Things To Do in Madrid & Madrid Airport Layover Ideas

If you are looking to explore Madrid during your layover, you can leave luggage for short term in lockers at Terminal 4, 2 and 1.

Puerta Del Sol

Puerta del Sol is a great place to check out the bustle of Madrid, and to do some shopping or grab a bite to eat. This plaza is the junction of eight street, and at night, the plaza lights up and comes to life. The Metro station Sol is underneath the square.

Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is Madrid’s main square and is lined by impressive buildings and outdoor cafes. Plaza Mayor is only a few blocks away from Puerta Del Sol. It is a fun place to grab a bite to eat and watch the people walk by. Nearest Metro stops are Metro Sol and Opera.

Prado Museum

The Prado features one of the world’s best collections of 12th to 19th century European art. It contains over 1,300 paintings as well as thousands of drawings, prints, coins and medals. You can take a taxi, or by Metro (Banco de Espana stop on the Red Line, L2)

The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is an impressive building where the King and the Queen meet with foreign diplomats. It is usually open every day of the week except on occasion, for functions. The closest Metro station is Opera.

Bullfighting – Plaza de Toros “Las Ventas”

Plaza de Toros “Las Ventas” seats 50,000 people and is the most popular bullring in Spain. The bullfighting season starts in March and ends in December and bullfights are held every Sunday or holiday during the season. Bullfights start at 6 or 7pm and last for two to three hours.

As always, make sure you leave plenty of time to get back to MAD Madrid International Airport in time for your connecting flight and enjoy your transit city rather than whiling away the time leaning up against your backpack in the departures lounge.