Spain is a country full of vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and unforgettable food, and our trip to Madrid and Valencia proved just that. If you’re exploring Spain, a trip to Madrid and Valencia offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and modern attractions. While Madrid captivates visitors with world-class museums like the Prado and Reina Sofía, Valencia enchants with its futuristic City of Arts and Sciences and sun-soaked beaches.
In this travel guide, we’ll share our experiences, must-visit spots, delicious food finds, and essential tips to help you plan your own adventure. Ready to discover Madrid and Valencia? Let’s dive in!
Welcome to Madrid: Spain’s Vibrant Capital
Madrid, the heart of Spain, is a city that perfectly blends history, culture, and modern energy. Known for its world-class museums, grand plazas, and lively tapas bars, Madrid is a destination that captivates visitors with its charm.
Located in the center of Spain, Madrid is not just the country’s capital but also a hub of art, gastronomy, and nightlife. Unlike Barcelona, which sits along the Mediterranean coast and boasts Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces, Madrid has a more traditional Spanish feel with elegant boulevards, the stunning Royal Palace, and the buzzing Gran Vía. While both cities offer incredible experiences, Madrid is all about classic Spanish culture—flamenco, tapas, and late-night socializing in bustling plazas.
If you’re also considering a trip to Barcelona, be sure to check out our Barcelona travel guide for the best things to do there! But for now, let’s dive into everything Madrid has to offer.
Find Flights to Madrid
Best Things to Do in Madrid
1) Discover Madrid’s Art & History
Madrid is a paradise for art lovers, and no visit is complete without exploring its two most famous museums: the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofía Museum.
The Prado is home to Spanish and European masterpieces. You’ll find Velázquez’s Las Meninas, Goya’s The Third of May 1808, and Bosch’s surreal The Garden of Earthly Delights. It’s a journey through centuries of artistic genius.
For modern art, head to Reina Sofía, where Picasso’s Guernica takes center stage. This massive anti-war painting is both haunting and unforgettable. You’ll also find works by Dalí, Miró, and other 20th-century icons.
2) Stroll through Retiro Park
A visit to Madrid isn’t complete without a peaceful walk in Retiro Park. This lush green space offers a break from the city’s energy, with beautiful gardens, a serene lake, and the stunning Crystal Palace. Rent a boat, relax under the trees, or admire seasonal flower displays for a perfect afternoon.
3) Visit the Royal Palace
As one of Europe’s most impressive palaces, the Royal Palace of Madrid showcases opulent rooms, breathtaking frescoes, and a rich royal history. Walking through its grand halls, you’ll see stunning chandeliers, antique furniture, and works of art. Just opposite the palace, don’t miss Almudena Cathedral, one of Madrid’s most significant religious landmarks.
For a full immersive experience, book the Madrid Palace Guided Tour.
4) Experience Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor
Madrid’s historic heart beats at Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor. In Puerta del Sol, snap a photo with the Kilometer Zero plaque, marking Spain’s road network center. A short walk away, Plaza Mayor invites you to admire its elegant arches, sip coffee at a terrace café, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Street performers and local artists bring life to this iconic square.
Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor can be visited as part of the Madrid Free Walking Tour.
5) Eat at Mercado de San Miguel
Food lovers will find heaven in Mercado de San Miguel. This historic market, with its iron-and-glass design, is packed with gourmet treats. Try Iberian ham, fresh seafood, or delicious tapas, paired with a glass of Spanish wine. The lively setting and diverse flavors make it an essential stop for anyone exploring Madrid’s culinary scene.
6) Enjoy Gran Vía’s shopping and nightlife
Gran Vía, Madrid’s most famous street, is alive with energy day and night. Shop at high-end boutiques, visit department stores or catch a musical at one of its theaters. As the sun sets, Gran Vía transforms into a nightlife hotspot, with rooftop bars offering spectacular city views. It’s the perfect place to feel Madrid’s pulse!
7) Tour the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Football fans shouldn’t miss Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, the legendary home of Real Madrid. Walk through the players’ tunnel, sit in the team’s dugout, and admire the club’s trophy collection in the museum.
8) Watch a Flamenco Show
For music enthusiasts, a visit to Madrid wouldn’t be complete without experiencing flamenco, Spain’s most passionate dance. Head to a traditional “Tablao” like Corral de la Morería or Torres Bermejas, where talented dancers, soulful singers, and skilled guitarists bring this powerful art form to life. The intimate atmosphere and emotional performances make it a must-see cultural experience.
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Where to Stay in Madrid
Discover the best places to stay in Madrid with the Booking.com map below, ensuring the best prices guaranteed.
How to Travel Between Madrid and Valencia
Traveling between Madrid and Valencia is quick and convenient, thanks to several transport options. We took the high-speed AVE train, which, although expensive, allowed us to save valuable time. The journey took just 2 hours, departing from Madrid’s Atocha Station and arriving at Valencia’s Joaquín Sorolla Station.
Book a train from Madrid to Valencia
For a budget-friendly alternative, long-distance buses take about 4 hours. They depart from Madrid’s Estación Sur and offer comfortable seating at lower prices.
Book a bus from Madrid to Valencia
If you prefer flexibility, driving is a great option. The A-3 highway connects the two cities in about 3.5 hours, allowing stops along the way.
TRAVEL ADVICE
If you find yourself with limited time in Madrid or Valencia, or your flight departs in the evening, consider using Radical Storage for bag storage. It’s a convenient, hassle-free way to explore the cities without being weighed down by luggage.
Best Things to do in Valencia
1) Explore the City of Arts and Sciences
This futuristic complex is a must-see in Valencia, showcasing stunning architecture and offering a variety of attractions. You can visit the interactive Science Museum, marvel at Oceanographic Park, which is home to marine life from around the world, or watch a film at the IMAX cinema. The entire area is visually captivating and perfect for photography.
For a fully immersive experience, book the City of Arts and Sciences Combo Tickets.
2) Wander Through Valencia’s Old Town
Stroll through Barrio del Carmen, the historic neighborhood where ancient streets meet vibrant modern culture. Discover Plaza de la Reina with its street art, quirky boutiques, and lively tapas bars. Don’t forget to visit the Valencia Cathedral and climb the Miguelete Tower for panoramic views of the city.
3) Visit Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Plaza del Ayuntamiento is a vibrant square featuring fountains, historic buildings, and key government offices. Among its notable landmarks is the City Hall, a stunning Neoclassical and Baroque building that is one of the most photographed in Valencia. Just a short walk away is Mercado Central (Central Market), one of Europe’s most beautiful markets. It’s the perfect place to sample fresh seafood and Valencia’s famous oranges.
Barrio del Carmen and Mercado Central can be explored with the Valencia Free Walking Tour.
4) Taste authentic paella
Valencia is the birthplace of paella, and trying this iconic dish is a must. Guided by our local friends, we visited “Casa Roberto” for an authentic experience. We started with hand-cut Jamón Ibérico and then enjoyed the classic Valencian paella with chicken, rabbit, and saffron rice. It was a wonderful culinary experience that we highly recommend!
5) Relax at Malvarrosa Beach
Paseo Marítimo is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll after a hearty lunch. This lively promenade is lined with palm trees, restaurants, and cafés. It also stretches along Malvarrosa Beach, Valencia’s urban beach, where you can relax and enjoy the Mediterranean breeze.
Where to Stay in Valencia
Find the best places to stay in Valencia using the Booking.com map below, ensuring the best prices guaranteed.
Popular Tours
Time for Conclusions…
In this blog post, we’ve shared the best things to do in Madrid and Valencia based on our experience. Both cities offer a perfect blend of culture, history, and culinary experiences. From exploring Madrid’s iconic landmarks to enjoying Valencia’s delicious paella and beautiful beaches, we discovered that each city has something unique to offer. With easy travel options between them, you can easily visit both cities on a single trip and make the most of your time in Spain.
See you soon 😊
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