Madrid is an extremely energy-intensive city. While we would recommend at least four days to truly get to know the city, don’t allow time restrictions or a lengthy Madrid must-do list to deter you. Check out our list of the most beautiful places in Madrid to figure out how to spend your time sightseeing and dining your way around the heart of Spain.
Edificio Metrópolis
Edificio Metrópolis
On the crossroads of C/Alcalá and Gran Va, you’ll discover one of Madrid’s most iconic structures. The companies La Unión and Fénix built the Metrópolis Building in 1911. Then they sold it to the insurance company Metrópolis in the 1970s, giving it its current name.
Its slate dome, with reliefs covered with almost 30,000 24-carat gold loaves of bread, is one of Madrid’s icons. And that’s why it is one of the most beautiful places in Madrid to visit.
There is a fun fact about this spot. The winged triumph statue adorning the building was a replacement for a bronze phoenix of the previous owners. It’s worth going over at dark to view the entire structure lighted by more than 200 lights.
Pious Schools of San Fernando
Pious Schools of San Fernando
A half-ruined chapel now serves as the headquarters of the National University of Distance Education in Madrid. It was a Pious Schools of San Fernando school for decades in the Lavapiés neighborhood. And now it has become one of the most beautiful places in Madrid.
It suffered during and after the Civil War. Then it wasn’t until 2004 that Madrid authority transformed it into a lovely library and study center.
Inside, the tall metal lamps that illuminate the work areas contrast with the brick walls, and the stillness is priceless. The incredible architectural ensemble is even more stunning after nightfall with the dark light casting an aura of mystery.
Plaza de Colón
Plaza de Colón
The National Library and Archaeological Museum, the Wax Museum (fun for kids), and the Centro Cultural de la Villa or Cultural Center are among the notable structures in Plaza de Colón.
The statue of Christopher Columbus was constructed in 1885 in the middle of the plaza to mark the upcoming 400th anniversary of Columbus’ trip to the West Indies. The figure is standing and facing west, gesturing with an outstretched arm to the New World of the Americas.
The Jardines del Descubrimiento, or Gardens of Discovery, are gardens that are primarily on the north side of the square.
Puerta de Alcalá – One of the most beautiful places in Madrid
Puerta de Alcalá – One of the most beautiful places in Madrid
The first Puerta de Alcalá was close to Plaza de la Independencia. People started constructing it in 1599 as a welcome for doa Margarita de Austria, the wife of King Felipe III.
Nevertheless, Carlos III did not like this gate. One and a half centuries later, he entered Madrid in grand manner to take the crown of Spain. He thought this city entrance was completely inappropriate for a significant royal presence.
He commanded the construction of a far more ornate gate and invited architects to exhibit their conceptual designs. The first Puerta de Alcalá was destroyed in 1764, and construction on the opulent replacement entrance began. The modern Puerta de Alcalá was finished in 1769, and it was formally inaugurated in 1778.
