Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world, with millions of tourists flying in every year. While many choose to head to the Baleares during the summer, there’s a charm to the capital – and it’s just as fun year-round. Vibrant, metropolitan and beautiful, there are plenty of Instagram spots in Madrid to spend an afternoon taking snaps. From heavily touristic spots to hidden gems full of locals. There’s something for everyone among the best photo spots Madrid!
Beautiful urban parks, churches from centuries past, street art and hip streets, Instagram spots in Madrid are very varied. Let’s take a look at the best photo spots Madrid and my full Madrid guide for you to get the best experience of the amazing Madrid!
As Madrid is a big city, it might be good to book a HOP ON HOP OFF TOUR your first day to get an overview of the city or if you prefer less touristic options, the 3 HOUR BIKE TOUR is a great option!
Do not miss my Madrid Beyond the Crowd Guide, my review of the No 1 Boutique hotel in Madrid as well as My Favorite Hip Madrid Restaurants!
Is taking photographs one of your favourite things about travelling to a new city? Then check out my other urban Instagram guides: San Francisco, Sydney, and Lisbon!
Best Photo Spots in Madrid: The Tourist Attractions
As one of the most visited capitals in the world, there are several “mandatory” visits in Madrid. While these can get crowded, they’re no less beautiful, and definitely deserve their place among the Instagram spots Madrid.
1. Gorgeous Crystal Palace – The No 1 Instagram Spot in Madrid!
A late 19th-century marvel built in glass and iron, the Crystal Palace is undoubtedly one of the best photo spots in Madrid. A conservatory located inside the city’s most famous park, Parque Retiro, its broad windows offer a unique perspective. Whether you’re outside looking in or vice versa, you’ll get nothing but incredible snaps. The mix of the futuristic structure and its surrounding nature is incomparable within the city and beyond.
Want to get your own Madrid Photo shoot? Then BOOK YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER HERE!
2. Relaxing Parque Retiro
The park where the Crystal Palace is located, Retiro, has many of the ultimate Instagram spots in Madrid. With its many lakes and broad green spaces, it’s a respite from the chaotic city. Here, you’ll be surrounded by a wide variety of trees, as you breathe the freshest air in town. And, of course, the nature and imposing buildings inside are a joy for any photographer. Some of the best photo spots in Madrid await here!
The Retiro Park is huge so a great way to explore it is by bike or Segway. Check out this cool TOUR!
3. Vibrant Plaza Mayor
Chances are that Plaza Mayor is where you’ll make your first stop among the best photo spots in Madrid. So much of the local life transpires in its surroundings, from people working downtown to flocks of tourists. A broad square with the classic Spaniard touch. Its arches are perfect Instagram spots in Madrid.
4. Regal Palacio Real & Plaza de Oriente
Is there anything more regal than the actual residence of a king? The Palacio Real is the official residence to the King of Spain, even if the current one doesn’t inhabit it. It’s still one of the best Instagram spots Madrid! The gigantic palace is a humbling structure, as are the perfectly trimmed trees near it.
For a visit make sure you book this SKIP THE LINE TICKETS & GUIDED TOUR!
Plaza de Oriente is at the foot of one of the palace’s façades, separating it from theaters and other local landmarks. Look through your camera for the best photo spots Madrid.
5. Glistening Sights at Parque Particular Vistas de la Almudena
At the small hill nearby, you’ll find one of the best Instagram spots Madrid: the Vistas de la Almudena private park. From here, you’ll get unique views to the grand cathedral and its museum – high time for truly unique snaps of the local landmarks.
6. Imposing Catedral de la Almudena
The most important church in the city, the Almudena Cathedral is one of the best photo spots Madrid. A sight to behold, the beautiful clear-colored front can be the perfect backdrop for exquisit pics. Whether you’re right in the façade or photographing it from a distance, the look will always be impressive.
7. Antique Templo de Debod
What sets this apart from other Instagram spots Madrid is that it far predates the city. Madrid is a fairly modern capital for European standards, dating back to the 16th century. Meanwhile, the Templo de Debod is from the 2nd century BC, and first erected in Egypt. Now surrounded by a small pond in honor of the Great Nile, it’s been a Madrid staple since the late 20th century. It’s also one of the most unique spots in town to take some pics!
This is not only one of the best photo spots in Madrid, but also one of the best places to enjoy a magical sunset. As it is a big area people gather here, having picnics, playing guitar and just enjoying life. For a good spot, make sure to be in time!
I can strongly recommend this Private & Fully Customized Walking Tour with a Local Guide to get some more history behind the places you visit and a true local touch!
Instagram Spots in Madrid: Madrid Neighborhoods
As a big, metropolitan city, Madrid is one of those places that changes widely from neighborhood to neighborhood. Each district has its own distinct personality, and there are plenty of best photo spots Madrid in each. Prepare your camera and start exploring the Madrid different districts!
When in Madrid – A flamenco show is a must. Check out this SPELLBINDING FLAMENCO SHOW!
8. Colorful Main Street of La Latina
One of the oldest districts in Madrid, La Latina offers some of the top Instagram spots in Madrid. The main street is one of my favorite places in town, thanks to its beautiful colors. When we were there, it had an extra metropolitan layer with lots of flags everywhere, a perfect photo op!
9. Oasis with a View by San Francisco el Grande Basilica
The basilica itself is one of the best photo spots in Madrid, with its impressive build and its paintings by masters like Francisco Goya. Still, my favorite place to take snaps was outside, right next to the church. Here lies a unique oasis where you can take exquisite pictures of this 18th-century place of worship. Don’t miss the chance for a brand new photo perspective. And from the end of the park you will have a great view of the horisont.
10. Streets of Malasaña
Malasaña is one of the hippest areas in town, so you can imagine its Instagram spots Madrid potential. There’s always something going on in this trendy area, with lots of cute little places that are just waiting for you and your camera. Cafés, restaurants, and vintage shops always full of students, you can take many slice-of-life snaps here.
Loved to explore this area. Just strolling down the streets, checking all cool vintage shops, having lunch and coffee at some of the many cafés!
11. Murals of Malasaña
Malasaña hosts some of the most photographed walls in the entire Spanish capital! The best photo spots in Madrid for urban art lovers are around here. The neighborhood’s official image stems from street art: the turquoise wall with funky eyes on the Tienda Tom Pai façade. The walls in this neighborhood are always camera-ready!
12. Shops & Streets of Justicia
Right in the center of town, Justicia offers some of the ultimate Instagram spots in Madrid. From its luxurious shops to its old buildings, there’s a chic aesthetic here that looks wonderful on snaps. For a different approach, head to Chueca, an area inside the neighborhood that has served as Madrid’s gay district since the 90s. The Chueca square is a splash of color, with cute umbrellas above that make for lovely pictures.
13. Endless Flavors of Mercado San Anton
Foodies and addicts to exotic plating will find the best photo spots Madrid at the San Anton Market. This is a much more authentic option to the very touristic San Miguel. Here you will find lots of delicious food and food stands and on the top there is a cool rooftop. Perfect for lazy afternoons!
14. Posh Streets of Salamanca
Salamanca is one of the most upscale areas in the city, with luxurious Instagram spots in Madrid. Built in the late 19th century for Spanish aristocracy, the buildings of this neighborhood will leave you breathless. The wide constructions in French style and imposing façades will keep you and your camera quite busy!
Hotels Among the Best Photo Spots Madrid
The Spanish capital gets visitors from all over the world and all walks of life, so there are beautiful hotels for any type of guest. As a lover of boutique hotels, my favorite lodging in town also happens to provide plenty of Instagram spots Madrid!
15. Boutique Dreams at Only You Justicia
If you’ve visited my blog before, you’ll know boutique hotels are my passion, even if my standards are high. Only You fulfilled every single one, and it was a 5 out of 5 in every aspect. Not only is it a lodging I recommend thoroughly, it also offers some of the best photo spots Madrid. I couldn’t get enough of the broad spaces, the beautiful tiles of white and blue, and the exquisite décor in every area, public and private.
Read my full review of Only You HERE or directly book your stay HERE!
Restaurants Among the Cutest Instagram Spots Madrid
As one of the keepers of the world-renowned Mediterranean diet, Spaniards know a lot about food. When combining a love of great flavors with great visual taste, you get restaurants that are also among the best photo spots Madrid. Is there anything better than eating something delicious in a beautiful setting?
For foodies, I can strongly recommend this Tapas Experience Tour!
For more on my favorite restaurants in Madrid, check out my Madrid Restaurant Review here!
16. Tropical Habanera
What makes Habanera one of the top Instagram spots Madrid is its oasis-like quality. The design mixes two styles of tropical: arabesque and Caribbean. With palm trees, beautiful black and white tiles, and rustic furniture, it’s quite the hideout. Take gorgeous pics of the setting and the exotic Cuban-Spanish fusion dishes!
17. Funky Streetxo
Streetxo, the “it” restaurant in town by Spanish celebrity chef David Muñoz, is also among the best photo spots Madrid. Its unassuming design will transport you to an Asian night market. Full of strong colors, with a prevalence of reds, you’ll find yourself attached to your camera when visiting. The fact that the food is delicious certainly helps!
Want to try out some cooking yourself. This HALFDAY COOKING CLASS is an amazing experience!
18. Views from Círculo de Bellas Artes
Although the Círculo de Bellas Artes is a little touristy for my personal taste, it’s undoubtedly one of the ultimate Instagram spots in Madrid. Up on a 54th floor, it’s perhaps the most famous of all local rooftops. Here, you can find a spectacular view of the entire city, perfect for panoramic pictures. Chill in the sun during the hot months and don’t miss out on the perfect shots from above.
If you like me are a wine lover, check out this great WINE TOUR IN THE MADRID REGION!
19. Rustic Cute at Mamá Framboise
When you’re hanging out around Malasaña and Salamanca, take a coffee break at Mamá Framboise. Sure, the cake is very yummy, but it also happens to offer some of the best photo spots Madrid. Inspired by the sweet aesthetic of Parisian cafés, this place looks like a shot from Amélie. The cute rustic tables and the little blimps on the ceiling as decoration all make for wondrous snaps. Let the café guide you through the best pics!
20. Look Out for Hidden Gems!
While you’ll find many Instagram spots Madrid in this guide, the best advice I can give you is to keep your eyes open. This is a beautiful city with a lot to offer, and getting lost in the streets and looking around is a breeze. Particularly in the city center, you’ll find plenty of hidden treasures. Huge and beautiful doors, incredible examples of Spanish architecture, and little details abound. Madrid is always camera-ready, so you should be, too!
Travel with a Silver Lining Beyond Instagram Spots Madrid
- Besides the best photo spots Madrid, check out my list of the best places to see in town beyond the crowds!
- For more on this wonderful southern Europe country, here’s the Spain section of the blog!
- Photographing beautiful places is one of my favorite things about traveling, and I have a few Insta-ready guides! Check out my other photography posts: Mykonos and Mexico!
- Read my top 3 posts: Lisbon Instagram Spots, Hip Moscow Restaurants & Amalfi Coast Photography Guide!
Booking Support & Input After the Best Photo Spots Madrid
- Flights. Fly to Madrid or anywhere else at the best possible prices thanks to Momondo. Plan your trip through their all-in-one travel app by downloading it HERE!
- Transfer. Don’t waste one second of your time waiting for transfers to your hotel: book this one now!
- Hotels. Book my favorite boutique hotel HERE or find the best hotel to start your tour of Instagram photo spots through BOOKING.COM!
- Tour guides. HI, HI is one of my favorite travel platforms, as it connects me with real locals who act as city guides. Book it HERE!
- GET YOUR GUIDE is my favorite place to find wonderful experiences everywhere I go. Check out this amazing Toledo & Segovia: Full-Day Tour with Priority Alcázar Entry tour. Madrid is also full of lovely museums like Prado, Reina Sofia & Thyssen. If planning to visit make sure to book SKIP THE LINE TICKETS HERE! Do not miss the full Madrid city guide, below!
Did you love this list of the best photo spots Madrid? Find some pins for Instagram spots Madrid, below!’