Madrid, a city we have now visited twice – it was definitely a second times a charm type situation. In June 2018, we spent six days away with our favourite people in the Spanish capital and had a fantastic time but when visiting previously, whilst I was living in Spain, we just didn’t gel with the city quite so well. Needless to say, we definitely saw a rather different side to the city this time. So, if not already on your list this travel guide should help convince you to trawl Skyscanner for the next flights. Below are some of my favourite photos – enjoy!
Los Libros para un Mundo Mejor C/ Espíritu Santo Nº 13 28004
Take a wander around the Malasaña district and you will undoubtedly stumble upon this gorgeous little book shop.
Parque del Retiro Between C. Alfonso XII and Avenida de Menendez Pelayo, 28010
Not to be missed, grab a picnic and head here on a sunny day. Easily my favourite place to chill out in the city!
Also located in Parque del Retiro, head for the Palacio de Cristal.
Often you will find there is a temporary art exhibition and don’t forget to say hello to the terrapins in the nearby lake.
Meander around the city and marvel at the fabulous architecture and ornate balconies. This particularly shot was taken just opposite the Mercado San Miguel.
El Rastro along Plaza de Cascorro and Ribera de Curtidores 28005
If you love a good rummage through and a bit of bartering at a flea market, then head to Spain’s most popular open air flea market on a Sunday.
I adore the perspective of this shot, looking through the trees to the gorgeous Plaza Mayor! This was taken in front of 100 Montaditos (which if you haven’t heard of, I mention it here). More importantly, just down the road from here, is Chocolatería San Ginés. Grab a bag to takeaway and stuff your face with all the churros con chocolate!
Palacio Real de Madrid Calle Bailen, 28071
Have a stroll around the picturesque palace gardens. Open to the public, you can go inside and if you time it right you can get in for free: Monday-Thursday from 3pm to 6pm (October to March) and 6pm to 8pm (April to September). However, prepare to queue as this is the most popular time!
Circulo de Bellas Artes: Calle Alcala 42, 28014
Now it will cost you €4 to get up here, but a couple of gin and tonics and the most stunning view over the city make it 100% worth it!
Toledo – Though not in Madrid, you can not argue with a half hour train journey to visit Toledo. A city break within a city break, Toledo is absolutely beautiful. What’s more, this spanish municipality is known as a ‘city of three cultures’. With a historic centre rightly acknowledged as a UNESCO world heritage status, don’t miss this one off the itinerary.
Plaza Mayor: Calle Gerona 4, 28012
Enter this infamous plaza through one of nine entrances and appreciate the marvellous architecture. An abundance of bars and restaurants circle the perimeter of this plaza. So, grab a seat at one of the many terraces to enjoy a drink and bite to eat.
WHERE TO STAY:
I always bang on about using booking.com and for good reason. There are so many perks, from becoming a Genius member, to discount deals – you can’t really go wrong. Just bear in my mind what you are looking for and filter that search down to the small print. For instance, we always filter for ratings 8+, Wifi and air conditioning.
I’ve popped some recommendations below that hopefully cater to your budget option, whether that be a sod it, it’s pay day let’s splash all the cash or a, I need a comfy bed to fall into asap kinda trip.
A SPLURGE OPTION
Only YOU Atocha –This chic hotel located in a gorgeous 19th century building is just 150 yards from Madrid-Atocha Train Station. The breakfast room offers terrific views of the city and you will be just a stones throw from the splendid Retiro Park.
A SLIGHTLY KINDER TO THE BANK BALANCE OPTION:
B&B Hotel Madrid Centro Fuencarral 52 – Close to the metro with a fab rooftop terrace area. This fully renovated B&B Hotel comprises super comfortable rooms in an excellent city centre location.
A BUDGET FRIENDLY OPTION:
The Hat Madrid – Just 150 yards from Plaza Mayor Square, The Hat Madrid is a stylish hostel with all that you need. A great bonus – it also has a rooftop bar for all those sunset view needs. The Hat offers private rooms and dorm rooms for both mixed and female only.
Thankyou so much for reading. If you’re looking for further Spanish travel inspiration, check out these posts: Valencia, Toledo.
I cannot get over how colorful the city is — those yellow buildings, the red flowers, how true blue the sky is; it’s all so stunning. Spain has always been on my list of places to visit and Madrid and Barcelona compete with one another on which one I want to go to first and Madrid may be in second place now.
Great post! x
Michelle
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