19 Non-Touristy Things To Do In Madrid For A Memorable Trip
Want to experience Madrid like a local? I’ve got you covered!
After studying abroad in Madrid and visiting multiple times, it has become one of my favorite cities in the world!
Madrid is packed with incredible places beyond the usual tourist stops. While the big landmarks are definitely worth seeing, there’s something special about discovering spots that most visitors never hear about.
Over the years, I’ve found that the best way to experience the city is by stepping away from the crowds and getting to know its lesser-known neighborhoods, hidden restaurants, and unique cultural experiences.
This guide highlights 19 non-touristy things to do in Madrid that will give you a more local perspective. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful park, a cozy café, or an unusual museum, there’s something here for every type of traveler. Let’s dive in!
19 Non-Touristy Things To Do In Madrid
Madrid has so much more to offer beyond its main attractions. Here’s a list of places and experiences that will make your trip unique.
1. Wander Through Malasaña and Chueca
Wandering through the neighborhoods of Malasaña and Chueca is one of the best ways to experience Madrid’s local charm.
These lively districts are filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cute cafés, and colorful street art.
Malasaña has a trendy, alternative vibe with a mix of old and new, while Chueca is known for its welcoming atmosphere and vibrant LGBTQ+ scene.
Spend a few hours getting lost in the winding streets, stopping for a coffee at a trendy café or discovering a hidden plaza where locals gather.
2. Allow Yourself to Get Lost
One of the best ways to experience Madrid like a local is to explore without a strict itinerary.
Walking through the city’s streets without a destination often leads to the most memorable discoveries.
Madrid’s charm is in the details, and sometimes the best way to appreciate it is by simply wandering and seeing where the streets take you. It will allow you to experience Madrid as a local rather than a visitor.
3. Experience the Most Beautiful Views at Doñaluz
For an incredible rooftop experience, head to Doñaluz, an insider favorite right in the heart of Puerta del Sol.
Despite its central location, this stylish rooftop remains somewhat of a secret due to its tricky-to-find entrance—tucked away inside a nondescript building.
Once you make your way up, you’ll experience stunning city views and a relaxed vibe away from the crowds below.
It’s the perfect spot for sunset drinks with a unique perspective of Madrid’s skyline.
Book your reservation here!
4. Discover El Capricho Park
This 18th-century park is one of Madrid’s best non-touristy spots. Designed as a retreat for Spanish nobility, it features winding paths, hidden sculptures, and even an underground bunker from the Spanish Civil War.
Unlike the more famous Retiro Park, El Capricho remains quiet and relaxed. Although it’s a bit far outside the city center, it’s a perfect escape from the crowds.
5. Explore El Rastro Flea Market
Every Sunday, El Rastro transforms the streets of La Latina into a sprawling open-air market where you can find everything from vintage clothing and antiques to unique handmade crafts.
Locals and visitors alike come here to browse and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Arrive early for the best finds or visit the surrounding tapas bars for a mid-morning snack after exploring the market. While this is a not so secret spot, it is a must-visit!
6. Experience Madrid’s Alternative Art Scene
Beyond the famous Prado Museum, Madrid has a thriving underground art scene.
Check out La Neomudéjar, an avant-garde art space inside an abandoned railway building, or Tabacalera, a cultural center housed in an old tobacco factory, where street art and exhibitions change regularly.
7. History Musuem of Madrid
Housed in a beautiful Baroque building, this museum offers a deep dive into the city’s history, from its origins to the present day. If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in Madrid, this spot is perfect!
The collection includes historic maps, paintings, and everyday objects that show how Madrid has evolved over the centuries. It’s a great way to understand the city beyond its famous landmarks.
8. Explore the Lavapiés Neighborhood
Lavapiés is one of Madrid’s most diverse areas, known for its international food, street art, and cultural spaces.
Try dishes from different parts of the world or check out a pop-up art exhibit.
I lived near this neighborhood when I was here, and it was so special! It’s close to the city center but far enough away to get the local neighborhood feel.
9. Take a Day Trip to Cercedilla
Just an hour from Madrid, Cercedilla offers a refreshing escape into the mountains. The town has a quiet, laid-back feel, with traditional stone houses and small family-run restaurants.
It’s also a gateway to some of the best hiking in the Sierra de Guadarrama, including the Camino Schmidt and Los Miradores, where you’ll find pine forests, fresh air, and views stretching for miles.
Cercedilla is a perfect spot for a day trip and is a great way to experience a different side of Spain without the crowds!
10. Catch a Sunset at Templo de Debod
This Egyptian temple is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Madrid. Arrive early to find a good spot and take in the views of the Royal Palace and Casa de Campo.
I came here to watch countless sunsets, and it quickly became one of the highlights of my time living here! It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic or relax with a bottle of wine.
11. Walk Along Madrid Río Park
Stretching along the Manzanares River, this urban park is great for a relaxed walk or a bike ride. You’ll pass by modern bridges, green spaces, and public art installations along the way.
12. Visit the Sorolla Museum
This museum, located in the former home of painter Joaquín Sorolla, features his artwork along with personal belongings and a charming garden. It’s one of Madrid’s most underrated museums.
There are plenty of famous museums in Madrid (that I recommend going to), such as El Prado, but this museum is smaller and offers a more unique experience. It’s the perfect non-touristy activity!
13. See a Real Madrid Game or Watch at a Local Pub
If you’re visiting Madrid during football season and want to experience the city like a local, catching a Real Madrid game is a must. Watching from the Santiago Bernabéu stadium is an unforgettable experience.
If tickets are hard to get or you prefer a more casual setting, head to a neighborhood bar where locals gather to watch. Local pubs will be packed with passionate Madrileños cheering on their team over beers and tapas.
Football here isn’t just a sport—it’s part of the city’s culture, and being part of the excitement, even for one night, will make you feel like you belong.
Celebrating Madrid’s championship win in the streets was an experience I won’t forget!
14. Explore Casa de Campo
Madrid’s largest park has plenty to do—rent a bike, take a boat ride on the lake, or hop on the cable car for city views.
It’s a great option for those looking to spend a few hours outdoors. This is one of my favorite parks in Madrid!
It’s enormous and has beautiful views. It is usually far less crowded than Retiro Park, making it one of the best non-touristy things to do in Madrid.
15. Grab a Drink at a Rooftop Bar
While many tourists head to the rooftop of Riu Plaza España, locals prefer the terrace at Círculo de Bellas Artes.
It offers sweeping views of Madrid, a relaxed setting, and often has live music or film screenings in the summer.
➡️ Reserve a table here!
16. Visit Mercado de la Cebada
Skip Mercado de San Miguel and head to this local market instead. It’s packed with fresh produce, tapas bars, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for an afternoon snack.
Non-Touristy Things To Do At Night
Madrid’s nightlife goes beyond just clubs—there are plenty of unique ways to enjoy the city after dark.
17. Catch a Flamenco Show in a Hidden Bar
Instead of going to a big touristy venue, visit a small flamenco bar like El Cortijo, where the performances feel authentic.
18. Listen to Live Jazz at Café Central
This intimate jazz club hosts incredible musicians in a cozy setting. Whether you’re a jazz fan or just looking for a laid-back night out, it’s worth a visit.
➡️ Check upcoming shows here!
19. Go to a Spanish Club
If clubs are your scene, there are plenty of options. Madrid’s nightlife is legendary, drawing people from around the world to its biggest clubs like Kapital and Icon.
But if you’re looking for a more local experience, smaller venues offer a different vibe.
Head to Copérnico, a popular spot among young locals, where you can dance the night away in a smaller yet lively Spanish club.
Where To Stay
If you want to avoid tourist-heavy areas, consider staying in neighborhoods like Chamberí, Salamanca, or Lavapiés.
These areas offer a mix of local culture, great dining options, and easy access to the city’s main sights without the crowds.
📍 Best Budget Spot: The Central House Madrid Lavapiés
Affordable Boutique Stay – A laid-back and budget-friendly hostel in the Lavapiés neighborhood, offering a social atmosphere and easy access to the city’s best local spots. Ideal for travelers looking to experience Madrid without breaking the bank.
Book The Central House Madrid Lavapiés Here!
📍 Best Mid-Range Spot: Líbere Madrid Chamberí
Chic Apartment in Chamberí – A stylish apartment in a quiet yet central location, perfect for experiencing Madrid like a local. With modern amenities and a comfortable design, it’s an ideal base for travelers seeking both convenience and character.
Book Líbere Madrid Chamberí Here!
📍 Best Luxury Spot: BLESS Hotel Madrid
Elegant Hotel in Salamanca – A sophisticated stay in one of Madrid’s most upscale neighborhoods, offering top-tier amenities, refined design, and exceptional service. Perfect for those looking for luxury while exploring the city.
Book Bless Hotel Madrid Here!
FAQs
What are the non-touristy areas of Madrid?
Some of the best non-touristy areas in Madrid include Chamberí, Carabanchel, and Lavapiés.
These neighborhoods offer a more local feel, with cute cafés, independent shops, and fewer crowds compared to central areas like Puerta del Sol.
How to enjoy Madrid like a local?
Slow down and embrace Madrid’s everyday pace. Spend time at neighborhood cafés, visit traditional markets, explore smaller museums, and enjoy a long sobremesa (post-meal conversation) at a local restaurant.
Madrid is a city best experienced at a leisurely pace!
Is Madrid a walkable city?
Yes, Madrid is very walkable, with many major sights within close proximity.
The city’s layout makes it easy to explore on foot, and its lively streets, pedestrian-friendly areas, and beautiful architecture make walking a great way to explore.
Final Thoughts
The best part of Madrid isn’t always in the guidebooks—it’s in the places you stumble upon by chance. A quiet park in the middle of the city, a hidden bar with live music, a family-run shop that’s been around for generations.
I hope this list gives you a starting point for seeing a different side of Madrid, one that’s a little less expected but just as memorable. Exploring non-touristy activities in Madrid will help you experience the city like a local, uncovering its hidden spots and authentic charm.
Take your time, explore, and enjoy every moment of your trip!
If you’re thinking about moving to Spain or want a deeper look at life in Madrid, check out this post for more insights and tips!
