The stunning capital city of Spain, Madrid has everything you could hope for from a city break: impressive architecture, world class museums and galleries, fantastic places to eat and drink, and all at a great price. Madrid is often overlooked in favour of Spain’s coastal cities but the inland capital has plenty to keep you busy for a weekend or more. If you can handle the heat then walking or renting a bike and cycling is the best way to take in the city. Otherwise included in all 8 attractions are the Metro station stop off points.
In spite of the name, Dray Martini, on the Calle Argensola, is more of an eaterie than a cocktail spot. Serving good quality, seasonal produce, this is a great spot to drop in for a bite to eat by daytime but the brunch here is particularly fantastic. And if you’re exploring a new city, you can’t do that on an empty stomach!
Metro: Alonso Martinez or Colón
The elegant classical architecture in Madrid is one of the first things you notice when you arrive in the city, but if you’re looking for something a little different, head to Templo de Debod in the Parque del Oeste. This ancient Egyptian temple originally stood in Aswan in Egypt, until construction on a dam for the region in the 1960's caused the massive structure to be moved. As a gesture of gratitude to the Spanish for assisting Egypt in the preservation of their historic temples, the Templo de Debod was donated to the nation.
Metro: Moncloa
Spain is heaven to foodies, from their delicious selection of charcuterie meats and savoury dishes, to their wines, Sherries and vermouths, the city has plenty of choice when it comes to eating out. One of the best ways to get to try lots of different dishes and see the city at the same time is to head to some of the food markets in Madrid. The recently restored Mercado de San Miguel (Metro: Sol) is quite touristy but worth a visit to see this beautiful cast iron structure and to taste the local produce. Conveniently located just off the beautiful Plaza Mayor, the vermouth here is only €1.50 per glass, while the seafood is also worth trying. For something a bit more upmarket, the Mercado de San Antón (Metro: Chueca) has some high quality produce as well as a rooftop bar and restaurant where you can relax in the sun.
In the summer months Madrid can become incredibly hot and the rush to the swimming pools, or any source of water is a welcome respite from the heat. If you want somewhere a little more glamorous than your local municipal swimming pool, head to Gymage on Calle de la Luna. Described as a “lounge resort”, Gymage is part of a large complex that relaxes the body and the mind. There’s a rooftop sun terrace with a pool as well a gymnasium, a restaurant, a theatre and a beauty salon. What more could you need?
Metro: Callao
If there is one thing all Madrileños love, it’s their beautiful Parque de Buen Retiro, which is a complete oasis of calm in this busy city. Rent a boat and take it out on the lake, wander around and admire the many statues and monuments that dot the park, go for a run, or just sit back and do nothing. Bring a picnic, a good book and just chill out.
Metro: Retiro, Ibiza or Atocha
When people think of Spanish food, they typically think of tapas. While these mini portions are indeed Spanish their origin is in Andalusia in the south but their popularity now means you can find them all across Spain. There is a strong sense of regional identity in Spain however and this is also true of Madrid; rather than trying these Andalusian dishes, opt for the cocido madrileño, a chickpea stew that is typical of Madrid. Try Casa Carola on Calle Padilla for some authentic Madrid cuisine.
Metro: Lista
A post office may not seem like the most obvious choice for places to enjoy a cocktail, but this is no ordinary post office. Located on the Plaza de Cibeles, the Palacio de Cibeles is the central post office of Madrid which also features temporary exhibits and galleries. While most people stop at this intersection to take photos of the exterior of the building, head up the bar on the top floor to take in some stunning views of the city and the nearby Retiro park. It’s not the cheapest bar in the city, but it’s definitely worth it for the views.
Metro: Banco de España
If you like the views from the Palacio de Cibeles so much that you don’t want to leave, then why not try out some of the other rooftop bars in the city? For a bite to eat that won’t cost you a bomb, try La Tita Rivera (Metro: Chueca), a Galician style bar and restaurant on Calle Perez Galdós or the Gourmet Experience at the top floor of the renowned Spanish department store El Corte Inglés at Plaza de Callao for a cocktail after a day spent shopping. If you want to go all out though, go to Tartan Roof (Metro: Banco de España), an Asian style bar or Gau & Café (Metro: Lavapiés), which has has a brilliant food menu, influenced by Mediterranean cuisine and is a great place to catch up with friends.
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