Introduction
On hot days even the capital city of Spain, Madrid is quite the place for you to enjoy a number of activities. By all means enjoy the temperature may rise but there are many ways to both beat the heat and have a memorable time in this vibrant city. So in this blog article we are going to take a look at some of the best things to do in Madrid in the middle of summer, to stay cool as much as possible and make the most of the city visit.
1. Visit Prado Museum
Find some cool way to escape the heat by perusing one of the world’s finest art museums, the Prado Museum. Air conditioned, you can spend hours admiring the art with a vast collection of European art, masterpieces by Goya, Velásquez and El Greco, among others.
TIP: This means that you should always book your tickets online as this would make sure that you aren’t in queues and save expenses.
2. Enjoy Retiro Park
Retiro Park is a beautiful oasis in the city of Madrid itself. Along with its lush greenery, boating lake and shaded pathways, it’s the perfect place to get away from the scorching sun. There are places under the trees, picnicking, or rent a paddleboat and explore the lake.
TIP: Keep in mind to bring a hat, sunscreen and a bottle of water, too, to prevent dehydration.
3. Explore the Royal Palace
Try to include the Royal Palace of Madrid as must visit destination. Even in the heat, the opulent rooms of the palace are very nice. Inside its walls the artistry, architecture and historical artifact is on display for the world to marvel.
TIP: If you are interested, a guided tour exists to learn more about the palace’s history.
4. Visit Mercado de San Miguel
Vibes and Localities: check out the Mercado de San Miguel, a fun food market filled with a bunch of delicious Spanish delights. Enjoy escaping the heat tasting the fresh seafood or mouthwatering tapas at this covered market.
TIP: Sangria or horchata, try one to cool you off on a hot day.
5. Visit the Reina Sofia Museum
The Reina Sofia Museum is another incredibly good art museum to take a look at. Visit a collection of contemporary and modern works including Picasso’s masterpiece Guernica, marvel at works by now deceased artists from the Wright Foundation Collection’s 3,000 strong inventory, and observe works in progress. Cool air in the museum’s air conditioned galleries offers an alternative to the heat outside.
TIP: Try to visit when there aren’t that many other people, plan to go in the morning or late afternoon.
6. Cool Off at Madrid Rio
Feeling hot and in need of a bit of a cool down? Madrid Rio is a riverside park just waiting for you to make use of it. Urban beaches, rollerblade through the dirt, or just lay down on the grassy areas… It’s a perfect place to get away from the heat with many different recreational zones and outdoor pools.
TIP: If you sunbath / swim, bring a towel and a change of clothes.
7. Explore the Templo de Debod
The Templo de Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple housed in the middle of the city of Madrid. It has historical significance and amazing view of the city you see below. Sink yourself into a shady spot to just take a leisurely stroll on the temple.
TIP: It is a visit during the evening when you will be able to have a sunset over Madrid.
8. Visit the Matadero Cultural Center
A former slaughterhouse is home to the Matadero Cultural Center, a contemporary arts center. Its exhibitions, concerts and performances take place within this vibrant venue. A great way to get out from the heat, to immerse yourself in the cultural life of Madrid.
TIP: See what’s going on at the center right now, check the schedule of the center’s upcoming events and exhibitions.
9. Go Shopping in Gran Via
Gran Via, Madrid’s main shopping street will enable you to escape the sun by exploring some of the city’s shops and boutiques. To escape the baking sun, you can shop for fashion accessories, and souvenirs while enjoying the comfort of the air conditioning indoors, as there is a mixed complement of local stores and international brands to shop for fashion and accessories.
TIP: At one of the rooftop terraces on Gran Via take a break and enjoy a refreshing drink with view of the city.
Conclusion
On hot summer days, there’s plenty to keep you entertained and cool in Madrid. Whether you’re going for the arts, culture, parks and gardens, or keeping up with the fierce culinary scene, the Spanish capital has it all. Above all make sure to hydrate, wear sunscreen and to do periodic breaks in Air Conditioned spaces, as that will help you fully enjoy your time in Madrid.
