City Centre of Madrid: Best and Fun Things to Do in ‘Centro’
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone looking to soak up a lively city atmosphere, the centre of Madrid offers an unforgettable travel experience.
I’ve been to Madrid multiple times and enjoyed exploring the best things to do in the city centre of Madrid, as well as discovering some hidden gems.
Walking through the centre of Madrid, often referred to as ‘el Centro’, feels like stepping into a wonderful mix of history and modernity, where green spaces sit alongside busy barrios. The area is a blend of architectural highlights, like the majestic Royal Palace, and major squares and thoroughfares like the Plaza de España and Gran Vía. So join me as we explore the best things to do in the city centre of Madrid.
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Where is the centre of Madrid?
Madrid, the vibrant capital city of Spain, is unusually situated almost precisely in the geographic centre of the country. This central location makes it a focal point for travel and culture.
Interestingly, Madrid wasn’t always the heart of Spain. The honour initially belonged to the historic city of Toledo, which served as the capital until the 16th century. However, this all changed when the Royal Court decided to move to Madrid, transforming it into the bustling metropolis we know today.
The symbolic centre of Madrid is called Puerta del Sol. It’s a busy square and meeting point for locals and tourists alike. I found the hecticness overwhelming on my first visit but soon got used to its frenetic rhythm.
Planning a trip to Madrid? Check out these key services
🚖 How to book an airport transfer?
Get picked up and go directly to your location in Madrid with this highly rated Madrid airport transfer.
📌 What’s a great site to find tours and experiences?
Check out the best tours and activities in and around Madrid with Viator, like this wonderful live Flamenco show in Madrid.
🚗 How to hire a car?
Explore Spain at your own pace with a rental car from Discover Cars.
🛌 How to find hotels?
Find a great deal for your accommodation in Madrid with Booking.com.
How to get to the centre of Madrid from the airport
There are a variety of options for getting to central Madrid from the airport.
Taxi
Download and use one of the taxi apps in Madrid. As well as Uber in Madrid Bolt and Cabify are similar popular taxi apps in Spain.
On my trips to Madrid I’ve found that it’s a particularly confusing airport to get picked up from. There’s a pick-up area outside arrivals at Terminal 1 which you reach by crossing over the road, walking to the right and heading up a small metal flight of steps.
However, be careful to double check the pickup point in the app, as it’s not always there.
Alternatively, you can take an official white taxi from outside arrivals at the airport. However, there is a minimum fee of €20, which is pretty expensive if you’re not going far.
On a recent trip to Madrid, a taxi via the Uber app cost me €5 less than the official minimum price. Which was still expensive, as I was only going five minutes up the road.
Airport transfer
It can require a lengthy a wait to get an app-based taxi to collect you from Madrid airport, particularly if you’re arriving late at night.
To avoid the stress and delay, Madrid airport is a good place to treat yourself to a calming start to your trip and book a highly rated transfer to meet you in the arrivals hall with your name on a sign.
Metro
Madrid airport has its own metro stops, inside the airport area.
It’s on line number 8, the pink one on the metro map, and to get into the centre of Madrid you’ll need to change to one of the other lines at the stop called Nuevos Ministerios.
Metro trains stop at 1.30 am so if you’re on a late arriving flight you’ll have to take one of the other options.
Airport bus
The airport express bus (Exprés Aeropuerto) is a popular option, running 24/7 and taking about 35 minutes to reach the city centre of Madrid.
The bus makes several stops in central Madrid, including the key locations of O’Donnell, Plaza de Cibeles, and Atocha train station (it does not stop here between 11.30 pm and 6 am).
Tickets cost €5 and you can buy them from the driver.
Car rental from Madrid airport
Book your car rental in advance via Discover Cars and collect your vehicle directly at Madrid airport. The Discover Cars website is a great way to compare the price of car hire from different suppliers in one place.
Top 10 things to do in Madrid centre
Madrid has so much to see and do that it can be hard to know where to start. To help you, I’ve compiled this list of top ten things to do in Madrid, based on my own visits.
I’ve included a few things that are just outside of the zone that’s officially called ‘Centro’, as they are typically still considered part of the centre of Madrid form the key tourist sights.
Royal Palace (Palacio Real)
Let’s start this list of the top things to do in Madrid with one of the biggest attractions, both in physical size and visitor numbers. The Royal Palace, or Real Palacio, is an absolute must-visit sight.
This magnificent structure, which boasts over 3,000 rooms, serves as the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, although it’s mainly used now for state ceremonies.
Explore the numerous opulent rooms, including the Throne Room, the Royal Armory, and the beautiful Royal Chapel.
Don’t miss the stunning views of the Campo del Moro from the Mirador de la Cornisa, the palace viewpoint (which you can visit without a ticket as it’s outside the palace grounds).
A guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and grandeur of this iconic Madrid landmark.
If palaces aren’t your thing, swap a trip here for a tour of Real Madrid’s football ground, the Bernabeu, and discover part of Madrid’s sporting history instead.
Jardines de Sabatini and Campo del Moro
After you’ve finished admiring the grandeur of the Palacio Real, don’t miss a visit to the garden of the Campo del Moro. This gorgeous green space is wonderful for a stroll right in central Madrid.
There are fountains, a fragrant rose garden and shade provided by huge trees, plus an impressive regal view back up to the Palacio Real.
For even more garden loveliness, walk around to the ornamental Jardines de Sabatini, located next to the Palacio Real. Both gardens are free to enter.
Catedral de la Almudena
Situated right next to the Royal Palace is the next of the top ten things to do in the centre of Madrid, the Catedral de la Almudena, Madrid’s principal cathedral.
This impressive structure took over a century to complete and combines various architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque influences.
Inside, you’ll find stained glass windows, intricate chapels, a museum and a crypt. The cathedral’s dome balcony offers panoramic views of Madrid, providing a unique perspective on the city.
El Oso y El Madroño
If you’re searching for the best things to do in the centre of Madrid then you have to include getting a photo with El Oso y El Madroño on your itinerary. This is the symbol of Madrid and is a statue of a cute bear and strawberry tree.
The sculpture was designed by Antonio Navarro Santafé in 1967 and is a representation of the old city coat of arms.
It’s a super popular spot to get photos so be prepared to wait to get your own shot. With a bit of patience though you should be able to capture this iconic emblem of the centre of Madrid.
Reina Sofia
If I had to pick a favourite activity in the centre of Madrid it would be a visit to the Reina Sofia art gallery. I love this place and not just for the graphic art (although that is, of course, incredible). The building itself is wonderful.
Home to an extensive collection of 20th-century art, the Reina Sofia is renowned for housing Picasso’s ‘Guernica’, a powerful anti-war mural.
Alongside works by Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró, the museum also features contemporary exhibitions and installations. This is a real cultural highlight in the centre of Madrid.
Pro tip: there is free entry after 7 pm and on Sunday afternoons but the queues are massive. Head around the corner to the entrance on the corner of Ronda de Atocha and Calle de Argumosa and you might get lucky and walk right in, as I did.
There are many more free museums in Madrid.
Prado Museum
When in Madrid, you pretty much have to go to the most famous art gallery in Spain (and perhaps Europe although I’m sure the Louvre might have something to say about that).
The Prado Museum hosts a vast collection, including masterpieces by Spanish artists such as Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, as well as works by European masters like Rubens, Titian, and Bosch.
Whether you’re an art aficionado or a casual visitor, the Prado offers an unparalleled cultural experience in the centre of Madrid.
Retiro Park
Retiro Park is Madrid’s green oasis, offering a tranquil escape right in the city centre. This place is huge and I love it. There’s a boating lake, rose garden, statues and a Crystal Palace, an elegant glass structure hosting art exhibitions.
Enter the park at the grand La Puerta de Alcalá. Plan to spend a few hours here, it’s so vast and there’s so much to do.
My very favourite spot in Retiro park is the Jardines de Cecilio Rodríquez. This formal garden has pleasing checkerboard pathways and sculpted hedges. Plus there’s a flock of peacocks to keep you entertained with their noisy calls. It’s pefect for relaxing in.
Plaza Mayor
The grand square of the Plaza Mayor, with its striking red-bricked buildings and arcades, has been a focal point of Madrid since the 17th century.
Once the site of markets and bullfights, today it’s a vibrant gathering place filled with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Take a stroll under the arched walkways, enjoy a meal at an outdoor terrace, and get some of your best Madrid Instagram photos.
Plaza Mayor’s lively atmosphere and rich history make it a quintessential Madrid experience.
Casa del Campo Cable Car
Taking a ride on the Casa del Campo Cable Car has to be one the most fun things to do in Madrid. I loved my trip and was so surprised that you can be in busy, bustling Madrid centre one minute and then getting a bird’s eye view over the Royal Palace and the green fields of the area of Casa del Campo the next.
There are plenty of options for captions for your photos in my article on Captions for Spain if you need inspiration.
El Templo de Debod
An Egyptian temple might not be the first thing you expect to see in the centre of Madrid but head to Calle de Ferraz and it’s what you’ll find. A visit to this 2nd century temple is one of the more unusual things to do in the city centre of Madrid.
Gifted to Spain in 1968 and transported in over 1000 boxes that had to be reconstructed, this place is particularly atmospheric if you time your visit with sunset.
Shopping spots in the centre of Madrid
Madrid’s center offers a range of shopping options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for high-street fashion, luxury brands, or unique finds at a flea market, the city has something for everyone.
Gran Via is the go-to destination for high-street and well-known brands. This large avenue is lined with flagship stores from international retailers like Zara, H&M, and Primark, making it perfect for a shopping spree.
Walking down Gran Via, you’ll also find an cafes and theatres, providing plenty of opportunities to rest and recharge between shopping adventures.
For those in search of high-end luxury, the area around Recoletos and Calle de Serrano is the place to be. This elegant neighbourhood, part of the upscale Salamanca district, is home to designer boutiques and exclusive brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Prada.
On Sundays, the El Rastro flea market offers a completely different shopping experience. Located in the La Latina neighbourhood, this sprawling market is one of the oldest in Madrid and is a treasure trove for vintage items, antiques, and unique collectibles. It’s a must-visit if you’re looking for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Madrid Kilometre Zero – the actual centre of Madrid
When in Madrid you have to visit what’s considered the real centre of Madrid, which is called Kilometro Zero. This spot is the official starting point for Spain’s six national roads, symbolizing the literal and figurative heart of the country.
It’s part of historic Madrid and there’s a plaque marking this significant location, which is an ideal place to get a photo at.
Centro Centro Madrid
Somewhat confusingly, one of the best views of Madrid is located at an arts space called ‘Centro Centro Madrid‘, located at the Plaza de Cibeles.
That’s Spanish for ‘centre centre Madrid’ so don’t be mistaken if you’re looking on a map and see this marked. It’s not the actual centre of Madrid. However, it is located in central Madrid and is absolutely worth visiting.
I visited and was quite surprised by the high-level airport style security scanners at the entrance to the grand building.
You can enter the building for free, but it costs €3 per person for the lift up to the mirador (for skyline views of Madrid).
Pro tip: for the view point, you need to buy the ticket at the desk on the 2nd floor. Don’t go all the way up to the 8th floor without it, as there is nowhere to get a ticket and you’ll have to go all the back down and up again.
Hotels in the centre of Madrid
Luxury – Gran Hotel Inglés
The Gran Hotel Inglés, located in the vibrant Barrio de las Letras, combines luxurious modern amenities with historic charm.
This five-star hotel is located in a 19th century building and offers elegantly designed rooms, top-notch service, and an exquisite restaurant. Unwind at the on-site wellness centre or enjoy a cocktail in the chic lobby bar. Its central location makes it perfect for exploring nearby attractions like Puerta del Sol and the Prado Museum.
Mid-range – B&B HOTEL Madrid Centro Fuencarral 52
The highly rated B&B HOTEL Madrid Centro Fuencarral 52 offers an ideal blend of comfort, style, and affordability.
Situated on the lively Fuencarral Street, this B&B hotel offers modern, well-appointed rooms with free Wi-Fi and views of the city. Guests love the rooftop terrace, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring nearby attractions. With a welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and prime location, this hotel is an excellent choice.
Budget – Art Seven Hostel Capsules
For something a bit different (and cheaper) check out Art Seven Hostel Capsules. These space age capsules provide you with some privacy in a hostel setting.
Located in the heart of Madrid, this hostel offers innovative accommodation at an affordable price. Each capsule is equipped with lighting, a power outlet, and secure storage.
Map of Madrid Centre
I’ve created this map of the centre of Madrid and all the places listed in the top 10 things to do in Madrid centre. Click the arrow icon to the left of the map heading to view the name of each place.
How to get around the centre of Madrid
Walk
Many of the sights in the central Madrid are walkable and you’ll see a lot of the city if you are able to explore on foot.
Metro
If the distance is too far or you just want to get there quickly, the Madrid metro is a simple way to get around the centre of Madrid. There are 12 lines and the direction is indicated by the name of the last stop.
In 2024 you can get a 10-journey ticket for half price, at a cost of only €6.10 (plus €2.50 for the card itself). This is amazing value and the card can be shared with other people.
Just make sure you all travel to the same destination together or it’s possible you could be fined if one of you tries to leave the station without the card. It’s not required to tap out, as in London, but you could be asked by an official carrying out random checks.
Bus
There are over 200 bus lines to get you around Madrid, including night buses. It can be a little harder to get the hang of the buses than the Metro but Google maps will help you plot your route.
You can use the same 10 journey Metro card for bus journeys.
Car hire
You can of course hire a car to get around Madrid, which is useful if you’re combining a trip here with other destinations in Spain.
Discover Cars is a great way to compare prices and check availability of car hire in Madrid. They also offer free cancellation and have an excellent rating on Trustpilot.
Cycle hire
The centre of Madrid has a shared bike scheme, allowing you rent a bike from one location and drop it at another, all via an app. Download the BiciMad app in order to rent a bike.
Segway Tour
For a different way to get around the city, take one of the best Madrid Segway tours.
Where to eat and drink in central Madrid
There is so much good food available in the city centre of Madrid that you won’t go hungry. Check out these top places for a real taste of Madrid.
Chueca – head to this funky neighbourhood to enjoy the cafe culture. If the queues a La Desayunería are too long, go to Lilo around the corner. Their caramelised banana pancakes are delicious and the dragonfruit smoothy is a riot of colour.
Café Comercial – for a classic and classy Madrid spot that has been serving customers since 1887.
La Latina neighbourhood – you’re in Madrid, so you came here for the tapas right? Walk down Calle Cava Baja and make your own tapas crawl. Or book this great food and wine tour in Madrid. You’ll have a guide to take you around top local tapas spots and explain the produce you’re tasting. There’s an added bonus of ending the tour with a delicious rooftop cocktail.
San Ginés – this chocolateria is an institution in the centre of Madrid. Enjoy the churros con chocolate to give your day a real sweet taste.
Café Central – to end your day on a musical note, head to this great jazz cafe for a bite to eat with a musical accompaniment. Booking in advance is advised.
FAQ
Is Madrid worth visiting?
Madrid is worth visiting. It’s a must-visit destination with an appealing blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. From world-class museums like the Prado and the Reina Sofia to vibrant neighbourhoods filled with tapas bars and lively plazas, Madrid provides a unique and unforgettable city break travel experience.
What is the most central place in Madrid?
The most central place in Madrid is Puerta del Sol, considered the heart of the city. This bustling square is home to the iconic Kilometre Zero plaque, from which all distances in Spain are measured. Puerta del Sol is a popular meeting point and a great starting place for exploring Madrid.
What is considered the centre of Madrid?
The centre of Madrid is commonly referred to as ‘Centro’, which includes several key areas, including Sol, Gran Via, and Plaza Mayor. This area is packed with historic landmarks, shopping streets, and a vibrant nightlife, making it the lively centre of the city.
What is the main square in Madrid called?
The main square in Madrid is called Plaza Mayor. This grand, historic square is surrounded by beautiful buildings and filled with cafes and shops. It gets busy but it’s a perfect spot for people-watching, enjoying the local cuisine, and soaking up the city atmosphere.
Is Madrid walkable?
Yes, Madrid is highly walkable, especially around the central areas and sights. The city’s compact layout and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to explore the major attractions on foot. Whether you’re strolling down Gran Via or wandering through the historic neighbourhoods, walking is an enjoyable way to see the city.
What is Madrid Downtown called?
Madrid’s downtown area is called ‘Centro’. This is a large area which includes popular locations such as Sol, Gran Via, and Plaza Mayor, where you can experience the best of the Madrid’s shopping, cuisine and cultural attractions.