Although I am not someone who grew up in Madrid or Spain, I have lived here for quite some time. I have grown to love this city and have called it home for a while. While living here, I am always on the lookout for the next best thing, while also being mindful of money. In Madrid, you can enjoy discounts on select days for youth and students under 25 years old. I have been curating this list for a while, and intend to continue adding to it. These activities are suitable for all ages, including visitors and residents. I guarantee you will find some fun and photo spots you’ll love.
Underrated Museums
Museo Cerralbo (Cerralbo Museum)
- My favorite museum in Madrid is the Museo Cerralbo. The classical-style Palace was designed with a dual purpose, to function as both a home and a museum. It became the headquarters of the works of art collected by the Marquess and Marchioness of Cerralbo and their children during their many trips around Spain and Europe. Get in line at least an hour before opening, because they limit the daily number of people who can enter.
- Free entry Times: Thu: 5.00 PM –8.00 PM / Sun & holidays: 18 April, 18 May, 12 October, and 6 December
Estación de Chamberi (Chamberí Ghost Station)
- Have you ever been to an abandoned metro station? This old Chamberí station was part of the first Metro line inaugurated in Madrid in 1919. You can walk from the ticket offices to the platform and discover an early 20th-century station with all its original elements for free, but be sure to make a reservation weeks in advance because the dates and times are limited. Note: They only offer guided tours in Spanish.
- Free Guided Tour: Friday: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM. / 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Real Jardín Botánico (Royal Botanical Gardens)
- Depending on the season, this can become an extremely gorgeous walk in a garden. I recommend going in spring to see the tulips bloom, showcasing the multitude of species that populate this green corner in the city center, from roses to the most exotic plants. The gardens are only €4 for entry.
- Free entry Times: Tuesdays from 10 AM to 1 PM
Museo del Romanticismo (Museum of Romanticism)
- One of my favorite museums is the former palace of the Marquis of Matallana, built in 1776. It houses a collection of 19th-century paintings, furniture, and decorative art. Visitors can see antique jewelry, porcelain dolls, pianos, and my favorite, a vintage pool table.
- Free entry Times: Saturdays after 2 PM and Sundays
Unique Activities
Postcard Vending Machine (At Kläre Specialty Coffee)
- This vending machine is the perfect souvenir; it gives you a mini print that symbolizes Madrid. In other words, it’s a postcard. You don’t get to choose which one you get, but they are equally cute. It is pretty far from the center of Madrid, but people go out of their way to test their luck. It is €1 for 1 print, and you are supporting a small business. This is located at a brunch spot, I have yet to try, but it has great reviews.
La Tienda de los Deseos (Wishing Wall)
- As seen on The Bachelor (Season 29), the wishing wall is a wall covered with wishes written by people all over the world. How it works: you grab a piece of paper, a pen, and a string to tie it. After tying it, you ring the bell so your wish can come true. It is completely free, and it is actually a wish shop that sells stationery and other cute writing equipment. I recommend donating or purchasing something to support this small business.
Embarcadero de El Retiro
- One of my favorite date activities in Madrid was renting a paddle boat in El Retiro. It was quite affordable, and although it may be seen as something touristy, it was really fun and picturesque. You do have to book in advance, and I recommend booking it online. For just €6 per boat, it is perfect for couples, families, or friends.
Photomatica
- If you know me, you know my love for authentic photobooths. Madrid has its own film photobooth inside a film store in La Latina. It is a perfect date idea, souvenir, and overall a fun activity for everyone. It costs €4 for one strip, and they only accept coins, but they can exchange your bills for coins in the store. There may be a line, so plan accordingly.
Parks and Views
Templo de Debod/ Cuartel de la Montana Park
- Live music and people picnicking at Madrid’s Cuartel de la Montana Park are typical on the weekends. I’ve come here many times when I don’t want to spend money and enjoy the beauty of Madrid. This place is always packed during sunset, and the energy is always positive. Once you come here once, you’ll want to come back (and you most likely will). The Egyptian government gifted the Templo de Debod to Spain, and while many visitors skip going inside, its exterior is just as breathtaking. It is free entry with a reservation.
Parque Madrid Río
- Park Rio is a grassy green space filled with endless activities. I enjoy riding bikes along its paths, but you’ll also find playgrounds, cafés, a skate park, and plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Although it’s one of Madrid’s lesser-known parks, it’s ideal for those who love staying active, and every time I’ve visited, there’s always been some event happening.
Churches and Monuments
Palacio de Cibeles (Cybele Palace)
- This palace is so gorgeous. For the longest time, I was unaware you could go inside it. Formally known as a post office, it is now a city hall office. The Cibeles Palace is home to so many things, including a free viewpoint. I attended an event there, where the bar is normally, and I was in complete awe of the views. Not only is the building gorgeous, but the daytime and nighttime cityscape is magical.
Palacio De Cristal (Crystal Palace)
- The Crystal Palace (temporarily closed as of August 2025) is a free, glass building in El Retiro Park. It is an art exhibition that catches the eyes of people from all over the world. Not only is it free, but it’s a picture-perfect photo opportunity, inside and out.
Cripta de la Almudena (St Mary Royal of the Almudena)
- This cathedral is right next to the royal palace and is free of charge. It is not only gorgeous, but it also houses gorgeous stained glass and a high ceiling. You won’t be here for long, but it is worth visiting because it’s next to so many things you may already be seeing.
I consider myself lucky to call Madrid home. As I continue to explore this beautiful city, I will continue to add to this list. There are so many things to see in Madrid, including museums, but these are the lesser-known hidden gems of Madrid. For the latest happenings in Madrid, I recommend following accounts like Time Out Madrid to stay updated with events. If you want any other tips when it comes to Spain or Madrid in general, comment below and subscribe to my newsletter!
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