Original ideas for what to do in Madrid

Madrid is the city of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree. It’s the city of the calamari and aioli baguette, Plaza de Cibeles and the Almudena Cathedral. It’s the capital of Spain and one of Europe’s most happening cities. Whether you’re visiting as a family, as a couple or as a solo traveler; Madrid really does have something for everyone. Leisure in Madrid is diverse, and we know that you don’t want to miss out. Organize your weekend to make every minute count!

Leisure in Madrid is endless, and sometimes more options makes it difficult to choose. With this in mind, we’ve prepared a selection of the city’s top highlights for you. Read on… and don’t miss out!

Madrid is the most populous city in Spain, and the second biggest capital in the EU, with a rich historical footprint that has left us with great cultural diversity. Taking a stroll through the center is a luxury within everyone's reach. We recommend checking out a free tour; what better way to learn about the city’s magical charms than with a professional guide! There’s also a wide variety of museums that will appeal to all audiences:

• Prado Museum: Discover the most iconic works by international artists at this world-famous gallery. Don't forget to see Las Meninas!

• Reina Sofía Museum: If contemporary art is your thing, this is your place. There’s a different exhibition each month, so be sure to check the program before your visit.

• Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum: Art lovers of all ages will delight at this Madrid enclave. See also its temporary exhibitions.

• The Wax Museum: if you’re visiting Madrid with children, we’re sure that this will be a hit. Laughter is guaranteed as the kids see a roll-call of their favorite celebrities!

Madrid also offers many of the top shows of our times. From the Lion King musical to Grease, if you’re looking for an unforgettable night on the town, Madrid has a program of activities for all audiences. Music lovers will relish the city’s wide range of live concerts. Every month, major international artists include the Spanish capital in their tour, because of our reputation as a party city. Artists of all kinds await you in Madrid to share a unique experience with you.

Foodie travelers will love visiting the city's restaurants; there are all kinds catering to all tastes. Discover the many Indian eateries in La Latina, the beautiful Italian restaurants of the Big Mamma group, and the countless charming corners of Malasaña and Chamberí. And how about trying out one of the markets where you will find a variety of styles, tapas and much more at their stalls? Come and taste international cuisine without leaving the city!

And if you’re still wondering what to do in Madrid this weekend with your family, we have even more alternatives. How about a stroll downtown? You can round it off with a picnic in the Retiro Park. The kids can play outdoors while the young at heart disconnect from the hustle and bustle by breathing the fresh air. A guaranteed perfect day!

Are you a history lover? Discover the Madrid of Cervantes while walking through the Barrio de las Letras (Literary Quarter), visit his monument in Plaza de España and go to the Cariátides Building, which houses the Cervantes Institute. Walk towards the Cibeles fountain, the famous meeting point for fans of Real Madrid. Visit the museums and eat a typical calamari baguette in the Plaza Mayor. You’re now a true Madrileño!

We get it: you don't want to leave Madrid without seeing its most iconic sights. However, we all like to try new things, so we’ve decided to offer you some alternative, less conventional options as well.

Are you a sports lover? If the answer is yes, you’ll love what we’re going to tell you. Madrid is a sporty city, ideal for those who can’t sit still! Choose your sports activity and fit it into your itinerary, starting with X-Madrid, a unique experience and a must for sporty travelers. It’s an innovative and surprising place to visit in Madrid. We know, you must be wondering how on earth you're going to go scuba diving in the middle of a shopping mall. Sorry, we're not going to tell you anything in advance... you'll have to check it out for yourself!

However, if shopping and boutique stores are more your thing, going to X-Madrid is still a great idea. Discover unique shopping experiences ranging from a store that specializes in Funkos to an exclusive taste of the magical world of Harry Potter. In addition, in the same center you’ll find all kinds of sports including climbing, skiing and skateboarding, perfect whether you’re participating or just watching. And of course, there’s a great range of mouth-watering restaurants.

If you want to bring out your inner Sherlock Holmes, Madrid has plenty of the latest craze: escape rooms. For adventure lovers, we recommend the “Enigma Express” room, which offers three different games. For those traveling with children, we suggest “Aventurico Madrid”, which offers three games that are ideal for all audiences, inspired by Alice in Wonderland and Harry Potter... we know you’re looking forward to it!

If you like the vintage look and you’re environmentally minded, why not take a walk through the second-hand shops of Malasaña. No matter your style or your tastes, we’re sure you’ll find the ideal garment for you. These stores are stacked with fashion that tells a story, and many can even connect you to their former owners and their history if you wish.

Bookworms, don't worry, we haven’t forgotten about you! Madrid has what you’re looking for. Make the most of a bright sunny morning to stroll through the Cuesta de Moyano Book Fair, set out in stalls where you can find books on any subject. Yes, yes, we know what you’re thinking: Madrid has something for everyone!

If you’re still looking for original ideas for what to do in Madrid and you love animals, we have the perfect solution for you. Madrid Zoo Aquarium is located in Casa de Campo, one of the city’s largest parks. Thousands of families have enjoyed a fantastic day out here since our opening in 1972. The Zoo has been steadily growing over the last fifty years, becoming one big family that’s looking forward to inviting you into our home.

Thanks to Madrid Zoo Aquarium you can travel to all the world's continents without leaving Madrid. Once here, you’ll visit Africa, Asia, North America, South America, Europe, Central America and the Caribbean and Oceania. You’ll be amazed as you enter the African Savannah, and you’ll get a chance to meet the king of the jungle, the Asian lion. You’ll travel to the Old West looking up at the flight of its iconic birds and you’ll enjoy the exoticism of the birds of the south of the continent. And last but not least… you’ll feel proud to come face to face with our famous Iberian lynx. We’ve all dreamed of going around the world... and at Madrid Zoo Aquarium we make it easy for you!

Travelers with children may be interested to know that in our Zoo you’ll find educational activities that will allow you to create an extraordinary bond with our animals. Understanding the importance of the animals’ well-being will help kids understand the importance of nature and its conservation, as well as that of the different species. At Madrid Zoo Aquarium we are involved in the happiness of all our visitors, and we want to leave a mark on your hearts forever.

Take a chance on our Zoo and we guarantee a very special and unforgettable day for everyone. In the end, every human being is united by the same thing: nature. Enjoy it like never before and connect with our animals; you’ll learn a lot from them.

You were looking for original ideas of what to do in Madrid this weekend, and now you don't know what to choose! Go for the option that makes the whole family happy and that gives you unique experiences to remember, because life is made up of memories. If you have time, try them all, because we’ve chosen them with great care. Madrid opens the doors to countless experiences, so enjoy yourself