Madrid-5 Budget Friendly Attractions For The Resourceful Traveler

Peter Locuratolo
3 min readMay 29, 2024

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Photo of chariot drawn by lions in a square in Madrid, Spain.

Visiting any European city from the USA can be expensive. This article suggests five attractions in Madrid that will give you a excellent portrait of the city without draining your travel budget.

From its stunning architecture, to the delicious cuisine and incredible nightlife, Madrid has so much to offer. Whether you’re looking for a cultural, historic or foodie experience Madrid has something unique in store for you. With so much to offer, Madrid is one of the best places to visit in Spain for first-timers.

  1. Parque del Buen Retiro

This massive park in the heart of Madrid is a beloved green space for locals and visitors alike. Spanning over 300 acres, it features beautiful landscaped gardens, monuments, a lake for rowboat rentals and the iconic Crystal Palace greenhouse. It’s the perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon strolling or picnicking.

2. Plaza Mayor

One of the most iconic plazas in Madrid, the Plaza Mayor dates back to the 17th century and is surrounded by beautiful architecture with a central statue of King Philip III. It hosts markets, events and outdoor cafes where you can soak in the lively atmosphere.

3. Palacio Real

The Palacio Real is the official residence of the Spanish royal family. It is a breathtaking palace with lavish rooms, artworks, the royal armory and immaculate gardens. While entry costs around €12 for adults, you can view the exterior and grounds for free.

4. Templo de Debod

Photo by Diego Labandeira of the Templo De Debod in Madrid.

This ancient Egyptian temple was gifted to Spain in 1968 and reconstructed in Parque del Oeste. It provides a unique sight of an authentic Egyptian monument in the heart of Madrid and is especially beautiful at sunset.

5. Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

One of Madrid’s top art museums is free to enter from 7pm-9pm every evening and all day on Sundays. It houses works by Picasso, Dalí, Miró and other renowned Spanish artists.

Madrid has so much history, culture and beauty to offer. Taking advantage of free or low-cost sites is a great way to immerse yourself in the city without breaking the bank. Enjoy your time in the Spanish capital!

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Peter Locuratolo
Peter Locuratolo

Written by Peter Locuratolo

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I am a senior citizen who continues to enjoy learning new things, staying fit, traveling and sharing those interests with others.

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