Traveling is by no means inexpensive. Sightseeing really adds up, and when you’re already planning around accommodation, transport, and food, sometimes a museum ticket just simply doesn’t fit the budget. Being a budget traveler myself, and after having lived here, I’ve amassed a whole bunch of ideas for free things to do and see around the city. After all, the best things in life are free, so I hope with this guide you’ll be able to enjoy the very same in Madrid.
Must-see
The most recognizable parts of the city are free to access--or at least to walk by.
You might also notice several free tour offerings in these areas, which I highly recommend! Keep an eye out for their brightly-colored umbrellas and flags--or, stop by a tourism office and ask for their free walking tour recommendations. (Keep in mind: Free tours are indeed free, but it’s common practice to tip 5 to 10€ or more, depending on the length and information given. Tour guides in most situations rely on tips to supplement their income!).
Museums & Exhibitions
Whether you're into history, art, fashion, science, or beyond, there's bound to be a Museum in Madrid for you.
Museums with free visiting hours
Apart from those listed above, most museums in Madrid do require paid admission. However, there are some exceptions if you wish to visit them.
🗓 On public holidays, entries to museums are free. These days include: April 18th, Día de los Monumentos y Sitios; May 18th, Día Internacional de los Museos; October 12th, Fiesta Nacional de España; and December 6th, Día de la Constitución Española.
📚 If you're a university student and have a valid Student ID with you, most ticketing offices will offer free or reduced entry.
⏰ Seniors above 65, and toddlers under 3 years of age often have free entry as well.
The following museums also offer free visiting hours:
Free admission Monday to Saturday, 6 to 8pm, and on Sundays and holidays from 5 to 7pm.
Free admission Monday to Saturday from 7 to 9pm (closed Tuesdays) and Sundays from 12:30 to 2:30pm.
Free admission on Mondays
Free admission on Saturdays from 2 to 8pm, Sundays 9:30am to 3pm.
Free admission on Sundays from 5 to 8pm.
Free admission on Saturdays from 2pm to close, and all day on Sundays.
Free admission on Saturdays from 2pm to close, and all day on Sundays. During July and August, it’s also free on Thursday evenings from 7 to 10:30pm.
Free admission Saturdays from 2 to 8pm, and Sundays from 10am to 3pm.
Free admission Thursdays from 5 to 8pm, and Sundays from 10am to 3pm.
Public Art
You'll see a lot of street art around the city, mostly in Malasaña and Lavapiés. There are also more permanent public art installations and spaces, listed below.
(Psst--There are some great lunch spots on this street, including a wonderful indian restaurant with the best naan! Grab a table on the terrace and take in the art if you happen to be there during midday.)
If you happen to be near Atocha Station, try to find these baby heads, entitled 'El Dia y La Noche'. It's another public art installation that isn't posted on most maps, but can be found through its listing in Atlas Obscura. If we happen to pass by, usually the people I’m with stop to take a picture or two. It’s not every day you get to see a statue like this.
Marketplaces
Whether you want to spend money or keep it low-key, it's still a great idea to visit these markets. Both are officially held during the weekend--specifically Sunday--but can be visited anytime.
During the holiday season, there are also a lot of Christmas markets. My personal favorite is the one in Plaza Mayor, which is for shops that specialize in making figures for nativity scenes. I’m not super religious, but it’s really interesting to see a whole plaza full of tiny figurines.
Parks
Madrid is one of the greenest cities in Europe. Its outdoor spaces are stunning, and you can enjoy quite a lot of them for free.
And of course, don't forget to visit El Retiro, which was listed above, but I felt needed another mention.
Events
If you visit Madrid during these times of year, don't miss out in taking part or at the very least observing these holidays, parades, marches, and celebrations.
Cambio de Guardia 💂🏻♀️
You can catch the changing of the guard at the gates of the Royal Palace every Wednesday and Saturday from 11am to 2pm. In the hotter months of July and August, the hours change to 10am to 12pm. It doesn’t take place on holidays or if it’s determined that the weather is too bad. If you happen to not have any plans, you might as well check it out.
Three Kings' Day 👑
The three kings, or, three wise men, are the party responsible for bringing Christmas presents to children in Spain--not Santa! There are several processions that take place, and holiday celebrations around the city on January 6th.
Carnaval y El Entierro de la Sardina ⚰️🐟
In late February, Spain celebrates Carnaval. One of the most interesting traditions in Madrid and Toledo is the funeral of the Sardine, which takes place around Ash Wednesday, welcoming in the season of Lent. In Madrid city, the funeral procession with dances, bands, puppets, and more takes place in the neighborhood of La Florida, but each barrio may have their own tradition. Some opt for a funeral pyre, instead.
International Womens’ Day 🚺💜
Although this internationally recognized day isn’t specific to Spain, the way in which its celebrated in Madrid is truly inspiring. In Madrid, protests and demonstrations of solidarity are always well attended, and international womens day is no exception. If you’re in the city on March 8th, you’ll likely see (or hear, from a distance) the march, which processes from plaza de colón all the way through the center of the city. You’re welcome to join the march too, or just watch and support from along the planned route.
Dia de Madrid 🐻🌳
May 2nd is the anniversary of one of Madrid's greatest achievements--resistance of French governance under Napoleon. Today, however, the holiday has changed to really just be a day of pride for a lot of Madrileños about their city and its history. There are a variety of parades, parties, and events throughout the city to attend.
Fiestas San Isidro 🎈
San Isidro is the patron saint of Madrid, and he’s celebrated every May 15th (and ensuing week). Most events take place in the neighborhood and park of San Isidro, including dances, religious services, and carnival. It’s a short ride away from the center of the city via metro, bus, or cercanías.
Mercado Cervantino 🎠
Ok. So this isn't in Madrid city, it's actually in Alcala de Henares which is another city about 40 minutes away by public transport. But, it's the best medieval market in the region. And, it happens to be in the hometown of Miguel de Cervantes, Spain's arguably most infamous author. If you're in town in early October, you might have a chance of visiting. It's worth the trip out of Madrid, just to see the market and walk through Alcala's older town center.
Fiesta Nacional de España y Dia de la Hispanidad 🇪🇸
October 12th is the national day of Spain. Being Madrid’s capital, the city goes all-out with parades, a flyover, military demonstrations, and more.
In addition to everything else going on, there's a celebration in tandem dedicated to Latin American heritage and specifically Indigenous peoples. A protest-parade marches from Plaza de Colón through Centro, and usually ends in the historically diverse neighborhood of Lavapiés. It’s an officially organized parade, so there are several dance groups and bands representing specific countries. There is also a market in Plaza de España filled with Latin American vendors and food stalls (and performances) around this time!
Dia de Trashumancia 🐏
OF ALL THE EVENTS--I recommend this the most. In Late October, Madrid practices a medieval tradition of taking the livestock through the city. From early in the morning, shepherds lead a giant herd of sheep, goats, and rams from their pastures in Casa de Campo, over Puente de Segovia, through Plaza Mayor and the old part of the city, and up through the more modern part of the city by Cibeles and Plaza de Colón. They then return and go back the same way they came.
Luces Navideñas 🎄
From All Saints’ Day on November 1st to Epiphany on January 6th (but they're loose dates), the city is lit up with various illuminations throughout its streets, and installed sculptures in specific areas of town.
It’s not free, but you can purchase a ticket on the city tour bus for a nighttime ride, which takes you on a route to see all of them. The royal gardens also have their own event, but if you want to go, you have to buy tickets well ahead of time.
Other resources
These organizations, websites, blogs, and creators are great sources to stay updated on free events and offerings in Madrid.
Madrid Turismo
Get up-to-date information from the official tourism site for Madrid.
If you want a recommendation for the route, check out the world heritage site, Paisaje de la Luz (translated: passage of the light) which chronicles a great itinerary through the city and some of its most historically significant and beautiful areas.
Madrid Secreto
This platform is a great way to get to know lesser-known places around Madrid, and information that you might not get as a tourist.
Disfruta Madrid
This travel blog, curated by Pedro, is an incredibly in-depth guide to Madrid and current happenings. Follow the instagram for updates and weekend plan recommendations!
You can also search free plans in Madrid by checking out Spanish-language resources: on social media, the hashtag or phrase "Planazo Gratis" is a great way to find free plans!
¡Que disfrutéis!
However you choose to spend your time and money in Madrid, I hope that you enjoy it.
If you’d like additional recommendations (especially for specialty coffee), check out my thatch profile. I’ve got and am working on even more guides to help you enjoy and explore Madrid, and Spain at large!
Or, reach out via instagram to my coffee tour @catscoffeetour or personal account @nampahceitac.
Otherwise, ‘ta luego 👋🏻
Traveling is by no means inexpensive. Sightseeing really adds up, and when you’re already planning around accommodation, transport, and food, sometimes a museum ticket just simply doesn’t fit the budget. Being a budget traveler myself, and after having lived here, I’ve amassed a whole bunch of ideas for free things to do and see around the city. After all, the best things in life are free, so I hope with this guide you’ll be able to enjoy the very same in Madrid.
Must-see
The most recognizable parts of the city are free to access--or at least to walk by.
You might also notice several free tour offerings in these areas, which I highly recommend! Keep an eye out for their brightly-colored umbrellas and flags--or, stop by a tourism office and ask for their free walking tour recommendations. (Keep in mind: Free tours are indeed free, but it’s common practice to tip 5 to 10€ or more, depending on the length and information given. Tour guides in most situations rely on tips to supplement their income!).
Museums & Exhibitions
Whether you're into history, art, fashion, science, or beyond, there's bound to be a Museum in Madrid for you.
Museums with free visiting hours
Apart from those listed above, most museums in Madrid do require paid admission. However, there are some exceptions if you wish to visit them.
🗓 On public holidays, entries to museums are free. These days include: April 18th, Día de los Monumentos y Sitios; May 18th, Día Internacional de los Museos; October 12th, Fiesta Nacional de España; and December 6th, Día de la Constitución Española.
📚 If you're a university student and have a valid Student ID with you, most ticketing offices will offer free or reduced entry.
⏰ Seniors above 65, and toddlers under 3 years of age often have free entry as well.
The following museums also offer free visiting hours:
Free admission Monday to Saturday, 6 to 8pm, and on Sundays and holidays from 5 to 7pm.
Free admission Monday to Saturday from 7 to 9pm (closed Tuesdays) and Sundays from 12:30 to 2:30pm.
Free admission on Mondays
Free admission on Saturdays from 2 to 8pm, Sundays 9:30am to 3pm.
Free admission on Sundays from 5 to 8pm.
Free admission on Saturdays from 2pm to close, and all day on Sundays.
Free admission on Saturdays from 2pm to close, and all day on Sundays. During July and August, it’s also free on Thursday evenings from 7 to 10:30pm.
Free admission Saturdays from 2 to 8pm, and Sundays from 10am to 3pm.
Free admission Thursdays from 5 to 8pm, and Sundays from 10am to 3pm.
Public Art
You'll see a lot of street art around the city, mostly in Malasaña and Lavapiés. There are also more permanent public art installations and spaces, listed below.
(Psst--There are some great lunch spots on this street, including a wonderful indian restaurant with the best naan! Grab a table on the terrace and take in the art if you happen to be there during midday.)
If you happen to be near Atocha Station, try to find these baby heads, entitled 'El Dia y La Noche'. It's another public art installation that isn't posted on most maps, but can be found through its listing in Atlas Obscura. If we happen to pass by, usually the people I’m with stop to take a picture or two. It’s not every day you get to see a statue like this.
Marketplaces
Whether you want to spend money or keep it low-key, it's still a great idea to visit these markets. Both are officially held during the weekend--specifically Sunday--but can be visited anytime.
During the holiday season, there are also a lot of Christmas markets. My personal favorite is the one in Plaza Mayor, which is for shops that specialize in making figures for nativity scenes. I’m not super religious, but it’s really interesting to see a whole plaza full of tiny figurines.
Parks
Madrid is one of the greenest cities in Europe. Its outdoor spaces are stunning, and you can enjoy quite a lot of them for free.
And of course, don't forget to visit El Retiro, which was listed above, but I felt needed another mention.
Events
If you visit Madrid during these times of year, don't miss out in taking part or at the very least observing these holidays, parades, marches, and celebrations.
Cambio de Guardia 💂🏻♀️
You can catch the changing of the guard at the gates of the Royal Palace every Wednesday and Saturday from 11am to 2pm. In the hotter months of July and August, the hours change to 10am to 12pm. It doesn’t take place on holidays or if it’s determined that the weather is too bad. If you happen to not have any plans, you might as well check it out.
Three Kings' Day 👑
The three kings, or, three wise men, are the party responsible for bringing Christmas presents to children in Spain--not Santa! There are several processions that take place, and holiday celebrations around the city on January 6th.
Carnaval y El Entierro de la Sardina ⚰️🐟
In late February, Spain celebrates Carnaval. One of the most interesting traditions in Madrid and Toledo is the funeral of the Sardine, which takes place around Ash Wednesday, welcoming in the season of Lent. In Madrid city, the funeral procession with dances, bands, puppets, and more takes place in the neighborhood of La Florida, but each barrio may have their own tradition. Some opt for a funeral pyre, instead.
International Womens’ Day 🚺💜
Although this internationally recognized day isn’t specific to Spain, the way in which its celebrated in Madrid is truly inspiring. In Madrid, protests and demonstrations of solidarity are always well attended, and international womens day is no exception. If you’re in the city on March 8th, you’ll likely see (or hear, from a distance) the march, which processes from plaza de colón all the way through the center of the city. You’re welcome to join the march too, or just watch and support from along the planned route.
Dia de Madrid 🐻🌳
May 2nd is the anniversary of one of Madrid's greatest achievements--resistance of French governance under Napoleon. Today, however, the holiday has changed to really just be a day of pride for a lot of Madrileños about their city and its history. There are a variety of parades, parties, and events throughout the city to attend.
Fiestas San Isidro 🎈
San Isidro is the patron saint of Madrid, and he’s celebrated every May 15th (and ensuing week). Most events take place in the neighborhood and park of San Isidro, including dances, religious services, and carnival. It’s a short ride away from the center of the city via metro, bus, or cercanías.
Mercado Cervantino 🎠
Ok. So this isn't in Madrid city, it's actually in Alcala de Henares which is another city about 40 minutes away by public transport. But, it's the best medieval market in the region. And, it happens to be in the hometown of Miguel de Cervantes, Spain's arguably most infamous author. If you're in town in early October, you might have a chance of visiting. It's worth the trip out of Madrid, just to see the market and walk through Alcala's older town center.
Fiesta Nacional de España y Dia de la Hispanidad 🇪🇸
October 12th is the national day of Spain. Being Madrid’s capital, the city goes all-out with parades, a flyover, military demonstrations, and more.
In addition to everything else going on, there's a celebration in tandem dedicated to Latin American heritage and specifically Indigenous peoples. A protest-parade marches from Plaza de Colón through Centro, and usually ends in the historically diverse neighborhood of Lavapiés. It’s an officially organized parade, so there are several dance groups and bands representing specific countries. There is also a market in Plaza de España filled with Latin American vendors and food stalls (and performances) around this time!
Dia de Trashumancia 🐏
OF ALL THE EVENTS--I recommend this the most. In Late October, Madrid practices a medieval tradition of taking the livestock through the city. From early in the morning, shepherds lead a giant herd of sheep, goats, and rams from their pastures in Casa de Campo, over Puente de Segovia, through Plaza Mayor and the old part of the city, and up through the more modern part of the city by Cibeles and Plaza de Colón. They then return and go back the same way they came.
Luces Navideñas 🎄
From All Saints’ Day on November 1st to Epiphany on January 6th (but they're loose dates), the city is lit up with various illuminations throughout its streets, and installed sculptures in specific areas of town.
It’s not free, but you can purchase a ticket on the city tour bus for a nighttime ride, which takes you on a route to see all of them. The royal gardens also have their own event, but if you want to go, you have to buy tickets well ahead of time.
Other resources
These organizations, websites, blogs, and creators are great sources to stay updated on free events and offerings in Madrid.
Madrid Turismo
Get up-to-date information from the official tourism site for Madrid.
If you want a recommendation for the route, check out the world heritage site, Paisaje de la Luz (translated: passage of the light) which chronicles a great itinerary through the city and some of its most historically significant and beautiful areas.
Madrid Secreto
This platform is a great way to get to know lesser-known places around Madrid, and information that you might not get as a tourist.
Disfruta Madrid
This travel blog, curated by Pedro, is an incredibly in-depth guide to Madrid and current happenings. Follow the instagram for updates and weekend plan recommendations!
You can also search free plans in Madrid by checking out Spanish-language resources: on social media, the hashtag or phrase "Planazo Gratis" is a great way to find free plans!
¡Que disfrutéis!
However you choose to spend your time and money in Madrid, I hope that you enjoy it.
If you’d like additional recommendations (especially for specialty coffee), check out my thatch profile. I’ve got and am working on even more guides to help you enjoy and explore Madrid, and Spain at large!
Or, reach out via instagram to my coffee tour @catscoffeetour or personal account @nampahceitac.
Otherwise, ‘ta luego 👋🏻