Madrid is a city that mixes history, art and urban life in every corner. If you are planning a getaway or are simply looking for places to visit in the center of Madrid, the historic center offers you a wide variety of options for all tastes. From unique museums to traditional markets, to royal gardens or unique palaces, the center of Madrid is the ideal starting point to discover the essence of the city.
Getting lost in the center of Madrid is one of the best ways to get to know the city. On this tour you will find some of the places with the most history and charm, ideal for tourists and also for people from Madrid who want to rediscover their city.
Located between Calle Mayor and Cuesta de la Vega, the Plaza de la Villa It is one of the corners with the most medieval flavor in the center of Madrid. Surrounded by historic buildings such as the Casa de Cisneros or the Torre de los Lujanes, this square was for centuries the administrative heart of the city. To walk around it is to travel to Madrid in the Golden Age and admire how politics, nobility and commerce coexisted in the same space.
This hidden gem in the center of Madrid is the residence of the Casa de Alba and houses one of the most important private art collections in Europe.
Inside you will find works by Goya, Rubens, Velázquez or Zurbarán, as well as historic furniture, manuscripts and unique documents. Guided tours offer an immersive experience that goes beyond a conventional museum: to explore its rooms is to delve into the history of Spain through one of its most influential families.
An essential option within Places to visit in the center of Madrid if you are interested in heritage and culture.
At the foot of the Royal Palace are the Sabatini Gardens, a haven of peace in the midst of Madrid's bustle. In a neoclassical style, these gardens were built in the 20th century on top of the old royal stables and today offer spectacular views of the Palace and its surroundings.
Perfect for relaxing, reading or simply walking, the gardens are also the scene of cultural activities during the summer months. If you are looking for quiet and beautiful places in the center of Madrid, this is one of them.
Located in the Ronda de Valencia, The Burning House is a social and cultural center that offers exhibitions, workshops, concerts and activities for all audiences. Its programming is committed to innovation and participation, making it a reference space for those who seek a different perspective on contemporary art and current social problems.
In addition, it has a terrace with spectacular views that becomes a meeting point during the warmer months. A perfect alternative plan if you are interested in urban art, sustainability or new cultural trends.
Nothing like visiting a local market to understand the soul of a city. El Antón Martín Market, located in the heart of the Lavapiés neighborhood, is one of the most traditional and authentic neighborhoods in the center of Madrid. Here, the stalls of a lifetime — greengrocers, butchers, fishmongers — coexist with more innovative proposals such as international food, organic products or urban art.
Ideal to make a gastronomic stop, have a drink at their bars or even buy a different souvenir. An essential place for lovers of cuisine and local life.
The center of Madrid offers a wide variety of plans: from historic places such as Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace Or the Puerta del Sol, to museums such as Thyssen-Bornemisza Or the Liria Palace, not to mention its alternative markets, gardens and cultural centers. Whether you're looking for history, art, or just taking a walk, you'll always find something interesting.
If you only have one day to explore the city, we recommend starting with Puerta del Sol, continue to the Plaza Mayor, visit the Royal Palace and walk around the Sabatini Gardens. At noon, a stop at the Antón Martín Market for lunch, and in the afternoon a visit to the Liria Palace , which will allow you to discover a lesser-known side of Madrid. End the day with an exhibition or concert at The Burning House.
Some of the must-haves on any visit to the city are: