13 Absolutely Necessary Things To Do in Madrid

Brace yourselves, September is coming. And this means thousands of brand new English teachers and au pairs arriving to Madrid, not fully knowing what to expect from this wonderful city. Let us break it down for you in this simple article about 13 absolutely necessary things you have to do in Madrid. Do you still need your accommodation? Scroll to the end of the article!

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Welcome to Madrid – here’s what you should do at least once!

See also: How to get a NIE Number in Madrid: A Guide for EU Citizens

1. Visit at least one rooftop bar – we suggest Jardin Secreto on Calle Montera.


Photo source: Mandy Lutman

See also: Madrid’s Top 5 Hidden Rooftop Bars

2. Take a boat adventure at Retiro Park.

Photo source: Mandy Lutman

3. Spot this man.

Photo source: Mandy Lutman

Christmas wouldn’t be the same without him.

4. Or this goat!

Photo source: Nakedmadrid.com

You haven’t lived in Madrid until you’ve wondered about the existence and purpose of this goat.

5. Don’t lose your nerves when you go to Aluche.

No pictures needed. Just sympathy for all non-EU people in Madrid.

6. Overdose on churros. Con chocolate.

There are several best places to get churros in Madrid – some of the best churros can be found at the Christmas market on Plaza de Isabel II.

7. And on tapas.

Photo source: CityLifeMadrid.com

Best tapas in Madrid can be found at the typical markets – Mercado de San Miguel, Mercado de San Anton and Mercado de Fuencarral.

8. And don’t forget to have a mere dosage of Sangria.

9. Haggle your way through El Rastro market.

Photo Source: Mandy Lutman

You’ll probably only visit it once, but you absolutely have to.

10. Go on a romantic date in Jardines de Sabatini.


Photo source: Mandy Lutman

One of our favorite parks in the city! You also pass by Jardines Sabatini on most Madrid free walking tours!

11. Go hiking!

Photo source: NakedMadrid.com

We don’t have beaches, but we do have mountains with the BEST views.

12. Take a weekend trip out of town.

Because you WILL eventually get tired of the city.  Barcelona is always a good idea!


Photo Source: Mandy Lutman

13. And enjoy the magical sunsets!

More than once.


Photo Source: Mandy Lutman


Welcome to Madrid!