Madrid
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11:12 AM
Madrid
In the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, surrounded by mountains and natural parks, Madrid is an irresistible destination that boasts a wealth of cultural and leisure offers. It is home to renowned museums, art galleries, elegant buildings, and charming squares, as well as two world-class football teams, Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid. The capital of the Kingdom of Spain also boasts unique neighbourhoods, bustling nightlife, and scrumptious cuisine. Brimming with energy and character, Madrid is a city that is sure to captivate the hearts of many travellers.Find your trip
The Prado Museum, officially known as Museo Nacional del Prado, is an internationally renowned museum that boasts an impressive collection of over 7,000 paintings (although only approximately 1,500 are currently on display). Established two hundred years ago, the museum's collections have expanded to include artworks by Spanish masters such as Velázquez and Goya, as well as pieces by renowned Flemish artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Pieter Bruegel, and Anton Van Dyck.
Plaza Mayor, the main square of Madrid, boasts a fascinating history that dates back to the late 16th century when it was named Plaza del Arrabal, hosting the city’s most popular market. Today, it is a top tourist attraction with a lot to offer. One of the highlights of the plaza is the equestrian statue of King Philip III, located in the centre. Sculpted by Giambologna and finished by Pietro Tacca in 1616, it originally stood at the entrance to Casa de Campo Park before Queen Isabella II had it moved to the Plaza Mayor in 1848. The plaza's most striking building is the Casa de la Panadería, the first to be established in 1590, which was initially the most important bakery in Madrid. Today, it houses the Plaza Mayor Tourist Information Centre and the Tienda Casa de la Panadería, a shop selling souvenirs of Madrid made by local artisans. Another popular spot is El Arco de Cuchilleros, the most famous of the nine entrances to Plaza Mayor. Plaza Mayor is also an excellent place to enjoy a coffee or grab a bite, people-watch, and soak up the city’s rich history. Throughout the year, there are various events, including the drum parade at Easter, outdoor concerts, and the Christmas market in December, so be sure to check the calendar when you're visiting.
With approximately 3,500 stalls spread throughout the winding streets of Madrid's oldest residential neighborhood, El Rastro is considered the largest flea market in Europe. However, the best treasures can often be found on the side streets. As pickpocketing is common in the area, it's important to keep a close watch on your belongings.
El Retiro, an iconic park in Madrid, was once reserved exclusively for Spanish royalty, but it became accessible to the public in the late 19th century. Covering 350 acres, it is one of the largest parks in the city and is often referred to as "the lungs of Madrid" due to its vast green spaces. It's a popular spot for leisure, sports, and outdoor activities, with wide avenues and flat terrain perfect for running, cycling, and skating. Visitors can also rent rowboats to paddle around the Estanque or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride. The park is home to several architectural and historical features, including the Velázquez Palace and the Crystal Palace, as well as remarkable sculptures and fountains, such as the statue of the Fallen Angel, the only sculpture in the world to represent the devil (Lucifer). The park also boasts a Puppet Theater, which offers a unique program every weekend and is one of a kind in Europe.
Located in the Golden Triangle of Art alongside the Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the Reina Sofía National Art Center is housed in a massive former hospital dating from the mid-18th century. Its collection consists mainly of Spanish works from the 20th century. Among the works on display are pieces by renowned artists such as Dalí, Miró, and Juan Gris, as well as the gallery's prized possession, Picasso's "Guernica".
The Palacio Real de Madrid — the official residence of the Spanish royal family in the city — is Europe's largest royal palace, boasting a whopping surface area of 135,000 square meters and a staggering 3,418 rooms. This architectural marvel is not only visually stunning, but also features spectacular outdoor gardens and exquisite frescoes, furnishings, and paintings within its walls. Originally constructed in 1764 as a replacement for the Alcázar castle, which had been destroyed by fire three decades earlier, this magnificent edifice is a must-see attraction for visitors to Madrid. Nearly the entire palace is open to the public, including the Armoury and Pharmacy.
Embark on a delectable tapas tour and discover Madrid's vibrant culinary scene. Indulge in a variety of traditional delicacies such as Iberian ham, salted cod, and rich chickpea stew while sipping on excellent Spanish wines. With an expert guide at your side, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the local ingredients and the history behind each dish. This gastronomic adventure is the perfect way to experience the city's unique culture and traditions, as well as to tantalize your taste buds with some of the most delicious food you'll ever try.
Mercado de San Miguel is a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the most distinctive flavours of Spanish cuisine. Located just a stone's throw away from Plaza Mayor, this renowned wholesale food market has become one of the most significant culinary hotspots in all of Europe. Here, you'll find some of the city's finest gourmet foods and delicacies, ranging from exquisite wines and delectable cheeses to savoury hams and cured meats. It's the perfect spot to stop for a mid-afternoon tapas and a glass of wine, all while taking in the vibrant energy of this bustling market.
The Prado Museum, officially known as Museo Nacional del Prado, is an internationally renowned museum that boasts an impressive collection of over 7,000 paintings (although only approximately 1,500 are currently on display). Established two hundred years ago, the museum's collections have expanded to include artworks by Spanish masters such as Velázquez and Goya, as well as pieces by renowned Flemish artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Pieter Bruegel, and Anton Van Dyck.
Plaza Mayor, the main square of Madrid, boasts a fascinating history that dates back to the late 16th century when it was named Plaza del Arrabal, hosting the city’s most popular market. Today, it is a top tourist attraction with a lot to offer. One of the highlights of the plaza is the equestrian statue of King Philip III, located in the centre. Sculpted by Giambologna and finished by Pietro Tacca in 1616, it originally stood at the entrance to Casa de Campo Park before Queen Isabella II had it moved to the Plaza Mayor in 1848. The plaza's most striking building is the Casa de la Panadería, the first to be established in 1590, which was initially the most important bakery in Madrid. Today, it houses the Plaza Mayor Tourist Information Centre and the Tienda Casa de la Panadería, a shop selling souvenirs of Madrid made by local artisans. Another popular spot is El Arco de Cuchilleros, the most famous of the nine entrances to Plaza Mayor. Plaza Mayor is also an excellent place to enjoy a coffee or grab a bite, people-watch, and soak up the city’s rich history. Throughout the year, there are various events, including the drum parade at Easter, outdoor concerts, and the Christmas market in December, so be sure to check the calendar when you're visiting.
Sobrino de Botín is a restaurant that epitomizes the label "classic" in every sense. Established in 1725, Botín holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world. Notably, Francisco de Goya, the famous artist, worked here as a waiter while awaiting admission to the Royal Academy of Fine Arts. The cuisine served here is classically Spanish, with two standout dishes: Piglets and Roasted Lambs. It's worth mentioning that the Roast Suckling Pig is even referenced in a novel by Hemingway.
Nestled in an elegant 19th-century building, Paco Roncero is a Michelin-starred restaurant featuring avant-garde tasting menus and wine pairings. Its sunny terrace adds a touch of warmth and invites you to indulge in the culinary delights it has to offer.
In the heart of Madrid, Ribeira do Miño is a Galician restaurant that brings the taste of the sea to your plate. Featuring a menu of fresh shellfish and crustaceans, this cosy spot is the perfect place to indulge in some of Galicia's finest culinary offerings. Specialties like Galician octopus and ham with Galician turnip are not to be missed, and the nautical decor adds to the atmosphere, making you feel like you're dining by the ocean. To wash it all down, a selection of Galicia's best wines: white Ribeiro or Albariño, both of which perfectly complement the flavors of the seafood dishes.
Initially established as a private club, Allard Madrid finally opened its doors to the public in 2003. This upscale dining establishment has been awarded two Michelin stars, and prides itself on its exquisitely presented, inventive Spanish cuisine and wine selection. The sophisticated dining room, complete with elegant chandeliers, adds to the overall luxurious dining experience.
Lúa boasts a menu that is based on two things: the first is the season, and the second is reliable recipes of traditional Galician dishes passed down for generations, given modern and creative twists. The results speak for themselves.
Chef Matías Smith, the mastermind behind the creative cuisine at this bistro, brings his passion for cooking to every plate he prepares. The tasting menus at Metro Bistro are a true delight for the senses. Each dish is carefully crafted with fresh and seasonal ingredients, resulting in a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Whether you are a vegetarian, a seafood lover, or a meat enthusiast, there is something for everyone on the menu. And let's not forget about the wine! Metro Bistro boasts an impressive selection of wines from around the world, curated by their in-house sommelier.
Casa Lucas is a small eatery in the Latin district of Madrid serving traditional tapas, pintxos, and Spanish wines.
Dabiz Muñoz, a Michelin-starred chef known for his bold and inventive approach to cooking, is the mastermind behind DiverXO. Widely regarded as one of the world's most creative cooks, Muñoz offers a 12-course tasting menu that takes diners on a culinary journey through innovative, Asian-inspired dishes. From Iberian pork dumplings filled with Spanish broth and Korean gochujang with grilled cuttlefish and yellow pepper pil-pil, the menu is a testament to Muñoz's daring and imaginative style. Even the desserts are a delightful surprise, with flavors that include cottage cheese, parmesan, and even tom kha kai soup with Thai basil incorporated into a selection of mochi.
Sobrino de Botín is a restaurant that epitomizes the label "classic" in every sense. Established in 1725, Botín holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world. Notably, Francisco de Goya, the famous artist, worked here as a waiter while awaiting admission to the Royal Academy of Fine Arts. The cuisine served here is classically Spanish, with two standout dishes: Piglets and Roasted Lambs. It's worth mentioning that the Roast Suckling Pig is even referenced in a novel by Hemingway.
Nestled in an elegant 19th-century building, Paco Roncero is a Michelin-starred restaurant featuring avant-garde tasting menus and wine pairings. Its sunny terrace adds a touch of warmth and invites you to indulge in the culinary delights it has to offer.
El Corte Inglés, the retail giant of Spain, is both loved and hated, but successfully performs the main task of a department store, which is to provide a wide variety of products for most people. Here, you can find designer clothing, their own affordable and mid-range clothing lines, large perfumery and makeup sections, accessories, toys, children's and baby's clothing, art supplies, souvenirs, food and gourmet products, home furniture and decor, electronics, books, and various services all under one roof.
El Rastro is said to be the largest flea market in Europe with some 3,500 stalls covering the winding streets of the oldest residential part of Madrid. Remember that the real finds are mostly located on one of the side streets, and always keep a close eye on your belongings, as it is a popular area for pickpockets.
Located only 30 minutes away from Madrid's city centre, Las Rozas Village has become a must-visit destination for those seeking a premium shopping experience. Boasting over 100 boutiques of renowned international luxury brands, visitors can enjoy year-round sales of up to 60% off the recommended retail price. The shopping complex is nestled in a picturesque and leafy setting, providing a quaint and relaxing vibe. Additionally, there are various restaurants and cafés available for shoppers to take a break and refuel.
Lavapiés is a charming and historic neighborhood in Madrid that draws in visitors with its plethora of multicultural and traditional shops. At Lavapiés Square, there are food stores representing various cuisines from around the world. Book lovers will find plenty of options as well, with several independent bookshops in the area. Some of these shops even offer to buy books based on their weight. And, of course, the famous El Rastro Flea Market can also be found in this lively district.
Finish off your shopping trip at ABC Serrano in Salamanca, an eight-floor shopping centre with four floors devoted just to fashion. Here, hot new designers such as Amaya Arzuaga rub shoulders with reliable brands like Zara. In addition, ABC Serrano is home to several cafés and restaurants.
Established in 1882, Mercado de La Paz is a popular indoor market that features a variety of stalls selling fresh produce, meat, and gourmet delicacies. The best-selling stalls are the ones with Serrano ham and amazing local cheese varieties.
Lavinia is the self-proclaimed "biggest wine shop in Europe". They are true connoisseurs of their craft and offer a bewildering selection of wines and spirits from Spain and around the world.
The history of this Spanish brand has its roots way back in the 1950s. Today, the brand has a global presence with stores across Spain and beyond. Adolfo Domínguez's clothing, bags, and shoes are known for their stylish and elegant design, with extensive collections available for men, women, and children. The brand's flagship store even includes a coffee lounge, providing shoppers with a comfortable space to relax and unwind.
El Corte Inglés, the retail giant of Spain, is both loved and hated, but successfully performs the main task of a department store, which is to provide a wide variety of products for most people. Here, you can find designer clothing, their own affordable and mid-range clothing lines, large perfumery and makeup sections, accessories, toys, children's and baby's clothing, art supplies, souvenirs, food and gourmet products, home furniture and decor, electronics, books, and various services all under one roof.
El Rastro is said to be the largest flea market in Europe with some 3,500 stalls covering the winding streets of the oldest residential part of Madrid. Remember that the real finds are mostly located on one of the side streets, and always keep a close eye on your belongings, as it is a popular area for pickpockets.
Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), commonly known as Barajas Airport, is the main international airport serving Madrid. It lies a little over 10 km northeast of the city. The cheapest way to get to Madrid is by metro: line 8 goes to Nuevos Ministerios (the journey takes about 30 minutes). A taxi ride costs more at night and on Sundays, and takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Numerous car rental companies are also available at the airport.
Spain can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
As it is located in the heart of Spain, Madrid boasts a predominantly dry climate with minimal rainfall or snowfall throughout the year. This makes it a great destination for travelers to visit all year round. During the summer, the city can become crowded with tourists, while locals seek respite from the heat by heading to the coast. In spring and autumn, mild temperatures and reduced accommodation prices make it an ideal time to explore the city.
With over 300 stations and 12 lines serving the city and its suburbs, Madrid's metro system is the most efficient way to travel around the city. The metro operates from 6 am to 1:30 am daily. Additionally, the EMT bus network includes approximately 200 lines, including a useful "circle route" (marked with a C) that passes through key attractions such as El Retiro Park, Gran Vía, Paseo del Prado (and all the museums on that street), and the Royal Palace. Buses run from 6 am till 11:30 pm on weekdays and from 7 am till 11 pm on weekends and public holidays, with slightly less frequency. After 11:30 pm, the city operates night buses known as "búhos" (the Spanish word for owls).
When taxis are available for hire, this is indicated by a “Libre” sign on the front windshield and a green light on the roof. Radio-Taxi Independiente +34 914 05 12 13 Tele Taxi +34 913 71 21 31 Rideshare companies such as Uber and Cabify are also available in Madrid.
The majority of post offices in Madrid are open between 8:30 am to 8:30 pm from Monday to Friday. The main post office is located on Plaza de Cibeles.
All chemists have a list or a sign in the window with details of the pharmacies on duty each night, with the nearest one highlighted. There are two chemists that are open at all times: Farmacia Central Paseo de Santa Maria de la Cabeza 64, Madrid Opening hours: daily 9:30am–11pm +34 914 73 06 72 Farmacia Lastra Calle del Conde de Peñalver 27, Madrid Opening hours: daily 9am–9:30pm +34 914 02 42 72
Country code: +34 Area code: 91
Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), commonly known as Barajas Airport, is the main international airport serving Madrid. It lies a little over 10 km northeast of the city. The cheapest way to get to Madrid is by metro: line 8 goes to Nuevos Ministerios (the journey takes about 30 minutes). A taxi ride costs more at night and on Sundays, and takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Numerous car rental companies are also available at the airport.
Spain can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
