Cheap and Free Things to do in Madrid- The Adventuring Millennial

Falling in love with Madrid was easy.

But honestly, I didn’t expect it. I visited Madrid at the end of a longer European tour. And truthfully, I didn’t know what to expect. This city doesn’t have a long list of “must-see” attractions. It doesn’t have a Statue of Liberty or an Eiffel Tower. But that was what I loved about it. I didn’t feel rushed.

And another thing I loved? Madrid felt very affordable. Sure, as a New Yorker I am slightly biased. But there were plenty of reasonably priced activities in Madrid.

So today I want to share my list of the best cheap and free things to do in Madrid. Alright budget travelers, are you ready?

Parque del Buen Retiro

Think of this at Madrid’s answer to Central Park.

El Parque del Buen Retiro is a large urban park near the city center. Here, you can find walking trails, running paths, cafes, and plenty of green space. There is also a large pond where you can practice your rowboat skills (I saw so many people run their boats into the walls surrounding the pond.)

Until the 19th century, Spanish royalty owned this land. In 1868, when Queen Isabella was overthrown, the park became public land.

This is my favorite area in Madrid. I loved people watching in this large urban park. Make sure you spend some time here while you are in Madrid.

The Prado Museum

You can visit the world-class museum for free every day!

This is Spain’s main national art museum. The Prado first opened to the public in 1819 and today is known for its vast collection of European art. It is essentially the Louvre of Madrid. General admission tickets cost € 15.00.

The Prado is free:

Monday-Saturday from 6pm-8pm

Sundays and Holidays from 5pm-7pm

In addition to the Prado, Madrid is also home to the Museo Reina Sofia. This museum houses 20th-century art. Here you can see Picasso’s famous Guernica painting. General admission tickets cost € 10.00.

Reina Sofia is free:

Monday from 7pm-9pm

Wednesday-Saturday 7pm-9pm

Sunday 1:30pm-7pm

Breakfast

Alright, its time to talk food.

Please treat yourself to a traditional Spanish breakfast of coffee, orange juice, and toast. I know, it sounds simple. But trust me, this simple breakfast is one of the best meals I’ve ever eaten.

The city is filled with places to enjoy this meal. But I suggest stopping by Café de la Luz. I discovered this cozy cafe after reading Lauren on Location’s blog. And I am SO GLAD I did.

This cafe opens at 10 am. They are extremely welcoming (even though it was obvious I was butchering the Spanish language). Settle into a comfy spot and order the standard breakfast. Soon, you will enjoy a warm cup of cafe con leche, a refreshing glass of zumo de naranja and a crispy bite of pan con tomate.

My husband and I both ordered this meal. And our total was less than € 10.00.

Temple of Debod

The Temple of Debod was originally built in Egypt in 200 BC. In the 1960s, the Aswan High Dam was being constructed. This threatened the temple, so Egypt decided to save the temple by donating it to Spain.

Today, you can view this original Egyptian temple in the Parque del Oeste. At night, watch a stunning sunset behind this ancient temple.

It is completely free to visit this park and temple.

Royal Palace of Madrid

While in Madrid, don’t miss the Royal Palace. This is the largest palace in Europe by floor area- it is 1, 450,000 sq ft! There are over 3,000 rooms in this royal residence. And it is the official residence of the Spanish royalty. But, today it is really only used for ceremonies.

Walk around the Sabatini Gardens and view the palace’s exterior for free. Or, pay € 10.00 for a tour of the palace.

Street Performers

Puerta del Sol is Madrid’s busy center. Here, you can catch plenty of free entertainment. Street performers gather here to entertain tourists (and ask for money). Usually, I’m not a huge fan of street performers. But I saw some unique acts that I don’t normally see in NYC. In one night, I enjoyed a mariachi band, an incredible roller blading stunt show, and a Spanish hip-hop artist.

Just be aware of your wallet. This is a prime spot for pickpockets.

Rooftop View

Head to a rooftop bar for a sweeping view of Madrid.

There are a few different options around the city center. The Circulo de Bellas Artes offers one of the best views. For €4 you can take an elevator to the top of the building. Here, simply enjoy the view or order a drink from the bar.

Just a head’s up, there is no rain cover at this bar. I got to the top, enjoyed the view for a minute, and immediately got soaked. Oh well! I still saw the view. But just be prepared to get wet if you happen to go right before a rainstorm.

Chocolate and Churros

Did you really go to Madrid if you didn’t eat chocolate and churros?

This is a must do. Madrid really knows how to make simple recipes really well. Yes, this is just churros dipped in thick, hot chocolate. But I promise, one bite and you will understand the hype.

There are places all over the city serving this delicacy. But if you only go one place, make sure it is Chocolatería San Ginés. They have served churros and chocolate since 1894. Don’t stress about the line. Their system is very efficient. After you order, find a table and hand a waiter your receipt. They will then bring out your order.

And these are really very affordable. For less than €4 you can enjoy a large plate of delicious churros and a warm bowl of chocolate.