fun things to do in madrid for families

Bring a camera to capture your head on a plate, your friend as a giant, and 3D mirages appearing out of nowhere. By day, there's a charge to view the Museo del Prado 's massive collection of 1500 artworks, but the museum is free to visit from 6pm to 8pm Monday to Saturday and from 5pm to 7pm on Sunday. The medieval Castle of Buitrago, the historic hilltop ruins of the Palacio del Bosque, the myriad nature walks in the area, and the Museum Picasso Eugenio Arias Collection combines to make this off-the-beaten-path small town well worth an entire day of exploring. While Madrid is an incredible city to explore solo, it's even more fun with friends by your side. 2. Meanwhile, the museum makes a point of pioneering the innovation and creativity of young people, providing a place to display their art, as well as conducting workshops on environmental and local issues. And with beer on tap, plenty of pub grub, and a typically lively atmosphere, it makes for a great group activity before heading out on the town for the evening. If youre still frothing museums, the little-known Naval Museum sits just across the road too. An imposing site, particularly when quiet, it was commissioned by Francisco Franco and designed by architect Diego Mendez in 1941, standing above an underground church and tomb. Or, for a more urban picnic spot, check out Parque de El Capricho an 18th-century park with beautiful landscaping, bridges, grottoes, and pavilions. As such, it remains a deeply divisive symbol for many Spaniards, and visitors are advised to respect the views of those who lost loved ones during the civil war. No matter which you visit, each theatre provides an intimate and enriching experience thats sure to be one of the highlights of your Madrid itinerary. Theyll pack plenty of high-quality food so no one goes hungry and deliver it to you at the time and place you choose. As your guide gives you the gastronomic lowdown, youre whisked away to some of the citys best restaurants, cafes, and marketers for free tastings. You can either go one-way or do a round trip between Pintor Rosales and Madrid's huge Casa de Campo park. Two of footballs European heavyweights square off against each other in the Madrid Derby: Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, who play at the Bernabeu and Wanda Metropolitano respectively. Spaniards take their kids everywhere, so you'll have no trouble finding a kid-friendly class, as most allow children. Finding itself on many a postcard and Instagram story, the grand and picturesque Imperial City of Toledo is renowned for its brilliant buildings, narrow stone streets, its rich history, and its cultural diversity. Just under an hours drive northwest of Madrid sits the UNESCO-listed Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, one of Spains grandest and most significant royal palaces. At just 3, its a helluva bargain, Of course, if you want a more in-depth understanding of whats on show, guided tours in English are also available for a small fee. One of the most famous and must-see attractions in Madrid is the Prado Museum. Great shopping district in Madrid's fabulous historical centre. Fancy yourself somewhat of a Sherlock Holmes in the making? A beloved Spanish artist from the late 19th/early 20th century, Joaqun Sorolla is often referred to as the master of light. The official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, the Royal Palace of Madrid is a beautiful royal residence that you can actually visit. 1.3 Royal Palace 1.4 Plaza Mayor & Puerta del Sol 1.5 Kid-Friendly Walking Tour 2 Best Parks for Kids 2.1 Retiro 2.2 Madrid Rio 2.3 Casa de Campo 2.4 Parque de Atracciones 2.5 Parque Warner 3 Kid-Friendly Museums 3.1 Museo del Ferrocarril La Rosaleda, Jardines del Retiro. These days, the palace is open to the public and there are several ways to explore it. Having opened recently in 2020, with one of the largest collections of optical illusions in Europe, the head-scratching museum beckons curious-minded travelers to explore some of the science behind how we see (and dont see) things. Now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aranjuez was once the country retreat for Spanish royalty and as such, no expense was spared on its construction or decoration. If you can, try to visit both during your time in Madrid. Sure, its impressive, but its also crowded, and hot, if you visit during the summer! But even if the weather isnt cooperating, the views from Faro de Moncloa are still well worth the price of admission. With each bell, which is 12 in total, people have to eat a grape as it signals good luck. And if you happen to be visiting in December, dont miss the opportunity to see the street all decked out in lights for Christmas! Buen provecho! No matter the time of day, these squares are always lively, with tourists, street performers, quick eats, people-watchers, and more. The passionate Flamenco art form is synonymous with Spain, so catching a show is considered one of the non-negotiable things to do in Madrid or anywhere in Spain (like Barcelona, Valencia, or Seville) for that matter! A gift from the Egyptian government to the Spanish people in 1968 as a gesture of gratitude for all the help they provided during the construction of the Aswan Dam (which saved the Abu Simbel temple) today it stands as a monument to international friendship and as one of Madrids most popular tourist attractions. Pasadizo de San Gins, 5, 28013 Madrid, Spain. Go to the content Go to the footer No thanks A sprawling metropolis rich in history, culture, and nightlife not to mention the tantalizing tapas the Spanish capital welcomes over 6 million tourists each year, all of whom walk away with nothing but amazing memories. ), as well as a few museums and cafes. 22 Oct. Hot tip: dont miss the awe-inspiring Toledo Cathedral, one of the most impressive Gothic buildings in all of Europe (dating back to the 13th century), likewise the Alczar, a vast and imposing former royal palace that today houses the citys Army Museum. From Madrid: Toledo, Segovia, & Alcazar Small-Group Tour Toledo Wine Tasting and 7 monuments tour from Madrid The Ultimate Spanish Cuisine Tour of Madrid (great in winter!) 11. And what better place to tick it off your bucket list than Madrid? And if youre happy to jump the border, Lisbon and Porto are two of Europes most underrated cities, offering a more affordable experience that most of their Western European counterparts. As for the Orchestra itself, with a long history dating all the way back to 1937, its no surprise that the Spanish National Orchestra is one of the best in Europe. Sky-seeking tourists can glide above the rocky landscape around Toledo, the hilly surroundings of Guadarrama, or over Segovias granite buildings. The Royal Palace is located at Calle de Bailn, s/n, 28071 Madrid, Spain. Spain prides itself on its music, both classic and contemporary, so itd be remiss of us to not mention the audible delight that is the Spanish National Orchestra. Lined with vibrant cafes and restaurants . Check. And when youre done exploring the museum, train-lovers can take the vintage Tren de la Fesa (Strawberry Train) train ride between Madrid and Aranjuez, and hungry visitors can dine in a 1930s restaurant car! Within the walls, lavish decorations and grandiose architecture provide a window into how the other half once lived, making this one of Madrids most popular tourist attractions. Other highlights include the Main Staircase (perfect for dramatic photos) and the majestic Hall of Columns. 1. Overall, the slew of events fit into one of four different categories: Culture, Solidarity, Environment and Education. Spread over 15 rooms and 3 floors, and conveniently located a short walk from the famous fountains of Neptuno and Cibeles, this is one of the most unique things to do in Madrid. History aside, as a university city nowadays, Segovia is regularly thriving with a young and vibrant energy, giving it a unique edge compared to your typical ancient village. From the 12th century all the way up to the early 20th, the Prados massive collection of exquisite paintings, detailed sculptures, ancient prints, raw sketch drawings, and historic documents from famous artists chronicle both Spanish history and the development of Western art as a whole. Hot tip: While youre in the area, wander over to the planetarium and take a stroll around the serene Enrique Tierno Galvn Park. From stylish hotels fit for royalty to Airbnbs in the city center to luxury apartments and boutique, centrally-located stays, youre spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing from the best places to stay in Madrid. Michelin star-winning chef Dani Garcia has compiled his best dishes in a relaxed restaurant on the 7th floor of the Four Seasons hotel, complete with stellar rooftop views! With plenty of pyrotechnics, drifting cars, and a peppering of audience interaction, this is one show thats not to be missed! Wielding the coveted title of the worlds oldest restaurant, founded in 1725, Sobrino de Botn is an essential stop on any Madrid food tour. The ultimate thrill-seekers activity, skydiving is an unforgettable experience that everyone should try at least once in their life. Museo Del Prado Photo credit: Canva Pro Photo credit: Canva Pro With different themes, difficulty levels, and time limits on offer, theres an escape room to suit everyone in this city; Leave present-day Madrid behind and walk into the Cold War, Death Row, or the Midnight Train with only 60 minutes to escape and nothing but your problem-solving ability and out-of-the-box thinking! Try different challenges with your friends, score points and get competitive but dont forget to bury the hatchet after youre done (so to speak). If you prefer urban vistas, flights operate over the quaint villages of Segovia and Avila (to name just a couple), where the twisting streets juxtapose brilliantly with the rolling hills which surround them. The result is brilliant experimental art, capped off with an open-air rooftop theatre showing avant-garde films with drinks to boot! Open since 1969, it's the third oldest amusement park in Spain and a great escape for singles or the entire . See the impossible with your very own eyes! Fill up a picnic basket and enjoy it at a park or in your hotel, or take a seat at the market itself and dive into tapas created by renowned Michelin Star chefs. Visitors typically love the Francisco Goya collection, whose works of portraits, battles, and myths inspired both Picasso and Dali. It's open Monday to Saturday from 10 to 6 and on Sunday from 10 to 4 in the winter. This chocoholic cafe has been slinging churros, remarkably, since 1894! The Valley is home to the worlds largest cross, which at 500 feet tall, can be seen from miles away. Younger travelers typically love shooting water pistols, frolicking through the wave pool or water jets, and the mini-slides on offer (almost every adult ride has a miniaturized kids version). Santiago Bernabeu Stadium 22,923 Arenas & Stadiums Chamartn Open now Spread across 49 acres and holding the title of the citys oldest theme park, this huge green space in the Casa de Campo is home to over 35 different attractions, from high-octane roller coasters to more relaxed family rides, plus a water park for cooling off on hot summer days. Top Experiences and Tours in Madrid: Madrid Royal Palace Skip-the-line guided tour (top-selling tour!) Check the website to see whats on. ), oenophile travelers can learn how the world-famous wines from this region have endured the harsh weather for hundreds of years, and go behind the scenes at a handful of different wineries (changes depending on your tour of choice), Epitomising the essence of holiday, youll try the abundance of tasty blends (especially those with dark, fruity aromas), and admire the countryside peppered with beautiful vineyards, villages, and castles as you drive through the sun-kissed region. Despite its proximity, the unspoiled forests of Guadarrama National Park feel a world away from the energetic Spanish capital. Highlights include insights into Ferdinand Magellans circumnavigation of the globe (the first to do so! A surefire way to light up the social media feed, this family-friendly attraction showcases more than 80 exhibits that will trick your mind. Phone +34 913 65 65 46. Santiago Bernabeu Stadium 22,966 Arenas & Stadiums Chamartn Why not put your sense of adventure and discovery to the test with a fun scavenger game around Madrid? Make no mistake, photo ops are aplenty. So if youre in Madrid and looking for a truly special experience, snag some tickets to one of their concerts at the National Music Auditorium simply check the website to see whats playing during your stay. So, whether you come for the art or just want to enjoy one of Madrids most breathtaking vantage points, the Crculo de Bellas Artes is definitely worth a visit. Puy du Fou Espaa is located about an hours drive from Madrid, making it a perfect day trip for those looking to add a little bit of adventure to their Spanish vacation. In a city with huge parks, where it rarely rains and the suns always shining, a picnic is the best way to enjoy Madrids great outdoors! Sol. 59 Cooking Classes from 88.59 per adult Private Tour to Toledo from Madrid with Guide and Private Driver 94 Bus Tours from 519.03 per group (up to 7) Hop off at any point that interests you, then simply re-board the bus when youre ready to move on. After being securely harnessed, its just a matter of taking that leap of faith and enjoying the ride! The unsung museum is located on Paseo del Prado next to the Atocha train station and El Retiro Park, making it easy to add to any city center itinerary. Beyond its obvious architectural brilliance, its quaint cobblestone streets and atmospheric plazas give it an old-world feel that regularly leaves visitors enamored. Sitting about 20 kilometers northwest of Madrid is the luxurious open-air shopping center, Las Rozas Village. If you want to take the time for a closer look, however, guided tours are also offered. Youll start off at one of Madrids most popular bars for a few free drinks, before making your way to a couple more watering holes the destinations change depending on the crawl company and the night, but its always exciting and energetic and usually finishing at a club where you can dance the night away. Youll find this authentic attraction in the Salamanca District, easily accessible by the metro (Ventas station) from anywhere in the main part of town. And for those who want to learn more about conservation, a handful of educational talks unpack the importance of taking care of our planet and its many inhabitants. Visit the famous art The Prado Museum. The painting is an incredibly moving and powerful piece of art, and viewing it in person is sure to leave a lasting impression. Always pushing cultural trends and innovative art, anyone interested can walk into a workshop, lecture, or hands-on activity that dives into the latest artistic, musical, cinematic, multicultural, or immersive topic. Madrid's teleferico (cable car) has been a popular family activity since 1969, carrying passengers 40 meters above the ground on a 2.5 kilometer trajectory. An in-depth look at the Bullring, ceremonial entrance, and stands will take you on a journey into Spanish culture, while the nearby museum offers intriguing bullfighting artwork and dresses to boot. With tantalizing restaurants a dime a dozen, atmospheric bars, and plenty of pretty plazas to explore, Avila Old Town is a lovely place to while away an afternoon. But even if you dont have children, its still a great place to learn about and see some of Earths most incredible creatures up close, with visitors of all ages delighted by the interactive shows, as well as the regular dolphin, sea lion, and bird feedings. There's an overwhelming collection of masterpieces by renaissance and baroque masters. Kickstart your day on the manmade Miami Beach, before zooming down slides like the terrifying Black Hole, and the high-octane Kangaroa racers. The posterchild of the city, and often the starting point for many a history and architecture-loving traveler, this is the foreboding place that the Spanish Royal Family calls home; complete with historical artifacts and endless works of art, the 3,418-room abode comprises the Grand Staircase, Library, Armory, Chapel, Crown Room, and so much more. Madrid is a big city and there are lots of choices to have nice experiences with your group: Go-karts, paintball, karaoke, you name it! Read more about the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium Tour. Visit The Prado Boulevard & Golden Triangle of Madrid Learn in the National Museum of Science and Technology Visit Historical Templo de Debod Get Amazed at the Royal Palace (Palacio Real de Madrid) Go On a Safari or to a Local Circus Go For a Walk in One of Madrid's Parks or Gardens El Retiro Park Visit Madrid's Zoo & Aquarium Faunia Park Segovia: Just an hour north of the city by train, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its Roman aqueduct and fairy-tale castle. If thrills are more your style, make a beeline for the Batman Coaster, the Superman Coaster, the Stunt Fall, and the Coaster Express; if youre traveling with younger tots, on the other hand, the Tom & Jerry Attraction and the daily meet-and-greets with characters like Batman, Superman, Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, The Joker, Harley Quinn, and Marty the Martian, are sure to be a big hit. Foodies, listen up! Check. It's a fun place to take photos too! Feeling like youve stepped back in time, visitors meander through 4 themed historic villages with a play at the center of each from royals seeking a truce with birds of prey to Columbus crew on the Santa Maria, theres plenty to experience here. No matter the location, the sunrise vistas are well worth the early wake-up. With over 150 years of history, Teatro Real is the main opera house; Teatro Espaol has red velvet seating, a gold-framed stage, and playwrights engraved into the theatre; Teatro Lara hides in a narrow street but boasts golden balconies and a huge mural, while Teatro Circo Price specializes in circus and acrobatics! When putting together your 3 day Madrid itinerary, keep in mind that the best way to experience the city is to get on Spain's time-and I don't just mean swapping your phone's timezone. Palacio Real. For something a little more budget-friendly, there are plenty of Madrid hostels that wont break the bank. 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