors sell all kinds of handmade products and souvenirs.

In the city center, you can also take a walk along the “Gran Via”, the street of lights, cinemas, and theaters.

Getting to know the city in detail

During your stay in Madrid, we recommend visiting the two most famous landmarks of the city. When people think of Madrid, the “Puerta de Alcalá” and the “Fuente de Cibeles” fountain immediately come to mind. The former was built by order of King Charles III and inaugurated in 1778. The monument is so famous that there are even songs about it. The fountain depicts the goddess Cybele on a chariot pulled by two lions and is located in the middle of Plaza de Cibeles. Here you can visit other interesting buildings, such as the Palace of Communication (from the rooftop you can enjoy a magnificent view over the skyline of Madrid) or the headquarters of the Bank of Spain.

The Retiro Park, with its pond and hidden spots, is a perfect place for an afternoon stroll. Additionally, you can visit the Almudena Cathedral, the Royal Palace, and the Temple of Debod to complete your sightseeing tour.

Activities, art, and culture

In Madrid, there are not only monuments to admire. The city is a center for art and culture. Among the many cultural opportunities that Madrid offers, there is the Prado Museum, where you can discover many artworks by European masters of the 16th to 19th centuries, the Queen Sofia Museum for contemporary art, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza. These three museums should be mandatory on a first visit to Madrid.