Is Everything Closed in Madrid on Sunday?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, you may be wondering if everything is closed on Sunday. After all, many countries and cities have limited hours or closures on Sundays. So, what’s the situation in Madrid?

Are Shops Closed?

Yes, most shops in Madrid are closed on Sundays. However, there are some exceptions.

Small convenience stores and souvenir shops can open on Sundays, but they usually have shorter hours than usual. If you’re looking for something specific, it’s best to check their opening hours beforehand.

What About Museums and Tourist Attractions?

Good news for tourists: many museums and tourist attractions in Madrid are open on Sundays! The Prado Museum, Reina Sofia Museum, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum are all open on Sunday with the exception of some public holidays. And if you’re interested in visiting the Royal Palace of Madrid or the Almudena Cathedral on Sunday, they will be open as well.

Restaurants and Cafes

Madrid is known for its culinary scene and good food can be found any day of the week. Many restaurants and cafes stay open on Sundays but may have shorter operating hours than usual. However, it’s worth noting that some traditional Spanish restaurants may close for lunchtime siesta which is typically between 2 pm to 4 pm.

Markets and Shopping Malls

Most markets in Madrid close on Sunday but there are a few exceptions like El Rastro Market which is only open on Sundays from 9 am to 3 pm. Shopping malls like Centro Comercial La Vaguada or El Corte Inglés also remain open all days of the week including Sunday.

Tips for Visiting Madrid on a Sunday

  • Plan ahead: Check opening times before heading out to avoid disappointment.
  • Make reservations: If you’re planning to dine out, it’s best to make a reservation beforehand as restaurants can get busy on Sundays.
  • Visit Museums and Tourist Attractions: Take advantage of the fact that many museums and tourist attractions are open on Sundays.
  • Enjoy the outdoors: Madrid has several parks and gardens which are free to visit and offer a great way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon.

In Conclusion

While it’s true that many shops in Madrid close on Sunday, there are still plenty of things to do and see. From museums to restaurants, there is something for everyone. So don’t let the Sunday closures stop you from enjoying this vibrant city!