Madrid is a walkable city with a great history and even better food. This is a place you can tackle in just a couple days and really feel like you did it well. Below are the must-sees and must-dos of Spain’s capital!
Madrid is well-known for two of its museums. The Reina Sofia Museum and the Prado Museum. The Reina Sofia Museum houses La Guernica by Picasso, so it’s often on the list of every traveler that heads to Madrid and for good reason. These vast museums are incredible options for anyone (especially beginners) who wants to learn more about European art history. Although the tickets can be a bit pricey, if you’re a student, be sure to bring your student ID. This museum is free for all students under 25 years of age as long as you present a student ID and a second photo ID as well (passport for those who are not Spanish citizens). The Prado Museum is the main national art museum and also offers a wide variety of European art collections. Admission here is also free for students under 25 with a student ID and a second form. The Royal Palace, while not a museum, is also a place of significance and history. Be sure to book this one ahead of time and skip the lengthy line that forms outside the palace gate.
Spanish food has something for everyone thanks to their favorite way to eat: tapas! Be sure to enjoy tapas more than once so you can get a feel for all the options of Spanish cuisine. Paella, jamón, montaditos (mini sandwiches) and patatas bravas are common to see on any tapas menu. Tapas are the perfect sample size so order some for the whole table and try them all. After dinner, if you’re looking for dessert, head to Chocolateria San Gines for churros. This spot has been open since 1894 and often has a line out the door. Stroll the city with churro and chocolate in hand or take a seat inside and enjoy the experience.
Although you can do Madrid quickly and efficiently, you won’t want for activities while you’re there. Puerta del Sol Square and Plaza Mayor are both main centers within the city. In Puerta del Sol, you’ll be able to find the plaque for the Center of Spain. If you’re looking to lighten your pockets, head to Gran Via, a large shopping street. Parque del Retiro and Temple Debod are both awesome opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the city. Parque del Retiro offers the opportunity to row boats on their little lake for 6 euros for 45 minutes. If you’re in Madrid when it’s warm, this is a must do! I’d also recommend hitting Temple Debod right around sunset. You can’t beat the view.
Madrid is the perfect stop for a weekend trip because of its size. It isn’t quite as sprawling as Barcelona and offers many activities in a tight vicinity. Decide what you’re most interested in and go for it—just make sure you enjoy some of the best food in the world along the way and you’ll be good to go!
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I'm a motivation explorer, personality type hacker, behavioral investigator and storyteller. I help startup founders, entrepreneurs, and corporate managers to understand themselves, the people they manage and how to get the best of their people. Specialty is in psychological personality types and brain-based methods. When I don't do the above, I hop around planet Earth with TravelJo.com to learn the Art and Science of people from everywhere and to give you all the free travel and tips and advice in many cool destinations.
My name is Cindy, also rhymes with travel junkie. A friend said I was probably a gipsy in my previous life. One of my many secret missions in life is to convert you to run off every once in awhile.
