Madrid in 5 Minutes – Sights, Attractions, and Insider Tips

Gran Via, Plaza Mayor, Palacio Real and the Santiago Bernabéu stadium - Madrid is the capital of Spain and known for a pompous architectural style. We show you the top sights in Madrid in 5 minutes. 

Our journey through the Spanish capital starts at the iconic Plaza Mayor – one of the largest and most visited squares in Madrid. Surrounded by historic buildings and buzzing with life, it’s the perfect place to kick off your city adventure. Just a short walk from here is the magnificent Royal Palace (Palacio Real) – an architectural masterpiece and one of the largest royal residences in Europe, with nearly 2,000 rooms.

For a view from above, head to the Riu Plaza España Hotel. This 27-story tower has a panoramic rooftop bar on top, offering stunning 360-degree views over the Madrid skyline. From the hotel, stroll down the Gran Vía, Madrid’s famous shopping avenue. It’s always busy, full of shops, theatres, and local life.

About halfway along the Gran Vía, take a detour into the Chueca neighborhood. Madrid is known as one of Europe’s most inclusive cities, and Chueca is the beating heart of its LGBTIQ+ community. You’ll find colorful boutiques, buzzing bars, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home.

Need a break from the city buzz? The Retiro Park is your green oasis. Rent a boat on the lake, relax under the trees, or just watch people pass by – it’s the perfect spot to unwind. Nearby is the world-renowned Museo del Prado, home to some of the most important artworks in history.

And of course: no trip to Madrid is complete without visiting the legendary Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid. If you're planning a stadium tour, we recommend booking in advance – especially on match days, it fills up fast.

Madrid is vibrant, diverse, and full of surprises – from royal grandeur to urban energy. Check out our video, leave a like, and subscribe for more travel inspiration from around the world. ¡Nos vemos en Madrid!