10 Reasons Why Madrid Should Be Your Next Travel Destination Madrid, the capital of Spain, is one of the most popular capitals in Europe. This cosmopolitan city has a dazzling combination of contemporary infrastructures and historical monuments. It also has a respected cultural heritage and an interesting and exciting history. The city is located in the middle of the Iberian Peninsula, and it stands majestically at 646m above sea level. Madrid has a semi-arid climate that is affected by continental influences, which means that the winters are cool and the summers are quite warm. Visitors to this vibrant European capital are assured of modern infrastructures which include affordable and conducive accommodations, a visitor-friendly environment, as well as the exciting tempo of one of the most important capitals in Europe.

Marvel at Spectacular Art Collections at Prado National Museum

This is an excellent traditional museum with many impressive classic paintings. The grand edifice promises great viewings of artworks. The huge selection of iconic paintings from masters all over the world are wonderfully exhibited. This museum is certainly one of the most important museums in the world. Prado also has free entry for kids, meaning that you can take your whole family along for an inexpensive great adventure.

Enjoy the Ambience of Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro)

Set aside a leisurely day in your travel itinerary because you will absolutely love taking a stroll through this park. Enjoy being surrounded by the locals, who also cannot resist the allure of Retiro. Rent a boat and row on the lovely little lake in the park. Here, the Spanish street performers are always on hand to treat you to first-rate Spanish entertainment. In the middle of the park, you will love the magnificent piece of architecture called Crystal Palace. Built with steel and glass, the work is simply stunning! Visiting this park is one of the best things to do in Madrid.

Step into Egypt at the Templo de Debod

A Journey into Egypt in Madrid! Visitors are always amazed to see how the sunset provides a magical backdrop for this temple. The Egyptian temple, after being saved from rising waters of the Aswan Dam, was brought over to Madrid as a thank you gift to Spain after all they had done to relocate temples affected by the Aswan Dam in Egypt. Set on top of a hill, the views from the temple are amazing and worth the free visit! After you have had your fill with this beautiful site, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautiful grounds surrounding it.

See More Art at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum (Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza)

This museum is another fantastic custodian of art in Madrid. The extensive collections of the museum cover pieces from the 1400s till today. Previously a private collection owned by Heinrich Thyssen and his son, it is now owned by the Spanish state and is open to the public.There are pieces by masters like Van Gogh and Picasso. Art lovers can add this to their list of things to do in Madrid.

See the Famous Guernica at the Queen Sofia Arts Center

Your enjoyment of this arts center is guaranteed whether you are an art lover or not. The place is worth a visit not just because of the outstanding Guernica (by Angelo Santos), which is the hottest attraction, but also because there are works by Miro, Picasso, and Dali. The Reina Sofia Arts Center has important historical materials like publications and posters, from which visitors can learn about the Spanish Civil War. There are also projections of old Spanish movies in the museum.

Get a Taste of Royalty at the Royal Palace of Madrid

The amazing thing is that the palace is open to the public! This palace boldly shows the extravagance, elegance, and splendor that is characteristic of royalty. You will also get to see magnificently decorated rooms, a throne room, a chapel, an extensive silver collection, and the royal crown. The downside is that photos are not allowed inside. Don't let that discourage you! There's another tour that includes the opportunity to see the ornate and fascinating royal armory. Be sure to book your tour in advance, because this is a major tourist site and one of the most popular things to do in Madrid.

Enjoy the Sights and Sounds of Milan at the Plaza Mayor

This picturesque square is a must-see in Madrid. Surrounded by tall buildings, the square is one of the top tourist attractions in Europe. You can also buy some souvenirs for your loved ones back home! Still wondering about what to do in Madrid? Sit back in the square and watch people while sipping some wine or walk through and enjoy taking photographs that will remind you of your great time in the city.

Visit the Home of Real Madrid FC at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

Hola, football fans! Welcome to the home of Real Madrid FC! This is a place absolutely worth visiting. Every week, millions of football fans all over the world tune in to watch the Spanish La Liga. You should plan to see this world-famous stadium that usually hosts phenomenal players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The tour package includes access to the football pitch, entry to the players' rooms and saunas, and visiting the guest rooms and VIP section. Trophies won by the team and the players are also on display. Enjoy a brief history of the football club, which will detail the club's major achievements from inception till present day. You can also buy original Real Madrid FC merchandise in the football club's expansive shop. A visit to the stadium is one of the best things to do in Madrid because the experience is unforgettable.

Enjoy a Variety of Culinary Delights at the Mercado de San Miguel

Titillate your senses at the Mercado San Miguel. This popular food market is exciting, chaotic, enticing and delicious all at once! Mercado San Miguel is a culinary emporium located in the historical center of Madrid. Here, culinary delights abound. There are delicious Spanish delicacies and drinks to be sampled from stall to stall. Enjoy biting into tapas, sweets, meats, stuffed and plain olives, seafood, sushi and lots of other offerings! Because of its strategic location, you can get right back to shopping after tasting the best of Madrid's cuisine.

Thrill Yourself at Gran Via

This is Madrid's own Fifth Avenue! Whether you are looking to have a cup of coffee at an open-air café or looking to splurge, this is a place you need to visit in Madrid. The size of your wallet does not really matter at the Gran Via, as there are many shops catering to all kinds of customers. If you are not looking to spend, you also have the extra bonus of relaxing and watching people. The street entertainers will thrill you with amazing artistic displays, reminding you that you are in one of the most vibrant European capitals. A visit to the Gran Via is one of the best things to do in Madrid, Spain.

Summary

Include a visit to Madrid on your bucket list and you will get to enjoy some of the greatest adventures. Give yourself the opportunity of seeing the Spanish people and their beautiful culture, their great history and their sensational cuisine, as well as the world-famous sights and monuments.