Best Walking Routes in Central Madrid

Walking routes in central Madrid are a great way to discover the city, especially if you're staying in Malasaña. Here are five routes starting near Adventure Hostel Madrid.

How to explore Malasaña and its surroundings on foot?

You're already in Malasaña, so start here. Our street, Calle del Pez, connects directly to the main arteries. Head down Corredera Baja de San Pablo for vintage shops or cut across to Calle Fuencarral for bigger brands and concept stores. For a break, Plaza del Dos de Mayo is a 5-minute walk from our door, lined with terraces for a quick coffee. It's that simple.

Malasaña is also known for its street art. Wander through Calle Espíritu Santo and Calle Velarde to spot colorful murals and graffiti that reflect the neighborhood's bohemian vibe. If you're into history, don't miss the Church of San Antonio de los Alemanes, a hidden gem with stunning Baroque frescoes. For nightlife, Malasaña offers an array of bars and live music venues, making it a vibrant area to explore both day and night.

If you're visiting on a weekend, don't miss the Rastro de Malasaña, a smaller version of the famous El Rastro market. Here, you can find unique vintage items, handmade crafts, and quirky souvenirs. For food lovers, Calle del Pez itself has several tapas bars and bakeries worth trying, such as La Taberna del Pez for traditional Spanish dishes or Ojalá for brunch with a twist.

What can you see on a route to Gran Vía?

Gran Vía is a 7-minute walk south from the hostel. The most logical route is to start at Plaza de España (metro stop: Plaza de España, Lines 3 & 10) and walk east towards Calle Alcalá. This way, you'll see the main architectural hits in order: the Telefónica Building, the Schweppes sign at Callao, and the Círculo de Bellas Artes at the end. It’s a straight shot.

For those interested in shopping, Gran Vía is home to flagship stores like Primark and Zara, as well as smaller boutiques. If you're a fan of cinema, check out the historic movie theaters along the street, some of which date back to the early 20th century. At the end of Gran Vía, near Calle Alcalá, you'll find the Metropolis Building, one of Madrid's most photographed landmarks. Don't forget to look up and admire the intricate details of its dome.

If you're hungry, Gran Vía offers plenty of dining options. For a quick bite, try Mercado de la Reina for Spanish tapas or Five Guys for a casual burger. For a more upscale experience, head to the rooftop bar at the Círculo de Bellas Artes for stunning views of the city while enjoying cocktails and gourmet dishes.

How to walk to the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral?

The Royal Palace is a 15-minute walk from us. The simplest path is down Calle de la Bola until you hit Plaza de Oriente, and you’ll see the palace right in front of you. The Almudena Cathedral is attached to it, you can't miss it. Looking from the outside is free for both, which is often enough to get the scale of the place. No tickets needed.

If you have time, consider visiting the interior of the Royal Palace. Tickets cost €12, and you'll get to see the lavish Throne Room, the Royal Armory, and the beautiful Royal Chapel. The Almudena Cathedral also offers an optional museum and rooftop tour for €6, providing panoramic views of the city. Nearby, the Sabatini Gardens are a peaceful spot for a stroll or a picnic, with symmetrical hedges and fountains that make for great photos.

For a unique experience, visit the Campo del Moro gardens, located behind the Royal Palace. These gardens are less crowded and offer a tranquil escape with beautiful pathways and fountains. If you're visiting in the evening, the palace and cathedral are beautifully lit, making it a perfect spot for photography.

Can you explore Madrid’s Austrias district in a morning?

Yes, a morning is plenty. Guests ask us this almost daily at reception. From the hostel, walk down Calle San Bernardo to Plaza del Callao (10 mins). From there, it's a straight line to Puerta del Sol (5 mins) and then follow the signs to Plaza Mayor (another 5 mins). The whole loop, with a stop for coffee and some pictures, takes under two hours. You can be back in Malasaña for lunch.

While in the Austrias district, take a detour to Mercado de San Miguel, a gourmet market offering tapas, seafood, and wine. It's a great place to grab a snack or a drink. Another must-see is the Monastery of Las Descalzas Reales, a hidden treasure with a rich history and impressive art collection. If you're visiting in the afternoon, consider staying for the changing of the guard ceremony at the Royal Palace, held every Wednesday and Saturday.

For those interested in history, the Casa de la Villa, Madrid's former town hall, is worth a visit. Guided tours are available, showcasing its stunning interiors and historical significance. Additionally, the nearby Calle Cava Baja is a hotspot for traditional Spanish taverns, perfect for a tapas crawl.

What alternatives to Retiro Park are there for quieter walks?

Retiro is Madrid's main park, but it's not the only one. For something closer and with better sunset views, we always recommend Parque del Oeste. It's a 20-minute walk from here and contains the Temple of Debod, an actual Egyptian temple. For a quieter, more structured garden, check out Campo del Moro, tucked away behind the Royal Palace. It's less crowded. Way less.

Another alternative is Madrid Río, a linear park along the Manzanares River. It's perfect for a leisurely walk or a bike ride, with plenty of playgrounds, fountains, and shaded areas. For a more botanical experience, the Royal Botanical Garden near the Prado Museum is a serene spot featuring seasonal flower displays and exotic plants. Entry costs €4, and it's a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

If you're looking for a hidden gem, visit Quinta de los Molinos, a park known for its almond trees that bloom spectacularly in early spring. It's located a bit further out, but easily accessible by metro (Suanzes station, Line 5). The park is free to enter and offers a tranquil setting with shaded paths and picnic areas.

Everything worth seeing in the centre is walkable. You just need a decent pair of shoes and a plan.