What to see in Madrid? Top activities to do in the capital

 


Madrid is the capital and one of the most important tourist attractions in our country. Its cultural, gastronomic and commercial attractions makes it a unique city that surprises visitors and where they are bound to have an unforgettable time. It is the perfect destination to reach by train as it connects to cities across mainland Spain and is home to some of the most important train stations in Spain. Renfe also offers the best discounts and the widest range of tickets to suit your needs. 

Want to discover what to do in the capital? Discover what to see in Madrid and let yourself fall in love with this great city! What are you waiting for? Purchase your ticket now, pack your bags and discover Madrid with Renfe.

Plan your ideal getaway to Madrid with Renfe Viajes. Musicals, museums, theme parks and much more! Madrid is waiting for you!

 


Madrid has a special charm in summer. As evening falls, the city fills with music, culture and outdoor activities that invite you to enjoy every corner. From popular local festivals with traditional Madrid flair, such as those of San Cayetano, San Lorenzo or La Paloma, to unique cultural events like Veranos de la Villa or Las noches clásicas del Olivar, the capital offers endless options to enjoy summer.

What? Want to find out more? Keep on reading and discover everything that awaits you in Madrid this summer. Hop on board, it's time to leave!

You cannot miss it

The good thing about Madrid is that something for everybody, meaning you'll have no trouble finding the perfect plan for you in its lively cultural calendar.

To enjoy cinema under the stars, Cibeles de Cine is once again an unmissable event. A unique space where you can see great classics and recent premieres in one of Madrid's most emblematic settings.

Photography also takes centre stage thanks to PHotoESPAÑA, one of the world's leading photography festivals, which brings together exhibitions and activities at venues all over the city (open until 13 September).

But wait, that's not all!

  • The cultural programme reaches its peak with Veranos de la Villa, a festival that turns the city into a vast open-air stage during July and August, with concerts, performances, dance, and activities for all ages. And for those seeking a more intimate experience, until 29 August, the Noches Clásicas del Olivar offers concerts in a distinctive setting, the charming Olivar de Castillejo in the Chamartín district, where music and summer nights blend together.
  • Summer is also perfect for exploring some of the city's most special spaces. Until the end of August, the Liria Palace Gardens open their doors through guided tours that allow you to discover one of the most elegant historical sites in Madrid. You will discover the mastery of such renowned figures as Ventura Rodríguez and Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier, renowned French landscape architect.
  • Among the cultural highlights is the restoration and reopening of the Hermitage of San Antonio de la Florida, a heritage gem that houses the famous paintings of Goya and is once again receiving visitors after its restoration.

If you enjoy strolling and spending time outdoors, Madrid is the place for you. Terraces, walks and gastronomic experiences await you. Let's go!

  • The long summer days invite you to explore the elegant Salamanca district, known for its exclusive boutiques (here you will find the famous Golden Mile), its stately architecture and its wide gastronomic offer.
  • And when the heat lets up, there's nothing better than enjoying one of the many Madrid's terraces, authentic urban oases where you can watch the city's sunsets while having a drink. Those located on rooftops, scattered throughout the historical centre and the most iconic neighbourhoods, offer spectacular views of centenary rooftops, monumental domes, and some of the city's most iconic buildings. From these terraces, Madrid reveals a different, calm and surprising perspective, perfect for enjoying the long summer afternoons.


Indulge yourself

Madrid can also be discovered through its bars and restaurants. This summer, the legendary restaurant and tavern Los Gabrieles, one of the city's most iconic establishments, reopens and takes centre stage once again, continuing to shape Madrid's gastronomic history. Located in Barrio de las Letras (the Literary Quarter), it reopens with an offering that combines traditional gastronomy, live music and unique heritage. A historic spot where you can enjoy the city's true, vibrant essence.

And if you're looking for something different, Madrid has a wide selection of vegetarian restaurants, where you can enjoy creative, healthy and flavourful cuisine. A perfect option to take a break between visits and discover new ways to savour the city.

Enjoy your stay in Madrid!

How to get to Madrid by train

Travel to Madrid by train on our AVE (high-speed), Avlo, Avant (mid-distance high speed), Larga Distancia (Long Distance) and Media Distancia (Mid-distance) trains. Remember that whichever option you choose, the train is the fastest, most comfortable and most sustainable way to travel. Remember that the cost of your AVE (high-speed) or Larga Distancia (Long Distance) ticket includes a free trip on the Cercanías (Cercanías combined ticket) to help you get around Madrid easily.

Take a look at our routes to Madrid and make sure not to miss out on anything in the capital.