Popular places to visit
Gran Via
Madrid’s famous shopping strip has boutiques and international brands, an exciting nightlife and an impressive display of early 20th-century architecture.
Bernabéu Stadium
Cheer on the superstar players of one of the world’s most successful soccer clubs and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the colossal 81,000-capacity stadium.
Puerta del Sol
Serving as the capital's focal point, no visit to Madrid is complete without a trip to this central square.
Plaza Mayor
Make your way to Madrid's iconic cobbled square and stroll past artists' stalls, listen to local street musicians, or sit down in the porticos to enjoy a coffee.
El Retiro Park
Alongside games of football and couples in pedalos, the art galleries, buskers and 17th-century palace give El Retiro a different flavour to your average park.
Royal Palace of Madrid
Come and take a walk around one of the largest palaces in Western Europe...and try not to get lost!
Things to do
Madrid: Royal Palace Expert Guided Tour with Optional Tapas
Skip-the-Line Guided Tour Royal Palace
Big Bus Madrid Hop-on, Hop-off Open-top Sightseeing Bus Tour
From Madrid: Avila and Segovia Full-Day Tour
Top hotels in El Pilar
Hard Rock Hotel Madrid
Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025
Latroupe Prado
Reviewed on 16 Oct 2025
Hotel Riu Plaza España
Reviewed on 15 Oct 2025
Hostal Madrid Atocha
Reviewed on 16 Oct 2025
Barceló Torre de Madrid
Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025
Zleep Hotel Madrid Airport
Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025
Other neighbourhoods around El Pilar
Chamartín
Travellers choose Chamartín for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Colombia Station or Concha Espina Station and check out top sights like Bernabéu Stadium.
Chamberí
Consider exploring the abundant dining options in Chamberí. If sightseeing is on the list, Calle de la Princesa is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Islas Filipinas Station or Quevedo Station to see more of the area.
Almagro
While you're in Almagro, take in top sights like Sorolla Museum or Paseo de la Castellana, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Ruben Dario Station or Gregorio Maranon Station.
Malasaña
Museums, cafes and shopping highlight some notable features of Malasaña. Make a stop by Gran Via or Calle de la Princesa while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Noviciado Station or San Bernardo Station to get around town.
Salamanca
Salamanca is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like El Corte Inglés and La Caixa Foundation. See more of Madrid by jumping on the metro at Serrano Station or Velazquez Station.
Recoletos
Travellers choose Recoletos for its fascinating museums. Hop aboard the metro at Serrano Station or Velazquez Station and check out top sights like Jorge Juan y Santacilia.
