Gabriella & Kaspar
Explore Madrid
Food & Drink
If you like amazing wine and even better food then get ready to eat your way through the heart of Spain! We've got you covered as to where to eat and drink. We created a Google Doc (link coming soon) with all our recommendations.
Parque El Retiro
This is the "central park" of Madrid and it's absolutely beautiful. There is so much to see and do here including: - Palacio de Cristal - Rowing boats on the lake - Visit the gardens - Casita del Pescador - Eat or drink at any of the kiosks across the park - Visit the library in the park - Plan a picnic at the park
Gran Vía
Madrid's Gran Vía is an avenue at the heart of the city, a prime spot for shoppers and architecture buffs. Gran Vía spans nearly a mile and is packed with shops and restaurants.
Palacio Real de Madrid
The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the Spanish royal family in Madrid, although now used only for state ceremonies. It's a beautiful area to walk around. If you would like a tour, you can visit the palace for 20€ Monday-Saturday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Sundays: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
Mercado de San Miguel
This 100-year-old foodie paradise started as a wholesale market, but now it's one of the world's top food destinations. Step inside and you'll find over 20 amazing stalls, each showcasing the best of Spanish cuisine. From silky Iberian ham to just-caught seafood, mouthwatering rice dishes to drool-worthy cheeses, it's a smorgasbord of Spanish deliciousness. The market's open every day until midnight, and until 1am on weekend. Just make sure to come hungry!
Museo Nacional del Prado
One of Madrid's most famous museums, the elegant Museo Nacional del Prado offers one of the world's largest collections of European art. Tip: The Paseo del Arte Pass allows you to visit the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen- Bornemisza museums for 32 euros (about $35), saving 20% of the three tickets' combined prices. You can buy it online or at any of the three museums and it's valid for one year.
Museo Reina Sofia
Our favorite museum in Madrid! Offers a vast collection of Spanish and international contemporary art produced between the late 19th century and the present day including one of Picasso’s most famous works, Guernica, and works by other leading names like Salvador Dali.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
The Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza, once an aristocratic mansion, falls somewhere between the avant-garde works at the Reina Sofia and the traditional Spanish art at the Prado. Expect recognizable pieces from the likes of Dalí, El Greco, Monet, Picasso, and Rembrandt.
Catch a Flamenco Show
What better way to immerse yourself in Spanish culture than with a flamenco show! Madrid is home to numerous tablaos (flamenco venues) where you can witness the passion of this captivating Spanish art. You can watch a show at larger tourist venues like Cardamomo and Teatro Flamenco or in cozier, smaller spots like Las Tablas or Las Carboneras.
Shopping
-Calle Serrano has luxury and local stores. -El Corte Inglés is a department store chain with many locations in Madrid, the flaghship is at Plaza del Callao. They offer a tourist "passport" where you get a 10% refund on everything, and they even handle your tax returns. -Las Rozas Village is an outlet about 30 minutes by car from Madrid. Tip: Keep in mind that you can get a tax refund on purchases over $60 if you live outside the EU. Just keep the receipts and process them at the airport before leaving.
Day Trips
There's plenty to see and experience in Madrid but if you feel like exploring something off the beaten path, we recommend visiting Toledo or Segovia which offer unique historical sites, stunning architecture, and are easy access by car or train. Toledo 60-70 minutes by car or 40 minutes by train (from Atocha station) Must-see: Medieval architecture, ancient synagogues, and stunning views of the Tagus River. Segovia 70-90 minutes by car or 30-60 minutes by train (from Chamartín station) Must-see: Roman Aqueduct, Alcázar of Segovia, Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, Segovia Cathedral, and Jewish Quarter If you travel by train, it is recommended to take the AVE, which is the high-speed train. Use the link to check schedules and book tickets in advance.
