Curator’s statement
Madrid is the perfect city for a quick weekend getaway, yet you could just as easily dedicate an entire vacation to exploring every nook and cranny. The Spanish capital is bursting with history, art and delicious cuisine to satisfy every taste. A trip to Madrid will fill your heart and your stomach, leaving you longing to return.
The Fora Difference
Book with Carey to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Madrid
Unlock perks by contacting Carey to book your trip.
Things to do in Madrid
Plaza Mayor: Historic central square in Madrid lined with picturesque buildings and restaurants offering up a variety of cuisines making it the perfect spot to satisfy any craving.
Retiro Park: Large oasis in the middle of the bustling city. Spend time renting a rowboat on the lake, walking through the gardens and soaking up the beauty of the Crystal Palace.
Royal Palace: Catch a glimpse into Spanish royalty’s history with the opulent architecture and interiors. Stroll through the surrounding Royal Gardens for yet another escape into nature within the city.
Puerta de Sol: A central square surrounded by shops, restaurants and historical landmarks where you’ll often catch street performers, making it the perfect spot to capture the city’s energy.
Gran Via: Famous central street buzzing with shops, restaurants, movie theaters and more. Its beautiful architecture adds an extra layer of charm making it the ultimate shopping hub.
Prado Museum: A cultural gem showcasing European art with masterpieces from the likes of Velázquez and Goya. A must-visit for art enthusiasts exploring Madrid.
Almudena Cathedral: The official cathedral of the city showcasing captivating architecture. Step inside to admire the stunning sculptures and intricate stained glass windows.
Places to eat & drink in Madrid
La Casa del Abuelo: A hidden gem that’s been serving tapas in Madrid since 1906. Most well-known for their mouthwatering garlic shrimp.
Mercado de San Miguel: A large market close to Plaza Mayor where you can indulge in a variety of authentic Spanish dishes and local wines.
Quintin: Make a reservation here for dinner and enjoy a cozy atmosphere with delicious food. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on the burrata with sundried tomatoes!
Casa Toni: Legendary restaurant located less than a 10-minute walk from Plaza Mayor serving classic Spanish tapas.
Chocolatería San Ginés: Some of the best churros in the city can be found at this churrería, the oldest in Madrid having been open since 1894. Renowned for serving traditional Spanish hot chocolate along with churros.
La Duquesita: A historic bakery known for their traditional Spanish pastries, in operation since 1914.
Casa Suecia: Rooftop bar located near Gran Vía for stunning views of the city both day and night.
Let's talk about customizing this itinerary for you. Or, about other destinations.
Travel Advisor
Carey McDougall
Get in touch with Carey
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Carey within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Madrid.