These 25 Pictures Will Make You Want to Book a Trip to Madrid Right Now

You’ll spot gorgeous monuments left and right walking down Madrid’s busy city streets. Madrid’s famous Palacio Real and Catedral de Almudena are some of the most iconic.

Catedral de la Almudena, Calle de Bailén, 10, Madrid, Spain, +34 915 42 22 00

Royal Palace of Madrid, Calle de Bailén, Madrid, Spain, +34 914 54 87 00

A monument tour just wouldn’t be complete without checking out the giant Cibeles Palace – it was once the post office but is now home to the mayor’s office, art exhibitions, a rooftop restaurant and more. Also plan to stop by the Puerta de Alcalá and the city’s beautiful Cibeles fountain, portraying a Greek goddess in her chariot.

Palacio de Cibeles, Plaza Cibeles, 1, Madrid, Spain, +34 914 80 00 08

Even if bullfighting isn’t your thing, pay a visit to the Plaza de Toros de Ventas, which dates back to 1931. The enormous building, which which boasts a Moorish style of architecture, has not only been home to many famous bullfights, but also concerts by the Beatles, Diana Ross and more. Many festivals and events are also held here.

Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas, Calle de Alcalá, 237, Madrid, Spain, +34 913 56 22 00

You can’t miss out on seeing one of Madrid’s famous squares, like the Plaza Mayor. The red-brick surrounding buildings boast over 200 balconies facing the square’s center. The Puerta del Sol is another one of Madrid’s most well-known squares, considered to be the center of the city and home to the famous bear statue.

Plaza Mayor, 28012 Madrid, Spain

Plaza de la Puerta del Sol, 28013 Madrid, Spain

Don’t miss out on a trip to Madrid’s most beloved park, the Parque de El Retiro. Wandering around the lake and visiting the Palacio de Cristal are must-do activities in the park.

Parque de El Retiro, Plaza de la Independencia, 7, Madrid, Spain

Visiting Madrid’s newly renovated riverside is a great activity for the whole family, with walking and biking trails, play areas for kids and terraces to sit out on and enjoy a drink or meal.

Madrid Río, Puente de Toledo, 28019 Madrid, Spain

Madrid has an interesting skyline, completely different than most cities. With just a smattering of tall buildings up north, most of Madrid’s charm from up above lies in delightful tiled rooftops and church domes. You can enjoy the views from some special rooftop bars like Círculo de Bellas Artes, which has some of the best in the city from all angles, or the Corte Inglés Gourmet Experience, which overlooks the energetic Gran Vía street. Or head to a park, like the Cerro del Tío Pío or the Parque Oeste for panoramic views of Madrid.

Círculo de Bellas Artes Calle de Alcalá, 42, Madrid, Spain, +34 913 60 54 00

El Corte Inglés, Plaza del Callao, 2, 28013 Madrid, Spain, +34 913 79 80 00

The streets of Madrid are decidedly picturesque, even when you aren’t stumbling upon a monument or famous building. Madrid’s happy vibe can be felt when walking the streets, not to mention the beautiful architecture you’ll spot just roaming around.

Madrid is famous for its cuisine, so chow down on some delectable Iberian ham, Spanish cheeses and make sure to pair them with a glass of wine. Don’t forget to start your day off strong with churros – fried, sugary sticks that you’ll dip in steaming hot mugs of chocolate.