Hidden Gems in Madrid: Discover the City's Best-Kept Secrets

When it comes to Madrid, most travelers flock to iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace, the Prado Museum, or Retiro Park. However, for those who wish to explore beyond the typical tourist attractions, the city offers a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These lesser-known spots combine history, art, and unique experiences, making them perfect for anyone who wants to dive deeper into Madrid’s cultural, artistic, and architectural richness.

In this blog post, we will dive into some of the most captivating hidden gems in Madrid that often go unnoticed by the typical tourist. From the ancient allure of the Temple of Debod to the artistic sanctuary of the Sorolla Museum, these hidden gems in Madrid offer a unique glimpse into the city's rich history and culture. Each location, whether it is the opulent Royal Basilica of St. Francis the Great or the serene Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida, provides a distinct and intimate experience that showcases the lesser-known, yet equally enchanting, facets of Madrid. Join us as we dive into eight of our favorite hidden gems in Madrid!

Temple of Debod: An Ancient Egyptian Temple Hidden in Oeste Park

To begin our list of eight of our favorite the hidden gems in Madrid, the Temple of Debod (Templo de Debod) is an ancient Egyptian temple located in the heart of Madrid. Gifted to Spain by the Egyptian government in 1968, as a thank you for Spain's assistance in saving the Abu Simbel Temples from flooding during the construction of the Aswan Dam, this temple dates back over 2,000 years and was carefully dismantled and reassembled stone by stone. Set in the beautiful Oeste Park (Parque del Oeste) near the Plaza de España, the Temple of Debod offers spectacular sunsets and panoramic views of the city. It is a peaceful place for reflection and an excellent photo spot that few tourists seem to know about. 

Adding a stillness to the air and additional significance to the Temple of Debod is  the fact that the Temple of Debod is actually located on the site where Spanish rebels were executed during the May 2, 1808 uprising against Napoleon's French troops. (This moment is immortalized by Goya's renowned paintings, which are displayed in the Prado Museum.) This pivotal moment escalated the Peninsular War, as the Spanish people, outraged by the French occupation, rose up in rebellion. The brutal retaliation by the French, including mass executions, intensified the Spanish resistance and became a symbol of the country’s struggle for independence.

The Temple of Debod dates back to the 2nd century BC and is open to the public. However, I personally find the exterior of the temple to be the real must-see attraction, especially in autumn when its stone bricks harmonize beautifully with the surrounding foliage. 

Visiting the Temple of Debod:

The Temple of Debod is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with the last admission at 6:30PM. The Temple of Debod is closed on Mondays, and select holidays. Admission to the temple is free of charge and advance tickets are not required. Due to its limited capacity of just 15 visitors at a time, you should be prepared for a potentially long wait. The nearest Metro station is Plaza de España. More information about the Temple of Debod can be found on the esMadrid.com website.

Sorolla Museum: Visit the Home of Impressionist Painter Joaquín Sorolla

Housed in the former home of the renowned Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla, the Sorolla Museum (Museo Sorolla) is one of the best artistic hidden gems in Madrid. The museum showcases Sorolla's works, including his famed Mediterranean beach scenes and portraits, alongside personal artifacts and studio materials. 

Known for his vibrant Impressionist style, Sorolla was famous for his masterful use of light and color, often depicting sunny Mediterranean beaches, serene landscapes, and intimate portraits. His ability to capture the shimmering effects of sunlight and the beauty of everyday life made him a key figure in Spanish art, with his works often compared to those of the French Impressionists.

The museum, housed in Sorolla’s former home and studio, is one of the best hidden gems in Madrid, as the museum preserves not only his artwork but also his personal belongings and the very atmosphere in which he created his masterpieces. Visitors can explore rooms filled with Sorolla’s paintings, sketches, and sculptures, many of which are still arranged as they were during the artist’s lifetime. This personal connection makes the museum feel like a time capsule, allowing guests to step into Sorolla’s world and experience his creative process firsthand.

A highlight of the Sorolla Museum is its beautiful garden, designed by Sorolla himself, which blends Mediterranean and Andalusian influences. Filled with fountains, sculptures, and fragrant flowers, the garden is a peaceful escape in the heart of Madrid and a hidden gem in its own right.

Visiting the Sorolla Museum: 

Located in the Chamberí neighborhood, just a short walk from Calle Serrano, the Sorolla Museum offers a quieter, more personal experience compared to the larger art museums in Madrid (i.e., Prado Museum, Reina Sofía, etc.). Its location in a more residential area further enhances its status as one of the true hidden gems in Madrid. Whether you are an art lover or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the Sorolla Museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking to discover the city's cultural depth beyond its more famous landmarks. The nearest Metro stations are Rubén Darío, Iglesia, and Gregorio Marañón. 

The Sorolla Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM and on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The museum is closed on Mondays and select holidays. For the most up-to-date opening hours and additional information, please visit the Museo Sorolla website. The last entry to the museum is 45 minutes before closing time. Advance purchase tickets are not required. 

Royal Basilica of St. Francis the Great: Madrid's Overlooked Architectural Masterpiece

Among the many hidden gems in Madrid, the Royal Basilica of St. Francis the Great (Real Basilica de San Francisco el Grande) stands as one of the city’s most impressive yet often overlooked landmarks. Located in the La Latina neighborhood, this massive basilica is known for its stunning architecture, breathtaking art, and historical importance. While it might not receive the same level of attention as Madrid’s Almudena Cathedral, its sheer beauty and grandeur make it my favorite religious site in the city.

The Royal Basilica of St. Francis the Great was constructed in the late 18th century, under the management of famed architect, Francisco Sabatini. The basilica was constructed on land that was offered to St. Francis of Assisi during his time in Madrid in 1214. The result is a masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture, making the basilica one of the most important and opulent religious buildings in Madrid.

Perhaps the most striking feature of the Royal Basilica of St. Francis the Great is its enormous dome, which is one of the largest in the Christian world. Standing at an impressive 108 feet (33 meters) in diameter and 190 feet (58 meters) high, the dome rivals those of St. Peter's Basilica and the Pantheon in Rome. In fact, the dome is the largest in Spain and fourth largest in Europe - behind St. Peter's Basilica, the Pantheon, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Il Duomo) in Florence, Italy. The dome’s sheer size and scale are awe-inspiring, and stepping inside the basilica to gaze up at it is a truly humbling experience.

The interior of the basilica is equally magnificent. The walls and ceilings are adorned with gilded decorations, intricate frescoes, and religious artwork that depict scenes from the Bible, the lives of saints, and the Franciscan order. Some of Spain’s most celebrated painters, including Francisco de Goya and Zurbarán, contributed to the collection of artwork housed within the basilica, making it a hidden treasure for art lovers. Particularly notable is Goya’s painting of the Sermon of Saint Bernardine of Siena, located in one of the chapels (shown below).

In addition to its grand dome and artwork, the basilica features six side chapels, each of which is lavishly decorated with sculptures, altars, and paintings. The High Altar, crowned by a statue of St. Francis of Assisi, is a true centerpiece, radiating a sense of grandeur and reverence. Every detail within the basilica speaks to the extraordinary craftsmanship and dedication that went into its creation, making it one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Madrid.

Despite its towering dome and remarkable history, the Royal Basilica of St. Francis the Great is often overshadowed by Madrid’s more well-known attractions. However, its combination of architectural magnificence, artistic treasures, and spiritual significance makes it one of the city’s most important hidden gems. Unlike the often-crowded Almudena Cathedral near the Royal Palace, the basilica offers a quieter, more contemplative experience. Visitors can take in the grandeur of the dome, admire the world-class artwork, and reflect on the rich history of Madrid’s religious and royal heritage—all without the usual tourist crowds.

Visiting the Royal Basilica of St. Francis the Great:

The Royal Basilica of St. Francis the Great is situated in La Latina, one of Madrid's oldest neighborhoods. Its central location, close to other popular attractions, makes it convenient for visitors to explore the basilica with ease. The nearest Metro station is La Latina. 

The Royal Basilica of St. Francis the Great is open to tourists Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM. On Tuesday through Friday, the basilica reopens in the afternoon to visitors from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM. The last admission is 30 minutes before closing time. The basilica's hours may change due to the liturgical calendar. For more information, please visit the Basilica of St. Francis the Great's website.

Liria Palace: A Breathtaking Palace Hidden in Plain Sight

For a glimpse into Madrid’s aristocratic past, Liria Palace (Palacio de Liria or Casa de Alba as it is known in Spanish) is an absolute must-visit. Though not as well-known as the Royal Palace, Liria Palace is one of the most magnificent hidden gems in Madrid as it is still the residence of the Duke and Duchess of Alba, one of Spain’s oldest noble families. The palace holds an extraordinary collection of art, furniture, and rare books. Guided tours take you through its opulent rooms filled with masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, Rubens, and El Greco. 

One of the most famous paintings in the palace’s collection is Francisco de  Goya’s Portrait of the Duchess of Alba in White, a striking work that depicts María Cayetana de Silva, the 13th Duchess of Alba. Painted in the late 18th century, this portrait is one of two Goya paintings of the Duchess that reflect her bold personality and close relationship with the artist. In the painting, the Duchess stands elegantly in a white dress with a red sash, her piercing gaze directly engaging the viewer. Goya's depiction of her, combined with the mystery surrounding their relationship, adds to the intrigue of this masterpiece. Visitors to Liria Palace can admire this iconic work up close, as it remains a highlight of the palace’s art collection.

The palace itself is a beautiful example of Neoclassical architecture, designed by architect Ventura Rodríguez in the 18th century. Though it was heavily damaged during the Spanish Civil War, it was carefully restored, and today it retains its original grandeur. The palace’s library is another treasure, housing over 18,000 volumes, including rare manuscripts and historical documents that date back centuries.

Visiting Liria Palace:

Liria Palace is not open to the public in the traditional sense; visits are only allowed through guided tours and photography is not permitted, which helps maintain the palace’s exclusive atmosphere. Tours are also limited to small groups, making the experience more personal and allowing visitors to fully appreciate the rich history and art within its walls. While the tours are conducted in Spanish, English audio guides are available, ensuring that international visitors can enjoy and understand the palace’s remarkable collection and history.

Liria Palace is located in the Malasaña neighborhood, one of Madrid's trendiest and most historic areas. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the neighborhood is filled with bohemian cafes, boutiques, and lively nightlife, while also offering a glimpse into Madrid's past with its charming streets and historic landmarks. Malasaña's central location makes Liria Palace conveniently accessible for a visit. The closest Metro station is Ventura Rodríguez.

Liria Palace is open from 10:00AM to 1:30PM and from 4:00PM to 6:15PM daily. Tickets can be purchased online on the Liria Palace website. The standard guided tour of Liria Palace takes just over an hour. 

Lázaro Galdiano Museum: A Hidden Gem in Madrid's Salamanca Neighborhood 

The Lázaro Galdiano Museum, located in the upscale Salamanca neighborhood, is one of the most remarkable hidden gems in Madrid. Housed in the former mansion of José Lázaro Galdiano, a wealthy financier, journalist, publisher, and passionate art collector, the museum showcases an exceptional collection that spans a wide range of periods and styles. Lázaro Galdiano devoted his life to collecting fine art, rare books, and decorative objects, and his eclectic tastes are reflected in the museum's diverse holdings.

The collection includes masterpieces by some of the most famous Spanish artists, such as Goya, Zurbarán, and El Greco, alongside lesser-known but equally fascinating works. The museum is particularly noted for its extensive collection of Spanish art, especially portraits and religious paintings from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Visitors will also find beautiful examples of medieval armor, coins, jewelry, textiles, and sculptures.

The mansion itself is a work of art, with its lavish neo-Renaissance design and sumptuous interiors. Walking through its stately rooms, visitors can imagine what life was like in early 20th-century Madrid’s elite circles. The peaceful garden that surrounds the museum is another hidden gem, offering a serene space in the heart of the Salamanca neighborhood.

Visiting the Lázaro Galdiano Museum:

The Lázaro Galdiano Museum is located on the exclusive Calle Serrano, near the United States Embassy, in the Salamanca neighborhood, known for its upscale shopping and elegant streets. The nearest Metro stations are Rubén Darío and Gregorio Marañón. This museum is an excellent stop for visitors looking to dive deeper into Spain’s art history beyond the more famous collections in the city, offering a more eclectic and personal selection of works. 

The Lázaro Galdiano Museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM and from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM. The museum is also open on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM. The Lázaro Galdiano Museum is closed on Mondays and select holidays. Advance purchase tickets are not required. For additional information about the museum, please visit the Lázaro Galdiano Museum's website. 

Museo Cerralbo: Incredible Opulence Near the Plaza de España

Another one of the hidden gems in Madrid is Museo Cerralbo, located just steps from the Plaza de España. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the Spanish aristocracy during the 19th century. The mansion belonged to the 17th Marquis of Cerralbo, an aristocrat, politician, and avid art collector, who designed the space to display his impressive collections.

Stepping into Museo Cerralbo feels like traveling back in time. The rooms are luxuriously decorated with opulent chandeliers, ornate furniture, and fine tapestries, all preserved in their original state. The museum houses an extraordinary array of Baroque, Rococo, and Renaissance artworks, including paintings by Spanish masters like El Greco and Zurbarán.

In addition to its paintings, the museum’s collection includes ancient artifacts, suits of armor, and decorative arts such as porcelain, clocks, and crystal. The palatial rooms are designed to impress, showcasing the wealth and status of the Cerralbo family, while providing a uniquely personal insight into aristocratic life in 19th-century Madrid.

Visiting Museo Cerralbo: 

The Moncloa-Aravaca neighborhood, where the museum is located, is known for its tranquil atmosphere and proximity to major green spaces like Casa de Campo and Oeste Park (Parque del Oeste), offering a perfect setting for this hidden gem in Madrid. Far from the city's crowded tourist spots, the Museo Cerralbo offers a serene and intimate museum experience that feels worlds away from the tourist heart of Spain's capital.

The museum’s location near Plaza de España and Parque del Oeste makes it an ideal stop for visitors exploring this part of Madrid. The nearest Metro station is Plaza de España. Museo Cerralbo is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM, and on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The museum also offers extended hours on Thursday afternoons (except on holidays) from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Museo Cerralbo is closed on Mondays and select holidays. The last entrance to the museum is one hour before closing time. Advance tickets are not required. For additional information, please visit the Museo Cerralbo website. 

Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida: Goya's Masterpiece & Final Resting Place

Among the many hidden gems in Madrid, the Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida stands out as a site of immense historical and artistic significance. Tucked away in the quiet Argüelles neighborhood, this unassuming chapel may not be on every tourist’s itinerary, but its beauty and importance make it a must-visit for lovers of the work of the Spanish master, Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes. 

The Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida was built in the late 18th century and is dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua. However, what truly elevates this chapel from a simple place of worship to one of the greatest hidden gems in Madrid is its connection to the renowned Spanish painter Francisco de Goya. Commissioned to paint the interior of the chapel in 1798, Goya created a series of magnificent frescoes that adorn the dome and ceilings of the Ermita.

These frescoes depict scenes from the life of Saint Anthony, with the most notable being the Miracle of Saint Anthony, where Saint Anthony raises a man from the dead to clear his father’s name. Goya broke with traditional religious art conventions, creating vibrant, dynamic compositions that feel startlingly modern. The artist's choice to populate the scene with local people, dressed in typical Spanish attire of the period, brings an added layer of realism and relevance to the frescoes.

In 1919, the chapel became Goya’s final resting place. His remains were transferred here from Bordeaux, France, where he had spent the last years of his life in exile. The Ermita is now both a shrine to his artistic genius and a memorial to his life, making it a deeply significant place for fans of Spanish art and history.

Though small in size, the Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida captivates visitors with its breathtaking frescoes. Goya’s mastery of light, color, and form is on full display, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere within the chapel. The frescoes, painted in soft yet vivid tones, draw the eye upward to the intricate details of the dome, where angels and figures seem to float effortlessly in space. The fact that these incredible works of art remain in their original location, untouched by time, makes the Ermita a living museum of Goya’s work. As one of the true hidden gems in Madrid, the chapel is a peaceful and meditative space, offering a quiet escape from the city’s usual crowds.

Despite its profound historical and artistic significance, the Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida remains one of the best-kept secrets in Madrid. Unlike the crowded halls of major the museums, this chapel offers a more intimate and personal encounter with Goya’s work. It is a place where art, history, and spirituality come together in perfect harmony, making it one of the most unforgettable hidden gems in Madrid. For anyone seeking a quieter, more reflective experience, the Ermita is an absolute treasure waiting to be discovered.

Visiting the Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida:

The Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida is located in the Argüelles neighborhood, a tranquil and often overlooked area of Madrid. Argüelles is known for its leafy parks, quiet streets, and proximity to the Manzanares River, making it the perfect setting for this hidden gem. The nearest Metro station is Príncipe Pío.

The Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM. During the summer (June 15 to September 15), the Ermita de San Antonio is open from 9:0 AM to 7:00 PM. The chapel is closed on Mondays and major holidays. The last admission is 20 minutes before closing. Admission is free of charge. Photography inside the chapel is prohibited. You should plan for approximately 30 minutes for your visit. For additional information, please visit the Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida website.

Convent Bakery at Monasterio del Corpus Christi: A Hidden Gem Brimming with Sweet Treats

For a sweet taste and one of the best hidden gems in Madrid, a visit to the convent bakery at Monasterio del Corpus Christi is a delightful experience. Known locally as “El Convento de las Carboneras,” this hidden bakery is run by cloistered nuns who bake traditional Spanish sweets, like polvorones and mantecados. The process of purchasing these treats is unique—you communicate with the nuns through a rotating wooden turntable without ever seeing them. The convent’s handmade delicacies are a perfect way to end your exploration of hidden gems in Madrid. Our favorite cookies from El Convento de las Carboneras are the mantecados de Jerez, they are absolutely delicious! 

Tucked away in a quiet corner of the Plaza del Conde de Miranda, this convent is home to cloistered nuns who have kept alive the age-old tradition of baking and selling sweets to support their religious community. What makes this experience so special is the secluded and mysterious process of purchasing these delicacies. Since the nuns are cloistered and maintain their vow of silence, visitors don’t see them face-to-face. Instead, buyers interact with the nuns through a revolving wooden turntable, called a torno. 

The Monasterio del Corpus Christi is tucked away in Madrid’s historic city center, just steps from the Mercado de San Miguel and the Plaza Mayor. Despite its proximity to these popular spots, the convent feels like a hidden oasis of calm. The peaceful courtyard and quiet surroundings offer a stark contrast to the lively streets nearby, making this one of Madrid's most intriguing hidden gems.

Visiting El Convento de las Carboneras: 

If the nuns are selling sweet treats, there will be a sign on the front door of the monastery that states "Venta de Dulces" (meaning, sale of sweets in English). When you arrive, you have to ring the bell and ask “Tienes dulces hoy?” (“Do you have sweets today?”). If so, you will be buzzed-in. Walk through the corridor, following the signs for the "Torno." Once you get to the Torno, there will be a menu with prices on the wall and you can let the nuns know what you would like by speaking to them behind the wall. If they are sold out of anything, they will also let you know. After you place your order, put your money on the turntable, the nuns will then place your cookies or treats on the turntable, as well as any change, and turn it back to you.

The sweet treats are sold Monday through Saturday from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM and from 4:30 PM to 6:15 PM. The bakery typically closes during the month of August. The convent bakery is cash only. More information about El Convento de las Carboneras can be found on the esMadrid.com website and on Atlas Obscura.  

Final Thoughts on Hidden Gems in Madrid

Looking for more information on Madrid? Check out our Madrid Travel Guide for more popular sites, incredible restaurants, and general information about this dynamic city! Looking for information about some of our favorite museums in Madrid? Check out the Jetset Seeker blog and our post on Discovering the Museums in Madrid!

Have you explored any of these hidden gems in Madrid? We would love to hear from you!