Sometimes overlooked by other European capitals, Spain’s biggest city has so much to offer from world-class museums and galleries to talking-point architecture and a lively music scene. Madrileños also take food (and drink) very seriously, and whether you want to prop at the bar for the tastiest tortilla or your life, fight with friends over which is the best tapas plate, or be wowed by a Michenlin-approved menu, you won’t be disappointed in Madrid.
A short round-up of Madrid’s must-see sights…
Palacio Real: Madrid’s royal palace, the largest in Western Europe, houses 3,418 rooms over 135,000 square metres. There’s a lot to take in, but don’t miss the hall of mirrors, the impressive selection of Goya paintings and array of ornate clocks, 215 to be precise.
Museo Nacional del Prado: Arguably one of the world’s most important art galleries, The Prado houses an impressively comprehensive collection of Spanish painting from the 11th to 18th centuries alongside a large number of other European masterpieces.
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía: Come to see Picasso’s Guernica (Spain’s most famous painting) and stay for the artwork by Dalí and Miro at this museum dedicated to 20th century art.
Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza: The third gallery in Madrid’s Golden ‘Triangle of Art,’ this private collection of over 1,600 works spans from Old Masters to 20th century greats.
El Retiro Park: A true oasis in the city, Madrid’s sprawling city park has an abundance of spots to seek sun or shade (season dependent). There’s lots to see too, including the crystal palace, a boating lake and the rose gardens.
Plaza Mayor: The city’s main square with its cobblestone floor, ochre-hued apartments and arched walkways has played witness to bullfights, fiestas and even executions, but today is a lively spot to grab a drink and take in an impromptu performance and people watching.
Templo de Debod: Spain’s only Egyptian temple dates back to the 2nd century BC and is a peaceful place to spend some downtime.
El Rastro: Every Sunday for the last 250 years, the La Latina area of Madrid has been taken over by this mammoth open-air flea market. Get lost amongst the stands selling everything from vintage clothes to books and antiques.
...and a longer look at Madrid’s lesser-known spots
Real Jardín Botánico
Often overlooked by its Triangle of Art neighbours, these botanical gardens are a refreshing palette cleanser for the eyes after visiting the city’s most well known galleries. With over 30,000 plants and flowers and 1,500 trees spread across three gardens and two greenhouses, it’s an idyllic refuge from the hustle and bustle.
Art around every corner
Tap into tradition
When in Spain, watching flamenco is a must. While this centuries old music and dance tradition is from the southern state of Andalucia, there is naturally some excellent flamenco in the capital. Try Las Tablas or Tablao las Carboneras.
What — and where — to eat in Madrid
Madrid has many covered markets, lots of which have been transformed into eating and drinking destinations mixing local produce with restaurants serving up both Spanish and international cuisine. Mercado San Miguel, right next to Plaza Mayor, is the most touristy whereas Plateau offers gourmet options. Mercado San Antón and Mercado Ildefonso are topped by lovely roof terraces, while Mercado de la Cebada and Mercado de Antón Martín both have a more down-to-earth, local feel.
Tortilla is a must-eat in Madrid and Pez Tortilla serves up the best in town. Available at four locations, a wedge or two with craft beer and croquettes makes a great, easy lunch or dinner. For churros dipped in the silkiest chocolate, head to La Chocolatería San Ginés who have been serving up the good stuff since 1894.
There is no better way to sample the local delicacies than making your way through a tapas menu, and there are winning spots across every barrio in Madrid. For something traditional and truly Spanish, try century-old Bodega de la Ardosa. At the other end of the spectrum, Sala de Despiece is a modern take with inventive flavours and industrial décor. There are over 20 Michelin-starred restaurants in the city, but DiverXO is the only spot to have been awarded the highly coveted three stars. The experimental 12-course tasting menu serves unexpected takes on Asian and Spanish flavours.
Where to stay
Hotel Urban Madrid... This glass-and-gold retreat where tribal art meets modern design, Michelin-starred dining, and a rooftop pool is perfectly placed in the city’s historic heart. It’s your chic base for museums, tapas, and late-night strolls.
The Principal Madrid Hotel... This handsome building from the 1920s tucked off Gran Via is as central as you can get. The modern, monochrome rooms are sophisticated throughout, and the roof terrace is one of the most talked about in town.
TÓTEM Madrid... In the heart of Salamanca and a stone’s throw from Parque del Retiro, this discreet hotel feels like a private member’s club. While there’s a charcoal, olive green and dusk pink palette downstairs, rooms are largely a refreshing crisp white.
Urso Hotel & Spa... This early 20th century palace has been lovingly and sensitively restored into a modern boutique hotel. The spa is a true oasis and escape from the city with its water circuit, hammam and extensive choice of treatments.
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