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Beyond Madrid’s deeply cosmopolitan streets, there are a plethora of attractions that are suitable for the whole family.
From unrivaled century-old palaces to inviting urban parks and monumental sports venues, we went ahead and handpicked the most fun things to do in Madrid with kids.
These top-notch attractions will certainly keep the little ones (and their parents) amused on a day out!
Often regarded as one of the top attractions in Madrid, Parque del Retiro (aka El Retiro) is the ultimate destination for active and outdoorsy adventures. This iconic 125-acre park is home to 15,000 trees, as well as a collection of inviting gardens such as the Jardines de Cecilio Rodríguez (Andalusian-inspired classicistic gardens), and the eye-popping Rosaleda rose garden.
While the little ones might not be interested in checking the architecture of the 19th-century Crystal Palace (Palacio de Cristal), they’ll certainly enjoy freely running around the park, having picnics in the gardens, and exploring El Retiro's artificial lake on a rowing boat.
Address: Plaza de la Independencia, 7
Spend a Fun-Filled Day in Casa de Campo
Covering 1535,52 hectares dotted with holm oaks, pines, and verdant rolling hills, Casa de Campo is Madrid’s largest public park, and a fine destination to escape from the city streets.
In this lush verdant park, families will come across not only a bountiful fauna and flora but also an array of fun-filled attractions for kids. There’s the Parque de Atracciones amusement park, which features exciting rides for all ages and adventure levels, the Madrid Zoo and Aquarium, home to more than 6,000 animals, and the Cable Car that connects Casa de Campo and Oeste Park.
A fun atmosphere combined with a patchwork of colorful stalls selling delicious treats makes Mercado de San Miguel the perfect place for the kids to discover authentic Spanish cuisine. Opened back in May 1916 in the heart of Madrid, this iconic food market features over 20 stands where you’ll find everything from finely cut Iberian ham to Mediterranean rice dishes and some of the best cheeses from Spain.
Great options for kids in the market include Arzábal, famous for its deep-fried croquettes made with Iberian ham, Idiazábal cheese, porcini mushrooms or cod, and Madrí, a go-to place for sampling the “patatas bravas” (sautéed potatoes in a spicy tomato sauce), which is one of Spain’s most popular tapas.
Address: Pl. de San Miguel, s/n
Explore Madrid's Kid-Friendly Museums
Madrid has a wide array of museum experiences that are perfectly suited for children. For uncovering masterpieces by Goya, El Greco, Velazquez, Rembrandt, and Picasso, an interactive visit to the century-old Prado Museum — Spain’s main national art museum — might be the best bet. Several companies offer Prado tours that stimulate kids’ visual memories by teaching them about Mythological themes, the important role of animals in several paintings, artistic techniques, and more.
The city also boasts a range of kid-friendly museums filled with intriguing collections that are designed to foster children’s curiosity. Must-visits include the Museo del Ferrocarril, which boasts one of the largest historic railroad collections in Europe, and the National Museum of Natural Sciences which is home to treasures such as specimens from the Upper Paleolithic, tools and arms from various cultures and ages, prehistoric osseous objects and more.
Witness The Changing of The Guard At The Royal Palace of Madrid
This sumptuous Baroque and Neoclassical palace is home to 3,418 rooms majestically decorated rooms, and it is filled with an array of eye-opening antiques, beautiful frescoes, works of art, and even a Royal Armoury collection — one of the largest in Europe.
Every Wednesday and Saturday from 11 am to 2 pm, it’s possible to witness the spectacular changing of the guard, a spectacle parading troops dressed in uniforms of the Royal Guard that takes place in the Armoury Square.
Address: C. de Bailén
Check Out A Giant Bear Statue In Puerta del Sol Square
A visit to Puerta del Sol is an unparalleled way to take in Madrid’s vibrant atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of the city, this well-known square played host to some of the most significant events of Spanish history, including the proclamation of the Second Republic in 1931, and it’s now a meeting place both for tourists and Madrileños.
While strolling around this lively plaza, kids will certainly be captivated by the 20-ton “El Oso y El Madroño”, a statue of a bear eating fruits from a tree and the most famous symbol of Madrid.
Eat Churros In Chocolatería San Ginés
After exploring the bustling Puerta del Sol, make your way to La Chocolatería San Ginés, Madrid’s most famous café. Located in a charming passageway called “El Pasadizo de San Gines”, less than 5 minutes from the square, this chocolateria has been treating locals and visitors to its famous deep-fried churros that come with a thick and creamy chocolate dip on the side.
Address: Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5,
Marvel At The Tropical Garden At Atocha Train Station
Madrid’s sweeping concrete jungle belies hints of greenery strewn across the city. Inside the very Atocha Station, for instance, you’ll find a lush indoor garden dotted with 7,000 plants from more than 260 species from the Americas, Asia, and Australia. Think of eye-popping cacao plants, heliconia flowers, carnivorous plants, Ginkgo Biloba's from Japan, and more!
Whether you’re going on a day trip to a nearby city, or simply looking for a wonderful escape from Madrid’s bustling streets, the garden of the Atocha train station is a must.
Address: Pl. del Emperador Carlos V
Visit The Mighty Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
One of the best things to do in Madrid with kids — especially if they’re sports enthusiasts — is visiting the mythical Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, the home stadium of Real Madrid since 1947.
During the tour, visitors will be able to get panoramic views of the inside of the 81,044-seat stadium — the second-largest in Spain —, visiting the facilities, and marveling at the most prestigious trophies won by Real Madrid.
Tip: make sure you purchase your tickets online, especially if visiting on match days or during the high season.
Address: Av. de Concha Espina, 1
Discover Madrid's Secrets On A Segway City Tour
A segway city tour is a great way to soak in the most scenic views of Madrid. Suitable for 9+ years old children, the excursion takes riders to explore the city’s centuries-old secrets, historic buildings, big-name landmarks, and lush parks.
If setting out on a segway seems too scary for you and your kid, a free walking tour through the streets of Madrid is a great alternative!
Watch The Sunset At Egyptian Temple de Debod
Regarded as one of the top attractions in Madrid, the Temple of Debod was built in Egypt, in the 2nd-century BC, and donated to Spain in 1968. Since then, the shrine has been perched in the center of a water feature in Parque del Oeste.
This strikingly beautiful temple is considered one of the best sunset spots in the city, and also a great destination if you want to take a break from Madrid’s hustle and bustle. The kids will certainly appreciate the chance to freely run around the park!
Address: C. de Ferraz, 1
Go On A Day Trip
Come prepared to indulge in thrilling day trips with the kids when not taking part in Madrid’s many cultural activities. The Spanish capital is perfectly positioned on the River Manzanares, in the central part of the Iberian Peninsula, and it’s surrounded by beautiful cities filled with history, culture, and scenic views.
Madrid day trips that are guaranteed to captivate the kids include Alcalá de Henares, home to the fascinating Cervantes Birthplace Museum, the majestic Sierra de Guadarrama Mountains, which offers families plenty of hiking opportunities, and Toledo, a UNESCO-listed city filled with gardens, palaces, and majestic bridges.
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