Things to do in Madrid

The true joy here is in the day-to-day, where you can stop and chat with neighbors on your way back from the market, or linger over tapas or dinner. The art scene is big here, and comes in many shapes and forms, from a morning spent in Museo del Prado to a poetry reading at a cafe in the evening. Barrio de las Letras, or the Literary Quarter, near the historic center, is abuzz with activity most of the day, where you can enjoy terrace bars and walkable alleyways. It’s also where many locals go out at night.

Tapas isn’t just a tourist thing, many locals would agree it’s one of the best ways to spend time out with friends and family. However, it’s worth taking a cooking class to experience the real Spanish cuisine including paella and gazpacho. In a tapas-making class, you can learn more about the customs and traditions from professional chefs and business owners who sell the coveted jamón ibérico.

Take an art tour with a real artist

The streets themselves can feel like a museum with street art lining the sidewalks that are filled with grandiose statues; meanwhile countless art galleries and special exhibits can arrive at any moment, sparking creativity in the locals who want to be inspired. Luckily, there’s also a stable of some of Europe’s finest, and at times underrated, museums here including Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, Museo del Prado, and Reina Sofía.

Discover Madrid, medieval-style

See where kings and princesses watched medieval tournaments at Plaza del Alamillo, walk past medieval relics in Emir Mohamed Park, and more with an art historian as your local guide.

Go beyond tapas in the Usera district

This multicultural community is the place to go for delicious fare from around the globe, including Chinese and Bolivian fare, as well as Madrileño cuisine. Take a food walking tour with a passionate local who can introduce you to the best places to eat.