When it comes to finding ways of enjoying your free time, Madrid doesn't disappoint. The Spanish capital is packed with world-class museums, expansive parks, family-friendly attractions, and a nightlife that buzzes all year long. Whether you're living in the city alone, with children, or a partner, there is plenty to keep you entertained. Here is just a small selection of activities to whet your appetite.
Fun things to do alone in Madrid
If you live in Madrid alone and want to make the most of your free time, there are options around almost every corner. While most activities in this list are great for group visits, we've honed in on a few that we think single expats might enjoy.
Go cycling!
With miles of priority cycle lanes, Madrid is an accessible city to explore on a bike. If you think the going will be a little challenging, take it easier by renting an electric bike.
Learn Spanish
A language exchange, or intercambio de idiomas, is an excellent activity for solo expats in Madrid, whether you're looking to fine-tune your Spanish skills or make new friends and acquaintances. Events are usually held in restaurants or bars and are organized to pair you with a native Spanish speaker. Expect to spend half the time speaking in Spanish and the other half in English/your native language.
Dive into the arts
If you're a culture vulture, explore Madrid's art galleries. Among the best-known are the Prado Museum (a vast collection of European art covering several centuries), the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum (an extensive private collection including medieval and contemporary works) and the Reina Sofia Museum (Spanish and international art including pieces by Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali). Learn more about the city's art with the Paseo del Arte Essential app and consider joining the Facebook group Madrid Art and Culture, which shares information about cultural events taking place in the city.
Tour the city
Get to know Madrid through a range of tours and experiences. Sample a range of Spanish cuisines and wines with Devour Madrid. Go on walking tours with local, knowledgeable guides and explore the urban art scene with a street art tour.
Things to do with friends in Madrid
While Madrid is an incredible city to explore solo, it's even more fun with friends by your side. Here are a few suggestions of how to take advantage of the capital's many exciting offerings with a group of friends.
Get close to top sporting action with a top-flight football match. Madrid's leading football teams, Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid, host games throughout the season. If you can't attend in person, watch the proceedings on a big screen in one of the many sports pubs. And go behind the scenes on a stadium tour.
Tap into Madrid's eclectic and thrilling nightlife scene. Start your evening by sampling tapas in a cozy bar along Cava Baja, one of the oldest streets in the city. Enjoy cocktails in one of the many hip cocktail bars and then head to a nightclub or disco to dance until the sun comes up. Before heading home, stop for hot chocolate and churros, hot fried dough snacks.
Summer in Madrid is the perfect time to grab your friends and revel in local celebrations and music festivals. There are festivals honoring saints in August, which present an excellent opportunity to learn about Madrid's culture in a fun and festive atmosphere. In recent years, Madrid has also become home to several significant music events like the Mad Cool Festival and Download Festival, which occur between June and August.
Things to do with family in Madrid
Many expats find Madrid to be an incredibly family-friendly place. This includes the bars, restaurants and cafés, which are very accommodating to youngsters. In addition to socializing in the city's eateries, here are a few other things to do as a family in Madrid.
Thrill to rides designed for adrenalin seekers and enjoy more leisurely family attractions at two popular amusement parks, Parque de Atracciones and Parque Warner. Send your body hurtling down slides and chutes at Parque Warner Beach, next door to Parque Warner.
Enjoy close encounters with hundreds of species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish at The Madrid Zoo Aquarium, a 20-hectare zoo and aquarium.
If your family loves winter sports, give Snozone a try. This year-round indoor snow park features runs for both beginners and experienced skiers and snowboarders. They also offer lessons for novices.
Things to do with a partner in Madrid
With its beautiful architecture, gorgeous parks, and delicious food, Madrid is one of the most romantic cities in Europe. If you're here with a partner, check out some of these unique and romantic things to do.
For a romantic sunset view, take the Teleférico cable car in Parque Oeste. You'll be treated to a beautiful view of the city, including landmark buildings such as the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral. Discover equally impressive vistas while enjoying refreshments in any of Madrid's rooftop terraces.
Flamenco is one of the most characteristic elements of Spanish culture. Learn more by taking in a Flamenco show together or booking a few dance lessons.
For a romantic afternoon, spend a sunny few hours strolling hand-in-hand in the beautifully manicured Retiro Park. While you're there, stop by the stunning Crystal Palace and the secret rose garden, hire a rowboat for a spin on the lake, and take refreshments in an outdoor café. You can also bring a picnic and spread out under the shade of a tree.
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