Things to do in Madrid

Landlocked on all sides, Spain’s capital of Madrid is set deep in the heart of the Iberian Peninsula. This medieval city, steeped in history, is built high on an elevated plain, drained by the River Manzanares and is known for its historical architecture, grand boulevards, world famous museums, droolworthy gastronomy and bustling nightlife. The skies are always blue and there are plenty of reasons to keep cheerful in this most vibrant of European capitals. In this ultimate guide to Madrid post I’ve outlined my favourite things to do in Madrid, best places to eat in Madrid and also where to stay in Madrid, all with an emphasis on slow travel and really absorbing the soul of this beautiful city.

Best for drinks

If you like your bars, laidback and quirky then you will love El Imperfecto in the “El Barrio de las Letras” neighborhood. Their mojitos ( 2 for €10) are one of the best in Madrid and super cheap.

There is a strong culture of drinking Vermouth in Madrid and one of the best place to sample this herb steeped fortified wine is the Bodega da La Ardosa tapas bar in Malasana. Serving locals since 1892, this historic bar serves also cold beer on draft and does an excellent juicy, moist tortilla and artichokes ‘ a la plancha.’

Best place to go for a walk in Madrid

I love going for a walk in Parque de El Retiro.

El Retiro or Parque de El Retiro is where all locals come to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of Madrid life. The centrepiece of the park is the magnificent Palacio de Cristal.

Built in 1887 in the shape of a Greek cross ( to house flora and fauna from Philippines) and influenced by the legendary Crystal Palace of London, the Palacio de Cristal is a beautiful glass and metal edifice in Retiro park, great to wonder around , especially during sunset on any evening in Madrid. Plus its free! Also do pop into the next door Palacio de Velaquez , a beautiful building where they frequently host art exhibitions. This is free also to enter.  The park has also a magnificent lake where you can hire and row your own boat. Altogether a lovely park.

Best viewpoint in Madrid?

Palacio de Cibeles ( €2 entry fee), overlooking the iconic fountain of Plaza de Cibeles ( where all Real Madrid supporters celebrate their triumphs in major competitions ) for me offers one of the best panoramic views of the city.

If its a sunny day, head upto the 7th floor rooftop bar of Círculo de Bellas Artes a private, non-profit, cultural organization organises everything from classes, exhibitions, lectures and concerts. You get a magnificent 360 degree view of Madrid. Drinks can be slightly pricey but the view more than makes up for it.

Best for outdoors markets

El Rastro de Madrid

€Free

If you are in Madrid on a Sunday going to the El Rastro , an open air flea market is a must. The quality of offering is pretty naff but the general, festive atmosphere is really fantastic. Lots of great street musicians come and perform. Reminded me a lot of Mauerpark in Berlin.

Best for culture in Madrid

Art at La Neomujadar

If you haven’t had your fill of art, do make a point of visiting La Neomujadar, an avant garde arts centre which focuses on experimental art along the lines of Tacheles in Berlin and La Cartucherie in Paris. Provocative, weird, unusual and very original- this place is definitely an ‘experience.’

Best place for sunset in Madrid

Sunset at Temple de Bod

One of the most unique aspects of my trip to Madrid was the surreal view of this ancient Egyptian temple that was dismantled and then rebuilt in Madrid, Spain. Come during sunset when the sky dims and the lights switch on: magical stuff.

Day out from Madrid

One of my favourite secret spots which is a short train ride Madrid is the small town of Segovia , effectively a living museum that includes a Roman aqueduct, a 16^th century cathedral and a castle that inspired Disney. If the weather is good, there is nothing to stop the traveller spending an entire day wandering the narrow medieval streets. Getting to Segovia is not difficult. The high-speed trains from Chamartin station reach the town in just over half an hour. A return ticket costs around €20. The bus from the train station runs relatively frequently and stops at the foot of the aqueduct. To find the Plaza Mayor, walk through it and take the street on the right that turns up the hill. The Cathedral is hard to miss. Other sights include the old Jewish quarter and Alcázar a castle with elaborate turrets. The latter were the inspiration for the famous Disney palace logo. To see the castle at its most impressive angle, walk down the hill to the valley below. Segovia is famous for its suckling pig, but if you are on a budget (or are vegetarian) there are a couple of alternatives. During the week it is possible to find meal deals, but for a cheap meal any time, try the streets between the Cathedral and the Castle.