About

The Spanish capital is a proud city with so many things to see and do as well as having a thriving, legendary nightlife scene famously known as “La Movida” in the 80s that earned it the reputation of a city that likes to work hard and play hard. Not only is it also the seat of residence of the Spanish Royal family, but it is also host to a number of world-class museums such as: “El Prado” – a museum generally recognised as having some of the most important collections in the world. Madrid has provided the backdrop to most of the films by the Oscar winning Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar and some of these give an insight into the city’s energy and spirit.

Things to see and do

It is possible to visit parts of the Royal palace and grounds, but check ahead. Madrid’s Plaza Mayor (or main square) and all the little streets surrounding it, are the must see square of the city; its focal point and the image that appears on a thousand postcards.
Nature lovers will not be disappointed by the city’s main park that breathe air into the heart of the city: the Parque del Retiro. Football lovers too will want to make a pilgrimage to the Bernabeu stadium – home to Real Madrid.

Madrid is famous for its shopping and two areas stand out: the Chueca district – which is not only the city’s gay area and home to hundreds of small bars and clubs by night, it is also a centre for trendy shopping by day, especially along streets like Calle Almirante. The area is considered cool and trendy and many original one offs can be found.
The other area for shopping is the Serrano district for more upmarket shopping, around the street whose name the area takes its name after: Calle Serrano, but also around Calle Lagasca.

Madrid’s three famous museums include: El Prado Museum, which features world famous works of arts from the great masters such as Picasso and Miró. The Thyssen Bornemisza is a compact and very well laid out museum exhibiting works of art from the private collection of the wealthy Thyssen Bornemisza family and runs the whole range of styles from Neoclassical to Pop art. The nearby Reina Sofia Museum is home to modern art collection which is easily accessible. All 3 Museums are close to each other and the Parque del Retiro.

Madrid is a gastronomic capital city with thousands of bars and restaurants, it’s possible to eat at any time of the day in this city; do not be surprised to see people arriving for dinner at some restaurants after midnight and lunch going on until well into the early evening. A bewildering choice of eateries can be found spontaneously with often little need to pre-book. Many bars offer small bites or tapas, which are perfect as healthy snacks between meals or meals in themselves or accompaniments to an early evening drink.

Getting there and away

The airport is easily accessible by public transport and there is directly connected to the underground/subway. It’s never hard to find a taxi, but the metro might be your best bet if during rush hour to avoid getting stuck in traffic. Taxi’s to the centre operate a flat fare of €30.