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Prado Museum
2026 Europe 50 - Best Things to Do

Prado Museum

9.8
4.7/5
1.3k reviews
The building that today houses the Museo Nacional del Prado was designed by architect Juan de Villanueva in 1785. It was constructed to house the Natural History Cabinet, by orders of King Charles III. However, the building's final purpose - as the new Royal Museum of Paintings and Sculptures - was the decision of the monarch's grandson, King Ferdinand VII, encouraged by his wife Queen Maria Isabel de Braganza. The Royal Museum, soon quickly renamed the National Museum of Paintings and Sculptures and subsequently the Museo Nacional del Prado, opened to the public for the first time in November 1819. Since it was founded in 1819 and over its multi-century history, the Museo Nacional del Prado has performed the important task of conserving, exhibiting and enriching a set of collections and works of art which, due to their close ties with Spanish history, are recognized as one of the most valuable compendiums of artistic expression known to humanity. Loans to temporary exhibitions are the Museum's most direct means of communication with society. They offer the opportunity of reinterpreting the collections while linking them to currentl issues. At the same time, they also provide an especially attractive scope for museography allowing for experimentation on new styles and technologies. They contribute to projecingt a new identity of the Museum by encouraging innovation, research and the public interest in its collections. With this intention in mind, the Museo Nacional del Prado offers its visitors a wide exhibition program while contributing to the promotion of its collections through the loan of works from its collection to exhibition projects organised by other cultural institutions, both national and international.Madrid · 1km from downtown
Las Ventas Bullring
No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Metropolitan Area and Henares Corridor

Las Ventas Bullring

8.8
4.3/5
305 reviews
The Las Ventas Bullring is built with red brick walls adorned with intricate arabesque carvings and semi-arched windows, exemplifying the unique Neo-Mudéjar architectural style of the Iberian Peninsula. It is Spain's premier venue for high-level bullfighting performances, where bullfighters from across the nation and the world take pride in performing. Located in Madrid's Salamanca district, the bullring was completed in 1929 and inaugurated on June 17, 1931. With a diameter of approx. 65 m and four levels, it can accommodate approx. 23,000 spectators, making it Spain's largest and most magnificent bullring. Bullfighting is Spain's traditional national sport, with the season in Madrid running from late March to early October. Performances are held every Sunday, with the San Isidro Bullfighting Festival in May being the most prestigious, attracting top bullfighters and often selling out. During the season, flags flying atop the bullring's gatehouse signal an upcoming event. The tour begins at the main entrance, one of 18 gates, distinguished by its grandeur and mosaic-adorned brick walls featuring the coats of arms of Spanish provinces. Victorious bullfighters exit through this gate to cheers. From the upper stands, visitors can observe the arena's layout: a circular sand-covered ring surrounded by multiple barriers to prevent bulls from leaping into the stands, with two escape gates for endangered bullfighters and additional gates for participants, medical staff, bulls, and cleaners. Visitors may then enter the arena itself, where fine sand quickly absorbs blood, sweat, and rain. This is the main "battlefield," where each performance typically features three matadors facing six bulls in 20-30 minute matches. Assistants (peones) provoke bulls with red capes, mounted picadors spear the bull's shoulders, banderilleros charge to plant barbed sticks in its neck, and finally, the torero duels the bull alone, delivering the fatal sword thrust. Exiting through the matadors' gate leads to the bullfighting museum, divided into five sections showcasing Spain's bullfighting history and art, including Goya's bullfighting scenes in the gallery.Madrid · 3.8km from downtown
Puerta del Sol
No. 6 of Best Things to Do in Metropolitan Area and Henares Corridor

Puerta del Sol

7.7
4.6/5
594 reviews
Puerta del Sol is the central square of Madrid, surrounded by many historic buildings. The square is now a venue for major parades, gatherings, and leisure activities for both locals and tourists. Whether day or night, it is always crowded and full of vitality. Square architecture Puerta del Solis semicircular, surrounded by buildings, many of which can be considered the essence of Madrid's urban architecture. To the south of Puerta del Sol stands the iconic old post office building (La Casa de Correos). This ancient building on the square is red and white, resembling a majestic palace. The clock tower in the center of the building is very famous. Every New Year's Eve, Madrilenians gather here to eat 12 grapes symbolizing good luck as the clock strikes midnight, celebrating the arrival of the New Year. Zero Point Marker On the sidewalk in front of the post office building, there is a plaque marked "Kilómetro Cero." All highway milestones in Spain are calculated starting from here, and the street numbering in Madrid also begins at this point. Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree The symbol of Madrid, the Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree (Estatua del Oso y el Madroño), is located in the eastern part of Puerta del Sol. This statue replaced the former ruins of Puerta del Sol and is now a very popular city landmark in Madrid. The adorable little bear stands upright, hugging the strawberry tree in front of it, looking lifelike. It is also a meeting point for many locals. Statue of Charles III In the center of Puerta del Sol stands the Estatua ecuestre de Carlos III Madrid. Next to the statue is a large fountain surrounded by flowers, with steps for visitors to rest. In addition, the architecture of the Puerta del Sol subway station (Sol) itself is a major highlight. The arched glass structure shines in the sun, and its avant-garde, shell-like shape is quite eye-catching among the traditional and classical buildings of the square. Activities in the square You can stroll around and take photos in the square, or sit by the fountain, feed the pigeons, and enjoy wonderful street performer shows. The area around Puerta del Sol is also a commercial district. You can find Topshop, Sephora, Springfield, and the Real Madrid flagship store. You can also see the building with the Tío Pepe Lettering, and El Corte Inglés is just a stone's throw away. The road to the north of the square leads to Gran Via, and to the west is the Callao commercial area, which is definitely a great place for shopping. In addition, the alleys south of the square are filled with many bars and cafes, which have a distinct local Madrid feel and are very affordable. You might want to try the experience of beer paired with tapas (Madrid snacks). Midnight scenery At night, Puerta del Sol is exceptionally lively. As the lights come on and the crowds surge, Puerta del Sol perhaps better interprets the essence of Madrid's nightlife. Street teenagers showing off their dance moves, sentimental saxophone players, whispering couples... all form a beautiful scene. If you happen to arrive here at midnight, facing the still-crowded square and the cheers rising one after another, please do not be surprised. This city is telling you in its own unique way: Welcome to Puerta del Sol, welcome to sleepless Madrid!Madrid · 29m from downtown

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Experiences you can't miss in Madrid

Featured Culture & history in Madrid

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Madrid: Happiness Museum Interactive Experience Ticket
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4.5/5
· 33 reviews
Duration: 75 mins
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Madrid: Machu Picchu - Journey to the Lost City Entry Ticket
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Madrid: Prado Museum Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket
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4.7/5
· 1.5k reviews
Duration: 1.5 hrs
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94.2% of travelers recommend
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Prado Museum + Royal Palace Skip-the-Line Entry+Guided Tour
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 4 hrs
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Museo Reina Sofía: Entry Ticket + Audio Guide
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Madrid Highlights Audio Tour: Imperial Landmarks and Art
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 1.5 hrs
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Featured Food & drink in Madrid

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Madrid: F1 Arcade — Formula 1 Simulation & Food & Drinks
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FromRUB 6,671.61
Madrid: 10 Tapas 2.5-Hour Cooking Class
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4.7/5
· 7 reviews
Duration: 2.5 hrs
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Madrid Premium Personalised Small Group Tapas & Drinks Tour
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Duration: 3.5 hrs
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Madrid: Paella & Sangria Classes- Seafood, Chicken & Vegan option
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5.0/5
· 55 reviews
Duration: 3 hrs
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FromRUB 7,775.54
Madrid: Tapas, Taverns & Local Stories
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Duration: 4 hrs
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Taste of Spain: Tapas Cooking Class with Bottomless Wine Pairing
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4.9/5
· 299 reviews
Duration: 3 hrs
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99.3% of travelers recommend
FromRUB 11,413.43
Madrid: Paella Cooking Class with Bottomless Wine Pairing
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4.9/5
· 638 reviews
Duration: 150 mins
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100 consecutive positive reviews
FromRUB 11,414.23

Featured Spa & wellness in Madrid

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Hammam Al Ándalus: Baño Relajante
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Duration: 1.5 hrs
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To sweat Madrid toxins in Hammam and enjoy the best couple massage downtown
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5.0/5
· 13 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
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Hammam Al Ándalus: Bath and Relaxing Massage
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Duration: 1.5 hrs
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Madrid: Bath, Kessa and relaxing massage
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Duration: 1.5 hrs
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Madrid: Arab Bath Ritual with 15, 30, 45 or 60-minute Massage
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4.6/5
· 11 reviews
Duration: 1.5 hrs
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Madrid: 90-Minute Arab Bath Ritual Hammam Al Andalus
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4.7/5
· 6 reviews
Duration: 1.5 hrs
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FromRUB 5,104.45RUB 5,373.11
Madrid: Hammam Al Ándalus: Bath, Kessa, and Relaxing Massage
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Duration: 1.5 hrs
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What are the must-do things in Madrid?

Don't miss these attractions in Madrid: Royal Palace of Madrid, Prado Museum, and Las Ventas Bullring. If you like Culture & history, try Atlético de Madrid: Self-Guided Tour + Museum Entry. If you enjoy Food & drink, try Madrid: F1 Arcade — Formula 1 Simulation & Food & Drinks.

You can give Madrid: F1 Arcade — Formula 1 Simulation & Food & Drinks and Madrid: 10 Tapas 2.5-Hour Cooking Class a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

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