Top 10 things to in Madrid

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1. Do our daily Walking Tours
One of the best ways to get to know Madrid, is doing our walking tours.
Spend a few hours exploring the city, learn about the history, meet fellow travelers and
make friends as our experienced guides lead you on a fun and interactive tours in which
you’ll learn tons of interesting stories and facts, as well as getting insider tips about things
like where to shop, where to eat, where to get a drink or where to party.
We have 3 different walking tours:

* Classical Walking Tour - Madrid de los Austrias (The Habsburg)
In our Classical Walking Tour, we explore the historical centre of Madrid on a guided
historical tour that visits many important historical landmarks in the city centre including
Puerta del Sol, Plaza Oriente, the Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, Plaza Mayor, Plaza
de la Villa and many more.
For more info, visit this link:
https://www.wolvestours.com/classical-walking-tour

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* Modern Walking Tour - Madrid de los Borbones (The Bourbons)
The Modern Tour gets its name from the fact that it explores the part of central Madrid
where you can see many examples of the efforts made by king Charles III during the 18th
century to modernize and expand the city.
For more info, visit this link:
https://www.wolvestours.com/modern-walking-tour

* Street Art Tour:
The Madrid Street Art Tour is the perfect way to discover the city in a totally alternative
way. Accompanied by a professional guide, we will start with a brief history of how graffiti
started in the world, you will then have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of
the artists. With some of Madrid's best street art and other hidden gems, such as the
protected signature of Madrid artist “MUELLE”, visit the iconic and hipster
neighbourhoods of MALASAÑA and CHUECA, and the incredible Spanish broadway,
GRAN VIA, the cultural heart of the city.
For more info, visit this link:

https://www.wolvestours.com/street-art-tour

We also offer private ACTIVITIES & EXPERIENCES FOR GROUPS.
For more info, visit this link:
https://www.wolvestours.com/

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2. Visit Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor is one of the most iconic and historically significant squares in Spain. Its
origins date back to the 16th century when King Philip II commissioned architect Juan de
Herrera to redesign the old Plaza del Arrabal, which was a busy market area. However, it
was during the reign of Philip III in the early 17th century that the plaza took its final form
under the direction of architect Juan Gómez de Mora.
The square has witnessed numerous historical events, including royal ceremonies,
bullfights, public executions during the Spanish Inquisition, and theatrical performances.
Over the centuries, it has been rebuilt several times due to devastating fires, with the final
reconstruction in the late 18th century giving it its current appearance.
Surrounded by elegant three-story buildings with balconies, the Plaza Mayor is home to
the Casa de la Panadería, a former bakery that now houses Madrid’s tourism office. At its
center stands an equestrian statue of Philip III, placed there in 1848.
Today, the Plaza Mayor is a vibrant meeting point for both locals and tourists, offering a
variety of restaurants, cafés, and shops. It also hosts major cultural events, including
Madrid’s famous Christmas market.
Plaza Mayor’s Christmas market dates back to the 17th century, featuring over 100 stalls
selling ornaments, nativity figures, and holiday treats. It’s one of Madrid’s oldest and most
iconic holiday traditions.

Location: Calle Mayor, Madrid (Near Puerta del Sol and Mercado de San Miguel)

We always visit “Plaza Mayor” or “The Main Square” in our Classical Walking Tour.
For more information, join us every day at 11:15 AM to enjoy this tour.

https://www.wolvestours.com/classical-walking-tour

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3. Visit Retiro Park (El parque del buen Retiro)
Visiting “el parque del Buen Retiro”, or just “Retiro”, as it is referred to by locals, is a
fantastic way to spend a couple of hours outdoors on a sunny day, and considering that
Madrid is one of the sunniest cities in Europe, it’s no surprise that visiting Retiro is one of
the favorite activities of many Madrileños.
Situated in the heart of Madrid and spanning more than 140 hectares (350 acres), the
park features a large artificial lake, several statues, monuments, a variety of kiosks and
restaurants and even a public library. It is also worth noting that some of the remaining
buildings like “el Palacio de Cristal” (Crystal Palace), Palacio de Velázquez, Casón del
Buen Retiro (annex to Prado Museum) and Casa de Vacas also house art exhibitions.

One of the most curious features of el Retiro is “El Angel Caído” (The fallen angel), a work
by Ricardo Bellver, erected in 1922 and originally inspired by a passage from John
Milton’s Paradise Lost, which represents Lucifer falling from heaven. It is claimed to be
the only known public monument of Satan. It is also rumored to be situated at 666m
above sea-level.
For those not interested in seeing a statue of Lucifer, there are plenty of other statues to
see and things to do. You can rent a row boat and cruise around the lake or rent a bicycle
and ride around the park. You can enter the Crystal Palace or one of the many other
galleries. You can have a picnic, read a book under a tree, go for a run or a stroll, have
something to eat or drink in a restaurant or just relax and soak up some sun.
Retiro is a gift that keeps on giving and there really is something for everyone. Access is
free and the park is open from 06:00 – 22:00 in Winter and 06:00 – 24:00 in Summer. You
can go whenever you want, but if you are an art lover and on a budget it makes sense to
plan your visit to the park so that you can take advantage of the free visiting hours (Mon –
Sat 6-8pm, Sun + holidays 5-7pm) of the Prado museum which is situated just to the
west of the park.
It should be mentioned that the museum can get quite busy during these hours and that
you should try and be there about 30 mins before to ensure that you get to spend most of
the 2 free hours in the museum and not waiting in line to get in. The next item on our list
happens to be about Museums so keep reading for more info on el museo del Prado and
many of other great museums.

Location: Near Puerta de Alcalá & Prado MuseumMetro: Retiro (Line 2) or Ibiza (Line 9)Opening Hours: Daily, 6 AM – midnightEntrance Fee: Free!
We always visit Retiro Park in our Modern Walking Tour:

https://www.wolvestours.com/modern-walking-tour

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4. Visit a Museum
Madrid is home to a wide variety of great museums. If you are an art lover, you can’t miss
out on “the golden triangle of art” made up by three of the best art museum in the world
namely, El Museo del Prado, El Museo Reina Sofia, and El Museo Thyssen Bornemisza. If
history is more your thing then definitely have a look at the Madrid Museum. You’ll learn a
lot about the history of Spain and more specifically about Madrid and entrance is free. If
you are passionate about football then visiting the home of one of the most successful
football clubs in history, Real Madrid, will surely be a rewarding and unforgettable
experience.
There really is something for everyone. For a more extensive list of museums that includes
some basic information about each museum and their opening hours and entrance fees,
have a look at our Madrid Museum Guide in this link:
https://www.wolvestours.com/blog-museumsguide-madrid

 

5. Go see our Flamenco show
A beautiful and moving fusion of voice, guitar, rhythm and dance. An art form with
somewhat mysterious roots
Although flamenco has its roots in Andalusia in the south of Spain, Madrid attracts
performers looking to make a living from their art, and as such there is a rich variety of
performances being put on throughout the city.
No visit to Madrid or Spain is complete without a flamenco show. Flamenco is a
passionate expression of music, art and dance that will captivate you and emotionally
move you in a way that few other art-forms can.
Wolves invites you to one of the best flamenco tablaos in Madrid to have an experience
you won’t forget.
Contact us to reserve and get special discounts at the best tablao in Madrid, Tablao las
Carboneras. For more information, visit this link:
https://www.wolvestours.com/flamenco-show

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6. Visit San Miguel Market
You can’t come to Madrid and not try some delicious tapas. One of the most famous
places to to try them is at Mercado San Miguel. Nestled just steps away from Plaza
Mayor, this historic market is a paradise for food lovers, offering a taste of Spain’s rich
culinary heritage in one stunning location.
The Mercado de San Miguel isn’t just any market—it’s a piece of Madrid’s history.
Originally built in 1916, it was one of the city’s few iron-structured markets, reflecting the
architectural style of the early 20th century. After undergoing a major renovation in 2009, it
transformed into a gourmet food hall, while still maintaining its old-world charm.
Unlike traditional markets where locals do their daily grocery shopping, San Miguel
Market is all about gastronomic experiences. Imagine strolling through its elegant glass
walls, hopping from one stall to another, sampling the best of Spain in bite-sized portions.
From fresh seafood straight from Galicia to Jamon Ibérico, artisanal cheeses, and
delicious tapas, every corner of the market is a treat for the senses.
Location: Plaza de San Miguel, Madrid (next to Plaza Mayor)
Opening Hours: Open daily, usually from late morning until midnight (later on weekends).
Tip: It can get crowded, especially in the evenings, so visiting earlier in the day is a great
way to avoid the rush.

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7. Visit Debod Temple (El Templo de Debod)
Hidden in the heart of Madrid, near the Plaza de España, lies a remarkable monument
that seems completely out of place—an authentic Egyptian temple. The Temple of Debod

is one of the city's most unique landmarks, offering a rare glimpse into ancient Egyptian
history outside of Egypt.
The temple dates back over 2,200 years, originally built in southern Egypt, near Aswan,
during the 2nd century BC. It was dedicated to Amun and Isis, two of the most significant
deities in ancient Egyptian religion.
In the 1960s, the construction of the Aswan High Dam threatened to submerge several
historical sites, including the Temple of Debod. In gratitude for Spain’s assistance in
saving temples in Abu Simbel, the Egyptian government donated Debod to Spain in 1968.
The temple was carefully dismantled, transported, and reconstructed in Madrid, stone by
stone, finally opening to the public in 1972.
The temple is located in Parque del Oeste, a peaceful green space with stunning views,
especially at sunset. It was rebuilt to match its original orientation, aligned from east to
west, just as it stood in Egypt. Visitors can explore both the interior—which features
ancient carvings and inscriptions—and the exterior, which is beautifully illuminated at
night.
Location: Parque del Oeste, Madrid (near Plaza de España)
Opening Hours: Usually open Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays)
Tip: Arrive in the evening for the most magical sunset views

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8. Visit The Royal Palace (Palacio Real de Madrid)
Did you know that the Royal palace in Madrid is considered the largest functioning palace
in Europe? With a floor space of 135 000 square meters (1 453 128 sq ft) made up of
3418 rooms. Although most of the palace is not open to the public, part of it has been
converted into a museum that can be visited throughout the year, except for certain
predetermined dates and when it is inhabited by the royal family or being used for state
functions.
The history of the palace dates back to the 9th century, when a Muslim fortress stood on
this site. Later, it became a Christian stronghold, and eventually, the Alcázar of Madrid, a
royal residence for Spanish monarchs. However, in 1734, a devastating fire destroyed the
Alcázar, leaving King Philip V with no choice but to build a new and more majestic palace.
Construction began in 1738, with architect Filippo Juvarra designing an Italian-style
palace, later completed by Francesco Sabatini. Inspired by Versailles, the new Palacio
Real was built entirely of stone and brick to prevent future fires. The palace was
completed in 1764 and became the official residence of the Spanish monarchy.
Although no longer the official royal residence (the Spanish royal family lives in Palacio de
la Zarzuela), the Royal Palace of Madrid is still used for state ceremonies and official
events. It is open to the public, allowing visitors to walk through its luxurious halls and
gardens while soaking in centuries of Spanish history.
Location: Calle de Bailén, Madrid (near Plaza de Oriente)
Opening Hours: Open daily, but hours vary depending on the season.
Tip: Arrive early or book tickets in advance to avoid long lines!

Extra Tip: We always visit The Royal Palace in our Classical Walking Tour.
For more information, join us every day at 11:15 AM to enjoy this tour.

9. Eat churros with chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés
Chocolate with churros is one of the most typical food to try in Madrid and one of the
best places to try them is at Chocolatería San Gines. In Madrid, we eat churros mainly in
the breakfast, but considering that this place is open 24 hours, you can eat them at
anytime you want!
Founded in 1894, San Ginés started as a late-night café, attracting artists, writers, and
night owls looking for a warm, sweet treat. Located in a small alley near Puerta del Sol, it
quickly became Madrid’s go-to spot for thick, rich hot chocolate and perfectly crispy
churros. Over the years, it has welcomed celebrities, locals, and tourists, making it one of
the most iconic cafés in the city.
Location: Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5 (Near Puerta del Sol)
Metro: Sol (Lines 1, 2, 3) or Ópera (Lines 2, 5, R)
Opening Hours: 24/7, all year round
Price: Around €5 for churros & chocolate

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10. Do our Pubcrawls
You can't leave Madrid without experiencing the incredible nightlife that the city offers.
Our legendary pub crawl is the perfect introduction to Madrid’s famous party scene. We’ll
take you to some of the coolest bars in town, introduce you to lots of fellow travelers and
make sure you have an awesome night out. Enjoy every night 3 different bars + 1
nightclub!
Come and join the wolfpack! We know how to have a good time!!!
For more information, visit this link:
https://www.wolvestours.com/pub-crawl

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FIND MORE INFORMATION OF MUSEUMS AND THINGS TO DO IN MADRID, IN OUR WALKING TOURS & ACTIVITIES!

​https://www.wolvestours.com/​

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