Discover Madrid
Madrid lends itself to the pedestrian, with the layout of the centre making travel on foot both easy and fascinating. The excellent metro system is easy to navigate, so a quick trip to the football stadium or further isn’t daunting for tourists whatsoever. Unlike its Spanish compadres, Madrid tends to be overlooked by tourists. We think that’s a mistake so here’s a guide to help you discover Madrid.
Arts and Culture
Madrid boasts several renowned museums. Some examples are the Museo del Prado, the Reina Sofia and the Thyssen. All of them cater to a broad range of artistic tastes.
In addition to the greats, the unsung heroes of the arts of Madrid include the Caixa Forum, a huge building on the Paseo del Prado. This one offers a vertical garden on its outer wall and several floors of ever-changing exhibitions and installations – all for free!
The Matadero is a converted abattoir next to the river. Here you’ll find exhibits of contemporary art and films. It also has a great bar where you can soak up the charm of this old municipal building.
Paseo del Prado
For cinephiles, there is nothing quite as authentic as a visit to the Cine Doré. Dating back to the 1920s, this beautifully restored cinema screens at least two films per night. Prepare to be taken back to a world where red velvet and gold leaf were prominent fixtures of the cinema-going experience.
Flamenco shows are just about as traditional as it gets here and Madrid does not lack in Tabernas. In these, impromptu Flamenco sessions are just as common as scheduled shows. For one of the best shows in Madrid, visit Casa Patas. Here you’ll find a first-class show and a platter of delicious Iberian treats. After, you can head down the road to La Candela, a small Flamenco club, where you can try out your own Flamenco skills on the dance floor!
Parks and Plazas
Templo de Debod
In Madrid the opportunities to soak up the year-long sunshine and the atmosphere are abundant.
The most famous park of Madrid is the Buen Retiro park, with a colossal expanse of almost 1.5km square. Cafés, exhibitions and an impressive boating lake make for a great day of strolling and relaxing.
For a breath-taking sunset, head to Templo de Debod – a park overlooking West Madrid where an illuminated Egyptian temple provides a stunning backdrop to any social gathering.
Casa de Campo, accessed by metro or cable car, is the perfect location for some fresh air and a spectacular view of the city from a distance. Charming plazas punctuate the labyrinth of cobbled alleys and pathways, offering passersby a chance to sit at a terrace, peruse market stalls and watch street artists perform.
Plaza Mayor
Malasaña, an artistic district just North of Sol, is just one of the many neighbourhoods offering an abundance of lively open areas, surrounded by restaurants and bars. The youthful spirit of a flourishing 80s Madrid is still very much alive. This is the spot where locals, and foreigners alike, congregate in the warmer months – to practice the fine art of the botellón, seeking refuge in the coffee shops and bars that surround them in the colder months.
Food and Drink
Madrid has one bar to every 60 inhabitants, which reflects the sociable, warm atmosphere of the city.
Tiled cervecerias and taverns line the streets, many offering outdoor terraces in the warmer months. Perfect for a pit-stop and perhaps a small caña of beer and tapas any time of the day, right? A local favourite, the La Latina area, is famed for its culinary delights, with Calle Cava Baja bursting at the seams with tapas and wine bars.
Despite its central location, seafood in Madrid is some of the freshest in the country, as much of it is sent directly before being dispatched elsewhere. Grilled gambas, paella and a whole host of fried fish are usually on the menu. But you can also find meatier options such as steak, roast chicken and cocido stews, alongside the nation’s perpetual favourite – Ham. Ham is a big deal here and you’ll find it everywhere. Of course, vegetarian options are also available with the traditional Spanish potato tortilla served, alongside a vast array of other Madrileño delicacies.
The possibilities offered by the vibrant Spanish capital are endless with a great range of cultural richness, gastronomy outlets and nightlife hot spots. Madrid retains its traditional charm in a delicate balance with the modern, whilst thriving to seduce all those who visit. In short, Madrid is a city not to be missed.
Where to stay
We couldn’t finish our guide without recommending the best hostel in Madrid: Cats Hostel! If the interior of this place doesn’t make you fall in love, their activities and amenities for guests will! Cats hostel is located within walking distance to some of Madrid’s most popular tourist spots and the best bars & clubs.
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