Things To Do
Madrid Centro
Starting point to anyone wanting to go sightseeing and feel the heart and vibe of Madrid. Sol is the ground zero of all the Spain roads. Don’t miss the beautiful clock on the XVIII century’s building. Get ready to walk around!. Gran Via avenue, Plaza Mayor, Royal Palace, Mercado de San Miguel, Catedral de la Almudena are just a few of the must to see places of Madrid that you’ll find near by, not to mention all the beautiful medieval streets of Madrid Center, full of history, shops, smells and flavors of Spain. An important last tip: after all the eating and drinking, before heading back to the hotel, don’t forget to leave some room for the best Churros, at the San Gines Chocolaterie.
El Retiro Park
Kings, Queens and Royal family members used to go there for solace, hunting and relaxation. Luckily for the rest of us, the King Charles III opened it for the people of Madrid in the XVIII century. Now is the right time to go and enjoy the spring in all its magnificence, since everything is blossoming there this time of year. A romantic paddle boat trip around the lake?, you got it. Musicians, puppeteers, dancers, amazing fountains? You got it too, and you can count on the best food and drinks of course, it’s Madrid. On your way out, make sure you get the exit to La Puerta de Alcala, a breathtaking monument and one of the most relevant landmarks of the city.
San Miguel Market
Still conserving its original iron structure from early XX century, this market is without any doubt, the most beautiful in all of Madrid, quite possibly the whole of Spain. Enclosed but open at the same time, thanks to its glass walls, San Miguel Market is the perfect spot to gather with your mates and try an enormous variety of the Spanish gastronomy. Tapas, pinchos, jamon, seafood, wines, beers, you name it! If you are a seafood fan, don’t miss the oysters, they are the largest and juiciest you will find! It’s the Atlantic Ocean in one bite. If at the end, you are still looking for more, just across the street you’ll see El Meson del Champiñon, the most amazing mushrooms stuffed with jam!
Hotel Riu Plaza Roof top
The Riu Hotel in Plaza España is an iconic landmark in Madrid. This rooftop is “The” choice to enjoy the sunset while grabbing some sips with a breathtaking view of the city skyline. With its good music, signature tapas and cocktails, the Riu has became the gathering place to end any day. There is a small entry fee, but well worth it! If your plan is for sunset, better to be a bit early to avoid long lines and waits!
La Latina
If you are looking for a place to grab quick bites and bar hop, La Latina is for you! Located on the site of a medieval Islamic fort, this place is a maze of narrow streets filled with bars, cantinas, and places for tapas. I can’t think of a better place to get lost! It’s also home to the bustling El Rastro flea market on Sundays if you are in search of authentic Spanish street food!
Museo Nacional Reina Sofia
For art lovers, the Reina Sofía Museum is home to a large collection of modern and contemporary Spanish art renowned throughout the world. Their collections include rotations of the likes of Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Joan Miro! The building itself is also designed by the great Jean Nouvel!
Toledo
Toledo, the City of Three Cultures, is one of the oldest and most historically significant cities in all of Spain. It was named a World Heritage Site in 1986 for its cultural and historical significance. It is filled with historical monuments from the Christian, Muslim and Jewish faiths such as the Gothic Chapel of San Bartolomé and the grand Alcázar fortress, as well as ancient medieval stone bridges like the Puerta de Alfonso. Outside of its rich historical monuments there are dozens of museums, restaurants and bars to fill your time there. We recommend Mercado de San Augustin as a good place to explore within the city! There are a plethora of guided tour opportunities, making this the perfect day trip from Madrid!