The Spanish capital is often overshadowed by everyone's love for Barcelona. Because of this, my expectations upon arriving to Madrid honestly weren't very high. Yet, much to my surprise, I quickly fell in love with so much about this city. With it's grandiose baroque architecture, impressive museums, plentiful green spaces and street markets… it's now wonder Dalí and Hemingway and Picasso were all fans of Madrid. So if you find yourself planning a visit of your own, here are 10 things you shouldn't miss.
1. DRINK SANGRIA AT TATEL MADRID
We came to Tatel for dinner on our first night and were blown away by the food… but more than anything the sangria! It was hands down the best I’ve ever had in my entire life! The art-deco decor makes for a great ambiance… whether you opt to just enjoy the sangria, or stick around for dinner (which has delicious gastronomic options as well!)
2. EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH MERCADO DE SAN MIGUEL
Mercado de San Miguel is over 100 years old and is the perfect place to get your fix of Spanish croquettes, manchego cheese, carne asada, and of course, churros! ‘From the finest Iberian ham and freshest fish and shellfish brought in daily from Galicia, to Mediterranean rice dishes and the most exquisite cheeses from Castile, Asturias and the Basque Country - at the Mercado de San Miguel, you'll find all the highlights of Spanish Cuisine Spread out over more than 20 stands, the common denominator here is a commitment to high-quality tapas and pub fare.’
3. STROLL THROUGH PARQUE DEL RETIRO + PALACIO DE CRISTAL
Photo c/o Pinterest
If the weather is nice, head to El Retiro Park: covering over 125 hectares and comprising more than 15,000 trees. It’s full of gardens, interesting monuments and the famous Palacio de Cristal. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city (or simply enjoy being in nature on a nice day).
4. WATCH THE SUNSET AT CÍRCULO DE BELLAS ARTES
Easily one of the most popular rooftops in Madrid Círculo de Bellas Artes boasts beautiful views of the city (including the famous Edificio Metrópolis building. Try a Tinto de Verano (a red wine and soda cocktail) or a glass of sangria, but make sure to get there early if you want to get a good spot! (They’re open Monday to Friday: 9 am - 10:30 pm. Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays: 11 am to 10:30pm). To access the roof-terrace, take the lift in the lobby to the top floor where there is a bar and restaurant. Tickets can be purchased in reception (€5).
5. GET YOUR ART FIX AT MUSEO REINA SOFIA
While Madrid is home to several great museums, I personally loved Museo Reina Sofia. This art gallery is home to famous pieces by Dalí, Picasso, and Juan Gris (among others- over 22,000 total!) When I researched the art that was in Madrid, I (personally) thought this museum had the most noteworthy and interesting pieces that were worth seeing. Plus, if you go in the summer and need a break from the heat… this is a great place to seek shelter!
6. LUNCH AT MERCADO SAN ANTON
In the heart of the Chueca neighbourhood (which feels unbuttoned, artsy and colorful), you’ll find another great market to snack on Spanish delicacies. On the first floor, you’ll find perishable goods like meat, fruit and vegetables. The second floor boasts a wine bar and food tills where you can grab takeaway. The top floor is the Cocina de San Antón kitchen where customers can eat their goods bought on the first floor (for a small fee). There are also a couple Spanish restaurants with local cuisine and international touches.
7. SHOP FOR ESPADRILLES AT ANTIGUA CASA CRESPO
For over four generations, Antigua Casa Crespo has been hand-crafting beautiful espadrilles and selling them in their quaint little family-run shop in Chueca (the same neighborhood as Mercado San Anton). I purchased a pair here that people ask me about all the time (they’ve held up for years now!) It’s the perfect place to pick up a special souvenir to remember your trip by.
8. EMBRACE MADRID’S ROOFTOP SCENE
In addition to Círculo de Bellas Artes, Madrid has a variety of other wonderful rooftops that make for a perfect place to have a drink and watch the sunset. A few other favorites I love? The NH Collection Madrid Suecia Rooftop is far more quiet (and still incredibly cute!) If you’re looking for a bit more of a “scene” and a touch of “swank”, head to Radio Me Madrid Rooftop Bar.
9. EAT DINNER AT MARICASTAÑA
In the heart of touristic Malasana, we stumbled upon Maricastaña: a pleasant surprise that was equal parts beautiful and delicious. The ambiance couldn’t have been more ideal (think exposed brick, rustic wood, candle light and fresh flowers). The food was exceptional (I loved the pumpkin and ham croquettes, among many other menu items).
10. SEE A FLAMENCO SHOW AT VILLA ROSA
I wasn’t sure if Flamenco would end up being a completely touristy/cheesy experience… but in hindsight I’m so glad we experienced this! Our hotel (we stayed at Heritage Hotel Madrid- which was perfect!) recommended Villa Rosa to us saying that while any show would be touristy… this one was actually really good and worth seeing. The show was highly entertaining and the dancers all performed with so much passion- it was a great night!
While there is lots more to know about Madrid, hopefully this is a helpful start! If you’d like more assistance planning your trip, book a travel consulting session with me for the personal customization you need.
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you’ll love the Spanish capital as much as I did!
xx
Whitney
