One of the places that I got to visit on my bucket list was Madrid. I’d travelled from Lisbon in Spain by bus to Madrid to explore the city. Something that I didn’t expect (and I admit that I was naive) was how big the city was.
I was passing through the city for a few days before heading to London for a friend’s wedding and was hoping to return and possibly stay longer in Madrid, if I liked the city.
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Why should you visit Madrid?
Madrid is the capital city of Spain and has been the capital city of the country since 1561; when it was decreed by Phillip III. Prior to the the official relocation, the Royal Court had been moved to the city by his predecessor Phillip II.
Why should you consider visiting and exploring Madrid?
The city has a deep history and also offers cultural experiences from it’s city culture, to architecture, it’s royal history, parks, and more.
What are some of the things to do in Madrid?
| Attraction | Description | Location | Opening Hours | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prado Museum | One of the most prestigious art museums in the world, featuring European art from the 12th to early 20th century. | Paseo del Prado | Monday-Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM | General: €15, Free entry Monday-Saturday: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Sunday: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Royal Palace of Madrid | The official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, known for its grand architecture and lavish interiors. | Calle de Bailén | Monday-Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | General: €12, Reduced: €6 |
| Retiro Park | A large and popular park in Madrid, ideal for relaxing, boating, and visiting landmarks like the Crystal Palace. | Plaza de la Independencia | Open 24 hours | Free |
| Gran Vía | A vibrant street in Madrid, known for shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including theaters and cinemas. | Gran Vía | Open 24 hours | Free |
| Plaza Mayor | A historic square in the heart of Madrid, surrounded by stunning architecture, cafes, and shops. | Plaza Mayor | Open 24 hours | Free |
| Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum | Another top art museum in Madrid, offering a diverse collection of works from the Renaissance to contemporary art. | Paseo del Prado | Tuesday-Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM | General: €13, Free entry Monday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| Temple of Debod | An ancient Egyptian temple relocated to Madrid, offering stunning sunset views over the city. | Parque del Oeste | Tuesday-Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Free |
Madrid Royal Palace
Plaza Mayor Square – Madrid
Photo by David Carrero Fernández-Baillo on Unsplash
- Puerta de Alcalá gate
- Buen Ritiro Park
Typically when I travel, I use the suggestions from Lonely Planet as a guide for planning my trip and itinerary. I also look around on social media and blogs for ideas and suggestions of what’s happening in the area when I am travelling.
Photo by Adrián Valverde on Unsplash
Where should you look for accommodation?
At the time, I used AirBNB to find a room for a few days. The cost of the room was relatively inexpensive and my belongings were secure.
There are options such as hostels, hotels, and BNBs. For longer-term stays, it’s worth considering long-term accommodation options.
Don’t forget to try the food!
I don’t recommend going on a diet whilst you are in Spain as the food culture revolves around small meals and drinks throughout the day. I loved having the sandwiches (La Bocadillios), which consisted of spiced turkey salami with cheese, and usually their desserts.
Going to local bars and ordering drinks and having a side of tapas was very common as well.
The foods are very carbohydrate and fat heavy. (Expect to eat a lot of cheeses and potatoes).
How much should you be budgeting per day to enjoy your travel experience in Madrid?
You can live cheaply for as little as $100USD per day, which will be enough for you to get accommodation and to buy food from a supermarket, or maybe a cheap cafeteria.
Ideally, you want to have spending power of $200-300USD per day to cover nicer accommodation (if this is something that you desire), the option to eat out at restaurants and cafes, and to enjoy travel experiences that should also include some tours.
Be cautious of the heat in summer!
You will find cheap travel deals to Madrid and Spain during the summertime. However, locals will tell you that it is super hot during that time. (Muy caliante!) Try to plan your trip for Spring, early summer, or as it is coming into Autumn.
Have you travelled to Madrid?
Share your experience in the comments below.
Featured image credit: Image by c1n3ma from Pixabay
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