Top 5 non-turistic places to visit in Madrid (plus little tips)

Hi my name is Daniel, and I’ve always been passionate about exploring new places, and today, I’m excited to share my top 5 non-touristy spots to visit in Madrid with you. These are the places that you won’t find in your typical guidebook but are just as charming and captivating as any popular attraction:

Casa De Campo

Have you ever wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get lost in nature? If so, then you must visit Casa de Campo. It’s a large park that spans over 1,700 hectares, making it one of the largest parks in Europe. The park is home to a lake, a zoo, and a cable car that offers stunning views of the city. But my favorite thing to do in Casa de Campo is to have a picnic. There’s nothing better than relaxing in the sun with some delicious food and drinks. And if you’re looking for a great spot to eat, I highly recommend El Lago, a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the heart of the park.

Mercado de San Miguel

Are you a foodie? If so, then Mercado de San Miguel is the perfect place for you. This indoor market is a feast for the senses. From fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses, there’s something for everyone. My personal favorite is the croquetas stand. They have a variety of flavors, including ham and cheese, spinach, and mushroom. And if you’re in the mood for a drink, there are plenty of wine and cocktail bars to choose from.

Templo de Debod

Did you know that there’s an ancient Egyptian temple located in Madrid? Templo de Debod was originally located in Egypt, but in the 1960s, it was dismantled and relocated to Madrid as a gift from the Egyptian government. The temple is now open to the public and offers stunning views of the city at sunset. It’s also a great spot to relax and watch the world go by. And if you’re looking for a place to grab a drink, I recommend La Terraza de Debod. It’s a rooftop bar located just a few steps from the temple and offers great views of the city.

El Rastro

El Rastro is Madrid’s largest open-air market and takes place every Sunday. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs, vintage clothing, and antiques. But my favorite thing to do at El Rastro is to people watch. There’s such a diverse mix of people, from locals to tourists, that it’s always interesting to see what everyone is up to. And if you’re feeling hungry, there are plenty of food stalls to choose from. I highly recommend trying the churros con chocolate.

La Tabacalera

La Tabacalera is a former tobacco factory that has been turned into a cultural center. It’s a great place to see local art, attend concerts, and participate in workshops. The best part is that most of the events are free. And if you’re looking for a place to grab a bite to eat, there’s a vegetarian restaurant located inside the center called Ecocentro.

So there you have it, my top 5 non-touristy spots to visit in Madrid. Each of these places offers a unique experience that you won’t find in your typical guidebook, and also, a tip for each of these places:

1. Casa de Campo — The park was originally a hunting ground for Spanish royalty, but it was opened to the public in 1931. If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water, as it can get quite hot.
2. Mercado de San Miguel — The market was built in 1916 and was originally a wholesale food market. Today, it’s one of Madrid’s top tourist destinations. Be prepared to stand while you eat, as there’s limited seating available.
3. Templo de Debod — The temple dates back to the 2nd century BC and was dedicated to the god Amun. It’s free to enter and is open every day except Monday. Be sure to arrive early, as it can get quite busy during peak hours.
4. El Rastro — The market has been around since the 15th century and is the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and gifts. Be sure to keep an eye on your belongings, as pickpocketing can be common in crowded areas.
5. La Tabacalera — The cultural center has a rooftop terrace that offers stunning views of the city. If you’re interested in attending a concert or workshop, be sure to check their website in advance, as events can fill up quickly.

I hope that you have a chance to visit them and experience the beauty of Madrid for yourself!