Top Architecture Spots in Madrid

I think it's a good idea to visit on a weekday if you can. The weekend crowds can be intense, and it really detracts from the experience!

I found that taking a guided tour can be a bit pricey, so maybe try a free walking tour instead. They give you a great sense of history without breaking the bank!

My advice is to wear comfy shoes! The area is pretty large, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Trust me, your feet will thank you later.

I recommend grabbing a coffee from one of the nearby cafes before heading to the square. It's a perfect spot to enjoy your drink while taking in the sights!

Plan to take a break in the Sabatini Gardens right next to the palace. They’re beautiful and a perfect spot for a light snack or a bit of rest.

Wear comfy shoes! You’ll be doing a lot of walking on the marble floors and through the sprawling gardens, so keep it casual.

Check out the changing of the guard at 12 PM on Wednesdays and Saturdays. It’s a great experience and totally free!

Check out the hidden details on the gate itself—they’re stunning! Spend some time walking around it and admire the sculptures; it’s worth it.

Street performers sometimes hang out near the gate—keep an eye out for them. It adds a lively vibe to your visit, and you might enjoy some unexpected entertainment!

If you're into photography, my advice is to go in the early evening just before sunset. The light inside is stunning and you’ll have a magical atmosphere for your pics.

I recommend checking if any exhibitions are happening during your visit. They often have temporary art shows inside that really add to the experience.

One thing I wished I'd done was to bring some water. There's limited options inside the palace, and it's easy to get thirsty while enjoying the sights.

Bring a small picnic. There's this lovely vibe in the park and it’s way cheaper than eating in a nearby café. Plus, you can enjoy the scenery at your own pace

If you're looking to save some cash, grab lunch at a nearby café instead of inside the arena. The prices in the concession stands are pretty steep!

Plan to visit on a weekday if you can... The weekend crowds were intense, and I found it harder to enjoy the space without feeling rushed

My advice is to wear comfy shoes! There's so much to explore and my feet were killing me by the end of the day. I’D DEFINITELY wear sneakers next time.

Make sure to get the audio guide! It really brought the whole place to life for me and it was only a bit extra on the ticket price.

Bring a packed lunch if the weather is good. There are some areas where you can eat outside, and it saves you from overpriced snacks in the café.

I recommend getting there early, around 9 AM. It gets super crowded later; I wished I had taken this advice myself!

I think you should bring a reusable water bottle. There are places to fill it up and it will save you from buying overpriced drinks – trust me your wallet will thank you!

Check out the calendar for pop-up events before you go. I stumbled upon an amazing art installation that wasn't part of the usual stuff, and it was totally worth it!

If you want to avoid the crowds, I suggest visiting around 10 AM on a weekday. It was way less busy and I could really take my time exploring the exhibits!

My advice is to grab lunch at one of the nearby cafés. The food at Matadero is good, but you can find some cheaper and more authentic spots just a short walk away.