Spain's capital and historic centrepiece, Madrid, is a large city with plenty to see and do. From its exquisite parks to its culturally rich museums and architecture, the Spanish city is a place to immerse yourself in history, culture, nightlife and traditional Spanish cuisine. The city's principal tourist route runs from the Metrópolis building to the Plaza de España, a distance of over a kilometre, which is lined with museums, theatres, cinemas, shops, bars and restaurants.
Here's just some of the best of Madrid
Places of Interest
Parque del Buen Retiro
Image Credit: Fernando García
One of Europe's most beautiful gardens, Parque del Buen Retiro (also known simply as 'El Retiro') is a quiet and relaxing place to visit during the week and an exciting one at the weekend. Constructed in the 17th century, the gardens opened in 1868 to the public and have remained a Madrid staple ever since. There's something for everyone, including a lake, tree-lined walks, fountains, monuments such as those to Alfonso XII and the statue of the Fallen Angel, and there's even a space for puppet shows. Next to El Retiro, you'll find the Puerta de Alcalá, another must on your list of sights to see. Located in the Plaza de la Independencia, this ancient neoclassical-style gateway to Madrid is at its best when illuminated at dusk. You'll also want to have a look at the Royal Palace, next to the Catedral de la Almudena, the official residence of the Spanish royal family, although they now live in the Zarzuela Palace.
Plaza Mayor
Image Credit: Plaza Mayor, Ayuntamiento (Image Cropped)
The grand central square of Madrid is covered in cobblestones and surrounded by impressive historic buildings. Originally the location of Spain's most famous bullfights, weddings and other ceremonies, you can simply relax with a cup of 'café con leche', study the equestrian statue of Felipe III in the centre of the square and do some pretty good people-watching around the Tourist Information Centre.
Where to Eat
Image Credit: Plaza Mayor, Ayuntamiento
Now one of Spain's culinary capitals, Madrid is one of the most exciting places to eat in Spain. 'Cocido' is a stew that is typical of Madrid's fare, and there are a thousand different ways to prepare it. The locals love their 'cocido' so much that they offer tours of the best providers in the province, one of which is Lhardy, with one of the oldest recipes in Madrid; La Bola, where it's not unusual for them to serve a hundred a day; and Malacatín, a traditional Madrid tavern in La Latina.
For the best calamari sandwich, take a seat at El Brillante café, opposite Atocha station. Be sure to ask for it with or without lemon or mayonnaise, to suit your taste. And the streets around Plaza Mayor are laden with home-grown café bars like Postas and Ideal, where you'll always find these sandwiches filled with tender breaded calamari on the menu. Restaurante Sobrino de Botin, the oldest restaurant in the world, was established in 1725. It's famous for its wood-fired oven fare and has even appeared in a Hemingway novel. Juana la Loca is the perfect spot for some exciting Spanish snacks. Sit at the bar and order from a wide selection of classic tapas and creative twists on old Spanish recipes.
Where to Shop
Madrid's shopping scene is not for the fainthearted. From stylish boutiques to huge shopping malls, if you love shopping you'll love Madrid. Here's a selection:
Mercado de San Miguel
Image Credit: Mercado de San Miguel
To check out one of Madrid's most exciting markets, head to Mercado de San Miguel. Taste some fresh Spanish produce and gourmet foods before grabbing a glass of wine in the plaza.
Calle Fuencarral
If you are looking for some independent boutiques and stores, then head for Calle Fuencarral. With a mix of international and local shops, you will most definitely find something unique and quirky here.
Calle de Jose Ortega y Gasset
Probably the most expensive street in Madrid, this street is lined with designer boutiques such as Jimmy Choo and Valentino.
Gran Via
Image Credit: Surreal Name Given
If you're looking for affordable high street clobber, then start your browsing in Gran Via. The pedestrianised area has a number of high street chains, including H&M and Zara.
Places to Visit
Don't miss some of the greatest galleries and historic sights in the world, right in the heart of the city:
Centro de Arte Reina Sofia
Image Credit: Jean-Pierre Dalbéra
Madrid's premier collection of contemporary art, Centro de Arte Reina Sofia is the home of Picasso's and Spain's most famous artwork Guernica, as well as pieces by Salvador Dali and Joan Miro. You can find Guernica in room 206 on the 2nd floor.
Museo del Prado
Image Credit: Jon Jackson
The Museo del Prado is home to over 7,000 paintings, with around 1,500 on display. Featuring artwork from all over Europe, this place deserves a couple of visits just to take it all in.
Plaza del Toros and the Museo Taurino
The home of Spain's bullfighting tradition and probably the most valuable and important bullring in the world, Plaza del Toros Monumental de Las Ventas, or just Las Ventas, can be explored by taking a guided tour. Learn more about this ancient tradition at one of the largest rings in the bullfighting world, and visit the Museo Taurino to see some of the bullfighting costumes and props.
Bars and Nightlife
Any night of the week is a night out in Madrid. Check out these legendary bars for a taste of the capital's nightlife:
La Venencia
Image Credit: Krista
For those after a traditional sherry bar, this is your spot. The barrio classic serves fine sherry (fino) from wooden barrels and some tapas as an accompaniment. This is as authentic as it gets in Madrid.
Museo Chicote
Image Credit: Fran Villena
A Madrid institution of cocktails, the 1930s-era Museo Chicote is an innovative establishment. Said to have invented more than a hundred cocktails, the bar has been frequented over the years by famous stars such as Frank Sinatra, Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren.
The Roof
Located high above the Plaza de Santa Ana, The Roof has the best views of Madrid and is most definitely for Madrid's most sophisticated partygoers. Enjoy funky DJs, modern furnishings and spectacular views, but be aware of the smart dress code!
Where to Stay
Depending on your budget there are a wide number of options to choose from when visiting Madrid. From small boutique hotels to high-end establishments, here are some of the best:
Urban
This five-star accommodation boasts exceptional design alongside classic charm. It also features a rooftop swimming pool and a stunning terrace.
Posada Del Dragon
This boutique hotel is located in a restored 19th century building in the stunning heart of La Latina, and has a bar, restaurant, internal patio and four-star rooms.
Praktik Metropol
Excellent value 3-star, recently overhauled hotel. The rooms have a fresh, contemporary look and some have brilliant views down to Gran Vía and out over the city. Spread over six floors, there's a roof terrace if you don't have a room with a view.
Title Image Credit: Ronny Siegel (Image Cropped)
Jacklynn
February 3rd, 2016 06:27