When it comes to Spain, the first thing that comes to mind is Barcelona , which everyone recognises with Gaudi’ s works, Basque Country with its impressive cuisine or Andalusian cities like Alhambra with its architectural masterpieces , Madrid in the heart of the country; rich cuisine, lively streets, impressive museums, It is a treasure waiting to be discovered with its large parks and eye-catching architecture.
Our favourite Madrid rituals include getting lost in the narrow streets of Malasaña in the morning and starting the day with a traditional tortilla, enjoying the tranquility of Retiro Park’s lush green paths in the afternoon and watching the sunset from the Mirador del Templo de Debod in the evening.
Madrid is a paradise for art lovers. The famous Prado Museum, Reina Sofía , home to Guernica , and Thyssen-Bornemisza , notable for its modern art collection, It is one of the most important museums in Europe.
Madrid’s energy is not limited to the daytime; lively tapas bars, The city with its colourful El Rastro market and nightlife that lasts until the wee hours of the morning, like a living stage at every moment. If you want to experience Spanish culture in its most authentic form, Madrid will never disappoint you.
Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain. For us, it is a city that we will never get bored of travelling , but for first-timers We think that a route of a minimum of three days is ideal. The winter months are particularly good to visit It is preferred because of its calmness and mild climate. In spring , the city’s parks are very pleasant. In the summer months , we do not recommend it because the temperatures rise considerably.
Restaurants:
Tapas, Bar & more:
The best bakeries:
Ice cream:
Coffee, breakfast & cafe:
Places to visit:
•Retiro Park
•Palacio de Cristal (under construction till 2026)
•Mercado de San Miguel
•Thyssen-Bornemizsa Museum
•Temple of Debod
•Estacion Museo Chamberi
•Caixa Forum
•Museo Sorolla
•Prado Museum
•Reina Sofia Museum
•Palacio Real
•Atocha Tropical Garden
Cuenllas – Cuenllas , known for years as one of the best wine bars in Madrid, combines both traditional and modern flavours. Especially with cheese and charcuterie platters ideal for enjoying a wide selection of wines. One ofour favourite places in Madrid. We love every detail , from the bar stools at the entrance to the cosy tables at the back. Risotto de trufa y setas & Foie fresco are our favouritesfrom the classics. Weclosed with a delicious lemon merengue pie. You can find a detailed article about the story of the restaurant below.
La Buena Vida – A small, intimate restaurant, characterised by the chef’s dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. The menu changes frequently, but always high quality and carefully prepared dishes. We discovered this place through Vedat Milor’s recommendations in Spain.
Taberna Elia – We can say that it is a must stop for meat lovers in Madrid. We had seen and discovered this place in @yemekfelsefesi’s stories. Their speciality is meats cooked on charcoal grill. You can find different aged meat options on the menu. The service is warm and friendly. With the Elia’s Menu option, which costs 45€ per person, you can choose different sharing options from the menu. Simmental is very successful.
Arima Basque – This small but intimate restaurant that brings a modern twist to Basque cuisine, It stands out with its quality ingredients and skilfully prepared dishes. Their pintxos are also a must try. We found this place in a world-famous three-star hotel in the Basque region . We recorded an interview with the chef of the restaurant Mugaritz. The restaurant is quite small, with 4-5 tables at the back, It is also possible to sit at the bar at the entrance. Anchovy products and Squid Roll were our favourites. The English knowledge of the staff of the place is very low, this was the only negative thing we experienced.
Sala de Despiece – one of the most innovative restaurants in Madrid. They have two different locations , SDD1-SD2. They also have a bar called Sala Cero. You need to be careful which one you make a reservation for. With its open kitchen concept, it offers a restaurant experience that focuses on the ingredients. The plates are small, but ideal for sharing. The industrial atmosphere makes you feel like you are eating in a butcher’s shop. All the details of the venue are designed accordingly. We have to say that it is a marvellous venue design , but Unfortunately, it is not as impressive in terms of flavour. We tried signature dishes such as veal, rolex, carpaccio, baby artichoke. We realised that restaurants like this are more concerned with appearance, We couldn’t help thinking that flavour and customer experience were not very important. The insistence of the staff to order more is disturbing. Still , if you want to experience an interesting place , it can be on your list.
La Maruca – Bringing the Cantabrian cuisine of northern Spain to Madrid, this place offers traditional flavours in a modern yet cosy setting. Anchoas, tortilla, fried squid and patatas bravas were our favourite dishes. They serve in different locations with the same name in Madrid. They are also on the recommended list in the Michelin guide. The group that owns the restaurant also owns another place, La Primera on Gran Via. We also tried this place on this trip, but I have to say that it was very weak in terms of both service and flavour. All of the dishes we tried at La Primera (with a similar menu to La Maruca) were mediocre.
La Raquetista – A place that offers modern Spanish cuisine with creative touches. The flavours are served in small plates , suitable for sharing.
Taberna Laredo – Considered one of the best tapas bars in Madrid. They bring a sophisticated touch to classic Spanish dishes. The wine menu is quite extensive, you can rely on the recommendations of the staff for suitable pairings.
Hot Now – a great address for those who want to eat good pizza in Madrid. They serve Neapolitan style pizzas in a modern and cosy atmosphere. Dough, quality of ingredients and cooking technique are quite successful.
Restaurante Lana – One of the stylish and high quality meat restaurants. The meat is cooked to perfection and the service is professional. A suitable place for a special dinner. It is one of the best steak restaurants in the world.
Araldo Pizza – Standing out with its light and delicious dough, A place that servesNeapolitan pizzas. According to 50 Top Pizza’s list one of the best pizzerias.
RavioXO – A kind of bar/restaurant that blends Asian and Spanish cuisine, prepared with the creative touches of the famous chef Dabiz Muñoz, founder of the three Michelin-starred DiverXO. The hand-rolled fresh dumplings and interesting sauces are remarkable. Reservation is a must.
Hermanas Arce – Although it is an intimate and small venue, The dishes offered are carefully prepared. The menu is shaped with seasonal ingredients and both the breakfast plates and the products offered at the counter are delicious. Sit at the large shared table and enjoy the hot Madrid days. you can take a break or have a quality breakfast.
These pleasant days we spentin Madrid gave us the opportunity to experience both the traditional and modern cuisine of the city. Each of these restaurants is different but has its own character, Remember to make a reservation (especially for evening hours ) before visiting the venues.
Madrid’s vibrant nightlife and dining scene, tapas places and bars:
Madrid is a city famous for its tapas culture and vibrant nightlife. Whether you are after traditional Spanish flavours, Whether you want to continue the night with cocktails, the options that Madrid offers are endless.
🥔 Pez Tortilla
Pez Tortilla , one of the most famous tortilla places in Madrid, It is famous for its tortilla de patatas , the classic Spanish omelette. Here you can try different varieties such as with cheese, truffle or chorizo. It offers the perfect snack with a craft beer or a glass of vermouth. It has a small but cosy atmosphere, so it ‘s worth going early! They have several different locations, they also have a place called Cara-B.
📍 Adres: Calle del Pez, 36, 28004 Madrid
🍳 Casa Dani
It is considered one of the best tortilla de patatas in Madrid. Casa Dani is located in Mercado de la Paz. Pez Tortilla is still a more enjoyable place for us, but Casa Dani should also be tried.
📍 Adres: Mercado de la Paz, Calle de Ayala, 28, 28001 Madrid
🍢 La Musa Latina
This stylish tapas bar in La Latina is famous for its tapas with classic and modern touches. You can enjoy tapas with options such as mini burgers, patatas bravas and fresh seafood. The venue offers a stylish and cosy atmosphere, especially on weekends.
📍 Adres: Costanilla de San Andrés, 12, 28005 Madrid
Tatemado
Tatemado , one of Madrid’s new generation tapas places, combinestraditional Spanish cuisine with modern touches. It stands outespecially with its grilled meats and smoked flavours.
📍 Address: Calle de San Bernardo, 85, 28015 Madrid
🌮 Gracias Padre – Taqueria
If you are looking for a different taste other than Spanish cuisine, Gracias Padre offers a pleasant Mexican cuisine alternative. You can experience the Latin American atmosphere in the heart of Madrid with fresh tacos, nachos and margaritas. It is an ideal place to spend a pleasant evening with its colourful decoration and lively atmosphere.
📍 Adres: Calle de Sandoval, 16, 28010 Madrid
🍸Pubs and Cocktail Bars
🎥 Sala Equis
It is not only a bar, but also a multipurpose cultural centre converted from a former cinema hall. Sala Equis has a unique atmosphere where film screenings, concerts and exhibitions are held. With its large seating area and dim lights, it is a great address for both a cosy drink and a cultural experience.
📍 Adres: Calle del Duque de Alba, 4, 28012 Madrid
🍹 Salmon Guru
One of the best cocktail bars in Madrid , Salmon Guru is an award-winning venue. It offers a pleasant experience for cocktail lovers with its energetic atmosphere.
📍 Adres: Calle de Echegaray, 21, 28014 Madrid
Madrid is not only known for its tapas and vermouth, but also for its wonderful bakeries. If you are looking for delicious flavours such as croissants, sourdough bread or fresh coffee, there are some great bakeries to discover in this city. Here are the bakeries in Madrid that we think you should definitely visit:
Santo Bakehouse, where we found the best bakery products in Madrid, offers crispy croissants, buttery brioche and incredibly delicious products. The cheese bun with za’atar and the Pistachio-Rhubarb Danish croissant were amazing. Our favourite was the herb bun with parmesan cheese. Some of the products are only available periodically or for the weekend. Minimalist and modern, the only downside may be the lack of seating, but it’s a great option for a quick breakfast in the morning (grab-and-go) or a coffee break in the afternoon.
📍 Adres: Calle de Santa Engracia, 76, 28010 Madrid
🥖 ACID
ACID Bakehouse and ACID Cafe , one of the hippest places in Madrid both for coffee and bakery products, stands out with its modern and creative recipes. Sourdough breads, Cinnamon rolls and croissants are among the flavours you must try here. They have also started to make Semla buns , the popular dessert of Swedes, specially for February.
📍 Adres: Calle de la Alameda, 7, 28014 Madrid
Alma Nomad Bakery , one of the best in Madrid for focaccia, croissants and cinnamon rolls, It is perfect for those who want to make a dessert getaway with coffee. Since we stopped here before travelling , we preferred to buy a package. Croissants and focaccia were very tasty.
📍 Adres: Calle de Santa Isabel, 42, 28012 Madrid
🍞 Panic
Panic is definitely one of the first places that comes to mind when you think of sourdough bread in Madrid. Here everything is prepared with care and good ingredients. Crispy baguettes, rustic breads and cookies, makingit a paradise for bread lovers. Only bread and cookies on Mondays there are more options available on other days.
📍 Adres: Calle del Conde Duque, 13, 28015 Madrid
Parque Cafe, one of the most remarkable places in Madrid, stands out with its buns, sandwiches and breads prepared with modern touches. We prefer it a bit outside the city, especially since it is close to the airport. It is usually a place we prefer to have a cosy breakfast before going to the airport or before entering the narrow streets of the city. There may be a queue on weekends, there are also brunch menus. It is very enjoyable to buy products from here and have a picnic in the park across the street. Focaccia sandwiches with mortadella and pistachio croissants are our favourites. One of the sad points is that they do not offer filter coffee.
📍 Adres: Calle de Juan de Urbieta, 28007 Madrid
The bakery of Pum Pum Cafe , one of the most popular addresses of brunch culture in Madrid, especially its avocado toasts, Pum Pum is famous for its brunch menu consisting of homemade granola and freshly squeezed fruit juice. Instead of waiting in line for brunch at Pum Pum We like tograb a quick bite and get on with our day.
📍 Adres: Calle de Tribulete, 6, 28012 Madrid
There are many great options in the city for a coffee break or a pleasant breakfast. Hermanas Arce is the first place that comes to mind when we think of breakfast and snacks for the day. Here, we find both delicious and carefully prepared dishes and enjoy the warm and friendly atmosphere. Let’s talk briefly about the other cafes and places we tried in Madrid.
Etual Cafe, Nomade Cafe and Plenti stand out with their snack options. Especially Nomade is a place where we find breakfast dishes such as pancakes successful. Federal Cafe , which has branches in almost every Spanish city One of the few places we tried in Madrid and was disappointed.
Caravan Cafe, with its calm and peaceful atmosphere, is ideal for working or reading a book, located in a wonderful corner by Lavapies. Yasemin & Tuncel Ice Cream & Coffee, as the name suggests, is a place that was born in Turkey and continues in Madrid.
For coffee lovers , there are many places worth exploring. HanSo Cafe for those who like more modern and innovative coffee shops, Mision Cafe (the bakery products here are not bad either ), Ambu Coffee and Utøpico Coffee, They are quite remarkable places both in terms of coffee and design. WhileThe Fix and Hola Coffee are known for their drinks prepared with quality coffee beans, Plantate offers a peaceful environment full of greenery for plant lovers, Another beautiful address where you can sip your coffee with pleasure.
Madrid is a city full of history, art and culture. Here are some suggestions of must-see places and museums in Madrid:
Top Places to Visit in Madrid
1. Prado Museum (Museo del Prado): One of the most important art museums in Europe , the Prado is home to works by Velázquez, Goya, It is home to masterpieces by famous Spanish artists such as El Greco. Especially do not leave without seeing the painting “Las Meninas”.
2. Reina Sofía Museum (Museo Reina Sofía): A paradise for modern art lovers. Picasso’s iconic work Guernica is on display here. You can also see works by Dalí and Miró.
3. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: This museum has a large collection of art from the Renaissance to the modern period, offers a rich perspective on the history of art.
4. Royal Palace (Palacio Real): Palacio Real , one of the largest royal palaces in Europe, It offers a fascinating experience with its splendid interior decoration and history.
5. Plaza Mayor: The historic square of Madrid is one of the symbols of the city with its impressive architecture and lively atmosphere. You can enjoy tapas in the surrounding tourist attractions. Chocolatería San Ginés is also very close to Plaza Mayor, You can stop by here to taste Madrid’s famous chocolate churros. Although we think it is exaggerated , let’s not pass without mentioning it:)
6. Puerta del Sol: Considered the centre of the city , this square is the ideal place to start exploring Madrid.
7. Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro): One of the largest and most beautiful parks in Madrid. You can spend a peaceful day by enjoying the Crystal Palace (Palacio de Cristal is currently under renovation and is expected to open in 2026) and boating in the pond in the park.
8. Gran Vía: This street is the shopping and entertainment centre of Madrid, is a great place to take the pulse of the city. It is full of modern shops and important buildings such as the historic theatre building.
9. Santiago Bernabéu Stadium: For football fans , Real Madrid’s legendary stadium is a must-see. You can closely witness the history of the club with a stadium tour. We did not visit , but those who are interested can search on their website.
10. El Rastro Flea Market: This open-air market takes place on Sundays, offers many things, from antique items to modern designs. It is located betweenLavapiés and La Latina neighbourhoods. It gets very crowded here , be careful with your personal belongings.
11. San Miguel Market (Mercado de San Miguel): An ideal gastronomic stop for those who want to try tapas and other flavours of Spanish cuisine. Definitely havea lunch here.
12. Temple of Debod(Templo de Debod): This temple, which was moved from Egypt to Madrid, offers a magnificent view, especially at sunset. The park in which it is located is also worth a visit.
13. Almudena Cathedral (Catedral de la Almudena): Located right next to the Royal Palace , this impressive cathedral is one of the most impressive religious buildings in Madrid.
14. Plaza de Cibeles: Cibeles , one of the most beautiful squares in Madrid, It attracts attention with its impressive fountain and the historical buildings around it.
15. Casa de Campo: This large green area is located just outside the city, It is a great place for hiking, cycling and picnics. Italso offers a unique view of Madrid from the cable car.
16. Las Ventas Arena: Information about Spanish bullfighting culture For those who want to learn more about the arena , this arena must be visited.
17. Sorolla Museum (Museo Sorolla): This museum is dedicated to the Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla, It is located in the artist’s house and exhibits his personal belongings together with his works. It has an extremely peaceful garden.
18. Madrid Rio Park: This modern park along the Manzanares River , with walking paths, It offers a great alternative for relaxation with its playgrounds and green spaces. This is an important urban project converted from an old motorway.
19. Royal Botanical Garden (Real Jardín Botánico): Located right next to the Prado Museum, this botanical garden is a paradise for plant lovers.
Recommendations
– Museums in Madrid are usually closed on Mondays. Remember to plan your visit accordingly. At the same time , some museums have free days or hours. Don’t forget to visit during these hours for a more affordable visit.
– Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen-For those who want to visit Bornemisza museums in one day , we recommend the “Art Triangle” route.
– Having a picnic or reading a book in Retiro Park is a great option to relax after sightseeing.
Neighbourhood and Accommodation Recommendation
1. Centro (Centre): This area is the historic centre of Madrid, Puerta del Sol, It is home to iconic sights such as Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace. It is also famous for its shopping streets and vibrant nightlife, such as Gran Vía. We can call it the heart of the city.
2. Malasaña: This neighbourhood , a favourite of young people and art lovers, bohemian atmosphere, vintage shops, cafes attract attention. One of our favourite neighbourhoods.
3. Chueca: Madrid’s LGBTQ+ friendly neighbourhood, Chueca is one of the city’s most vibrant and colourful neighbourhoods. It’s known for its designer boutiques and vibrant nightlife. You’ll also find gastronomic hotspots such as the Mercado de San Antón.
4. La Latina This neighbourhood is famous for its narrow streets and traditional tapas bars, The El Rastro flea market, especially on Sundays , attracts a large number of visitors. It is one of the neighbourhoods with the liveliest social life.
5. Salamanca Luxury shopping streets (such as Calle Serrano), It is one of the most exclusive areas of Madrid , with Michelin-starred restaurants and elegant architecture. It is very suitable for those looking for a comfortable stay in the city. When we first came to Madrid, we had an airbnb here and we were very comfortable.
6. Lavapiés Lavapiés , a multicultural neighbourhood, an area where different ethnic groups live together. It hasalternative art galleries, world cuisine restaurants and a vibrant cultural scene.
7. Chamberí Chamberí , a quieter and more localised area of Madrid, offers a combination of historical and modern elements of the city.
One of the most popular areas to stay in Madrid is Malasaña and Chueca. These two neighbourhoods are favoured by visitors for their central location and dynamic atmosphere.
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We review a very traditional and family-run restaurant in Madrid. Apart from being a pleasant neighbourhood place, Cuenllas has an impressive wine list.
In Cuenllas, you can taste delicious combinations of mother’s dishes cooked in Spanish homes. You can start with Iberian delicatessen products, terrine and tapas for sharing and continue with traditional dishes such as truffle risotto. Risotto de trufa y setas & Foie fresco are our favourites. We closed with a delicious limpn mereng pie, highly recommended.
Cuenllas is a place that is mostly known by the people of Madrid and is not on the recommendation lists. Nevertheless , don’t forget to make a reservation because it is very popular with the locals, It’ s a small place where the tables fill up quickly.
The story of this place begins in post-war Madrid, when Doña Pepita, a member of the Cuenllas family, opened a small shop that provided food for the neighbourhood. Over time, respectable families moved to this neighbourhood, which had a great impact on the shaping of this small shop. At the end of the 80s, a bar was opened right next to this shop, which we enjoy visiting today. It is one of the places that has changed very little over time and has not lost its original value until today.
Put it on your list for a traditional Madrid cuisine experience.
3-Day Madrid Trip for First-Time Travelers
Day 1: Historic Centre and Classical Madrid
Morning:
We start the day with breakfast at one of the best bakeries in the city. Santo Bakehouse is a great option with its fresh croissants and seasonal flavors.
Afterwards, you can take a closer look at Madrid’s history by visiting the Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral. Explore the city’s classical architecture by walking around Plaza Mayor and its surroundings.
Noon:
Yemek için Cuenllas’a gidiyoruz. Burası özellikle lokallerin favorisi olan bir mekan. Şarküteri tabakları ile başlayıp risotto ile devam ediyoruz.
Afternoon
To discover the artistic side of Madrid, we go to the Prado Museum. You can see famous works by Goya, Velázquez and Bosch here. If you want to extend your art tour a little longer, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is also nearby.
After the museum, you can take a short walk in Retiro Park. The Palacio de Cristal in the park is under renovation until 2026, but the park is still worth visiting.
Evening:
For dinner we go to Taberna Elia, one of the best steakhouses in Madrid, where you can have a wonderful dining experience, especially with its quality meat options and wines.
Day 2: Art, Modern Madrid and Neighborhood Explorations
Morning:
Today we prefer Hermanas Arce for breakfast. This place offers both simple and delicious breakfast options.
After breakfast, you can visit the Reina Sofía Museum and see Picasso’s famous “Guernica” painting.
Noon:
For lunch we head to Taberna Laredo, a great place to try traditional Spanish tapas and seafood.
Afternoon
After lunch, you can wander around Malasaña, one of Madrid’s hip and bohemian neighborhoods. There are vintage stores, concept stores and independent cafes here. You can take a coffee break at Ambu Coffee or HanSo Coffee.
Alternatif olarak Chueca bölgesini keşfedebilir, burada sanat galerilerini ve tasarım butikleri gezebilirsiniz.
Evening:
For dinner, we choose Restaurant Lana. This is one of the best steakhouses in Madrid and the chef’s special menu is a must-try.
Day 3: Market Culture, Shopping and Local Flavors
Morning:
On the last day we have breakfast at ACID Bakehouse, where you can find delicious desserts and breads accompanied by great coffee.
After breakfast, you can visit El Rastro Market (if it is Sunday) and wander around the city’s largest flea market. Alternatively, you can explore the luxury stores in the Salamanca District.
Noon:
For lunch we go to Mercado de San Miguel. This is one of the most famous gastronomic markets in Madrid where you can try tapas, seafood and desserts at different stalls.
Afternoon
On the last day, we head towards the more local and quieter parts of Madrid. You can walk around the Lavapiés district and discover the art galleries and street art here.
For your final coffee break, you can sit at one of the coffee shops such as Plantate or The Fix.
Evening:
We have our last dinner at La Buena Vida, one of the best restaurants in the city, where we try traditional Spanish dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients and end our Madrid trip on a nice note.
With this three-day plan, you can discover both the classical and modern sides of Madrid, taste great flavors and live the city to the fullest! 🚶♂️☕🍷
You can find all our other Spain suggestions here or on our Instagram account.
Madrid is a great destination to explore with its history, art, flavors and vibrant city life. However, knowing some basic information before your trip will make your job much easier.
1. Transportation and Public Transport
Metro: The Madrid metro is one of the largest and most efficient metro systems in Europe. You can reach almost every tourist spot by metro. The 10-pack ticket is more advantageous. You can check out the ticket options here.
Buses: Apart from the metro, there is an extensive bus network in Madrid. You can check the routes by downloading the EMT Madrid app.
Taxi & VTC (Uber, Cabify, Bolt): Although taxi prices are more reasonable compared to other major European cities, apps like Uber and Cabify can often be more affordable.
Electric Scooters & Bikes: You can rent electric scooters in Madrid through apps like Lime, Tier and Bird. The bike paths in the city are not bad.
Exploring on Foot: In the historic centre of Madrid, many places are close to each other for travelling on foot is one of the most enjoyable and logical options.
2. Car Hire & Driving in the City
Renting a car in Madrid is not necessary for most tourists, as the transport within the city is quite good. However, if you plan to go outside the city (to destinations such as Toledo, the Basque Country or Andalusia), it may make sense to rent a car. We always make affordable rentals through Discover Cars on our last trip We were able to rent for 40€ per day with full comprehensive insurance. Our preferred company was OK Mobility.
– Zero Emission Car Rental (Environmentally Friendly Vehicles Should Be Preferred)
– In the centre of Madrid there is a low emission zone (Madrid ZBE). Only environmentally friendly vehicles (hybrid & electric) can enter this zone.
– If you rent a petrol or diesel car, you cannot enter the city centre and may face serious fines. If you enter , you are obliged to park only in closed garages.
– Zero Emission vehicles are not subject to these restrictions and you can park anywhere in Madrid without a ticket and without time limitations. Of course, it is difficult to find a space (as in every big city).
– Car Parking & Parking Conditions
– Parking on the streets in Madrid is difficult and expensivex There are green and blue parking bays, but they are usually limited in hours. Zero Emission vehicles are exempt from this restriction.
– Underground car parks (such as APK2, SABA) may be safer but expensive.
– When choosing your hotel, it is also possible to choose one with a parking lot.
3. Accommodation Options & Areas in Madrid
When staying in Madrid, it is very important in which area you will stay.
– Centro (around Sol, Gran Vía, Plaza Mayor)→ A lively and vibrant area right in the centre of the tourist spots.
– Malasaña & Chueca → Hip and bohemian atmosphere, a dynamic area full of cafes and boutique shops.
– Salamanca → The centre of luxury hotels, chic restaurants and shopping.
– Lavapiés → A more artistic and cosmopolitan area, with affordable accommodation options.
– Chamartín & Retiro Neighbourhood → Quieter areas, inhabited by locals and close to park areas.
4. Food & Drink & Restaurant Bookings in Madrid
– Spaniards eat late. Lunch is usually between 14:00-16:00 and dinner between 21:00-23:00.
– Reservations are essential for popular restaurants. Especially for good restaurants such as Taberna Elia, Restaurant Lana, La Buena Vida, you should make a reservation a few days in advance.
– Try the tapas culture. There are many tapas barsin Madrid. Taberna Laredo and Mercado de San Miguel are great options.
– Don’t miss the Menú del día. On weekday lunchtimes , some restaurants offer 15-It serves”menú del día” (menu of the day) , a three-course meal for around €20.
5. Shopping & Markets in Madrid
– Gran Vía & Salamanca: Madrid’s most famous shopping streets. The Salamanca area is ideal for luxury brands.
– El Rastro Market: Madrid’s largest flea market , which takes place on Sundays.
– San Miguel & San Antón Markets: Great places to experience gourmet delicacies and tapas.
6. Safety & Security in Madrid
Madrid gave us the impression of a generally safe city, especially compared to Barcelona . cosy , but beware of thefts in tourist-orientated areas.
– Carry your bag in front on the subway and in crowded places.
– It’s safe to go out at night.
1. Retiro Park & Crystal Palace
One of the finest examples of 19th century glass and Spanish iron architecture (1887), today it hosts exhibitions.
2. Metropolis Building
Spain One of the most iconic buildings in Madrid, this building in the Beaux-Arts style (1911), dazzles with its golden dome and sculptures.
3. Four Seasons Hotel (Banco Español de Crédito)
Ahistoric bank building This building has been converted into a luxury hotel, attracts attention with its elegant details.
4. Madrid City Hall
Completed in 1919, this Neo-Gothic building is one of the most spectacular, The terrace has a marvellous view.
5. Royal Palace of Madrid
The largest palace inSpain and Western Europe , in Baroque and Neoclassical style.
6. Almudena Cathedral
Neoclassical facade, With its neo-Gothic interior and magnificent dome, it is one of the most important religious buildings in Madrid.
7. Casa Gallardo
Built in 1914 , this building in the style of Catalan Modernism, attracts attention with its elegant decorations.
8. Plaza Mayor
The main square in the Renaissance style has been one of the most important meeting points of the city since 1619.
9. Frontón Beti Jai
A hidden treasure in Madrid , the 19th-century Pelota field stands out with its iron-framed architecture.century Pelota field attracts attention with its iron-framed architecture.
10. Atocha Tropical Garden
An exotic garden located inside Madrid’s main railway station.
11. Museo Sorolla
Home of thefamous painter Joaquín Sorolla , this 20th century building stands out with its elegant garden.century structure stands out for its elegant garden.
12. CaixaForum
Herzog & This steel structure designed by de Meuron features an impressive vertical garden.
13. Sala Equis
Anold 1920s adult cinema, is nowadays a popular area of culture and activity.
14. La Serrería Belga
The transformation of anold factory into a modern cultural centre.
15. Madrid Río
Green space formed by the transformation of anold motorway into a modern urban park.
Bonus: 🏗️ Modern & Brutalist
16. Torres Blancas
Designed by Francisco Javier Sáenz de Oiza , Cylindrical towers combining Brutalist and Organic architecture (1969).
17. Spanish Institute of Cultural Heritage
Designed by Fernando Higueras , The circular Brutalist building , also known as the ” Crownof Thorns “.
18. Edificio Princesa
A modernist residential building withgeometric balconies and facade.
