If you're planning a getaway, we're sharing seven things to do in Madrid in autumn to make the most of October and November 2026. From the traditions of the Day of the Dead to major music and performing arts festivals, as well as walks among centuries-old trees and cultural visits, you'll find ideas to suit different tastes and travel styles.
And to complete your experience, we'll show you how to enjoy the city at your own pace and find a space to rest and recharge at ARTIEM Madrid after each day of exploring.
1. Discover the Day of the Dead at Casa de México
Until 8 November 2026
One of the most distinctive cultural events of Madrid's autumn is the Day of the Dead celebration organised by the Fundación Casa de México en España. Every year, this cultural centre introduces visitors to one of Mexico's most representative traditions through monumental altars, flowers, traditional crafts and experiences that invite you to discover the meaning behind the celebration.
In 2026, the altar is dedicated to Agustín Lara, known as El Flaco de Oro, and pays tribute to the musical legacy of a composer who built cultural bridges between Mexico and Spain. Inspired by the cemeteries of Michoacán, the installation offers a visual and cultural experience that goes beyond the traditional Halloween celebrations.
It's the perfect plan for anyone who enjoys art, photography and discovering the traditions of other cultures. It also offers a different perspective on memory and the ways we honour those who are no longer with us.
The altar is open to visitors from 2 October to 8 November. Admission is free, although opening hours and entry conditions vary depending on the type of visit. Some guided tours require advance registration.
Practical information: Check opening hours and entry requirements before visiting, especially if you'd like to join a guided tour.
Find out more on the official Casa de México website.
2. Wander Through El Retiro and Enjoy Autumn Among Centuries-Old Trees
A plan for any day in October or November
If there's one experience worth enjoying in Madrid during autumn, it's a walk through its parks. The changing season transforms the landscape, offering a different perspective on some of the capital's most iconic green spaces.
El Retiro Park is one of the best places to start. Its tree-lined avenues, historic gardens and paths around the lake invite you to explore at your own pace. You can visit the Crystal Palace, discover its quieter corners or simply sit and watch the changing light filtering through the leaves.
During autumn 2026, El Retiro's Environmental Education Centre is also offering free activities related to nature. One of the highlights is the Pumpkin Festival, scheduled for Saturday, 17 October, featuring family workshops, artisan producers and activities connected with gardening and growing food.
On 30 and 31 October, the guided walk “Autumn Fruits” will also take place, offering a botanical tour to discover some of the park's fruit-bearing species during the season. The activity is free, but advance booking is required.
Practical information: El Retiro is open from 6 am to 10 pm throughout October and November. Activity schedules and access conditions may vary, particularly during periods of severe weather.
Check the information for El Retiro Park and the autumn programme at the Environmental Education Centre.
3. Experience Madrid to the Rhythm of Jazz
From 2 October to 30 November 2026
Madrid's autumn can also be enjoyed through music. JAZZMADRID, the Madrid International Jazz Festival, returns in 2026 with a programme bringing together established artists and emerging talent at venues across the city.
The festival takes place at a variety of locations, including Teatro Fernán Gómez. Centro Cultural de la Villa, CentroCentro and Contemporánea Condeduque, as well as jazz clubs and other cultural venues.
It's an opportunity to discover new voices, reconnect with renowned performers or experience jazz for the first time. You don't need to be an expert in the genre to enjoy it: simply let the music take you away and choose a performance that suits your taste.
You could plan an afternoon exploring one of Madrid's neighbourhoods before ending the day with a live concert. It's a different way to get to know the city, especially if you're looking for ideas for a weekend getaway.
Practical information: Dates, times and ticket prices vary depending on the performance. Check the programme and ticket availability before planning your visit.
Discover all the details on the official JAZZMADRID website.
4. Be Inspired by the Autumn Festival
From 6 to 29 November 2026
For anyone who enjoys theatre, dance and contemporary artistic performances, November brings one of the major cultural events organised by the Community of Madrid: the Autumn Festival.
In its 44th edition, the festival brings together internationally acclaimed productions at performing arts venues throughout the region. Its programme invites audiences to explore different artistic languages, discover new ways of storytelling and experience performances that broaden our understanding of the performing arts.
Participating venues include Teatros del Canal, Conde Duque and Teatro de La Abadía. These are excellent places to combine a theatre performance with other cultural activities around the city.
It's a great option for travellers who want to go beyond the usual tourist attractions and spend part of their getaway discovering contemporary creativity.
Choose a performance and round off the day with a relaxed dinner or a stroll around the cultural venue you've selected.
Practical information: Check the dates of individual performances and ticket availability on the official programme, as not every show runs throughout the festival.
Discover the programme of the Community of Madrid's Autumn Festival.
5. Explore Madrid's Exhibitions and Major Museums
An ideal plan for rainy days
Autumn is also a wonderful time to explore Madrid's art scene at a more leisurely pace. When the weather isn't ideal, exhibitions and museums provide the perfect alternative, allowing you to keep discovering the city without compromising on culture.
From major museums to cultural centres and galleries, Madrid offers something for a wide range of interests, including painting, photography, design, history, architecture and immersive experiences.
If you're interested in design, for example, you can visit CentroCentro to see the exhibition dedicated to Cruz Novillo, which explores the career of one of Spain's leading graphic designers. The exhibition is scheduled to run from 8 October 2026 to 24 January 2027.
Another option is to browse the temporary exhibitions at the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum or the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum and choose the one that best matches your interests.
The key is not to try to see everything. Choose one exhibition, take your time exploring it, and then enjoy discovering the surrounding streets, bookshops and cafés.
Practical information: Always check exhibition dates, opening hours and admission requirements on each institution's official website.
Explore the Madrid exhibitions calendar, the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum.
6. Explore Madrid's Streets and Savour the Flavours of Autumn
A timeless classic
Not every autumn activity in Madrid requires a ticket, a reservation or a fixed schedule. Sometimes, the best way to discover a city is to walk at your own pace and let yourself be surprised by what you find along the way.
In October and November, the aroma of roasted chestnuts is part of Madrid's traditional autumn atmosphere. You'll find them at street stalls around the city, making a bag of warm chestnuts the perfect companion for an autumn stroll.
Start at Plaza Mayor and continue through the streets of Madrid de los Austrias, the historic quarter around the former royal palace. From there, head towards Puerta del Sol, explore the smaller squares or continue to the Barrio de las Letras, where the city's literary heritage sits alongside characterful cafés, restaurants and independent shops.
If you'd prefer a gastronomic experience, take the opportunity to discover Madrid's cuisine, sample some tapas or sit down for a leisurely meal without watching the clock. Autumn invites you to savour the city slowly and discover small pleasures in everyday places.
A tip: Set aside a few hours to explore without following a rigid itinerary. Often, the best discoveries on a getaway are the ones you never planned.
7. Discover Madrid's Heritage with Madrid Otra Mirada
From 12 to 18 October 2026
Madrid is also a city to discover through its architectural heritage. During Madrid Otra Mirada, numerous historic sites open their doors to the public, offering a closer look at buildings, institutions and places that don't usually feature on standard sightseeing itineraries.
The initiative offers a fresh perspective on the capital's history through guided visits and activities that highlight the value of its cultural heritage.
It's a particularly interesting plan for anyone who enjoys architecture, history and the details that reveal how a city has evolved. It's also an excellent opportunity to discover lesser-known places and gain a deeper understanding of Madrid.
The 2026 edition takes place from 12 to 18 October. Some activities require advance registration and have limited capacity, so it's worth checking the programme before planning your visit.
Find updated information on the official Madrid tourism website.
ARTIEM Madrid: Your Wellbeing Retreat After Exploring the City
After exploring parks, visiting exhibitions or enjoying a concert, it's worth finding a place where you can pause, unwind and recharge.
At ARTIEM Madrid, we believe that travelling isn't just about ticking off attractions. It's also about enjoying your time and finding a balance between activity and relaxation.
Our hotel, located in the Arturo Soria area, combines a peaceful setting with convenient connections to different parts of the capital. It's an ideal option for travellers looking for a city stay where wellbeing takes centre stage.
Start your morning with breakfast at The Green, plan your day at your own pace and return after exploring Madrid to unwind in a welcoming atmosphere. If you'd like to maintain your fitness routine while travelling, the hotel also features a gym and in-room exercise options.
Whether you're visiting for a weekend break or making the most of a few days off to explore the capital, ARTIEM Madrid offers a base from which to experience the city your way.
Because enjoying Madrid also means knowing when to pause, making time for yourself and returning home with the feeling that you've made the most of every moment.
Ready to discover Madrid this autumn?
Discover ARTIEM Madrid and start planning your next getaway.