10 Places In Madrid To Visit For A Weekend While Studying Abroad

Here are the best places in Madrid to visit for a weekend! You do not want to miss out on these Madrid travel spots that are perfect for your weekends abroad.

1. Have a picnic in Parque del Retiro!

Similar to Central Park in New York, locals and tourists are found throughout the day stretching their legs in the park. While strolling through the park, visit the Palacio de Cristal, a beautiful palace, which is nestled within the park along with several gardens. You can also rent a boat to row across the pond, and grab some food from a vendor!

2. For the art and non art lovers alike: Reina Sofia, Thyssen-Bornemisza, and the Prado Museums.

These museums are a must, whether you enjoy art or not, they are need to see, “once in a lifetime” museums. Throughout the museums, you can admire multiple famous artist’s work such as Pablo Picasso, Botticelli, El Grecco, and Salvador Dali, just to name a few. If you are an art lover, plan on spending a whole day at the Prado, and you could probably squeeze in the Thyssen and Reina Sofia into one day.

3. Palacio Real (Royal Palace)

The Palace is the official residence of the royal family and has 3,000 rooms of ornate furnishings. Travel through time as you take a formal tour, or self-guided tour through this massive palace. Make sure the King is not in town, or you won’t be able to set foot in the palace!

4. Enjoy tapas while taking in the sights and sounds of Plaza Mayor.

This cobblestone square has been the home to host bullfights, public executions, and festivals, among many others. You will find local wine and tapas at restaurants lining the square. Enjoy people watching!

5. Want to experience the tastes of Spain? Find them all here at the Mercado de san Miguel!

Not far from the Plaza Mayor, this is an authentic Spanish market where you can enjoy the multiple decadents of Spain. From paella, a traditional Spanish rice dish, to leche frita, fried milk, a common Spanish dessert, you can find all things.

6. Stroll down Calle De Alcalcá & Grand Vía

Shop to your heart’s content while admiring the Spanish architecture and bustling streets. There are several boutique shops unique to Madrid, along with well-known brands such as Nike.

7. Eat “Churros con Chocolate” at San Gines.

You won’t regret making one or several stops at San Gines to enjoy the hands down best churros and chocolate in Madrid. Whether it’s for breakfast, or a late night snack, this delicious dessert is always a go-to!

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8. Take a trip to the past while you find your way into the Cave Bars.

Not far from Plaza Mayor, the cave bars are a unique take on the bar scene in Madrid. One of my favorites was Mesón de la Guitarra, a must-try is their sangria! It is not unlikely to find bands or musicians performing in these cave bars. This is one of my favorite places in Madrid to visit for a weekend.

9. Watch the sunset at Templo Debod

You can find locals watching the sunset here, join them for some of the best sights of Madrid. This temple was built in the 2^nd century and was given to Spain in the 1960s. It is free and open to roam around for as long as you like!

10. Catch a soccer game and cheer on Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

Join the crowds of Real Madrid fans and cheer on the soccer team. After the game, take a tour of the amazing stadium and gear up with all things Real Madrid! This is a classic one of those places in Madrid to visit for a weekend.

Let us know what you think about these places in Madrid to visit for a weekend in the comments below!

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