Madrid: A City of Royalty, Culture and Amazing Food

Royal Palace of Madrid

One of the most breathtaking royal residences in Europe, the Royal Palace is a must-visit. With over 3,400 rooms (yes, really!), stunning frescoes and lavish decorations, it’s an incredible glimpse into Spain’s regal past. Even though the royal family doesn’t live here, it’s still used for official ceremonies.

Plaza Mayor & Puerta del Sol

Madrid’s main squares are full of life and history. Plaza Mayor is the perfect place to sit at a café, sip on a café con leche and people-watch. Just a short walk away, Puerta del Sol is home to the famous Bear and the Strawberry Tree statue (Madrid’s symbol) and the bustling city center.

Prado Museum & Reina Sofia

Art lovers, get ready! Madrid is home to some of the world’s greatest museums. The Prado Museum houses masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya and El Greco, while the Reina Sofia Museum is home to modern works, including Picasso’s powerful "Guernica." Even if you’re not a big museum person, these are worth a visit!

Retiro Park

Need a break from the city buzz? El Retiro Park is Madrid’s green oasis. Rent a rowboat on the lake, stroll through beautiful gardens or visit the Crystal Palace, a stunning glass structure that often hosts art exhibitions. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.

Shopping in Madrid

Madrid is a shopper’s paradise, from high-end boutiques to great outlet deals.

• Gran Vía is Madrid’s version of Broadway, lined with famous shops, international brands and Spanish department stores like El Corte Inglés.

• Salamanca District: If luxury shopping is your thing, head to this upscale neighborhood for designer stores like Chanel, Gucci and Loewe.

• Las Rozas Village: Just 30 minutes outside Madrid, this outlet shopping village offers discounts on brands like Prada, Burberry and Boss. Perfect for a stylish bargain!

Madrid is all about tapas, jamón and churros, so bring your appetite!

• Mercado de San Miguel – This vibrant food market is a must-visit for foodies. Grab a plate of Iberian ham, fresh seafood or a glass of local wine while hopping from stall to stall.

• Casa Lucio – Famous for its huevos rotos (fried eggs over crispy potatoes). Simple but delicious!

• Sobrino de Botín – The world’s oldest restaurant (since 1725!) and famous for its roast suckling pig. Hemingway dined here, and if it was good enough for him, it’s worth a visit!

• Chocolatería San Ginés – No trip to Madrid is complete without churros and thick hot chocolate. This historic spot has been serving them since 1894 — perfection!

If you have an extra day, Toledo is a must-see! Just 30 minutes by train from Madrid, this medieval city is packed with history, stunning views and incredible architecture.

• Visit the Toledo Cathedral, one of Spain’s most beautiful churches.

• Explore the Jewish Quarter and see the Santa María la Blanca Synagogue.

• Admire El Greco’s famous painting, "The Burial of the Count of Orgaz," at Santo Tomé Church.

• Walk across the Alcántara Bridge for breathtaking views of the city.

You can visit Toledo on your own by taking the high-speed train from Madrid’s Atocha Station, or book a guided tour for a stress-free experience. Either way, it’s worth the trip!