In the Spanish capital of Madrid, there is plenty to see and do for all types of tourists, whether you’re travelling with your family or on your own. Madrid has so many amazing attractions that its hard to know where to begin, so it’s best to plan your trip at least a few weeks before you fly!
From museums and sightseeing to game parks and historical monuments, Madrid has little trouble keeping its visitors happy. The city is also famous for to its delicious cuisine, but what is even more amazing is its ability to make anyone feel at home immediately upon arriving. If you’re thinking about taking a short vacation to Madrid this year, let’s take a look at some of the city’s top attractions.
Retiro Park
Nothing can beat an afternoon spent in Retiro Park, especially if you’re holidaying with your family. Retiro is the most popular and widely visited national park in Madrid, and it’s also a key meeting point for people from all corners of the world, from backpackers to pensioners playing chess, football players to roller skating youngsters.
The most stunning attraction in this park is its large lake, where you can simply laze around and listen to the street entertainers as they perform. Or if you’re looking for something more exciting, you can even go boating! The park has several Terrazas’ too (open air bars), where you can sit and relax with a coffee, tea, glass of wine or a beer.
The Prado Museum
Prado Museum is among the top museums in Europe. Its located in the stylish Paseo del Prado which is a beautiful part of Madrid, and it’s also walking distance from Retiro Park, the Ritz Hotel, the Fountain Hotel and the stock exchange. This museum houses art from various schools around the world as well as private collectors, such as the Italian School of Art and Andrea Mantenga.
Saving money whilst on holiday is important, so don’t pay over the odds for your flights this year, always remember to compare the market before you book!
Puerta del Sol
This is one of the most famous and awe-inspiring squares in Madrid, and it’s a great place to meet up with friends who may also be holidaying in the city. Not only is it full of street artists, performers, food stalls and busy locals, it’s one of the focal points of the city too, meaning there’s no better place to experience the true Madrid culture. There’s nothing like seeing the New Year in at Puerta del Sol, and it offers the perfect spot for seeing the fireworks above as the clock hits twelve!
Plaza Mayor
Another top attraction of in Madrid is the Plaza Mayor. It’s located in the south west corner of Puerta del Sol, and this square was built between 1617 and 1619, and then rebuilt around 1790 after it was destroyed by a fire. There’s no doubt that it is the finest plaza in Spain, and it was once the focal point of royal coronations, bullfights and even inquisitions!