Hidden Gems in Madrid
Questions This Article Answers
What can I see in Madrid?
What are some of Madrid’s hidden gems?
What is an easy day trip from Madrid?
What unique statues can I see in Madrid?
What is the Atocha garden like in Madrid?
If you’re headed to Madrid, you’ve probably already read loads about bocadillos de calamares(fried calamari subs) and el Museo del Prado(the Prado Museum). But what else is there to see and do? In this article, we’ll talk about some of Madrid’s lesser-known spots, as well as give you a suggestion for a great little day trip that will get you out of downtown and into the foothills of the sierra de Guadarrama(Guadarrama Mountains).
Take the Subway Back in Time
Get a glimpse of 1950s and 1960s Madrid at the estación fantasma de Chamberí(Chamberi Ghost Station). One of the city’s first subway stations, this station even served as a shelter during the Guerra Civil(Civil War). However, the station became obsolete when the subway line was modernized in the 1960s. Subway trains still rumble through the station, but they don’t stop anymore. The station was reopened in the early 2000s, and it allows you see what a subway station was like in the past.
Visit a Park on a Whim
While Madrid has several great parks to visit, many locals suggest that you check out the parque El Capricho(El Capricho Park; literally, Whim Park), also known as jardín histórico El Capricho de la Alameda Osuna(historical garden of El Capricho de la Alameda Osuna). Considered one of Madrid’s most interesting parks, it was built by the Dukes of Osuna in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Be sure to check out its gardens, fountains, pond, labyrinth—and even its Civil War–era bunker!
Before you head to parque El Capricho, be sure to check if it is open! It tends to open only on weekends and holidays.
Sorolla Museum
Madrid is home to several world-class, internationally important museums. But if you’re looking for a more intimate experience, why not visit the Museo Sorolla(Sorolla Museum)? It’s alleged to be one of the best artists’ house museums in Europe, and it contains over one thousand pieces of artwork by Joaquín Sorolla (Joaquin Sorolla)!
Are you looking to hit the must-see stops in Madrid? Check out our article with 15 things to do in Madrid here!
See the Statues!
Madrid is dotted with statues honoring both internationally renowned greats and humble locals. Did you know there’s a statue of an elderly rock fan? Search for the statue of Ángeles Rodríguez Hidalgo(Angeles Rodriquez Hidalgo), a local woman who discovered heavy metal late in life. How about visiting the statue of a barrendero madrileño(street sweeper from Madrid) or the statue called Tras Julia(Tras Julia), which honors Julia(Julia), a woman who dressed as a man in the 19th century to attend a university that did not allow women to attend.
Sure, Madrid may have classical statues, but it’s also clear that there are some really neat local treasures to seek out!
Tropical Trains
Did you know that Madrid has its very own tropical garden? Located inside the Atocha(Atocha) train station, the jardín tropical de Atocha(Atocha tropical garden) provides an unexpected green respite right inside the train station. It covers around 4,000 square meters and features around 100 different species of plants.
Famous Artist's Frescoes
In Madrid, you can see the works of Francisco de Goya(Francisco de Goya) at one of the major museums, or you can simply head to the ermita de San Antonio de la Florida(chapel of St. Anthony of La Florida) to see his frescoes! What appears to be a simple chapel is adorned with original frescoes painted by Goya himself. These works are both religious and secular in nature. The chapel is also currently Goya’s final resting place.
Get Out of Town
If you’re up for a day trip, why not catch the Cercanias C3A(local train line C3A) out to Real Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial(Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo El Escorial)? Open from Tuesday to Sunday, it’s both a great way to learn about Spanish history and an easy day trip into a more rural part of the Community of Madrid. It includes a palace, school, and library as well as the royal pantheon for the Spanish royals from Carlos V(Charles V) onwards!
No matter which of these destinations you choose to visit, you’re sure to see a side of Madrid that not all tourists see. ¡Buen viaje!(Have a nice trip!)
Looking for ideas about what to do in Madrid or Central Spain? Check out these articles!
