Did you know that in 2023 the city of Madrid counted more than 10 million visitors and it is actually the most visited city in Spain, together with Barcelona? No wonder that all touristic places in Spain’s capital are overcrowded.
This is why we want to get to know the lesser-known hidden gems of Madrid. Where locals go during their leisure time and enjoy art, nature or culinary delights. Let’s go!
Table of Contents
Monasterio de las descalzas reales
Let’s kick this article off with one of the most historic hidden gems of Madrid. The monasterio de las descalzas reales that literally translates to “monastery of the barefoot royals” is located in the center of Madrid, near Puerta del Sol.
To get there you can take the metro and get off at “Callao station” or at “Puerta del sol” and then walk a few minutes. It’s the perfect historical stop when strolling around the beautiful city center.
The monastery was founded in the 16th century and is home to an impressive collection of religious artwork and artifacts. You can go visit the monastery and admire the magnificently decorated chapels, paintings and sculptures. But beware of the changing opening hours, since the monastery isn’t always open to the public. Also we advise you to book tickets in advance as access may be limited.
Conde Duque Cultural Center
The Conde Duque Cultural Center is located in the Malasaña district and is an important cultural center in the capital of Spain. It offers a varied program of events, including concerts, exhibitions, theater performances and workshops. The best thing about this place is that many events at the Conde Duque Cultural Center are free of charge. While only certain exhibitions or concerts may require an admission fee.
But it’s not just the events there. Also the building itself is an impressive example of Baroque architecture and, in addition to the exhibition rooms, also houses libraries and event halls.
So in any case, visiting this center is going to give you unique experiences while exploring Madrid. To get there you can take the metro and get off at “Plaza de España”, “Noviciado” or “Ventura Rodríguez” and just walk a few minutes till you get there.
Cerro del Tío Pío
Next on our list of the best hidden gems in Madrid is Cerro del tío Pío, also known as “Parque de las Siete Tetas”. This beautiful park is located in the Vallecas district, a little further away from the city center. You can either take the metro and get off at “Buenos Aires” and walk about 15 minutes to get there or you can take an additional bus.
Believe us when we say that this is one of the most special hidden places in Madrid and therefore it is definitely worth it going there. Even though it might take you half an hour to get there.
This park is located on different little hills. When you walk up there you get breathtaking panoramic views over almost the entire city. It really offers an impressive view of the Madrid skyline, including the Royal Palace and the Cathedral. We recommend going there before sunset, walking the trails in the area, having a little picnic, getting in touch with the locals and finally enjoying the sunset over the city.
The Sorolla Museum
Another important stop when exploring Madrid off the beaten track is the Sorolla museum. It is located in the Chamberí district and is dedicated to the famous Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla. You can get there by bus. In fact buses #5, #16 and #61 have a stop right in front of the museum, which makes it even easier accessible.
The museum houses an extensive collection of Sorolla’s works, including paintings, sketches and personal objects belonging to the artist. Actually you can still have a look at some of the original furnishings from the painter’s home and studio.
So this museum isn’t just for enjoying Sorolla’s impressive paintings in an intimate and tranquil setting inspired by his former home, but also learning about his life and how he lived or got inspired. One of the best hidden spots of Madrid for art fans.
Hidden Tapas Bars in Lavapies
What would be a list of unique things to do in Madrid without talking about the famous tapas bars of Spain? Most people that want to enjoy Madrid off the beaten path go to La Latina. This district used to be a hidden gem, but now it is actually a very touristic area just like the center or the district Chueca.
Lavapies on the other hand is a lesser-known cultural neighborhood famous for its diverse gastronomic scene, including hidden tapas bars with typical dishes for decent prices. Some of our personal favorites are “La burlona bar”, “Bar el boqueron” and “Bar Tribuetxe”. They all offer an authentic atmosphere and delicious tapas.
Besides looking for these special but hidden food gems of Madrid, you can also just stroll through the narrow streets of Lavapies. Visiting hidden tapas bars in Lavapies however is not only a culinary experience, but also an opportunity to get to know the local culture and vibrant life in this lively neighborhood.
The Chamberí Ghost Station
Another place that calls for unique experiences in Madrid is the ghost station Chamberí, also known as “Estación de Chamberí”. It is a disused metro station in Madrid that has been converted into a little museum.
The station was opened in 1919 and served as a stop on metro line 1 until 1966. Today it is a museum that offers visitors an insight into the history of public transportation in Madrid. When taking the metro line 1 you actually will pass this station and also when going there by foot you will see the metro passing every few minutes.
The museum station displays original furnishings and props from the early days of the Madrid metro, including historic posters, advertising signs and ticket machines. The entrance to the Chamberí ghost station is free. You just have to have a look at the opening hours.
Mercado de Vallehermoso
The Vallehermoso market is located in the Chamberí district and is a popular food market offering a variety of fresh produce, delicacies and local specialties. It is just a short walk from the metro station “Quevedo”.
If you are in Madrid but trying to explore it off the beaten path, this should be on your list of things to do. It’s always interesting to stroll through markets in foreign countries or cities. In the mercado de Vallehermoso you can buy fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, cheese, bread and other groceries.
It offers a really lively and authentic atmosphere, frequented by locals and offering an insight into daily life in Madrid. The market is usually open from Monday to Saturday, although opening times may vary depending on the day.
Quinta de los Molinos Park
Quinta de los Molinos Park is located in the Ciudad Lineal district and is a green oasis in the middle of the city, famous for its almond trees in bloom in spring. You are best advised to go there by bus taking either bus #146 or bus #114.
This park is the perfect getaway when you just can’t stand the noise and hecticness of the city center anymore. It offers extensive green spaces, walking paths, playgrounds and picnic areas to relax and enjoy nature.
If you happen to visit Madrid in February or March, you will see the park in all its pride. The blossoming almond trees transform Quinta de los Molinos Park into a stunning sea of white and pink flowers. This is probably one of the most unusual things to do when visiting a big city like Madrid, but it is totally worth it.
Cine Doré
Cine Doré is a historic cinema in the Lavapies district dedicated to showing classic films and cultural events. It is very close to the metro station “Anton Martín”, but you could also just walk there, since it’s not far from the city center.
The Cine Doré has a unique, nostalgic ambience with historic architecture, red velvet and a charming inner courtyard that is ideal for an outdoor movie screening. There you can choose between a varied selection of films, including classics of Spanish and international cinema, film cycles, retrospectives and film festivals.
The admission price for screenings at Cine Doré is pretty affordable, and they also often offer discounted prices for special events. So if you are still looking for unique experiences in Madrid, why not go to the cinema ?
Casa de Campo
And to end our list of unique places in Madrid, here is another beautiful green area you should visit, when being in the capital of Spain. Casa de Campo is actually the largest park in Madrid, located on the banks of the Manzanares River.
You can get there by metro, getting off at the station called “Lago”. Another way to get there is by cable-car. Yes you read that right. There is a cable-car, taking you across the park, offering stunning views over the park and also parts of the city.
The park offers a variety of attractions and leisure facilities, including lakes, gardens, playgrounds, amusement parks, restaurants and sports facilities. So you can go there cycling, jogging, boating or simply walking around having a little picnic.
With these secret things to do in Madrid, we are sure that you can fully experience and enjoy the city’s hidden treasures. From cultural attractions and natural parks to gastronomic experiences and shopping opportunities. Madrid offers something special for everyone.
