"When in Madrid" - this was the first thing I googled, when I decided to see the Spanish capital city. What I actually meant was "When in Madrid and being broke" - which describes my state of mind pretty good. After visiting Barcelona before, I expected the very same thing, just somewhere else (I know, makes no sense.) Madrid is best described as a Spanish Munich - cleaner, brighter, and more historical than Barcelona, and also: slightly more expensive. Although I missed the "hip" Vibes, I think that Madrid has its very own charm and there are some things, I would not miss out. I made a little 48-hours in Madrid Giude for you, just in case you want to pass by. AND: Its only stuff for free. So, here we go, spend 48 hours in Madrid and spend a minimum of money while enjoying the city to the fullest. If you have any Additions, please feel free to comment!
1.) the view from the Círculo de Bellas Artes
Its a bad habit to lie from the very beginning. Because this is not always for free, only if nobody is watching. Like in my case, I just sneaked in with a group of Tourists. So technically, its for free. Otherwise, you pay like 3€. The Building itself is not too exciting, as I a was studying at an Art school myself, I was very surprised how clean it was. You take the elevator up and end up on a rooftop with a bar and a restaurant. The view is beyond amazing.
2.) strolling down the Gran Via
![]()
Favorite street so far! As I love to watch people in their natural habitat, I immediately fell in love with that crowded place. Close by the Círculo de Bellas Artes, I especially liked the diversity of locals, tourists and Artists on the streets.
3.) Palacio de Cibeles
![]()
Plaza Cibeles, 1, 28014 Madrid
4.) La Latina Street markets
![]()
![]()
![]()
![]()
![]()
Calle de Santa Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid
![]()
![]()
Plaza de San Miguel, s/n, 28005 Madrid
7.) Palacio de Cristal
![]()
Paseo República de Cuba, 4, 28009 Madrid
8.) The Atocha Station
![]()
![]()
Plaza Emperador Carlos V, 28045 Madrid
9.) Museo del Prado
![]()
Paseo del Prado, s/n, 28014 Madrid
Favorite street so far! As I love to watch people in their natural habitat, I immediately fell in love with that crowded place. Close by the Círculo de Bellas Artes, I especially liked the diversity of locals, tourists and Artists on the streets.
3.) Palacio de Cibeles
This Building is a piece of Art itself - located in the city center, you get access after going through a security check and see the Palacio (which is also full of different exhibitions) And its for free. You can spend hours inside, the four floors offer diverse opportunities to spend a good time.
4.) La Latina Street markets
This is something, you can easily do on weekends. La Latina is a bohemian Area in Madrid where you can find all kinds of goods, from food to second hand clothing or souvenirs. Strolling around there is just very relaxed. Sit down and have a cup of coffee, you
5.) Modern Art at the Reina Sofia
Calle de Santa Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid
6.) Mercado de San Miguel
If you're hungry and don't know what to eat, I recommend the Mercado de San Miguel. Close to the Palacio Reial, you might get hungry after doing some sight seeing - (or at least sight-walking) - and the market offers you a wide range of Tapas and Sweets. My Tip: DONT do those 1€ Tapas. There is a reason why they cost only 1€. Otherwise: A Madrid Must!
Plaza de San Miguel, s/n, 28005 Madrid
7.) Palacio de Cristal
Not only a glass palace, but also a space to exhibit contemporary art. This little treasure is right in the Parque de El Retiro and definitely worth a visit. The little sea infront of the Palacio is full of little turtles and you sure will find a space to relax, the trees provide you shadow.
Paseo República de Cuba, 4, 28009 Madrid
8.) The Atocha Station
One of my personal favorites - the Train Station is way more than just something to stop by. It reminds me of a botanical garden, and honestly, I´ve never seen so many turtles in my life. They just walk around and chill on the rocks.
Plaza Emperador Carlos V, 28045 Madrid
9.) Museo del Prado
I saw the El Bosco exhibition by accident - If I say by accident, I mean that someone took me there, and I am very happy we have done this. Being younger than 26, I got in for free. Which is amazing, I think. The Museum is a modern building and offers regular Exhibitions featuring well curated collections. The El Bosco Exhibition was so crowded, we had to stand in line to see each picture. I have never seen so many people at a Museum before.
Paseo del Prado, s/n, 28014 Madrid