What to do in Madrid when It rains? 20 great indoor (and sometimes cozy) activities

Rain in Madrid? Don’t panic! Even when the sky turns grey, the Spanish capital has plenty to offer, from world-famous museums and immersive exhibitions to cozy cafés, food experiences, and family-friendly activities.

Whether you’re visiting with friends, family, or a partner, here’s our 2025 guide to the best things to do in Madrid when it rains, all tested and approved by the Vivre Madrid team!

Culture and museums

1. Prado Museum, a must-see, rain or shine

When it rains in Madrid, head straight for the Museo del Prado, Spain’s most iconic art museum. It’s home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, Rubens, Bosch, and El Greco, an extraordinary journey through centuries of European art.

• Plan at least 2 hours for your visit (or more if you love Renaissance art).
• Tip: if you’re short on time, book a guided tour to focus on the essential masterpieces. Find out more here.
• Location: Paseo del Prado
• Price: €18
• Free admission Monday–Saturday 6–8 p.m. / Sunday 5–7 p.m.

Buy your ticket for the Prado Museum here

2. Reina Sofía Museum, Picasso and modern icons

Just a short walk away, explore the Museo Reina Sofía, dedicated to modern and contemporary art. The highlight? Picasso’s Guernica, an emotionally powerful masterpiece that everyone should see once in their lifetime.

You’ll also find works by Dalí, Miró, and Juan Gris. For families, the layout and modern architecture make it fun to explore, even with kids.

• Location: Calle de Santa Isabel, 52
• Combine it with lunch at El Brillante — their bocadillo de calamares is legendary!
• Duration: 1h30 to 2h
• Price: €12
• Buy your ticket for the Reina Sofía Museum here.

If you want to visit this museum with a guide, you can find here more information.

Avoid the wait and save up to 20% at Madrid’s 3 major museums. Enjoy the Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen with the Paseo del Arte card. Find out more here.

3. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, from Van Gogh to Hopper

The Thyssen completes Madrid’s “Golden Triangle of Art.” It’s less crowded and more eclectic than the Prado, with works by Monet, Degas, Van Gogh, Kandinsky, and Hopper.

Ideal for a rainy afternoon: quiet, elegant, and surprisingly cozy. Don’t miss the temporary exhibitions, often excellent.

• Location: Paseo del Prado, 8
• Duration: 1h30 to 2h
• Price: €12
• Café inside for a perfect rainy-day break.
• Buy here your ticket for Thyssen-Bornemisza museum

4. Royal Palace of Madrid, regal indoors

Rain is the perfect excuse to visit the Palacio Real, one of Europe’s grandest royal residences. Inside: chandeliers, marble staircases, tapestries, and the famous Royal Armoury. The palace has over 3,000 rooms, though only part is open to visitors.

• Book your ticket here to avoid the queue, especially on weekends.
• Location: Plaza de Oriente
• Guided tours available in English.

Book your ticket with guided tour here.

5. Almudena Cathedral, a surprising mix of history and color

Right next to the Royal Palace, the Catedral de la Almudena offers a stunning interior, a mix of Gothic, Neo-Classical, and Modernist elements. Take time to visit the crypt and climb up to the dome for panoramic views of the city (if the rain stops).

• Location: Calle de Bailén
• Entry: Cathedral free / Dome + Museum ~€7

6. The Cleopatra immersive exhibition, history comes to life

The Cleopatra Immersive Experience is one of Madrid’s top temporary exhibitions. It combines virtual reality, interactive displays, and stunning projections to immerse you in the world of ancient Egypt’s most fascinating queen.

• Perfect for families or anyone curious about history with a modern twist.
• Tickets usually start around €14.

Buy you tickets here.

7. Disney: The Exhibition, 100 years of magic

A true hit since its arrival in Madrid! The Disney: The Exhibition celebrates the studio’s centennial with rare artwork, behind-the-scenes secrets, and interactive zones that delight children and nostalgic adults alike.

Bonus: great indoor photo ops and merchandise stands for collectors.

• Find here more information

8. Candlelight concerts, Music by candlelight

One of Madrid’s most enchanting experiences. Imagine sitting in a dimly lit hall, surrounded by hundreds of candles, listening to live classical or pop renditions of your favorite music.

Themes range from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons to Coldplay, Taylor Swift, or Queen tributes. These concerts are organized all year round, rain or shine, but they feel even more magical on a rainy evening.

Venues include Palacio Neptuno, Círculo de Bellas Artes, Four Seasons of Madrid and Ateneo de Madrid.

• Book your tickets here.

Vivre Madrid tip : Combine your museum visits with a coffee stop. Try Café Murillo, right by the Prado, or Federal Café, a modern spot perfect for families with kids.

Leisure, family and indoor fun

Even when the skies turn grey, Madrid stays vibrant and full of life. From futuristic VR games to flamenco shows, there’s no shortage of fun things to do indoors. Here’s our hand-picked selection for families, couples, or groups of friends.

9. Spark Island, the new immersive playground

If you’re looking for an exciting experience that mixes art, light, and technology, Spark Island is a must. This interactive space combines escape games, immersive rooms, and virtual reality challenges. Families, teens, and friend groups love exploring its multi-sensory settings. You might find yourself solving mysteries, walking through holographic worlds, or painting with light!

• Perfect for a rainy afternoon with older kids (10+).
• Prices start around €20 per person — book in advance on weekends.

10. EVA Madrid, virtual worlds in real life

Another cutting-edge spot for tech lovers and gamers. EVA (Esports Virtual Arenas) offers high-quality VR experiences and cooperative games in huge open-space rooms. You can fight zombies, explore space, or dive under the sea; safely and without getting wet.

• Families with teens love this place, it’s both fun and active.
• From €15 per session
• Duration: 30–45 min per session

11. Sweet Space Museum, where imagination meets sugar

This colourful, Instagram-friendly museum is a hit among kids and adults alike. Each room features interactive art, bright colours, and candy-themed installations. Think giant lollipops, slides, and clouds made of marshmallows.

• Perfect for families, birthday surprises, or anyone who loves quirky art.
• Adults €18 / Children €13

Book your tickets here.

12. Atlantis Aquarium Madrid, an underwater world indoors

An excellent escape for a rainy day! The Atlantis Aquarium is home to hundreds of marine species and a variety of educational experiences. Kids can learn about ocean conservation while walking through luminous tunnels filled with sharks, rays, and colourful fish.

Combine your visit with shopping or indoor skiing at the Madrid SnowZone, located in the same complex.

• A full-day outing for families.
• €16 adults / €12 children

Find more information here.

13. Discover Flamenco, a show that warms your soul

There’s nothing better than escaping the rain by stepping into the fiery atmosphere of a flamenco tablao. At Cardamomo, dancers, singers, and guitarists deliver pure emotion, strength, elegance, and passion.

• The lighting, rhythm, and energy make it one of Madrid’s most moving experiences.
• Tip: book the early evening session (around 6 p.m.) for families with children.
• From €39 – Shows every evening

Book your flamenco show here.

14. Cooking Class, learn to make tapas or paella

Rainy days are ideal for rolling up your sleeves and learning the secrets of Spanish cuisine! Join a cooking class in central Madrid and prepare classics like tortilla española, paella valenciana, or churros con chocolate. Most workshops include tastings and a glass of wine for parents.

• A delicious and educational activity for all ages.

Find here more information about this activity

15. Wine Tasting, shelter from the rain with good Spanish wine

When it rains, let’s turn it into a cozy afternoon! Madrid has wonderful wine bars and cellars offering tastings of Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Madrid-region wines. Try Vinícola Mentridana (La Latina), a favourite among locals and the Vivre Madrid team, for a casual evening filled with laughter, tapas, and authentic wines.

Book you wine testing and cheese here.

16. Relax at an Arabic Spa, Hammam Al Ándalus

The rain can be an excuse to slow down. Step into Hammam Al Ándalus, an atmospheric Arabic-style spa filled with candlelight, warm pools, and soothing aromas.

Alternate between the hot, warm, and cold baths, then enjoy a relaxing massage while listening to soft Andalusian music.

• Perfect for couples or parents in need of a peaceful break while the kids nap!
• From €60, 1 hour session

Find more information here

17. Bowling, Arcade Games & Laser Tag

For something fun and active, head to Bowling Chamartín or Ozone Bowling. Most venues include arcade areas, billiards, air hockey, and food courts — ideal for families or groups of friends.

Look out for combo deals on rainy weekdays (game + meal).

18. Escape Room: La Maldición de los Balaguer

An experience full of suspense and mystery! Will you be able to escape before it’s too late? Take up a challenge that will test your wits and your nerves to the limit.

• Ideal for: groups of friends, families, team building
• Duration: 1 hour
• Price : 45/person
• Book your session here.

Planning to spend a few days in Madrid? See our selection of accommodation in the article: where to stay in Madrid? See our selection by district!

19. Museum of Illusions

A fun museum that appeals to the whole family. Mirrors, distortions, optical illusions… perfect for having fun, learning and taking lots of Instagram photos.

• Ideal for: families, groups of friends, teenagers
• Duration: 1 hour
• 12-16 €
• Buy your ticket for the Madrid Museum of Illusions here.

20. Shopping under cover, markets & malls

Rain doesn’t stop Madrileños from shopping! Visit El Corte Inglés Callao for fashion and gourmet food, or wander through covered markets like Mercado de San Miguel (for tapas) and Mercado de la Paz (for authentic groceries).

For big malls, La Vaguada or Plaza Río 2 offer everything under one roof, plus indoor playgrounds for kids.

Perfect combo : lunch + shopping + churros break.

Bonus idea : Indoor Cultural Spaces

Even when it rains, Madrid’s cultural scene never sleeps. Check out Círculo de Bellas Artes (for exhibitions and rooftop views) or CaixaForum Madrid (for art, design, and family workshops).

Vivre Madrid Tip : Always carry a small umbrella. Madrid’s showers rarely last long, and once the clouds clear, the city lights shimmer even more beautifully against the wet pavements.

Useful tips for enjoying a rainy day in Madrid

• Take a compact umbrella with you, especially if you’re going from one place to another on foot or by metro.
• Book your tickets in advance (especially for museums, spas and escape games) to avoid queuing outside.
• Download the Madrid Transportes app to check metro/bus routes and avoid walking too much in the rain.
• Did you know? Many museums are free at the end of the day (especially the Prado).
• Recommended transport: metro + short walk between activities. Choose the Centro, Malasaña, Retiro and Chamberí areas.

Rain in Madrid isn’t a spoiler, it’s an invitation. An invitation to slow down, explore, and discover a different rhythm of the city: cozy cafés filled with laughter, flamenco halls that warm your heart, museums that spark inspiration, and family experiences that turn a grey day into a bright memory.

Madrid knows how to make you feel at home, even when it pours. So open your umbrella, keep your curiosity high, and remember: the city shines just as beautifully under the rain.