Quick Facts
Top Sights
El Retiro Park
El Retiro Park in Madrid, originally a royal retreat, is a vast 350-acre oasis featuring the glass Palacio de Cristal, a boating lake, rose gardens, and historical ruins. Highlights include the Alfonso XII monument, tranquil Jardines de Cecilio Rodriguez, and the poignant Forest of the Departed memorial.
Museo Nacional del Prado
The Prado Museum in Madrid, housed in an 18th-century Neoclassical building by Juan de Villanueva, opened in 1819. It features the largest collection of Spanish art, including works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco, and is one of the world's most visited museums, showcasing European masterpieces.
Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor, originally "Plaza del Arrabal," is Madrid's historic square, redesigned in 1619 by Juan Gómez de Mora. Once a bustling marketplace, it hosted events from bullfights to executions. After fires, Juan de Villanueva rebuilt it with uniform arcaded buildings. Today, it's a vibrant hub with cafes and Philip III's statue.
Puerta del Sol
Puerta del Sol, the heart of Madrid, is steeped in history from the 15th century. Known for the iconic Bear and Strawberry Tree statue, it features the Casa de Correos with its famous clock, central to New Year's Eve celebrations. The square also hosts the equestrian statue of King Carlos III.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
The Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, home to Real Madrid, is a historic football venue with an 81,000-seat capacity. Renamed in 1955 after club president Santiago Bernabeu, it has hosted major events like the 1982 FIFA World Cup and several European Cup finals. Visitors can enjoy regular matches and stadium tours.
The Knowledge of Locals
We search, vet and aggregate
every place you see on Happ
Royal Palace of Madrid
The Royal Palace of Madrid, completed in 1755, is Western Europe's largest palace with over 3,400 rooms. Though officially the Spanish royal residence, it's primarily used for state functions. Visitors can tour its art-filled rooms and experience its rich 18th-century history.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
The Thyssen Museum in Madrid, part of the "Golden Triangle of Art," showcases over 1,000 masterpieces from the 13th to 20th centuries. It features works from Northern and Southern Europe and the Americas, including Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and avant-garde movements, thanks to the contributions of Hans and Carmen Thyssen.
Civitas Metropolitan Stadium, Madrid
Originally built in the early 90s as a community stadium, this venue was transformed and reopened in 2017 as the new home for Atletico Madrid, replacing the Vicente Calderon Stadium.
Mercado de San Miguel
Originally built in 1916 in a cast-iron style, this market transformed from a traditional local hub into a gourmet food hall in 2009. It now offers local delicacies and events in an elegant setting, blending historical charm with modern culinary experiences.
Palacio de Cristal
The Palacio de Cristal in Madrid's Retiro Park is a stunning 18th-century crystal conservatory, showcasing Victorian charm. Built in 1887 for the Philippine Islands exhibition, its iron and glass structure, shaped like a Greek cross, features domed roofs and an artificial lake. It hosts art exhibitions by the Reina Sofía Museum.
Real-Time Logistics
Change of plans? No problem.
Happ lets you travel confidently
while enjoying the moment.
Plaza de España
Plaza de España, one of Spain's largest squares, is dominated by the neo-Baroque Edificio España and Torre de Madrid, historic skyscrapers from the 1950s. Once Franco's headquarters, the plaza is now a vibrant leisure hub, featuring a statue of Cervantes amidst its leafy surroundings.
National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum in Madrid, founded by Queen Isabella II in 1867, showcases a vast collection of ethnographic, decorative, and archaeological arts. Housed in a neoclassical building, it features ancient artifacts, including the "Treasure of Guarrazar," and offers a specialized library for history enthusiasts.
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
The Reina Sofía Museum in Madrid, once a historic hospital, is a vast cultural hub showcasing modern and contemporary art. It features masterpieces by Picasso, Dalí, and Miró, among others. With its rich history and diverse exhibitions, it attracts art enthusiasts worldwide.
Sorolla Museum
Visit the former home of Joaquín Sorolla, where he lived with his family from 1911. Now a museum, it showcases his artworks and personal collections, including an unfinished canvas. Experience the preserved studio and gardens, reflecting his vision of a bright Mediterranean Spain.
Catedral de la Almudena
The Almudena Cathedral in Madrid, a Neo-Gothic masterpiece, took over a century to complete, from 1883 to 1993. Designed by Francisco de Cubas, it features Baroque elements, colorful chapels, and a Romanesque crypt. Located opposite the Royal Palace, it serves as the seat of the Archdiocese of Madrid.
Las Ventas Bullring
Las Ventas, Madrid's iconic bullring, is a neo-Mudéjar masterpiece built in the 1920s. It hosts bullfights, concerts, and events, accommodating over 20,000 spectators. Its Moorish and Baroque architecture, intricate tilework, and rich history make it a must-visit for experiencing Spanish culture.
Temple of Debod
The Temple of Debod, an authentic Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BC, was relocated from Aswan, Egypt, to Madrid, Spain, to save it from flooding due to the Aswan Dam. Situated in Parque del Oeste near the Royal Palace, it offers a unique glimpse into ancient Egyptian architecture and stunning sunset views.
More Sights
