Top 10 Free Things to do in Madrid, Spain

Updated January 2025

There are plenty of free things to do in Madrid, but what are they exactly? And are they worth it?

As someone who lived in Madrid to teach English, I’ve created a list of the top free activities in this amazing city.

I spent my weekends exploring the city and finding different activities without costing a thing (or maybe just a few euros) in exchange for a fun afternoon of adventure, history, and culture.

In this post, I’ll cover exactly what those activities are so you can fill your itinerary with low-cost activities that are actually worth it.

Ready to explore? Let’s go!

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Top 10 Free Things to Do in Madrid, Spain

1. Walking Tours of Madrid’s Beautiful Neighborhoods

Let me tell you something: if there is ever an opportunity to have someone teach you the history of a city in a storytelling and interesting way with actual information you want to know – do it. 

A free walking tour in Madrid is THE BEST way to get to know the city, from its rich history to its modern scene.

It’s up to your discretion (and budget) on how much/if you decide to tip the guia, but it is not a requirement. 

It’s one of the best ways (if not the best) to see the different points of interest in Madrid, get the lowdown on where to catch the best views of Madrid when visiting museums, and which neighborhoods to explore for great shopping and nightlife. 

The guides can answer any questions about making your visit to Madrid inexpensive and better. 

💡 Pro tip: if you also speak Spanish (native or non-native) or you’re practicing, you should definitely challenge yourself and take the tour in Spanish! I always do the walking tours in Spanish, especially in Spain, where I can easily connect with the guide and ask them questions about Madrid that they can fully express in their native language. They will often tell you more information and tips on seeing Madrid as a local. It really can’t get any better than that.  

✅ BOOK a FREE Walking Tour in Madrid

2. El Parque del Buen Retiro

It can’t get any more free than parks. However, a park-like Retiro in Madrid is not something to miss.

Retiro in Madrid is like Central Park in New York, and it would be a shame not to stop by this beautiful green oasis in the middle of such a busy city.

There is almost ALWAYS something going on: an event of some sort, ventriloquists entertaining kids and adults, different exercise classes, musicians sharing their talents al aire libre, outdoor book stands, tourists and locals enjoying a boat ride in the pond inside the park…you get the image.  

Best of all, you don’t even have to spend money to do anything in Retiro—you can go to people-watch, which is very entertaining.

Retiro is always a good idea no matter what season you may be in Madrid because there is ALWAYS something happening, and the park is beautiful no matter what season it may be.

3. Parque de las Siete Tetas

I’m sure you have heard of Retiro Park if you have been busy away researching parks and free things to do in Madrid. However, have you heard of such a park like this one?

Siete Tetas Park is a park I finally got to enjoy when I visited my friend living in Madrid because of how many times she said it was one of the best parks in the city that not many knew, with great views of Madrid.

Though the park is on the outskirts (in the Vallecas neighborhood) and away from all the popular things to see in the city center, you can still get to the park on the metro.

Bring your snacks, or buy some from local vendors at the park; bring a blanket or something to sit on, and enjoy the views of Madrid from the park, especially at sunset.

It’s truly stunning.

4. Walk around the Spanish Royal Palace

Go visit the Spanish Royal Palace and marvel at its beauty.

Take a photo in front of the golden gates, go to the gardens (which are also free!), and enjoy the majestic statues surrounded by beautiful lush greenery and perfectly cut shrubs.

Make a stop by the Catedral de la Almudena, the patron saint of Madrid (the church in front of the Royal Palace). It is also free, depending on whether you want to donate (usually 1 euro if you can).

Take a snack, sit, and stare into Spanish Royalty…and that super long line of people waiting to purchase their tickets.

>> Read More: 5 Interesting Madrid Culture Shocks That May Shock You

5. Visit El Rastro

If you are in Madrid on any Sunday throughout the year, you, my friend, will get to experience El Rastro.  

What’s El Rastro?

It’s a famous flea market that has become ingrained into Madrid’s culture because of its history.

This flea market dates back to the 15th century, and to this day, it’s become a space where approximately 1,000 vendors come early on Sunday mornings to set up their stands and display their antiquities, crafts, and random objects for sale. You don’t have to buy anything; being there is an experience!

If you end up at least walking through it, definitely do it.

I will say this: it gets packed, so just like in any other city and situation where people are packed like sardines, keep an eye on your belongings.  

Also, take your time and walk through it, go through the different stands, and watch what people buy and how they barter.  

I’ve seen everything sold there, from shirts with the dirtiest sayings to old people selling beautifully designed and antique coffee tables that will make you say, “They just don’t make coffee tables like this anymore.”

A stroll through this flea market is definitely one of the best free things to do in Madrid. It lets you experience the culture just by being there and watching.

It’s by the La Latina metro stop if you want to check it out.

6. People watch at Plaza Mayor

At Plaza Mayor, you will always see something going on.  

Plaza Mayor has witnessed celebrations, trials, executions, devastating fires, and various city events throughout history.

Depending on the season, you’ll see the Christmas market, a concert (sometimes free), street performers, and, once again, people watching.  

Plaza Mayor has coffee shops, restaurants, and a variety of little shops around the plaza. Sometimes, special vendors come so you can wander around and see what the commotion is all about.

While this next suggestion may not be free, it’s well-known to try una bocata de calamares (fried squid sandwich).

I finally tried it after living in Madrid, and I’m so glad I did! The sandwich comes with a slice of lemon to squeeze into it, which adds a great touch.

Also, during Semana Santa, the procession will pass through Plaza Mayor, so there’s also something you can check out for free if you happen to be in Madrid during Semana Santa  (Holy Week). 

7. Stroll around Puerta del Sol

Another inevitable stop you’ll make that is also free is the famous Puerta del Sol plaza.

It’s a very famous square with three metro entrances, surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the city hall.

There are also many street performers, lottery vendors, shops, people trying to sell you flowers, tourists gawking, and the volume of people in this area, with locals wanting to escape the chaos, probably on their way to work or home.

A lot is going on, and though it can be overwhelming, it’s worth a visit and one of the best things to do in Madrid for free.

Also, here is the famous statue of el oso y el modroño (the bear and the strawberry tree), known to be the official symbol of Madrid, that you can take your picture with for…you guessed it, FREE.

8. Walk the magnificent Gran Via

An equally hectic street with a lot going on, but FREE is Gran Via. 

Many have called this street the Broadway of Madrid for many reasons, including the theater on this grand avenue, the movie theaters, amazing shopping, restaurants, and more.

Here, you will find shops from Spanish brands like Zara to the famous Primark (the one on Gran Via just so happens to be the biggest in Spain).

Gran Via is next to Puerta de Sol, so you should check it out.

To get here, take the metro and get off at the stop called Gran Via or Callao. 

9. Go to a world-renowned museum with free entry

Get your dose of history and get cultured at some of the best museums in Europe – fo’ free – it literally doesn’t get any better than this.

• Museo de Las Americas (History of the Spanish Conquest of the Americas…) – Free to students when you show them your school ID and if you’re between the ages of 18-25.
• Museo de Historia de Madrid (History of Madrid) – Free for everyone, any day, any time.
• Museo Arqueologico Nacional (MAN) (Archaeological museum) – Free on Saturdays after 2pm and free all day on certain national holidays. Check here for a full listing of free holidays.
• Museo del Prado (Art museum): It’s Free between 6pm and 8pm, and on Sundays and holidays, it’s free from 5pm to 7pm.
• Museo del Traje (Costume Museum) – Free after 2:30 on Saturdays, free anytime if you are a student and you show your ID (international student IDs are also acceptable).

10. Go to Templo de Debod…at sunset

Egypt gifted the city of Madrid this beautiful monument because the Spanish government helped Egypt when it suffered from flooding due to the construction of the great Aswan Dam.  

The temple dates back to the 2nd century BC and sits right between Principe Pio and the Royal Palace. If you can, try checking it out during sunset.  

Sunsets are beautiful, free, and have a whole vibe you can’t miss.

Templo de Debod is a fantastic place to go right before sunset to watch the end of the day.  

Bring a snack, sit on the grass, and watch the beauty of a Madrileño sunset.  

Go early-ish, though; the place can get packed!

Concluding thoughts on The Best 10 Free Things To Do In Madrid, Spain

I hope this list has helped you add at least one or two other ideas to your list of free things to do in Madrid!

This city is full of things to do and see and daily events all year. 

You’ll find yourself leaving Madrid and not seeing it all, which is good. You’ll have more reason to visit again and explore more.

Which free thing to do in Madrid caught your interest? Do you have other ideas for free things to do in Madrid? Feel free to share below!

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