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Free Time in Madrid
Madrid:
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Free time in Madrid? Take a look at the suggested activities below to add even more to your tour experience. Please note that these recommendations are separate from your included EF tour activities. Opening times, availability and fees for these free time activities may vary depending on the time of year and are subject to change. Please check listed websites for details.
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Museums:
52 Carretera de Santa Isabel; Metro line 1 to Atocha or 3 to Lavapiés. Open Monday through Saturday 10 am-9 pm, Sunday 10 am-2:30 pm.
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The Reina Sofía Museum features masterpieces of 20th-century Spanish art, including works by Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró, as well as collections featuring the best of Cubism, Fauvism, and other modern movements. The Reina Sofia is frequently ranked as one of the best art museums in Madrid. Entrance fee applies. Free admission Monday, Wednesday-Saturday 7-9 pm, and Sunday 12:30-2:30 pm.
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P.º del Prado, 8, Centro, 28014; Metro line 2 to Banco de España . Open Monday 11 am-4 pm, Tuesday-Sunday 10 am-7 pm.
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Madrid's Thyssen-Bornemisza is a world-renowned art gallery featuring an extensive collection spanning from the 13th to the 20th century. Housing masterpieces from Van Gogh, Caravaggio, Monet, and Picasso, it offers a unique journey through European and American art, complementing the nearby Prado and Reina Sofía museums. Entrance fee applies. Free admission Monday 11 am-4 pm.
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122 Calle de Serrano, 28006; Metro line 5 to Ruben Dario. Open Tuesday-Friday
9:30 am-3 pm and 4:30-7:30 pm, Saturday-Sundays 9:30 am-3 pm. Closed Mondays.
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Showcasing the private collection of José Lázaro Galdiano, a wealthy art patron and bibliophile, The Lázaro Galdiano Museum is one of Madrid's hidden gems. Housed in a stunning mansion, the museum features masterpieces by Goya, El Greco, and Bosch, along with rare books, jewelry, and decorative arts. Entrance fee applies.
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National Archaeological Museum of Spain
Calle de Serrano, 13; Metro line 4 to Colón or line 2 to Retiro. Open Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 am-8 pm, Sundays and holidays 9:30 am-3 pm.
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The National Archaeological Museum (MAN) in Madrid offers a fascinating journey through Spain’s rich history, from prehistoric times to the modern era. Home to iconic artifacts like the Lady of Elche, ancient Roman mosaics, and Islamic art, it’s a must-visit for history and archaeology lovers. Entrance fee applies. Free admission for 17 and under.
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Only in Madrid:
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium Tour
Avenida Concha Espina, 1, 28036; Metro line 10 to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Open Monday-Saturday 9:30 am-7:30 pm, Sunday 10 am-7 pm.
Located in the heart of Madrid, the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is one of the world’s most iconic sports venues, and home to the legendary Real Madrid Football Club. Since its inauguration in 1947, the Bernabéu has undergone several transformations, evolving into a modern marvel while retaining its rich heritage. With a seating capacity of over 80,000, it stands as a symbol of passion, success, and footballing excellence.
Visitors to the Santiago Bernabéu can explore its impressive features, including the trophy room, locker rooms, and pitchside, gaining an insider’s view of the club’s glorious past and exciting future. Whether you're a football fan or simply a lover of sports history, a tour of this legendary stadium is an unforgettable experience that brings you closer to the heart of one of the greatest football clubs in the world. Entrance fee applies.
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Various locations throughout Madrid.
An unforgettable cultural experience, the Flamenco Tablao brings the passion and soul of Spain's most iconic art form to life. Flamenco, a traditional dance and music style born in the Andalusian region, has deep roots in Spanish history, blending influences from Gypsy, Jewish, and Moorish cultures. In Madrid, the Tablao venues are the heart of Flamenco performances, where visitors can witness fiery, expressive dancers, soulful guitarists, and powerful singers in an intimate, vibrant setting.
These venues offer a unique opportunity to experience Flamenco up close, with professional artists delivering high-energy performances that showcase the raw emotion, rhythm, and skill of this captivating art form. The Tablao experience often includes dinner, allowing guests to savor traditional Spanish cuisine while enjoying the show, making it a truly immersive evening. Entrance fees apply.
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Calle de Ferraz, 1, Moncloa - Aravaca, 28008; Metro lines 3, 10 to Plaza de España or 6, 10 to Príncipe Pío. Open Tuesday to Friday 10 am-2 pm and 6 pm to 8 pm; Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays: 9:30 am-8 pm.
Offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience ancient Egyptian culture right in the heart of Spain, the Temple of Debod is one of Madrid’s most unique and captivating historical sites. This 2nd-century BC temple originally stood in the Nubian region of Egypt, near the Nile River, where it was dedicated to the gods Amun and Isis. In the 1960s, as part of an international effort to save Egypt’s historical monuments from the rising waters of the Aswan Dam, the Temple of Debod was dismantled and relocated to Madrid. In gratitude for Spain’s role in this preservation effort, Egypt gifted the temple to the Spanish government, where it was reassembled in the city’s scenic Parque del Oeste.
Today, the Temple of Debod is one of the few authentic Egyptian monuments outside of Egypt. Visitors can explore its impressive sandstone structure, adorned with intricate hieroglyphics and carvings that offer insight into the ancient Egyptian worldview and religious practices. Free admission; online time slot reservation recommended.
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Calle De Alcalá, 237, 28028; Metro line 5, 10 to Ventas. Tours daily from 10 am-6 pm, with the last entry at 5 pm. On days when bullfights are scheduled, tours conclude earlier, with the last admission at 2:30 pm.
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One of Madrid's most iconic landmarks, Plaza de Toros Las Ventas is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Spanish culture and history. Opened in 1931, this stunning bullring is the largest in Spain and one of the most prestigious in the world. Known for its grand neo-Mudejar architectural style, Las Ventas is a true masterpiece, featuring intricate brickwork, ornate arches, and detailed mosaics that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Spain.
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Las Ventas is home to Madrid’s most famous bullfighting events, including the annual San Isidro Festival, attracting visitors and aficionados from around the globe. While bullfighting is the venue’s main attraction, Las Ventas also offers a fascinating museum where guests can learn about the history of bullfighting, its traditions, and the lives of legendary matadors. Entrance fee applies.
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Fun Activities:
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Monasterio del Corpus Christi, Plaza del Conde de Miranda, 3, 28005; Metro lines 1, 2, & 3 to Sol. Open daily 9:30 am-1 pm and 4:30-6:15 pm.
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At the Monasterio del Corpus Christi, you can experience the unique tradition of buying delicious homemade cookies from cloistered nuns. Simply follow the signs to a small revolving door, place your order without seeing the nuns, and enjoy these sweet treats made from centuries-old recipes. Once inside the monastery, look for the sign that says venta de dulces.
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The Fountain of the Fallen Angel
Parque del Retiro, Glorieta del Ángel Caído, s/n, Retiro, 28014; Metro line 1 to Atocha or line 2 to Retiro. Open daily 6am-10pm.
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The Fountain of the Fallen Angel in Madrid’s Retiro Park is a striking monument dedicated to Lucifer, making it one of the few public statues in the world depicting the devil. Standing at exactly 666 meters above sea level, this dramatic sculpture captivates visitors with its dynamic design and unique artistic symbolism.
Calle de Cuchilleros, 17, Centro, 28005; Metro line 5 to La Latina or lines 1, 2, & 3 to
Sol. Open daily 1:30-4 pm and 8-11:30 pm.
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Founded in 1725, Restaurante Botín is recognized as the world’s oldest restaurant, serving traditional Castilian cuisine in a historic setting. Famous for its wood-fired roasted suckling pig (cochinillo asado) and rich history, Botín has welcomed writers, artists, and royalty for centuries.
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Foods to Try:
Perhaps the best known dish in Spanish cuisine, paella is a saffron-infused rice dish originating in Valencia which takes its name from the wide, shallow pan used to cook it over an open fire.
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A type of dry-cured ham, jamón is another of the most globally recognized food items of Spanish cuisine as well as a regular component of tapas, small Spanish appetizers.
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Tortilla de Patatas
This traditional Spanish dish is an omelet made with eggs and potatoes, and usually includes onions. Tortilla de Patatas is often served at room temperature as a tapa.
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Churros
A type of fried dough featured in both Spanish and Portuguese cuisine, Churros are made with choux pastry dough piped into hot oil from a piping bag with a large, closed star tip. Churros are often served with a cup of chocolate.
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Ponche Segoviano
A decadent pastry originating in Segovia, Ponche Segoviano's main ingredient is egg yolk coupled with ground almonds, and features layers of sponge cake soaked in syrup covered with marzipan decorated with icing sugar and a characteristic diamond pattern.​
Shopping:
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Gran Vía
Calle Gran Via, 28013; Metro line 1 to Gran Via or line 5 to Callao. Open daily; individual shop hours vary.
Considered the heart of Madrid's shopping scene, Gran Vía is Madrid’s most famous shopping street, packed with international brands, flagship stores, and stunning historic architecture. From high-street fashion to luxury boutiques, this vibrant avenue offers a dynamic shopping experience both day and night.
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Salamanca District
Calle Serrano and Calle Ortega y Gasset; Metro line 2 to Velázquez or line 4 to Serrano. Open daily; individual shop hours vary.
The Salamanca District is Madrid’s most exclusive shopping area, home to designer brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Prada. Strolling along Calle Serrano and Calle Ortega y Gasset, visitors will find high-end fashion, fine jewelry, and stylish cafés.
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Plazade Cascorro, 28012; Metro line 3 to Embajadores or line 5 to La Latina. Open Sunday and public holidays 9 am-3 pm, and the first and third Saturdays each month 9 am-4 pm.
Held every Sunday, El Rastro is Madrid’s legendary open-air flea market, offering everything from antiques and vintage clothes to handmade crafts. Located in La Latina, this bustling market is perfect for treasure hunters and those looking for unique souvenirs.
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Churches:
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Calle de Bailén, 10, Centro, 28013; Metro line 5 to Ópera or line 10 to Príncipe Pío. Open daily 9 am–8:30 pm.
Almudena Cathedral is Madrid’s grandest church, located next to the Royal Palace, featuring a mix of Neoclassical, Neo-Gothic, and Neo-Romanesque styles. Visitors can admire its stunning interior, beautiful dome views, and the crypt, which holds Madrid’s oldest religious relics. Free admission, donations accepted.
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San Francisco el Grande Basilica
Calle de San Buenaventura, 1, Centro, 28005; Metro line 3 to Puerta de Toledo or Line 5 to La Latina. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10:30 am-12:30 pm and 4-6 pm, Sunday 10:30 am-12:30 pm. Closed Mondays.
Known for its massive dome, one of the largest in Spain, San Francisco el Grande is a breathtaking basilica with stunning frescoes and artwork by Goya. Its richly decorated chapels and impressive architecture make it a must-see for art and history lovers. Entrance fee applies.
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Calle de la Puebla, 22, Centro, 28004; Metro line 1 to Gran Via or line 5 to Callao. Open Monday-Friday 10:30 am-2 pm. Closed Saturday and Sunday.
Often called Madrid’s Sistine Chapel, San Antonio de los Alemanes is a hidden masterpiece covered in vivid Baroque frescoes from floor to ceiling. Despite its small size, this church captivates visitors with its 360-degree painted interior and rich artistic heritage. Entrance fee applies.
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