Sightseeing & Culture

Sample heaping plates of Paella at a café in Plaza Mayor, Madrid’s magnificent central square. Marvel at the enormous imperial palace of Palacio Real, the seat of Spain’s monarchy. Tour the Templo de Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple installed in the Parque de la Montana. Join the cheering crowds in the stately Las Ventas Bullring. Wander the halls of the Prado Museum, where you’ll find masterpieces by Spanish painter Francisco Goya among countless others.

Shopping

Madrid is one of Europe’s premier shopping destinations. Find international brands in El Corte Ingles, the country’s largest department store. Trendy boutiques can be found in the Salamanca district, steps from EF’s classrooms, and you can pick up curios at the weekly El Rastro flea market.

Sports & Outdoors

Cheer on Real Madrid at Bernabeu Stadium for a taste of Spanish soccer culture. Picnic among the 17th century gardens of the Parque del Buen Retiro, the city’s largest green space. Kick around a soccer ball with friends in the Casa de Campo before sighting the animals in the parks heralded zoo.

Excursions

Madrid is situated in the geographic center of the country, so it’s the perfect starting place for jaunts around the country. Experience the coastal lifestyle of Barcelona, Malaga and San Sebastian. Head to Granada for Moorish architecture, Ibiza for island partying and Morocco for a glimpse of life in North Africa.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Nightlife is an intrinsic part of Madrid’s culture. Attend a traditional flamenco performance in a club off of Gran Via, the city’s glitzy main artery. Sample tapas at a sidewalk café on the Puerta Del Sol. Wander the galleries of The Reina Sofia National Art Museum before heading to the clubs, lounges and bars that stay open until sunrise.