Free Things to Do in Madrid

Like many other European capitals, Madrid is an expensive city, but this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a vacation without spending all your savings. Fortunately for people who travel on a budget, there are plenty of things to do and to see that are free of charge. Here are some of the free activities in Madrid, but this list can continue, depending on the length of your vacation.

Visit One of Madrid’s Amazing Museums On a Free Day

As you probably imagine, the capital of Spain is an oasis of culture. There is an impressive number of museums in the city and even if most of them are not free of charge, there are some days when you don’t have to pay a dime in order to enlarge your knowledge and amaze your eyes. Many of the small museums give you the chance to visit them for free on Sundays, but in order to make sure you pay nothing, check each individual website before you plan your visit.

Admire the Amazing architecture along Gran Vía

You can get closer to the heart of the city just by wandering around its beautiful streets. One of the best things you can do is exploring Gran Vía and admiring its New York-inspired architecture and the uniqueness of its historic theatres and cinemas.

Since there are so many inviting cafes, bars, and restaurants, you can also stop and indulge in a cup of coffee and a few delicious tapas while resting your feet before continuing with the inspiring stroll.

Relax in the Lovely Plaza de España

Plaza de España is one of Madrid’s most beautiful squares. Not only is it full with street vendors and charming people as well as a beautiful fountain, but it is also famous for hosting a monument of Cervantes, the Spanish writer who created “Don Quixote”. The character and his sweetheart, Dulcinea are also present in this amazing monument. Spending some time in this square is an amazing way t get closer to the city without paying a cent.

Explore the Egyptian Temple

You might not believe it but there is an impressive Egyptian temple in Madrid and it is definitely worth visiting. Located on top of a hill in Parque del Oste, the temple was donated to Madrid because Spain helped to preserve temples along the Nile. Not only is it free of charge but after you explore it, you can also relax in the green fields around it. Whether you just want to enjoy a glass of Rioja or have a picnic, the whole area and the sunset seen from this spot will charm you.

Pay a Visit to ‘El Rastro’

Madrid has a large open-air market and if you are in the mood for bargaining spending a Sunday morning in El Rastro is a great idea. There are 3500 stalls with everything from clothes to antiques so it is impossible not to find something suitable for you. Prepare yourself for an exciting atmosphere since the market is filled with locals and visitors every Sunday. This is a great experience even for people who are not interested in buying things.

Get in Touch With the Locals in Parque del Retiro

Parque del Retiro is one of the locals’ favorite open space. It is always filled with kids, families, and romantics who want to spend a day in the middle of nature. You can rent a boat and explore the big lake located in the middle of the park, rent a bike or just explore the park by foot and admire the beautiful views. In addition, art lovers can get some action by visiting the free exhibitions at Palacio de Cristal.

 Learn about Madrid’s History at the Bullfighting Museum

Madrid’s Museo Taurino is free of charge and it is a must if you want to have an unforgettable experience. Not only does the museum offer visitors a glimpse of the bullfighting history but you can also admire a famous painting created by Goya depicting a bullfighting scene. Many people would never go to such a show, but learning about the controversial tradition from its origins to the present day is a very interesting thing to do for all kinds of travelers.

Spend a Sunny Day Along the River

The Manzanares is a newly revamped river where locals spend many of their sunny days. Some prefer to ride their bikes, jog or roller-blade but many just wander around and relax. There is a great number of play areas for kids and a small beach-like spot where you can sit and admire the amalgam of people passing by.

These are just some of the free activities you can enjoy while visiting Madrid, but there are many others you can easily find just by exploring the city by foot. And if you find yourself stuck wondering what to do next without spending anything, don’t be shy, stop and ask the locals. People of Madrid are very friendly and always happy to help visitors interested in exploring their favorite city.