Curator’s statement
Madrid was the home of my childhood, yet I hadn't returned in ages. There is so much familiar in the architecture, the warm nature of the people and the energy of the city. Today, Madrid is really having a moment. It is the capital of Spain with over 7 million people in the greater metro area, however, it doesn't have the stains that many other capital cities do. Perhaps because it is a younger city than Paris or Rome, or maybe just nostalgia on this travelers part, but Madrid appears to be safer and easier to navigate than its counterparts.
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Where to stay in Madrid
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Things to do in Madrid
Day 1:
Arrive at Madrid's Barajas Airport and be greeted by your private driver. You will be surprised by how clean the airport is, with good signage and so very manageable. Use this day to get settled and enjoy the neighborhood surrounding the hotel. Schedule a tuktuk ride to see the sights and learn about the history and architecture. That evening immerse yourself in a traditional Flamenco show, a vibrant performance incorporating dance, singing, guitar playing, rhythmic hand clapping and calls of encouragement.
Day 2:
Hire a guide for a private tour of the Prado Museum, which is second only to the Louvre. It houses the most works of the three Spanish Masters: Goya, El Greco and Velasquez. This beautiful museum is one of the main attractions for visitors to Madrid. It was meant to be a science museum, and when a fire threatened the Royal Palace, all of the precious art was moved here and now it remains! Logically, your next stop will be the Royal Palace, which no longer houses the Royal Family but is still in use for certain affairs of state. Guests are able to tour rooms filled with art and antiques.
Day 3:
Madrid is a foodie paradise! Take a tapas tour or wander the city conducting your own sampling. Be sure to visit the Mercado de San Miguel, which opened back in May 1916 as a local food market. Today it is one of the city’s finest examples of cast-iron architecture, located very close to Plaza Mayor and is Madrid’s first gourmet market. Situated in the heart of the area known as Madrid de los Austrias (Hapbsurg Madrid). Inside, you can sample the finest products from different parts of the country. This ranges from tapas to a wide variety of gourmet cheeses from all over Spain. Also including meat, fruit, vegetables, cakes and an endless range of options at the 30 stands that make up the market. There's also wine and cocktails to be had. Enjoy!
Places to eat & drink in Madrid
Dani Brasserie at the Four Seasons Madrid,
Taverna de la Daniela
Mercado de San Miguel
Ceveceria Cervantes
Travel Advisor
Teresa Fox
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Madrid page.