Route through Madrid in one day
Madrid, as the capital of Spain, has countless historical, artistic, culinary and haute couture attractions, and can boast a wide and lively nightlife. The city has one of the most famous collections of Spanish and Latin American art in Europe, spread acr
Madrid, as the capital of Spain, has countless historical, artistic, culinary and haute couture attractions, and can boast a wide and lively nightlife. The city has one of the most famous collections of Spanish and Latin American art in Europe, spread across a network of museums and galleries. Many of its open-air squares also have many art-style buildings, unique statues and classical theaters dating from the 18th century.
It is also an ideal place for lively parties such as Christmas, the LGBT Pride Parade and New Year's Eve. Thanks to the wide sidewalks and lush gardens, you can rest between walks and easily reach the city center on foot. Here is a selection of the best attractions and places to visit in Madrid, designed for travelers who do not yet know the Spanish capital and want to enjoy its main attractions to the fullest.
- La plaza Mayor. It is one of the largest squares in Madrid. It has nine entrances and exits, as well as seventeenth-century frescoes, and is presided over by a bronze statue of King Philip III. It is one of the most visited attractions of the Spanish capital and a place where various types of events are organized, such as the colorful Christmas market. If you are hungry, the square is full of cafes and bars, where you can order beer, coffee or one of the most typical meals in Madrid: the squid sandwiches.
- The Art Triangle. It is located in the Paseo del Prado, where there are three internationally renowned museums: Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofía. In these wonderful museums, you can admire the masterpieces of artists such as Picasso, Goya, Velázquez, El Greco and Bosco. Don't forget to take advantage of your location and take your camera out to immortalize the closest attractions, such as the Madrid Observatory, the Fountain of Neptune, the Fountain of Cybele or the Royal Botanical Gardens of Madrid.
- The Royal Palace. It is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. However, during your visit, do not expect to meet with members of the royal family. In the 18th century, King Philip V ordered the construction of this majestic palace, combining baroque and neoclassical architecture. It has a total of 3,000 rooms, including a throne room, an armory or a well-preserved royal kitchen. Art lovers will appreciate the exquisite paintings of famous artists such as Luis Morales, Goya, Juan de Flandes, Caravaggio, Velázquez and Federico Madrazo.
- The San Miguel Market. Since 1916, it has been a meeting place for food lovers. It borders the Plaza Mayor and has more than 30 stands of fresh seafood, cold cuts, wine, beer, sweets or chocolate. The commercial schedule is from 10:00 to 00:00 every day, but on Fridays and Saturdays, the commercial schedule is delayed until 01:00. Come in and taste fresh oysters or some of the star dishes of our cuisine, such as patatas bravas or prawns with garlic.
- The Bear and the Arbutus. This is a bronze statue located in the most central square of Madrid: the Puerta del Sol. It is a work of the artist Antonio Navarro Santafé, inaugurated in 1967 and represents the coat of arms of Madrid. It usually serves as a meeting point for people walking in the area, and many tourists gather around it to find the best images of the city. The Puerta del Sol is the ideal area to choose your hotel and explore the city in comfort, as you will be close to most places.