If you’re wondering what to do in Madrid in summer, look no further than the city’s rich tapestry of historical landmarks, lush gardens, and vibrant cultural hotspots. Start your journey at the majestic Royal Palace, the largest functioning royal palace in Europe, where centuries of Spanish history come to life. The city’s unique charm extends to the Royal Botanical Garden, an oasis of natural beauty showcasing over 30,000 plant species from around the world. As you explore Madrid, you’ll find endless opportunities to cool off with a refreshing gelato at Plaza de Oriente, enjoy the panoramic views from rooftop bars, or dive into one of the city’s fantastic outdoor pools. Madrid in summer is a perfect blend of history, nature, and modern pleasures, making it an unforgettable destination.

Explore the Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Madrid is an imposing structure and one of the city’s most popular attractions. With over 3,000 rooms, it’s the largest functioning Royal Palace in Europe. The palace’s history dates back to the 9th century when the Moors built the Alcazar fortress on the site. After the fortress burned down in 1734, King Philip V commissioned the construction of the current Baroque and Neoclassical palace.

The palace’s facade stretches over 500 feet and features stunning columns, spires, statues, and two domed towers. Inside, visitors can tour the lavish rooms like the Royal Armory filled with historic weapons and armor, the Throne Room with its red velvet chairs and frescoed ceiling, the lavish Porcelain Room decorated with porcelain from around the world, and the expansive Royal Pharmacy. The Gasparini Room stands out for its intricately carved and gilded walls, chandeliers, and ceiling frescoes depicting the goddess Cybele.

After touring the interior, be sure to explore the palace’s gardens designed in the 16th century. Stroll through the Campo del Moro gardens filled with statues, fountains, and manicured hedges. Climb up the Sabatini Gardens overlooking the city. With its regal architecture and beauty, the Royal Palace offers a glimpse into Spain’s fascinating royal history.

Eat Gelato at Plaza de Oriente

The Plaza de Oriente, located right in front of the Royal Palace, is the perfect place to enjoy a cool and refreshing gelato on a hot summer day in Madrid. The plaza features beautiful fountains and statues, providing a scenic backdrop as you savor your icy treat.

Some of the best gelaterias to try near the plaza include Amorino, with its flower-shaped scoops of gelato. Two in very close proximity to the Royal Palace are Zúccaru which also does little cannoli kits, Heladería Palazzo which is my favorite place to go, and I always grab either turrón or coconut flavored gelato. Grab a cone or cup from any of these spots, then take a seat on the steps in front of the palace or stroll through the plaza while you eat your gelato.

Sit on the grass and enjoy the ambience coupled with the sweet, cold gelato makes for a delightful way to take a break from sightseeing on a hot day.

With its proximity to the Royal Palace and scenic atmosphere, Plaza de Oriente is the ideal location to enjoy the quintessential summertime treat of gelato when visiting Madrid.

Relax at a Rooftop Bar

One of the best ways to enjoy Madrid’s warm summer nights is relaxing at a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city. Many hotels and restaurants in Madrid have rooftop terraces that transform into trendy open-air bars when the sun goes down.

The rooftop bar at the Hotel Riu Plaza España is a popular spot with 360 degree views of central Madrid landmarks like the Royal Palace and Gran Via. Sip creative cocktails like their Madrid Sunrise with gin and fresh fruit juices as you take in the skyline.

For a trendy vibe head to The Roof at the ME Madrid Reina Victoria hotel. Their rooftop terrace has a hip ambience with techno music, modern furniture, and an infinity pool overlooking the city. Order one of their signature cocktails like the Roof Red with vodka and cranberry juice.

At the Circulo de Bellas Artes cafe you can enjoy a drink on their terrace overlooking the Gran Via. It’s a great place to watch the sunset behind the Metropolis building while sipping a glass of sangria. They also serve tasty tapas plates perfect for sharing.

Rooftop bars are the ideal way to unwind on a warm evening after a day exploring Madrid. Sipping a cold cocktail as the sun sets and the city lights up makes for an unforgettable summer night. Check out another list of rooftop bars in Madrid here: Amazing Rooftop Pools and Bars to Visit in Madrid this Summer

Enjoy an Outdoor Pool

Madrid has several excellent outdoor pools where you can cool off during the hot summer months. Two top recommendations are the Casa de Campo Municipal Pool and the Centro Deportivo Municipal Vicente del Bosque.

The Casa de Campo pool is located in Madrid’s largest public park. Surrounded by trees and grassy areas, this Olympic-sized pool has lanes for swimming laps as well as shallower sections for lounging. There’s also a poolside bar and restaurant where you can grab a snack and drink. With ample deck space and chairs, it’s easy to find a spot to sunbathe.

For a more modern aquatic experience, head to the Vicente del Bosque Sports Center. This complex houses both indoor and outdoor pools in a sleek, contemporary setting. The outdoor pool has a fun wading area and waterslides in addition to lap lanes. There’s also an on-site cafe and gym facilities. With views of the surrounding skyscrapers, this is a great urban oasis.

Both pools offer a full day of swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation right in the heart of Madrid. Beat the summer heat at these refreshing venues.

Madrid also offers some luxurious rooftop pools on top of popular hotels in the city, that are often accessible to non-guests. Check out my list here: Amazing Rooftop Pools and Bars to Visit in Madrid this Summer

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Tour the Prado Museum

The Prado Museum is one of the world’s premier art museums and a must-see attraction in Madrid. Located in the heart of the city, the Prado is home to the world’s finest collection of European art from the 12th to the early 20th centuries.

Some of the highlights of the Prado’s collection include:

• Extensive galleries devoted to Spanish painters like Goya, Velázquez, El Greco, and Murillo. Goya’s famous paintings such as The Third of May 1808 and The Naked Maja are housed here.
• Outstanding works by European masters like Bosch, Titian, Rubens, and Rembrandt. Key paintings include Bosch’s The Garden of Earthly Delights, Titian’s Bacchus and Ariadne, and Rubens’ The Three Graces.
• The Prado’s sculpture collection featuring works by greats like Michelangelo and Bernini.

In terms of logistics, the Prado is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 8pm, with last entry at 7pm. It’s closed on Mondays. General admission is 15 euros, with reduced prices available for students and seniors. Free entry is offered for children under 18, disabled visitors, and more.

To make the most of your visit, focus on the highlights based on your interests, take breaks at the cafe, and don’t try to see everything in one day. The audio guides are helpful for learning more details about major works. Arrive early or late to avoid the biggest crowds.

Wander through the Royal Botanical Garden

The Royal Botanical Garden of Madrid is an oasis from the summer heat. Its 30 hectares contain over 30,000 plant species from five continents, making it a must-see for nature lovers.

Founded in 1755, the garden features numerous greenhouses, gardens, fountains, and sculptures. Wander through diverse ecosystems like the Mediterranean garden, the tropical greenhouse, the bonsai garden, and more. Don’t miss the impressive 40-meter glass and wrought iron greenhouse, filled with tropical and desert plants.

Beyond flora, marvel at artistic fountains and sculptures scattered throughout. The bronze statue of Charles III stands at the garden’s entrance, with marble Roman gods bordering the central walkway. Have a peaceful picnic under the shade of trees near the fountain of the four seasons. The natural beauty paired with art makes the Royal Botanical Garden a true urban oasis.

Spend an afternoon getting lost down garden paths, learning about diverse species, and finding quiet corners to rest in the shade. The Royal Botanical Garden is the perfect place to take a break from the summer heat.

Visit the Temple of Debod

The Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple that was relocated to Madrid in 1968. The temple dates back to the 2nd century BC and was originally located in southern Egypt. In 1960, the Egyptian government gifted the temple to Spain for their help in saving monuments like the Abu Simbel temples from flooding during the construction of the Aswan Dam.

The temple was carefully dismantled and transported to Madrid, where it was rebuilt in the Parque del Oeste near the Royal Palace. The small but impressive temple is dedicated to the Egyptian gods Amun and Isis. It consists of a main gateway leading to a courtyard, a colonnade with columns, and three inner shrines. The temple is an excellent example of ancient Egyptian architecture, with reliefs depicting Egyptian rulers and gods.

One of the best times to visit the Temple of Debod is at sunset. As the last light of day hits the temple, the golden limestone glows beautifully. Visitors can climb to the top of the temple for panoramic views over Madrid as the sun slowly sets behind the city skyline. The temple makes for an atmospheric spot to end the day before enjoying Madrid’s famous nightlife. Early evening is also a pleasant time, as you can wander around before sunset when it’s a bit cooler.

Watch a Movie at a Summer Cinema

One of the most iconic summer activities in Madrid is outdoor cinema. Several venues around the city create pop-up cinemas in parks and plazas during the summer months. Grab a blanket and snacks and enjoy a movie under the stars. Learn more about the Cine del Verano here.

Some of the best places to catch an outdoor summer movie in Madrid include:

• Conde Duque Cultural Center – This historic venue in the city center screens films in its courtyard. They show classic movies, recent blockbusters, and Spanish films.
• Parque de la Bombilla – Every summer this large park is transformed into a drive-in movie theater. You can watch from your car or sit at tables set up on the lawn.
• Matadero Madrid – The former slaughterhouse now houses an arts center that hosts outdoor movies in its courtyard on summer weekends.
• Plaza de España – Right in central Madrid, this plaza has a giant screen set up for summer movie nights. Arrive early to get a spot.
• San Isidro Park – Grab a picnic blanket and settle in on the grassy lawn for movie screenings in this scenic Madrid park.

The atmosphere at these outdoor cinemas is relaxed, festive and family-friendly. People sprawl out on blankets, chat with friends over drinks and snacks, and cheer for favorite scenes. With the warm summer breeze, scenic backdrop and shared experience, it’s a magical way to enjoy cinema in Madrid.

Visit the Matadero Madrid

The Matadero Madrid is a vibrant cultural center located in the former Madrid municipal slaughterhouse buildings. During the summer months, it’s a great place to escape the heat and enjoy indoor artistic and cultural activities.

The Matadero is home to theaters, exhibition spaces, workshop areas, restaurants and cafes. Some of the key highlights in summer include outdoor cinema screenings, contemporary art exhibits, theater and dance performances, and family-friendly workshops.

The Naves del Español is a popular exhibition hall hosting avant garde multimedia shows. The Cineteca theater screens independent and classic films. For performing arts, you can catch flamenco shows at the Naves del Cante or experimental theater at the Naves Teatro.

There are always unique events happening at Matadero Madrid in the summer. You can browse upcoming events on their website or just show up and explore the facilities. It’s an ideal indoor oasis right in the city center when you need a break from the hot Madrid sun.

Stroll through Madrid Río

Madrid Río is a lush urban park running for over 10 kilometers along the Manzanares River through the center of Madrid. It’s one of the city’s most popular outdoor spaces for both locals and visitors to get some fresh air and take in the sights.

The park features over 17 bridges crossing the river, along with fountains, gardens, walking and biking trails that wind through the green spaces. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, especially on a sunny summer day. Look out for the unique outdoor sculptures and art installations scattered throughout Madrid Río.

Some of the highlights include the Cable Bridge designed by Dominique Perrault, the dramatic Puente del Rey bridge, and the Jardines de Puente Verde featuring ponds and waterfalls. Make sure to stop at the Mirador del Palacio, an overlook point with postcard views of the Royal Palace.

With shaded areas and places to rest, Madrid Río is the perfect urban oasis right in the heart of the city. Wander along the paths through flower beds and groves of trees for a taste of nature without leaving downtown Madrid.

Take a Walking Tour

One of the best ways to explore Madrid’s historic center is by joining a walking tour. These guided tours hit the key landmarks while providing context and history along the way. You can find tours focused on specific themes like architecture, food, or Hemingway’s Madrid. Some of the major sights covered include:

• Puerta del Sol – This iconic plaza is considered the center of Spain and is a hub of activity day and night.
• Plaza Mayor – Madrid’s grand main square is ringed by beautiful three-story buildings with arcaded walkways below.
• Royal Palace – No tour is complete without seeing the imposing 18th century Royal Palace, which gives insight into Spain’s royal history.
• Gran Vía – This main boulevard is full of grand early 20th century architecture and is now a shopping and entertainment district.
• Mercado de San Miguel – This beautifully restored iron and glass food market is a foodie’s paradise.
• Almudena Cathedral – Consecrated in 1993, Madrid’s main Catholic cathedral took over 100 years to complete.
• Plaza de la Villa – The intimate Plaza de la Villa is home to some of Madrid’s most historic buildings.
• Plaza de Oriente – This scenic plaza in front of the Royal Palace offers excellent views.

Walking tours allow you to cover a lot of ground while learning about Madrid’s storied past and vibrant culture. It’s a great orientation for first-time visitors too.

Indulge in Churros and Chocolate

Churros are a classic Spanish fried dough pastry that is popular for breakfast and as a snack. In Madrid, it is a beloved tradition to dip churros into thick hot chocolate for a decadent treat.

The best places in Madrid to enjoy churros con chocolate are the historic cafes that have been serving them for decades. Chocolatería San Ginés in the center of Madrid’s Old Town is one of the most famous spots, open 24 hours a day for churro lovers. Guests can dip their piping hot, crispy churros into rich Spanish chocolate in the elegant cafe.

Another excellent destination for churros is Chocolatería Valor, which has been operating since 1882. They serve chocolate so thick it’s nearly a pudding. Some other popular churrerías to consider are Churrería Manuel Sanz and Churrería 1902.

Indulging in churros con chocolate is a quintessential Madrid experience. The crunchy, fried churros pair perfectly with the thick, creamy Spanish hot chocolate for a sweet treat. It’s worth visiting one of Madrid’s historic cafes to enjoy this beloved food tradition.

Explore the Malasaña Neighborhood

Malasaña is one of Madrid’s trendiest and most vibrant neighborhoods. Located just west of the city center, it has a hip, bohemian vibe with quirky boutiques, vintage shops, and a lively cafe culture.

Start your visit along the main drag of Calle Fuencarral, home to popular brands like Mango and Zara as well as indie designers and secondhand stores. Don’t miss Retro City for its enormous collection of vintage clothing, vinyl records, and memorabilia. Stop for a coffee at one of the many cafes that spill out onto the sidewalk, prime spots for people watching.

Venture into the side streets to discover hole-in-the-wall shops and galleries. Check out La Mona Checa for handmade jewelry and La Física for physics-inspired gifts and homewares with a twist. Grab lunch at one of Malasaña’s many tapas bars and restaurants, like the classic Bodega de la Ardosa which has been serving vermouth and tapas since 1892.

As evening approaches, head to Plaza Dos de Mayo. This lively square comes to life at night with crowds flocking to terrace bars and live music venues. Order a mojito and soak up the electric energy as Malasaña locals and visitors mingle under strings of lights.

With its creative spirit and nonstop energy, Malasaña is the perfect neighborhood to experience Madrid’s vibrant arts, shopping, food and nightlife scenes.

Bar Hop for Tapas in La Latina

La Latina is one of Madrid’s most vibrant and historic neighborhoods, located just southwest of Plaza Mayor. Known for its narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional tapas bars, La Latina comes alive in the evenings as locals and visitors alike flock here to sample tasty small plates and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Some of the top tapas bars to visit in La Latina include:

• Juana La Loca – This bustling, no-frills spot serves up classic tapas like patatas bravas, croquetas, and tortilla española. Grab a spot at the bar to watch the chefs at work.
• Taberna Matritum – Specializing in reinvented traditional dishes, Matritum impresses with creative tapas like fried eggplant drizzled with salmorejo sauce and their signature “false lasagne” with layers of potatoes, meat sauce, and bechamel.
• El Rincón de Antonio – Housed in a charming 19th century building, this intimate bar offers a wide selection of tapas with a focus on quality ingredients. Don’t miss their famous grilled octopus. C. Oliana, 8, Hortaleza, 28033 Madrid, Spain
• Taberna La Bola – This historic, family-owned tapas bar first opened in 1870 and retains much of its old-world charm. Sample their traditional cocido madrileño stew and wash it down with a vermouth on tap.

The tapas bars of La Latina offer a quintessential Madrid experience. The dishes are flavorful, portions are generous, and the atmosphere is buzzing and energetic. Pull up a stool at the bar, order a few plates to share, and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of one of Madrid’s best areas for tapas.

Stroll through Madrid’s Parks and Plazas

Madrid is home to many beautiful parks and lively plazas perfect for strolling on a summer day.

The jewel of Madrid’s parks is the magnificent Parque del Buen Retiro. This 350-acre park offers shaded pathways, sculptures, fountains, a boating lake, and peaceful gardens. Don’t miss the famous Crystal Palace and the whimsical monument to the Fallen Angel. Have a picnic, rent a rowboat, or just find a bench to relax and people watch.

Plaza Mayor is Madrid’s grand central square, surrounded by beautiful architecture. Take a seat at one of the many outdoor cafes and watch the world go by. On Sundays, the square hosts a famous stamp and coin market.

Plaza de España showcases a monument to Miguel de Cervantes as well as a beautiful fountain. It sits next to the Royal Palace and offers excellent views. Nearby is the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple that makes for a surprising sight in Madrid.

Plaza de Oriente is a scenic spot with gardens and statues next to the Royal Palace. The adjacent Sabatini Gardens is another nice green space for a stroll.

In the university district, stop by Plaza de la Villa with its medieval buildings and Plaza de la Paja lined with tapas bars.

Strolling through Madrid’s lively plazas and relaxing in its green parks is a favorite way to spend time on a sunny day in the Spanish capital.

Visit the Roselada in Retiro Park

As noted above, Retiro Park is one of Madrid’s most popular attractions. This vast green space spans over 118 hectares in the heart of the city. Originally belonging to the Spanish Monarchy, Retiro Park opened to the public in the late 19th century and has been a place for Madrid locals and visitors to enjoy leisure time outdoors ever since.

The park has many beautiful features, including several ornate fountains, a boating lake, and lush landscaping. One of the highlights is the Roselada, a special rose garden with over 4,000 rose bushes and a variety of rare species. It’s a peaceful oasis to take a stroll and stop to smell the roses.

In Retiro Park there are many options for recreation and relaxation. Visitors can rent a rowboat and spend time on the boating lake. Shaded paths provide scenic areas for walking or jogging. Several monuments and statues are dotted throughout the grounds. There are also lawns where you can stop and have a picnic under the trees. With so much natural beauty and space, it’s easy to spend hours enjoying everything this iconic Madrid park has to offer.

Experience Flamenco Shows and Performances

Flamenco is an artform native to Spain, with roots in Andalusia. It combines guitar playing, song, dance, and handclaps. In Madrid, you can experience authentic flamenco performances at a number of venues.

One of the best places to see flamenco in Madrid is Las Tablas. This intimate venue hosts shows each evening, ranging from seasoned performers to up-and-coming artists. The shows capture the passion and intensity that flamenco is known for.

For a more tourist-friendly flamenco show, you can visit Las Carboneras. Located near Plaza Mayor, Las Carboneras features dinner shows with a multi-course meal paired with wine. The performances deliver all the excitement of flamenco in an accessible setting.

Teatro Flamenco Madrid offers a captivating experience with their live performance, “Emociones,” which beautifully showcases the art of flamenco. With its intimate setting and authentic performances, Teatro Flamenco Madrid provides a memorable cultural experience that highlights the rich heritage of this iconic Spanish art form.

Flamenco Cardamomo in Madrid is a renowned venue offering authentic flamenco performances, known for its passionate and vibrant shows. Located in the heart of the city, it attracts both locals and tourists seeking an immersive cultural experience. The venue features talented artists, creating a captivating atmosphere that showcases the rich traditions of flamenco dance and music.

Experiencing live flamenco is a quintessential Madrid summer activity. The shows allow you to witness the passion, rhythm and artistry of this iconic Spanish tradition.

Shop at the Markets

Madrid has some excellent markets for shopping, people watching, and sampling local cuisine. Two of the top markets to check out are El Rastro and Mercado San Miguel.

El Rastro

El Rastro is Madrid’s most famous and largest open air flea market. It’s located near the La Latina neighborhood and spans several blocks. The market runs every Sunday and on public holidays from 9 am to 3 pm.

At El Rastro you’ll find all kinds of goods like clothes, shoes, accessories, home furnishings, art, old coins and books. There are also street food stalls selling snacks and drinks. It’s an exciting atmosphere as you walk through the crowded aisles and hunt for unique bargains or treasures.

Go in the morning to beat the crowds. Wear comfortable shoes, keep an eye on your belongings, and be prepared to haggle. El Rastro offers an authentic local experience.

Mercado San Miguel

For a more upscale market, visit Mercado San Miguel near Plaza Mayor. This indoor gourmet tapas market was originally built in 1916 but renovated in 2009. It’s open late most days, allowing you to sample tapas with a glass of wine or beer for dinner.

Stalls sell a variety of tapas like jamon serrano, cheeses, fried fish, patatas bravas, croquettes, and tortillas. There are also stalls specializing in oysters, cava, vermouth, and desserts. Bars in the middle offer wine, sangria, and cocktails to accompany your food.

The market has a lively atmosphere with a mix of locals and tourists. It’s an excellent place to try a variety of Spanish bites and drinks in one spot. Prices are more expensive than a typical tapas bar, but the quality and selection is superb.

Go Shopping in the Center

Madrid’s city center offers some of the best shopping in Spain, with everything from major department stores to charming boutiques. The main shopping streets and areas include:

• Gran Vía – This grand boulevard is home to major international brands like H&M, Zara, and Mango. There’s also a massive El Corte Inglés department store with floors of apparel, home goods, electronics, and more.
• Puerta del Sol – The busiest square in Madrid has shops galore. Check out the vintage clothes at Desperate & Divinas and souvenirs at Casa de Diego. Stop at the famous La Mallorquina cafe for treats.
• Calle Preciados – One of the most central pedestrian streets, lined with shops and malls. Find Spanish brands like Women’s Secret and Springfield, plus high street stores like FNAC and Primark.
• El Corte Inglés – This iconic Spanish department store has numerous locations around Madrid, including a giant 8-floor store at Callao. It’s a one-stop shop for apparel, accessories, cosmetics, electronics, and more. Learn more here.

Madrid is perfect for indoor shopping on hot summer days when you need a break from the heat. With its pedestrian streets and concentration of stores, it’s easy to pop in and out of air-conditioned shops without needing to drive anywhere. By the end of the day, your bags will be full and you’ll have successfully escaped the summer sun for a while.

Attend Festivals and Events

Madrid comes alive in the summer with vibrant festivals and events celebrating music, culture, and life. Visitors can experience the excitement and passion of Madrid locals by attending some of the notable summer festivals.

The Mad Cool Festival is one of Europe’s biggest music festivals, attracting over 150,000 people with its incredible line-up of rock, pop, and hip hop artists. Held in July, it takes place at the Espacio Mad Cool venue and features stages, food trucks, and other amenities for festival-goers. International acts like The Killers, Muse, and Imagine Dragons have performed here.

Veranos de la Villa is Madrid’s biggest cultural festival held from June to September, with over 150 events taking place across 30 venues. There are concerts, dance performances, exhibitions, and more. Many events are free to attend or low-cost, making it accessible for visitors. The festival livens up Madrid’s summer nights with creativity and art.

In July, the Pride Madrid festival celebrates LGBTQ+ culture with parades, parties, and performances. Over two million people attend Madrid Pride for the vibrant celebrations of love and diversity.

Attending Madrid’s summer festivals allows visitors to experience the city’s culture, music, and warmth. The festivals bring people together to celebrate life and enjoy the sunny days and nights. It’s an unforgettable way to spend a Madrid summer.

Go on a Hiking Trip

Madrid is surrounded by beautiful natural areas perfect for hiking and escaping the summer heat. One of the best places near Madrid to go hiking is the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range and National Park.

The Sierra de Guadarrama National Park is located just northwest of Madrid. It contains scenic granite mountain peaks, pine forests, and glacial lakes. Some of the most popular hikes in the park include:

• The Cable Car Hike – Take the cable car up to the top of Peñalara peak (2,430 m). Then hike 7 km back down through alpine meadows with panoramic views. This is a moderate hike suitable for most levels.
• Laguna de los Pájaros Hike – Hike 8 km through pine forest to this beautiful glacial lake. The terrain is relatively flat and well-marked.
• El Nevero Hike – A steep 5.5 km hike with an elevation gain of 1,000 m. The trail leads past waterfalls and ends at a viewpoint overlooking the valley. For experienced hikers.
• Cuerda Larga Ridge Hike – This challenging 16 km ridge hike travels along the mountain crestline with non-stop views. Only attempt with proper gear and preparation.

There are many more excellent hiking trails throughout the park catering to all difficulty levels. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and proper footwear when hiking in the summer heat. The park’s high elevation means temperatures are cooler than in Madrid.

The Sierra de Guadarrama National Park makes for an excellent day trip from Madrid to get out into nature and go for a fun summer hike!

Day Trips from Madrid

Madrid is an excellent home base for exploring several fascinating destinations just a short trip away. Here are some of the top day trips to take from Madrid in the summer:

Toledo

Known as the “City of Three Cultures,” Toledo is one of Spain’s most historic cities. Perched on a hilltop surrounded by a bend in the Tagus River, Toledo was once the capital of Spain and features a medieval old town and imposing fortress. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets and visit highlights like the Gothic cathedral, El Greco museum, synagogues, mosques, and the Alcázar fortress. The city is also known for its traditional sword making and marzipan sweets. Toledo is about an hour south of Madrid by train or bus.

Try this From Madrid: Toledo Full Day Trip

Segovia

The postcard-perfect city of Segovia lies just under an hour northwest of Madrid. Walk along the Roman aqueduct that cuts through the city center and leads to the imposing Alcázar castle. Wander through the Jewish Quarter’s narrow lanes and visit Segovia’s gothic cathedral. Don’t miss trying Segovia’s famous roast suckling pig dish. The high-speed train gets you from Madrid to Segovia in about 30 minutes.

Try this: From Madrid: Avila and Segovia Full-Day Tour

El Escorial

The immense monastery complex of El Escorial is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about an hour northwest of Madrid. Built in the late 1500s, El Escorial was originally conceived as both a royal palace and monastery. Tour the palace’s many rooms, courtyards, and gardens, along with the Pantheon of Kings and the monastery’s basilica. The Monastery of El Escorial makes for an easy day trip from Madrid by public bus or train.

Try this: From Madrid: Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen

Valley of the Fallen

The Valley of the Fallen is a monumental memorial site located about 45 minutes northwest of Madrid in the Guadarrama mountains. Built between 1940-1959, the Valley of the Fallen honors those who died during the Spanish Civil War. The most striking element is the towering 150-meter high cross that dominates the valley. Take a guided tour of the basilica carved into the mountainside and see the tombs of General Franco and José Antonio Primo de Rivera. The Valley of the Fallen makes for an interesting and scenic half-day trip from Madrid.

With its central location, Madrid is the perfect starting point for venturing out to see some of Spain’s most impressive historic sites and scenery. Segovia, Toledo, El Escorial, and the Valley of the Fallen all make for rewarding and easy day trips from Madrid during the summer months.

Try this: From Madrid: Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen

Conclusion

When planning what to do in Madrid in summer, the possibilities are as vast and varied as the city itself. After a day of exploring iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace and the Royal Botanical Garden, unwind with a refreshing gelato at Plaza de Oriente or sip a cocktail at one of Madrid’s chic rooftop bars. Whether you’re soaking in the sun at an outdoor pool, indulging in tapas in La Latina, or marveling at masterpieces in the Prado Museum, Madrid offers a vibrant summer experience that caters to every interest. The city’s unique blend of historical grandeur, natural beauty, and lively contemporary culture ensures that every moment spent in Madrid will be filled with memorable experiences.

Top Activities in Madrid

Madrid offers an array of unforgettable experiences for travelers, starting with a visit to the iconic Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid, where football enthusiasts can explore the storied grounds and museum. Art lovers will find inspiration at the Prado Museum, one of the world’s premier art galleries, showcasing masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and other Spanish greats. The “Emociones” Live Flamenco Performance provides an authentic taste of Spain’s passionate dance tradition, captivating audiences with its vibrant energy and soulful music. No trip to Madrid would be complete without exploring the Royal Palace, a stunning example of Baroque architecture and the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, offering a glimpse into the nation’s regal history and opulent splendor.

Hotels

Use this Madrid map to begin planning your trip!

FAQ: Visiting Madrid in Summer

1. Is Madrid good in summer?

Yes, Madrid is a wonderful destination in the summer. The city comes alive with numerous outdoor events, festivals, and activities. The weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for exploring the city’s beautiful parks, plazas, and historic sites. While it can get quite hot, the vibrant atmosphere, coupled with a plethora of outdoor cafes and cultural activities, makes Madrid an exciting summer destination.

2. Is Madrid unbearable in July?

Madrid can be very hot in July, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). However, the city is well-equipped to handle the heat with numerous shaded parks, air-conditioned museums, and plenty of places to enjoy a cold drink. Many locals head to the coast during the hottest weeks, so you might find the city a bit quieter and more pleasant for sightseeing without the usual crowds.

3. Is 3 days in Madrid enough?

While you could easily spend weeks exploring Madrid, three days is enough to see many of the city’s highlights. You can visit major attractions like the Royal Palace, the Prado Museum, and Retiro Park. Additionally, you can enjoy the city’s famous tapas culture and maybe catch a flamenco show. A well-planned itinerary will ensure you experience a good mix of history, culture, and local flavor.

4. What to do on hot days in Madrid?

On hot days in Madrid, consider the following activities:

• Visit Museums: Spend time in air-conditioned museums like the Prado, Reina Sofia, or Thyssen-Bornemisza.
• Explore Indoor Markets: Enjoy the local cuisine at Mercado de San Miguel or Mercado de San Antón, which offer cool indoor environments.
• Relax in Parks: Head to Retiro Park or Casa de Campo, where you can find shaded areas to relax and even rent a rowboat.
• Enjoy Rooftop Pools and Bars: Many hotels and venues offer rooftop pools and bars with stunning views and refreshing drinks.
• Take a Siesta: Embrace the local custom of taking a siesta during the hottest part of the day, and venture out again in the cooler evening hours.

Further Reading

• Madrid in a Weekend: Must-See Attractions, Tapas, and Tips
• Stay Cool and Stylish: What to Wear in Madrid in June
• How to Maximize Your Time in Madrid and Barcelona: A 5-7 Day Itinerary
• The Best Mid-Range Restaurants in Madrid for 2024
• Quench Your Thirst: The Best Sangria Spots in Madrid
• Madrid Luggage Storage Tips: Making the Most of Your Visit