10 Crazy Things to Do in Madrid That Locals Love Too!

Madrid, the capital city of Spain, is full of iconic museums, royal landmarks, and bustling plazas—but beneath the classic beauty lies a wild, quirky side. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, you’ll be surprised at how many crazy things to do in Madrid are hidden in plain sight. From strolling through the iconic Retiro Park to uncovering cool things hidden across the city, there's so much to see in Madrid that blends nature, culture, and local charm.

Here’s a list of the most offbeat, unexpected, and just plain fun things to do when you’re out exploring Madrid.

1. Dance with Strangers at a Midnight Flamenco Jam

Forget the touristy flamenco show. Head to Lavapiés late at night and discover underground bars where locals break into spontaneous flamenco dancing.

• These aren't performances—they’re local culture in raw form
• A true Spanish culture experience you won’t find in guidebooks
• Come with no expectations and leave with goosebumps

2. Snap Surreal Selfies at Reina Sofia Museum

Sure, you’ve heard of the Prado Museum, but for something bolder and weirder, the Reina Sofia Museum is where you’ll find thought-provoking art—and crazy exhibits.

• Features works by Picasso, Dali, and El Greco
• Don’t miss Guernica, Spain’s most haunting painting from the Spanish Civil War
• Great for lovers of Spanish art, temporary exhibitions, and authentic culture

3. Stroll Through El Retiro Park… Then Kayak It

Madrid’s most beautiful park, El Retiro, is more than rose gardens and statues. Rent a rowboat in the lake or discover the Crystal Palace (aka Palacio de Cristal)—a glass greenhouse turned cultural center.

• A calm escape in the middle of the city center
• Home to street art, a glass palace, and even a rose garden
• One of the best fun things to do in Madrid on a Sunday afternoon

4. Visit an Ancient Egyptian Temple at Sunset

Yes, there’s an actual Egyptian temple in Madrid. The Templo de Debod, gifted by Egypt, is perched on a hill offering stunning views of the city.

• Catch the incredible view at golden hour
• Located near the Royal Palace and Plaza de España
• A quiet place where tourists and locals alike watch the sky burn orange

5. Take a Madrid Tour by Segway or Electric Bike

One of the more crazy things to do in Madrid is skip walking altogether and zoom past the main attractions on a Segway.

• Glide by Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Mercado de San Miguel
• Some tours include a stop for hot chocolate or a cooking class
• Ideal for a quick visit and avoiding tour buses

6. Catch a Real Madrid Game (or Just Tour the Stadium)

Even if you're not a big fan of football, touring the official residence of Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is mind-blowing.

• Learn about the Royal Family’s ties to the club
• Visit the locker rooms, pitch, and gift shop
• It's like visiting the Vatican of Spanish football

7. Go Vintage Shopping in La Latina or Malasaña

Madrid is dotted with vintage shops, flea markets, and offbeat stores. El Rastro Market on Sundays is where locals hunt for treasure.

• A paradise for food lovers, collectors, and people watchers
• Also a hotspot for impromptu street art and live music
• Located near La Latina, great for post-shopping wine tasting

8. Sip Cocktails at a Rooftop Bar with a View

What’s better than a mojito? One with an incredible view. From Círculo de Bellas Artes to Hotel Riu, Madrid’s rooftop bar scene is insane.

• Watch the sun set over Gran Via and the Royal Palace
• Great photo ops and music till late
• One of the coolest evening experiences in Madrid

9. Take a Food Tour of Mercado de San Miguel

This upscale food market near Plaza Mayor is a feast for the senses—think jamón, tapas, and hot chocolate under one roof.

• Try everything from local wines to Spanish seafood
• Many food tours stop here for tastings
• Perfect for those short on time but big on flavor

10. Watch Street Artists Turn Puerta del Sol into a Stage

Madrid's city center turns into a stage each night as performers flood Puerta del Sol. Expect jugglers, dancers, musicians, and jaw-dropping stunts.

• Great spot to see the vibrant energy of Spanish people
• A mix of cultural performance and wild fun
• Best enjoyed with a gelato in hand, wandering aimlessly

FAQs

What to do in Madrid that’s unusual?

If you're after something unusual, Madrid offers cool things beyond typical sightseeing. Try flamenco dancing in a candle-lit cave for a raw, emotional dive into Spanish culture. Or visit the Glass Palace (Palacio de Cristal) inside El Retiro, which doubles as a free cultural center. For art lovers, a guided walk through the Museo Nacional del Prado looking for hidden details in famous paintings is both fun and unexpected. A cooking class or Segway tour is also a creative way to experience local culture in about an hour.

What is Madrid's biggest secret?

One of Madrid’s best-kept secrets is how rich it is in art and culture beyond the big names. While everyone talks about the Reina Sofia, many tourists alike miss the lesser-known Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, which showcases everything from Van Gogh to 20th-century masterpieces. Also, El Retiro isn’t just a park—it hides the stunning Glass Palace and rose gardens perfect for a quiet Sunday afternoon. Don't forget to explore food markets, where most locals go for authentic bites rather than crowded restaurants.

Is there anything fun in Madrid?

Absolutely! Madrid is packed with fun things to do. Take a stroll through Retiro Park, rent a rowboat, then explore the art-filled Palacio de Cristal. For something high-energy, enjoy authentic flamenco at a tucked-away cultural center, or go tapas hopping in a vibrant food market. Art enthusiasts can visit iconic museums like the Prado or Reina Sofia, while a cooking class adds a hands-on twist to understanding Spanish culture. It’s easy to fill a quick visit with unforgettable moments.

What to do in Madrid that’s not touristy?

Skip the crowded tours and dive into local culture with a visit to less touristy gems. Spend a few hours in El Retiro exploring hidden sculptures and relaxing with locals. Visit the Glass Palace for rotating art installations, or wander the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum to avoid the Prado crowds while still seeing world-class art. Another underrated spot? Try a Segway tour through charming backstreets or take a cooking class in a private home. These interesting things offer a deeper connection to Madrid than most guides suggest.

Final Thoughts: Why Madrid Is Full of Surprises

There’s so much history in Madrid—between the Royal Palace, Museo del Prado, and world-class cultural centers. But it’s these crazy things to do in Madrid that will stick in your memory.

Madrid offers a captivating glimpse into European history, where tales of King Philip III come alive in some of the best museums admired by most locals across many cities.

From sipping cava at a rooftop bar to dancing flamenco barefoot in a cave, visiting Madrid is about mixing tradition with the unexpected.