What to Do in Madrid for a Weekend

A Guide to a Perfect Getaway

Madrid is a vibrant city, full of life and leisure, that offers a wide range of activities and iconic places to visit during a getaway. From its rich cultural scene to its diverse gastronomy, there’s something for every type of traveler. If you only have a couple of days, here’s what to do in Madrid for a weekend to make the most of your visit to the Spanish capital.

And, as always, so you can enjoy the city with complete freedom, we remind you that it’s much more comfortable to explore without your bags.

Plan Your Two-Day Madrid Getaway

To enjoy Madrid in just two days, it’s essential to plan an itinerary that allows you to see the best of the city. You can start your adventure at Puerta del Sol, the heart of Madrid, for a photo with the famous Bear and the Strawberry Tree (Oso y el Madroño). From there, head to Plaza Mayor, a great spot to grab a calamari sandwich.

Continue your tour toward the Royal Palace, an impressive building that reflects the history of the Spanish monarchy. Afterward, you can’t miss the Prado Museum, which houses one of the most important art collections in the world. If you have time, visit Retiro Park, a beautiful green space perfect for relaxing before dinner in the bohemian Las Letras neighborhood.

Discover the Culture and Art of Madrid

Madrid has an exceptional cultural scene, and its museums are a must-see. In addition to the Prado Museum, which we’ve already mentioned, we recommend you visit the Reina Sofía Museum, where you’ll find Picasso’s famous Guernica. This museum is ideal for contemporary art lovers.

Another interesting museum is the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, which houses a private collection that spans from the Middle Ages to modern art. You can also visit the Museum of the History of Madrid, where you can learn more about the city’s evolution.

Many museums offer free admission at certain times, which is a great opportunity to enjoy these activities. You can check the opening hours on Madrid’s official tourism website.

Free Activities for Your Weekend in Madrid.

If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, Madrid offers a great variety of free activities. Some that you can’t miss are:

• A stroll through Retiro Park: Its gardens and the pond are a relaxing experience.
• Explore the Temple of Debod: This ancient Egyptian temple offers spectacular views, especially at sunset.
• Strolling through the Mercado de San Miguel: While eating there isn’t free, walking through the market and enjoying the atmosphere is a real pleasure.
• Watching a street flamenco performance: In some neighborhoods, you can find spontaneous shows.

Enjoy the Gastronomy and Nightlife

Madrid’s gastronomy is rich and varied. Start your day with a typical breakfast of chocolate with churros. For lunch, try the famous calamari sandwich in Plaza Mayor. And for dinner, explore the tapas bars in the La Latina neighborhood. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a vermouth on a local terrace, a true Madrid tradition.

Madrid’s nightlife is intense. The Malasaña neighborhood is ideal if you’re looking for an alternative vibe, while Gran Vía offers more elegant options and musical shows. If you’re in the mood for a historical plan, you can go to the historic bars of Madrid that we’ve reviewed on another occasion.

To get the most out of the night, remember that Locking lets you leave your bags safely and quickly, so you can move around the city without a worry.