10 Cool Things to Do in Madrid in Winter
Madrid is a fantastic year-round destination. The weather is generally mild, there are countless things to see and do, and wonderful day trips are just a step away.
In summer, and to some extent in spring and fall, the city can get very crowded. No wonder, it’s one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. However, winter tells a different story.
We have visited Madrid several times in winter and always had a blast. With fewer tourists, lower prices, and plenty of sunny days, it’s an amazing time to go. We highly recommend it!
Roam the Streets of the Old Town
Madrid’s Old Town is right in the heart of the city. Its focal point is the lively Puerta del Sol, from which ten streets radiate in different directions. Locals and tourists alike meet here to start exploring.
A few steps southwest lies Plaza Mayor, a late 16th-century square that once served as the main marketplace. It also hosted events ranging from bullfights to public penances during the Inquisition.
End your tour in La Latina, the oldest neighborhood of Madrid, famous for its fantastic tapas bars. If you’re there on a Sunday, don’t miss the iconic El Rastro flea market.
Order Tapas at a Local Tavern
Tapas are a must in Madrid. The best place to try them is in La Latina, especially along Calle de la Cava Baja. Our favorites are Taberna La Cava, La Perejila, and Taberna La Concha.
For a more local vibe, head to the Mercado de la Cebada, a favorite spot among young Madrileños where you can try Galician seafood.
If you’re after something upscale, visit Mercado de San Miguel. This beautiful steel and glass building brings together some of the city’s top tapas stalls, offering specialties like Iberian ham and aged Manchego cheese.
Visit the Royal Palace
Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, head to the city’s most important historic site: the Royal Palace. Madrid has been Spain’s capital since 1561 (with some interruptions), and the palace was and still is the official residence of the Spanish kings.
Built in 1738 over the remains of a Moorish Alcazar from the 9th century, the palace is the largest in Europe, covering 135,000 m² (1,450,000 sq ft).
Inside are more than 300 rooms, with an impressive art collection including works by Velázquez and Caravaggio. Once you’re finished, visit nearby Almudena Cathedral and the Teatro Real.
Admire the Egyptian Temple
You may wonder what an Egyptian temple is doing in Madrid. The Temple of Debod was a gift from Egypt to Spain for helping save the Monuments of Nubia during the construction of the Aswan Dam.
Dating back to the 2nd century BC, the temple was relocated piece by piece and rebuilt in Madrid’s Parque del Oeste between 1970 and 1972.
Take a walk through the park before returning at sunset. The temple looks stunning in the crisp winter light. For the perfect shot, capture it from the fountain with Torre de Madrid in the background.
Enjoy the Views from an Iconic Building
Plaza de España is one of Madrid’s grandest squares. Surrounded by architectural icons like Torre de Madrid, Edificio España, and the House of Gallardo, it’s a feast for the eyes.
Stroll around and admire the tall monument to Miguel de Cervantes. Then, step inside Edificio España, once Spain’s tallest building (1953–1957).
It is a great example of the so-called Francoist architecture. Since 2019, it houses Hotel Riu Plaza España. Head up to its 360º rooftop bar, order a drink, and enjoy the best views over the city.
Stroll along Madrid’s Most Elegant Street
If one street captures Madrid’s elegance, it’s Gran VÃa. True to its name, the ‘Great Way’ connects Plaza de España with Plaza de Cibeles.
Historically called the ‘Broadway of Madrid’ for its many theaters, today it’s more famous for its imposing architecture and lively atmosphere.
Walk the entire stretch, admiring the mix of Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Neo-Mudéjar, and Plateresque styles, before ending at the monumental Puerta de Alcalá.
Rest at the Parque del Retiro
Madrid’s green lungs, Parque del Buen Retiro, are an oasis of peace in this bustling metropolis. Originally a royal park from 1680, it was opened to the public in 1868.
The 1.4 km² (350 acres) park boasts landscaped gardens, sculptures, an artificial lake, and several pavilions. Don’t miss the striking Palacio de Cristal, now an exhibition space.
Rent a rowing boat on the Great Pond of El Retiro, admire the grand monument to Alfonso XII, and search for the 14th-century olive tree, the oldest in the park.
Visit Three World-Class Museums
Madrid is home to three world-class museums along the UNESCO-listed Paseo del Prado (it shares its title with El Retiro Park). Many people choose Madrid over Barcelona for its museums!
To the north lies the Thyssen-Bornemisza, renowned for its Italian, English, Dutch, and German art. To the south is the Reina SofÃa, specializing in 20th-century art, including Impressionism, Expressionism, and artists like Picasso and DalÃ.
At the center, the crown jewel: the Prado Museum. It hosts an extraordinary collection of European art from the 12th to 20th centuries, featuring Goya, Rubens, Titian, Velázquez, El Greco, and Bosch.
Join the Festivities
Madrid is famous for its festive spirit. On New Year’s Eve, thousands gather at Puerta del Sol to eat twelve grapes with each chime of the clock, one for each month of the year, for good luck.
On January 5th, the city welcomes the Three Kings with a spectacular parade. Carnival follows in February with plenty of family-friendly events.
Food lovers will enjoy the Gastrofestival in January and February, a 16-day celebration with over 400 venues. And if you’re around in late February or early March, don’t miss ARCO, Madrid’s Contemporary Art Fair.
Go on a Day Trip
While you could easily spend weeks in Madrid, day trips are a great idea. Within the province, three UNESCO sites are well worth visiting: Aranjuez, Alcalá de Henares, and El Escorial.
Further afield, Toledo, a former Spanish capital, is known for its medieval streets and riverside views. Cuenca, on the other side, is famous for its dramatic hanging houses.
For something off the beaten path, head to Tembleque, a picturesque La Mancha village with a unique central square, historic architecture, and classic windmills nearby.
Where to Stay in Madrid
Madrid offers some of the best hotels in the world. We often stay at Principe Pio Hotel. Located in front of the Royal Palace it offers some of the best views in town.
Another great option is Riu Plaza España, with its heated outdoor pool and unbeatable views from its rooftop.
If you’re looking to splurge, book a room at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel. Housed in a historic building, it features elegant rooms, nice views, and Spain’s largest urban spa.
