This October is absolutely packed with things to do – the perfect excuse to make the most of autumn and your free time. From music, cinema and theatre to festivals, food and loads more… there’s something for everyone.
Take note and don’t miss out. Here we go!
The kind of fair we’ve all got in our heads, but with that Madrid vibe that gives it extra spark. Think rides that take you straight back to childhood, churros stands, candyfloss and neon lights everywhere. It’s a top plan for going with mates and daring each other to try the craziest ride in the park. And the best bit? Even once you’ve had your fill of attractions, the atmosphere keeps you buzzing all evening with music, laughter and that feeling that time’s just stopped.
If you’re into a solid cultural plan, this exhibition’s a must. Andy Warhol’s explosive pop art, Pollock’s wild canvases and other artists who shaped contemporary art all together in Madrid. Doesn’t matter if you’re an art nerd or just fancy seeing something different – it works either way. Perfect for a slow wander or to snap that photo in front of the most famous piece. And honestly, an autumn trip to an exhibition has its own charm: coat on, coffee after, and a good chat about what you’ve just seen.
A food festival where fire is the star of the show. Top chefs cooking over open flames, grills and embers right in front of you – that smoky aroma hits you the moment you walk in. Ideal for rocking up with friends, trying loads of new flavours and maybe discovering things you’d never imagined could come off a barbecue. Live music, foodie festival vibes and tonnes of flavour. Pro tip: come hungry, because the only tricky bit here is knowing when to stop.
Mexico’s Día de los Muertos lands in Madrid with an altar bursting with colour, tradition and symbolism. Sugar skulls, candles, flowers and that striking contrast between life and death that makes it so unique. It’s a really special cultural plan – beyond the visuals, you actually learn about a tradition that celebrates loved ones who’ve passed in a joyful, emotional way. Plus, it’s the perfect spot for soaking it all up, snapping some incredible photos and getting a taste of another culture without leaving the city.
Ten days when Lavapiés basically turns into one big party. Tapas from all over the world, cold cañas and street gigs popping up on random corners. Perfect for an afterwork plan, a spontaneous night out or even spending the whole weekend hopping from bar to bar. The vibe is international, diverse and super local at the same time: people spilling into the streets, laughter, the smell of spices and that buzz of always finding something new to try.
Candlelight gigs are one of those things everyone should try at least once. Picture yourself stepping into an incredible venue – anything from a church to a palace – lit only by hundreds of candles, and suddenly live music kicks in, from Beethoven to Coldplay depending on the session. It’s intimate, magical and wraps you in a bubble for an hour where the outside world just disappears. A spot-on plan for a date, or even to just go solo and drift away.
If you’re after a more chilled but stylish night out, this is the place. The Jazz Room whisks you straight to those tiny New York clubs where the music runs the show. Here it’s all about letting the sound wash over you, sipping a drink and soaking up the warm, cosy atmosphere. The perfect plan if you need to unplug from the daily chaos and lose yourself in a proper musical journey.
Nova Twins – 4 Oct, Sala Villanos
If you’ve never seen Nova Twins live, brace yourself – it’s pure energy that’ll blow your mind. Just two of them, but they sound like ten: filthy guitars, basslines that hit you in the chest and an attitude that doesn’t let you stand still. At Sala Villanos it’s even more intense because you’re right up against the stage. You walk out sweaty, buzzing and feeling like you’ve just been in a never-ending mosh pit.
Tramhaus – 9 Oct, Wurlitzer Ballroom
The Wurli is always a safe bet for a banging gig, and Tramhaus are no exception. Straight out of Rotterdam, their raw, no-frills post-punk doesn’t give you a moment’s rest. No pretence here – just sweat, razor-sharp guitars and a gloriously chaotic vibe. If you’re into the underground scene and want one of those gigs you’ll brag about later – “I was there” – this is it.
Belén Aguilera – 12 Oct, Movistar Arena
Belén Aguilera’s in a league of her own these days. Every time she gets on stage she gives it everything, and at the Movistar Arena it’s going to be massive. She’s got tracks to cry to, to scream at the top of your lungs and to jump around with your mates like there’s no tomorrow. One of those gigs where you leave with a sore throat and a phone full of videos you’ll watch back a hundred times.
Dry Cleaning – 23 Oct, Teatro Barceló
If you’re into something a bit different, Dry Cleaning will grab you. Their singer doesn’t really sing – she almost narrates, telling you a story while the guitars build around her and crank up the tension. It’s unusual, yeah, but hypnotic. And at the Barceló, the sound and the setting make it even better. One of those plans where you walk out saying: “Okay, that was weird… but it absolutely floored me.”
Jesse Baez – 29 Oct, Sala But
Jesse Baez is basically the king of Spanish-language R&B. He’s got that chill vibe nailed – smooth beats, lyrics that get under your skin and the kind of flow that makes you just melt into the music. Live, he blends the urban with the intimate, so one minute you’re swaying with a drink in hand, the next you’re dancing soft and easy. The But’s cosy, warm feel makes it even more personal. Perfect for a laid-back night with serious groove.
Viva Suecia – 31 Oct, Movistar Arena
This is all about anthems. Viva Suecia are one of those bands with songs you somehow know even if you swear you’re not a fan. Live it’s next level: thousands of people singing along, lights that give you goosebumps and that moment you look around and realise everyone’s living the exact same high as you. If indie’s your thing, this is THE gig in Madrid this October. And the fact it lands on Halloween? Double excuse for a big night out.
Visit the Royal Palace
Even if you’ve seen it from the outside a thousand times, going inside is a different story. The halls look like something out of a period drama – impossible ceilings, jaw-dropping decoration and the kind of grandeur that leaves you wide-eyed. Plus, the balconies give you amazing views over the Almudena Cathedral and all the way to the mountains. It’s one of those plans that remind you Madrid isn’t just bars and gigs – it’s got some pretty epic history too.
Cuña Verde Lookout
A bit of a hidden gem, perfect for switching off from the centre’s chaos. Climb up, grab a bench and you’ve got stunning views of Madrid at sunset. Ideal for rocking up with a coffee or a couple of beers and chatting while you watch the city lights flicker on. Simple, cheap and always leaves you with that warm, “yep, that was a good plan” feeling.
