Discover the best ways to spend a Monday in Madrid, from vibrant attractions to peaceful parks. Explore top spots for fun and relaxation—read more!
Mondays can be brutal. In most of Spain, it’s the day museums nap, kitchens close, and visitors wander around wondering what went wrong. That was me—first week in Madrid, toddler asleep in the stroller, ready to explore… and everything had a “cerrado” sign.
But here’s the trick: on Monday, Madrid isn’t broken, it’s just different. Slower. Quieter. Better for grabbing a table without a wait, snapping photos without the crowds, and finding that special spot you’ll brag about later.
From morning strolls in Plaza de España to rooftop drinks and live music on Monday nights, you’ll see a side of Madrid most don’t.
So if you're googling what to do in Madrid on a Monday—this is your sign. Skip the stress. Madrid still shows up, just in a softer, smarter way.
I used to dread Mondays in Madrid. That feeling when you gear up to explore, only to find out half the city’s in recovery mode from the weekend. Museums? Closed. Cute cafés? Resting. But once I figured out where to go on Monday, Madrid stopped being a dead day and became one of my favorite excuses to slow down.
It’s a quieter side of Madrid—the city's relaxed Monday vibe means less noise, fewer visitors, and more room to breathe. You can still find a perfect place to take in art, sip coffee with a view, or even dance all night if that’s your thing. I’ll show you both sides: my mellow Monday, and the one for those who packed heels and a smart casual dress code.
You’ll probably spot the Reina Sofia Museum on every top-10 list. And yes—it’s amazing. But not on Mondays. Closed. Save it for Tuesday.
Here's my choice of ideal museums to visit on a Monday in Madrid.
Royal Palace of Madrid
A must visit if you're into grandeur, gold and world history. The Royal Palace is open every Monday, and booking tickets online is easy. Bring a valid ID and join a guided tour or roam on your own. Entry starts at €12.
Emma fell asleep in the stroller last time we where there, and I ended up whispering history facts to myself in the Throne Room.
Museo Sorolla
An intimate museum inside the artist’s old house. The light is magic, and the garden is a quiet pocket of joy. Open Mondays, around €3–€6. One of those spots that sticks with you.
Museo Cerralbo
Velvet wallpaper, chandeliers, and silence. Not many people know it’s open on Mondays—and that’s the best part.
Templo de Debod
Open, free, and lovely. Especially around golden hour when it reflects the last sun over Plaza de España. I like to come here to sit, think, or take a breather between plans.
No rush. This is the time to eat, walk, or just settle in.
Retiro Park
Our post-lunch tradition. Some days I bring my laptop, others just a book. There's space to spend a few hours without needing a plan.
Antón Martín Market
I like to grab something quick—tortilla, sushi, an overpriced but delicious sandwich—and eat upstairs while watching local life move around.
Azotea del Círculo de Bellas Artes
Opens at 9AM, €5 entry, and easily one of the best views in the city. This well known rooftop bar is recognized for its popularity among both locals and visitors. There’s a loose dress code (smart casual at most), and you won’t need a VIP table to feel like you scored.
Hotel Riu Plaza España
Later morning start, with a glass-floor terrace if you’re brave. People come here to take photos and party, but go before noon (reserve before!) and it’s almost meditative.
Alright, this is where Mondays in Madrid splits into two paths:
Early dinner, wine, and home by 10.
Music, lights, and “what even is bedtime?”
Madrid's nightlife is calling to visitors on Monday nights, offering something for every mood.
I usually go for the first. But if you’re here to party, Fucking Monday Madrid is a must in the city’s nightlife.
Not my scene anymore, but I went once with a friend visiting from Toronto. Wild. Fun. Loud. We shared great moments. I left by 2AM and still felt like I lived someone else’s life for a night.
Picalagartos Sky Bar
Want a calm Monday night with skyline views? This is your spot. No line, no noise, just solid drinks and the occasional DJ set humming in the background for a great moment.
Madrid 's nightlife isn’t lazy on Mondays—it’s just full of hidden surprises. Whether you’re into flamenco, rooftops, or dancing next to strangers from five countries, it's nightlife shows up. You just need to know where to look.
Navigating Monday Madrid is refreshingly easy, even for first-time visitors. The city’s metro system is your best friend—fast, clean, and running from 6 am to 1:30 am, it’ll get you from La Latina to Plaza de España in minutes. Buses are just as reliable, operating until 11:30 pm, and perfect for those scenic routes above ground.
But don’t just stick to the underground. Some of the city’s best moments happen when you walk—especially through neighborhoods like La Latina or Malasaña, where you can discover hidden tapas bars, street art, and the pulse of local nightlife. On a Monday night, the streets are quieter, making it the perfect time to explore at your own pace.
If you’re planning to hit up events like Fucking Monday Madrid near Plaza de España, make sure to buy your tickets online in advance. Most clubs and bars require a valid ID for entry, and a smart casual dress code is the norm—think neat jeans, a nice shirt, and shoes that can handle a night of dancing. No need to overthink it, but leave the flip-flops at home.
Whether you’re hopping between museums, heading out for a night of music, or just wandering the city, getting around on a Monday is a breeze. Just remember: the best way to see Madrid is to let yourself get a little lost.
Not every day has to start with a museum or a packed itinerary. Sometimes the best way to visit a city—especially on a Monday—is to live it the way locals do: one slow coffee, long lunch, and lazy journal entry at a time.
For me, it’s Emma’s nap that creates the rhythm. We drop her at daycare, wander through La Latina, and ease into the week without needing a single ticket.
Here’s how we do it:
Federal Café (Plaza de las Comendadoras)
This is brunch with a capital B—poached eggs, sourdough, and strong flat whites. I usually bring my laptop to get some work done. Dishes are around €12–€15. Big windows, bigger portions.
HanSo Café (Malasaña)
Smaller and more specialty-focused, but my favorite for solo mornings. If you like oat flat whites and quiet playlists, this is your house.
Café del Art (next to Mercado de San Miguel)
A coworking café that doesn’t feel like one. There’s a minimum spend of €3.50/hour if you’re working, but that covers your drink and the right to stay as long as you like. I’ve taken client calls here while watching tourists get fleeced across the street for €9 sangrías.
Casa Revuelta (Calle Latoneros)
Blink and you’ll miss it, but this old-school bar serves legendary bacalao (fried cod). Standing room only, no frills, no waiters. Just order at the bar. €2.80 a tapa.
Mercado de San Fernando (Lavapiés)
It’s the anti-San Miguel. Local families, good vibes, better food. Grab a meal at a Venezuelan stall, sip vermouth from the wine shop, or pick up cheese for dinner. Expect to spend around €8–€12 for lunch.
Vermouth Hour, Even on a Monday
Yes, it exists. Order it with an olive, a tiny side of chips, and no rush. Try Bodegas Ricla or Casa Camacho. They won’t post events online, but they’re packed with regulars who’ve been doing this since before Google Maps.
After lunch, the city slows down. Shops close. People disappear. It’s not siesta—it’s recalibration.
This is when I pull out my notebook. Emma naps, I write. Not about work, not about plans. Just a quick check-in. How’s this chapter of the journey going?
You won’t find this on a list of entertainment spots, but it’s one of my favorite hours in Madrid.
La Latina is great for a post-lunch wander—quiet streets, tiny bookstores, and the occasional gallery.
Some rooftop bars reopen mid-afternoon. Check their hours and minimum spend before heading over.
For more info on places mentioned here, or to see which cafés are walking distance from your stay, I check Google Maps reviews before going.
A Sunday in disguise. A soft start to the week. This is the Monday I look forward to.
If you’re the type who loves to bring home a piece of the city, Monday Madrid won’t disappoint. Many of the city’s best shops and markets are open, offering everything from quirky souvenirs to high-end fashion.
Start your hunt at Mercado de San Miguel—a feast for the senses where you can pick up local treats, artisan goods, or even a bottle of Spanish vermouth as a tasty souvenir. For something truly unique, wander through El Rastro’s side streets (the main market is Sunday, but many vintage shops and stalls are open on Mondays), where you’ll find everything from flamenco dresses to retro vinyl.
If you’re after a more upscale vibe, head to the Salamanca district. Here, designer boutiques and elegant storefronts line the streets, perfect for a little window shopping or a splurge on Spanish leather goods.
After a day of shopping, reward yourself with a drink or meal at one of the city’s lively bars—many offer Monday specials to kick off the week. And don’t forget: the Reina Sofia Museum opens its doors for free on Monday evenings, so you can explore world-class art without spending a cent.
When the sun sets, the city’s nightlife comes alive. If you’re curious about electronic music, grab your tickets online for Fucking Monday Madrid—a club night that’s become a must for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re dancing until dawn or just soaking up the atmosphere, Monday is the perfect night to miss the crowds and find your own rhythm in Madrid.
Mondays used to be my off-switch. Dinner at home, early to bed, the usual. Then I had one of those accidental good time nights—Emma fell asleep early, the babysitter stayed longer than expected, and we just wandered. Now Monday night is when the city feels most ours.
Here’s how we do it now—depending on our mood, budget, and babysitter situation.
If you’re only going to see one show in Madrid, let it be on a Monday. Fewer tourists, better tables, more soul.
Cardamomo Tablao Flamenco
Located just off Puerta del Sol, it’s small, intense, and packed with world-class talent. You can reserve your ticket on their website, and they usually have three shows per night. Tickets should be reserved in advance due to the venue's popularity, as shows are often sold out. Booking early is highly recommended to secure your spot, especially for the VIP experience.
Entry: Around €45 (or €65 with drink/seat upgrade)
Go for the early show—more room to breathe
There’s even a VIP experience if you want front-row emotion
The first time I went, I forgot to breathe halfway through a solo. It’s not just a performance—it’s something you feel under your skin.
Not feeling theatrical? Let the music come from the streets and rooftops instead.
Azotea del Círculo de Bellas Artes
We love this place so much we go twice on Mondays—once for morning coffee, once for post-sunset wine. The vibe changes completely by night: mellow entertainment, soft chatter, and lights twinkling across the city.
Entry: €5
Best table is along the edge facing Gran Vía—trust me
Bring your camera. The photos practically take themselves.
Hotel Riu Plaza España Sky Bar
A bit flashier, but surprisingly chill on Mondays. We've gone here for low-key birthday parties drinks. Check the website in advance—they sometimes host events or live music, even early in the week.
Last time, we sat on a VIP table by the glass floor and split overpriced but excellent cava. No regrets.
Sometimes you just want to walk, snack, and be around people without doing much at all.
Lavapiés Plaza
The heart of Madrid’s latin and African communities. On warm nights, it’s alive—kids playing soccer, someone playing guitar, couples sharing tinto de verano on the steps. No ticket, no schedule, just everyday entertainment.
Taberna Tempranillo
One of my favorite wine bars, located in the La Latina neighborhood, that I discovered by accident. Long bar, dim lights, shelves stacked with bottles. Solid tapas, no club vibe, just good wine and conversation.
Arrive early or expect to wait for a table
Average spend: €20–€30 for two, depending how deep you go into the wine list
You don’t need to wait until Wednesday to find fun. Monday nights are when Madrid hands you options without the crowds, without the noise—just open doors and open skies.
You can dress up, go for the full VIP experience, or just walk until you hear a song that makes you stop. Either way, you’ll discover something worth remembering.
No matter when you visit, Monday Madrid always has a surprise up its sleeve—but the city’s vibe shifts with the seasons, making every visit feel fresh.
In summer, the city is alive with open-air events and festivals. Don’t miss the Veranos de la Villa, where plazas and parks transform into stages for music, art, and dance. Warm nights are perfect for rooftop cocktails, and the Plaza de España buzzes with life well into the evening.
When winter rolls in, Madrid gets cozy. Glide across the ice at the Plaza de España rink, or duck into the Royal Palace for a guided tour—open every Monday and a magical escape from the chill. Many restaurants and bars offer Monday-only deals, so it’s a great time to try new tapas or sip hot chocolate in a historic café.
No matter the weather, Fucking Monday Madrid keeps the party going. Reserve a VIP table for a special night out—think champagne, group photos, and a few surprises along the way. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want the full VIP experience, booking ahead guarantees your spot at one of the city’s most talked-about clubs.
Spring and fall bring their own magic—mild weather, fewer visitors, and a calendar packed with flamenco shows, art exhibitions, and pop-up events. Check the city’s listings before your journey to catch the latest happenings, and don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path. In Madrid, every Monday is a chance to explore something new, toast to the week ahead, and collect memories you’ll want to relive again and again.
Whether you’re flying solo, navigating nap schedules, or turning a regular Monday into a mini birthday party, Madrid has something waiting. And honestly? Fewer visitors means better tables, fewer lines, and way more surprises.
Pick your pace, grab a camera, and enjoy the setting without the Sunday crowds or the Wednesday noise.
You want your Monday to feel productive but not performative. A bit of art, a bit of work, and a side of flamenco to wrap things up.
Coffee at HanSo Café (Malasaña)
A quiet, minimal space with serious coffee and great light for those moody photos.
Museo Sorolla
A small, artist’s house-turned-museum, located in Chamberí. The garden alone is worth the visit. Book your ticket online (€3–€6).
Café del Art (for coworking)
WiFi, good snacks, and comfy chairs. Pay a small hourly fee or just order a drink and stay a while. Bonus: close to the Royal Palace if you want a quick walk.
Flamenco at Cardamomo
End the day with something intense and unforgettable. Book ahead if you want a VIP table. If not, back row still brings goosebumps.
Pro tip: If you're celebrating anything—even a solo Monday win—mention it when booking. You might just get a drink on the house.
Kids need movement, snacks, and naps. Parents need shade, coffee, and a place to park the stroller. This route has all of it.
Morning at Retiro Park
Ducks, boats, playgrounds—Emma could stay here all day.
Brunch at Federal Café (Plaza de las Comendadoras)
Spacious and stroller-friendly. Avocado toast or pancakes for the little ones, strong coffee for you.
Royal Palace of Madrid
Book your tickets ahead and bring a snack for the courtyard. The space feels massive and impressive even for toddlers. You’ll breeze through thanks to lighter visitor traffic.
Early dinner at El Sur (Huertas)
Cozy spot with excellent tortilla and grilled veggies. They open early by Spanish standards, around 6:30 PM.
A personal tip: We usually skip dessert at the restaurant and walk to La Mallorquina near Puerta del Sol for pastries.
Maybe it’s your first time in Madrid, maybe it’s a birthday, or maybe you just want to turn Monday into a private party. Here's the route.
Cowork at Casa Club (Chamberí)
A quiet, upscale coworking space in a beautiful setting. Day passes around €25. Or just linger at the Federal Café terrace if you want a budget version with better coffee.
La Casa Encendida or Swinton Gallery
Small, modern, and full of thoughtful pieces. You won’t need more than an hour. Expect shows from emerging artists—often with routes that spill into the street art of Lavapiés.
Drinks at Azotea del Círculo
Reserve a table for sunset. €5 entry, a solid wine list, and that feeling of being exactly where you should be.
Dinner + Flamenco at Villa Rosa
Feels romantic without being cliché. The tilework, the dancing, the music—all of it wraps up your Monday with mood. You don’t need a club, you need this.
Bonus: On some nights, they host live DJs after the last flamenco set. It's low-key, local, and perfect if you still have energy to dance.
Madrid doesn’t save the best for weekends. It just hides it better on Mondays.
It took me a while, but Monday is now my favorite day in Madrid. No pressure to party, no need to chase the weekend rush. Just slow walks, open skies, and the kind of nightlife that doesn’t feel forced.
You don’t need a VIP table to feel special, or a minimum spend to earn a view. The city hands you these little gifts—empty museums, warm plazas, rooftops with space to think.
And while most visitors wait for Wednesday to start exploring, locals know the best nightlife moments often happen when the world isn’t watching.
“Madrid breathes a little deeper on Mondays—if you let it.”
Ready to make Mondays your best-kept secret?
Browse RentRemote’s apartments in Madrid and turn your Mondays into moments.
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