Madrid
Chocolate And Churros
Like the Locals
Foodie Fav: Patatas Bravas, Spanish Tortilla, & Jamon Iberica
Must See Site: Parque Retiro & Reina Sofia Museum
What to wear: jeans, light jacket, comfy but cute sneakers in cooler months & flowy dresses, shorts and sandals during the summer
Know Before You Go
Language: Spanish
Currency: Euro
Visa Needed: No
Best Season to Visit: March – May & September – November
Fun Fact
According to the Guiness Book Of World Records, Madrid has the oldest restaurant in the world. The Sobrino De Botin has been serving up traditional Spanish dishes since 1725.
Transportation
Getting There – America Airlines – sit back and enjoy your flight while you choose from a selection of movies and sip some complimentary wine. Try not to cry like Alexis when watching sappy Rom Coms (NYC => Madrid $320 R/T)
Getting Around – Madrid might seem like a big city but all the major sites are within walking distance once you are in the center. If you are staying in a neighborhood that is further the Metro is the best way to get around with 12 lines that take you everywhere. When you want to take trips outside the city (Toledo, Segovia, Escorial) try the Renfe or ALSA Bus.
Accomodation
Hotel
JC Hoteles
While we were apartment hunting all over Madrid we were lucky to stay at JC Hotels in Puerta Del Sol. It was central to everything, they had room for our 6 suitcases, and they were reasonably priced. With locations all over Madrid, a helpful staff, free walking tours of the city, and a no cost mini bar, why wouldn’t you stay here?
City Guide
Day 1 - art & Nature
- Museo Prado – one of the best collections of Spanish art (free admission on certain days)
- Plaza de Cibeles- right in the center of the city you’ll find an amazing marble statue which has become a symbol of Madrid
- Palacio de Comunicaciones– known for art exhibits & a great view – for two euros ride the elevator up to see the city!
- Retiro Park – from the Puerta De Alcala take a walk and admire the monuments, take a boat ride, or visit the Palacio De Cristal
- Museum Reina Sofia – modern art museum featuring artists such as Dalí, Picasso, and Miró
- Atocha Train Station – this train station is both functional and beautiful with a mini forest inside – hello little turtles.
Day 2 - The Center of it all
- Plaza Mayor – Just sit down in a café and have a glass of wine while you people watch or admire the art and beauty of the plaza
- Mercado De San Miguel – it might be a little crazy in here – but you’ll definitely be able to sample all the local cuisine like Rioja wine, olives, manchengo cheese and bonbons
- Main Street – Walk along Puerta Del Sol and Gran Via – they are like the Time Square of Madrid – You can even go to the rooftop of Cortes Ingles for wine and rooftop views.
- Palacio Real de Madrid – royal palace of Madrid – take a tour then have a fun photo shoot in the Sabatini Gardens
- Templo de Debod – An egyptian temple in an awesome park with great views
DAy 3 -Toledo & segovia
There are some really cool cities right outside of Madrid. You can take a Multi City Tour or you can take the Renfe and explore on your own. Choose your Adventure:
- Toledo (1 hr train ride) – this is known as the city of 3 cultures because Christians, Muslim and Jewish people lived in peace here. This shows in the art, churches and palaces. You’ll also find many references to Don Quixote and Cervantes if you are into literature and Spanish culture – Book a Tour
- Segovia (2 hr train ride) – known mostly for the Aqueduct, but you’ll also find Romanesque churches, The Alcázar Fort and a picturesque Plaza Mayor – Book a Tour
Day 4 - Sports & Stars
- Casa De Campo – the biggest park in the city – like you could legit get lost. Ride the ‘teleferico’ to see how big it is.
- Vicente Calderon Stadium -If you’re into soccer get tickets for a game – the other popular stadium is Bernabeu
- Matadero Madrid – an old slaughterhouse that now showcases modern art, exhibits and performances.
- Plantario De Madrid – catching a screening about the planets and stars or enjoy panoramic views from a telescope.
Eat It & Weep
Gran Via
A cheap and fun eat in Madrid. These small sandwich let you sample some of Spain’s local favorites like Spanish tortillas, jamon iberico, or manchengo cheese. Wash it all down with a beer or try a dessert Montadito.
Menu Must: Tinto de Verano and Manchengo Montadito
La Isla del Tesoro
Malasana
The vegetarian dishes and cool vibe make this a great spot for lunch or dinner. The menu changes pretty often with a theme from different countries, which means you can try new dishes every time you go. Plus they are budget friendly at 10 euros a meal.
Menu Must: Buenrrollito & Seitan Tan-Tan
Malasana
The smell alone will draw you to this little cookie shop in Malasana. It became one of our favorite sweet treats. From white chocolate and rasberries to Nutella stuffed, you can’t go wrong with these soft baked delights.
Menu Must: Dulce de Leche or Bueno Bar Cookies
Tours & More
Center of Madrid: Bar Crawl With Drinks
AIRBNB EXPERIENCES
Flamenco: Lesson, Tapas & Show!
AIRBNB EXPERIENCES
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