Compact and laid-back Madrid is one of those see-before-you-die capitals. It’s filled with art, culture, food, world-class sport, superb shopping, and, essential to the success of any city break, locals who know how to have a good time.
Madrilenos take their time, dining late at night, drinking until the early hours and going home at breakfast time.
To make the most of your time in Madrid, read our 100 ideas on things to see, do and experience.
Visit a world heritage site
Take a short journey out of the city and visit the Royal Mill Mint, the oldest industrial building still standing in Spain and one of the oldest mechanised manufacturing plants in the world. Recently restored, you can’t enter the building but there’s plenty of exciting views.
Azoguejo – 1 – Segovia
Segoviamint.org
Enjoy a typical Arab hammam
Escape the hustle and bustle of the busy city in the wonderfully relaxing Arab-style bath at Chi Spa. Submerge yourself into the waters and get pampered to your heart’s content. There is also a great restaurant to enjoy lunch, dinner or a lovely pot of tea.
Conde de Aranda – 6 – 28001 Madrid
Thechispa.com
Learn about the history of Bullfighting
Want to learn more about the history of bullfighting in the Spanish capital? Why not take part in a four-hour tour with your own knowledgeable, expert guide. Discover bars with ancient bullfighting memorabilia, take a trip to the bullfighting museum and enjoy a typical “Toro” lunch.
Contact Tours@letango.com for more information
Letangospaintours.com
Sightsee on a vintage vespa scooter
Whizz around Madrid and explore the city in your own time by hiring a classic Vespa scooter or, if you need a bit of guidance, why not take part in one of Trip Chic’s tours. Enjoy views of the Plaza de Cibele, the Thyssen-Bornemisza museum and much, much more.
Contact info@tripchic.es for more information
Tripchic.es
Cook up a storm with a traditional cookery class
Why not learn authentic Spanish cooking skills from a team of prestigious chefs and teachers from around the world in the kitchenware shop, Alambique. They can cater mainly for groups but cater for individuals wishing to learn too!
Plaza de la Encarnaci¢n – 2 – 28013 – Madrid
Alambique.com
Take a tour of Santiago Bernab‚u Estadio
The Bernab‚u Stadium Tour allows fans to explore Europe’s third-largest stadium. Catch a glimpse of the impressive arches of Puerta de Alcala and Plaza Cibeles as well as one of the most impressive trophy rooms in European football.
Avda Menedez Peleayo 35 28009 Madrid
Madrid.mad-bike.com
Spend and afternoon enjoying contempory art
Galer¡a Evelyn Botella is a gallery known worldwide for its local and international artists. Founded more than 35 years ago, the gallery has launched many contemporary artists such as Marisa Gonz lez, Rufo Criado and Eduardo Gruber. Admission is free.
c/ Mejia Lequerica, 12 – 1§ Derecha – 28004 – Madrid
Galeriaevelynbotella.com
Tour the best tapas bars by bike
Love Tapas? Love cycling? Why not combine the two and cycle your way around some of Madrid’s top tapas eateries. The tour will also take you past some of Madrid’s most iconic buildings so you get to learn the history of Madrid between bars. What more could you want?
Contact info@bajabikes.nl for more information
Bajabikes.eu
Let the kids enjoy an interactive opera show
If you want the kids to pick up a bit of Spanish during your trip, Serenata Escapes offer fun activities for those looking to learn in a different and fun way ranging from pottery to theatre.
c/ Columena – 9 – 28001 – Madrid
Serenataescapes.com
See the sights on two wheels
Hailed as Madrid’s oldest and most experienced tour company, these escorted cycle tours let you see the sights of the city on two wheels and give you a departing gift of your tour photos. See the historic landmarks while leaving the traffic behind.
Contact kaspar@bravobike.com for more information
Bravobike.com
Whizz around the city on a Segway
Sightseeing in Madrid doesn’t get any more fun or exciting than with a Segway. With tours guided by the winner of the Segway Skill Event ’06/’07, this alternative, fun way to experience the history and culture of Madrid is safe for the whole family.
Contact info@madsegs.com for more information
Madsegs.com
Float above the city in a Hot Air Balloon
Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the wonderfully diverse landscapes of Madrid when you take a hot air balloon ride. See the many preserved nature reserves, medieval labyrinths and colourful street markets! Even those afraid of heights won’t want to miss out on these sights.
Contact them via their websites contact form.
Balloonflightsspain.com
Learn about the world of Sherry
Get your taste buds tingling by taking a visit to The Sherry Corner, which is situated within the historical Market de San Miguel. With a range of audio-guided tasting sessions available, you can learn all about the Sherry World while admiring the breathtaking 1916 architecture.
San Miguel Market – Plaza San Miguel – 28005 – Madrid
Sherrywinetaste.com
Taste Madrid’s finest cupcakes
Explore your inner child by visiting this quaint bakery and indulging in one of their delicious, homemade cupcakes. Made with premium ingredients such as Belgian chocolate and Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla, there’s something for everyone with all kinds of shapes and styles to tickle your fancy.
c / Vel zquez 126 – 28006 – Madrid
Cupcakemadrid.com
Eat at one of the top gastronomic events worldwide
If you’re looking for Michelin-star quality, this strictly over-18s astronomical conference is just the thing. With famous faces from superstar kitchens across the globe cooking up a fancy in some of Madrid’s finest restaurants, this culinary festival is one to tickle the taste buds.
Almirante – 21 – 28004 – Madrid
Madridfusion.net
Visit one of the oldest taverns of Madrid
Described as a “casual restaurant for an audience without labels”, this place specialises in a fusion of cuisines and flavours from around the world. For an intimate dining experience not to be forgotten and with service fit for a star, don’t forget to give this place a try.
Calle de Hortaleza – 11 – 28004 – Madrid
Stopmadrid.es
Enjoy a photography exhibition
A focal point within the Spanish art world, the Blanca Berlin Gallery offers the visual and photography community an insight into the work of renowned and international artists. Displaying contemporary works in ever changing exhibitions, no two visits will be the same.
c/ Lim¢n – 28 – Plaza Guardias de Corps – 28015 – Madrid
Blancaberlingaleria.com
Let the kids take an authentic Spanish dance lesson
Get the whole family moving with a creative dance lesson conducted entirely in English. Anyone aged 1+ can take part and explore their wild side with a class specialising in bringing out your artistic potential. From ballet to flamingo, this one’s sure to get the heart racing!
Contact info@helloenglishmadrid.com for more information
Helloenglishmadrid.com
Enjoy games, challenges and questions as your tour the city
Not just the average tour guide, these cycle tours give the option of a bicycle, kick-bike or even the entertaining Trixis cycles. Whatever means you choose, you’ll be sure to see the intimate sights of the city in style be it at night or during daylight hours.
Calle de los Jardines – 12 – 28013 – Madrid
Trixi.com
Let the under 5’s enjoy a Shake Rattle & Roll Music session
This dance class for under 5’s focuses on stimulating the brains of little ones through rhythm, music and dance! Their spacious dance studio gives them a great place to let off some steam while giving them a workout to live music and popular songs!
Travesia del Conde Duque – 3 -28015 – Madrid
Shakerattlerollmadrid.com
Eat in the world’s oldest restaurant
Featured in the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest eatery in the world, Sobrino de Botin remains a traditional yet modern dinning choice.
c/ de Los Cuchilleros – 17 – 28005 – Madrid
Botin.es
Climb indoors
Whether it be the small 5-metre wall for beginners or the larger 300 square metre wall for the experienced, get the adrenaline pumping at Madrid’s indoor climbing wall with no fewer than 3,000 resin grips. Adrenaline junkies beware – climbing the BulderKing can be addictive.
Street Abejuela – 15 – 28015 Madrid
Bulderking.com
Try hake in cider in a traditional spanish restaurant
Leave the tourist scene behind and dine like a local in this traditional restaurant offering the finest local cuisine. Try the Madrid-style tripe or their recommended Hake nape and wash it all down with a refreshing selection of local wines.
c/ Olivar – 3 – 28012 – Madrid
Casalastra.com
Taste a new Spanish sweet treat
Visit this local patisserie and indulge in the wide range of buns, cakes and wines. Specialising in traditional foods of all cultures, this bakery offers everything from the Mona de Pascua Easter cakes to Hueso de Santo marzipan rolls! Don’t forget to try their famous French breads!
c/ San Onofre – 3 – 28004 – Madrid
Chocolate-bolleria.es
Have a giggle at The Giggling Guiri
Sit back, relax and laugh the night away with a round of comedy at the Giggling Guiri! With famous faces and local talent taking to the stage, this comedy club is sure to lift anyone’s spirits! They always said laughter was the best medicine…
Calle del Pez – 10 – 28004 – Madrid
Comedyinspain.com
Enjoy lunch on a budget
Con Dos Fogones offers creative Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine. If you get a table at lunch, their prix fixe menu will get you a drink, appetizer, main, and a great selection of desserts – just make sure you arrive hungry!
San Bernardino – 9 – 28015 – Madrid
Condosfogones.com
Learn to cook with local chefs
Not satisfied with just tasting the traditional Spanish paella or the ever famous gazpacho? Then learn how to cook them yourself in this unique, friendly Madrid cooking school. Leave your holiday with more than just a memory and impress all your friends back home.
Contact them via their websites contact form.
Cook-o.com
Learn to Salsa
Get fired up and let your Latino side loose with a night of salsa dancing taught by traditional Latino dancers. Whether your style be rumba, salsa or the cha cha, get down and let your hips do this talking with this dance group, suitable for all abilities.
c/ Nu¤ez de Balboa – 17 – 2D – 28001 – Madrid
Dance-classes-madrid.com
Enjoy contemporary and traditional Spanish Jazz music
Bask in the ambience of traditional and contemporary style jazz and blues in this quaint and cosy bar. With a fine selection of wine and Iberian foods to tempt your palate, this exclusive jazz bar offers more than just a superb night for all.
Paza de Espa¤a – 9 – 28008 – Madrid
Lastablasmadrid.com
Visit the most popular open air flea market in Madrid
Whether you’re looking to haggle over art drawings, trade those sought-after cards and stamps or just browse for a bargain, this popular open air flea market offers a diverse range of collectables. One man’s junk is another man’s treasure, so go grab yourself a memory!
Calle Ribera de los Curtidores -Lavapi‚s – 28005
Elrastro.org
Sample some of the best seafood in Madrid
Since 1966 La Trainera has brought local seafood from various fishing ports to Madrid to ensure they serve the finest seafood dishes around.
Calle Lagasca – 60 – Madrid
Latrainera.es
Visit Madrid’s Oldest Theatre
Originally built in the 16th century, this theatre is still one of the best places to enjoy work from some of Spain’s best playwrights.
c/Principe, 25 28012 – Madrid
Teatroespanol.es
Enjoy a lively night out in Plaza Santa Ana
Plaza Santa Ana is a lively square home to some charming local bars and restaurants. The area starts to get busy around 11pm on the weekends so don’t expect an early night!
Plaza Santa Ana – Madrid – 28012
Aviewoncities.com
DJ at the Fuencarral Market
Noted as one of “the most daring and dynamic spaces in the city”, this market not only sells the usual goods but you can also learn to DJ, view local exhibitions and watch cinema projections and theatre pieces in the old cinema room.
c/ Fuencarral 35 – 28004 – Madrid
Mdf.es
Spend an afternoon in Parque del Buen Retiro
The translation means “Park of the Pleasant Retreat” and this is exactly what you can expect in a visit to this park. Wander past the sculptures, visit the galleries of just sit and enjoy the views.
Parque del Buen Retiro – El Retiro – 28001
Gardenvisit.com
Travel to Madrid’s largest park by air
The Casa de Campo is made up of more than 1,700 hectares of land and you can visit using one of Madrid’s most reliable forms of transport, The Teleferico, 40m above the ground.
c/ Cerro Garabita – s/n – 28011 – Madrid
Teleferico.com
Spot a celeb in a top Castilian cuisine restaurant
King Juan Carlos, Queen Sof¡a, Bill Clinton and Pen‚lope Cruz are just a few of the stars to dine at this top end restaurant and it’s still a popular hangout for those in film and politics.
Calle Cava Baja – 35 – 28005 – Madrid
Casalucio.es
Shop ’til you drop along Gran Via
As one of Madrid’s most important shopping areas, the lively Gran Via street is lined with some of the top shops as well as plenty of the city’s best restaurants and hotels.
Gran V¡a – 28013 – Madrid
Granvia2.com
Be a spectator at a real Spanish bullfight
Known as the “home of bullfighting” this 25,000 capacity arena comes alive during the bullfighting season (March to December). Bullfights are held daily during the San Isidro Fiesta, and every Sunday or holiday during the season.
c/ Alcal – 237 – 28028 – Madrid
Las-ventas.com
Take a wine tasting course
Who better to learn about wines from than the Spanish Wine-tasting Association? This intensive programme over two Saturdays looks at theory and methodology and you get to taste more than 25 types of Spanish wine.
c/ Lope de Vega – 27 – 28014 – Madrid
Uec.es
Watch a Spanish theatre performance
Situated among some of the most important cultural spaces in Madrid, including the Museum Prado and Thyssen Museum, the Teatro Fern n G¢mez hosts all kinds of theatre, dance and music events throughout the year.
Plaza de Col¢n – 4 – 28001 – Madrid
Teatrofernangomez.com
Backpack with a hint of luxury
Backpackers from all over the world pass through Madrid every year. Why not treat yourself and upgrade your hostel stay to the central StadMadrid. The prices are affordable and you even get your own bathroom!
Calle Barco – 10 – 28004 – Madrid
Stadmadrid.com
Take a culinary tour of Castilian cuisine
This five-day tour takes a look at traditional foods including Iberian ham, tapas and the tasty churros during a trip from Madrid to the northern city of Salamanca.
Contact info@spaindreams.com for more information
Spaindreams.com
Get your picture take with a Fertility Godess
Visit the most famous fountain of Madrid at Plaza de la Cibeles, named after Cybele, the Roman goddess of fertility. It’s one of Madrid’s most iconic symbols and depicts the goddess sitting on a chariot pulled by two lions.
Plaza de la Cibeles – 28014 – Madrid
Sightseeing-madrid.com/plaza-de-la-cibeles
Honor the Virgin of the Dove
In the old barrio of La Latina the locals celebrate the discovery of an image of the Virgen de La Paloma that Isabel Inkwell placed in the doorway of her house in 1790. It won the hearts of the neighbours and is celebrated annually on 15 August.
La Latina – 28005 – Madrid
360cities.net
Browse some local arty books
This bright and airy art space is a gallery-cum-bookstore specialising in visual arts and architecture. Thumb through inspiring design books or enjoy current exhibitions in the gallery space.
Hortaleza – 116 – 28004 – Madrid
Abgloria.com
Spend Sunday afternoon drinking from the Vermut tap
Vermut (aka Vermouth) is a local sweet fortified wine that can be found on tap in some of the tapas bars. The traditional day for Madrile¤os to eat tapas and drink from the Vermut tap is on Sundays.
Calle Bordadores – 2 – Madrid
Barel2.com
Get your creative juices flowing in an old slaughterhouse
Madrid’s city council has turned an old municipal slaughterhouse into a hub of creativity. The century-old building is now divided into ten spaces that stage plays, music performances and talks.
Paseo de la chopera – 14 – 28045 – Madrid
Mataderomadrid.org
Take a novel bar crawl of the Hemingway haunts
Ernest Hemingway wrote his only play, The Fifth Column, during his time in Madrid. Visit some of his favourite bars including Cervecer¡a Alemana – his table is the one in the near right-hand corner!
Plaza Santa Ana – 6 – 28012 – Madrid
Cerveceriaalemana.com.ar
Witness a miracle
In the Monastery of the Incarnation lies a vial of the blood of Saint Pantaleon, and on the eve of 26 July the blood is said to liquefy, a phenomenon that brings luck to all those who witness it.
Plaza de la Encarnaci¢n – 1 – 28013 – Madrid
Sacred-destinations.com
Visit Europe’s largest wine store
Here you can enjoy any of the 4,500 wines in the restaurant upstairs for the same price as in the shop as well as take part in wine tastings and excursions to nearby bodegas (wineries).
Calle de Jos‚ Ortega y Gasset 16, Madrid
Lavinia.es
Buy a tapestry fit for a queen
For a mere €10,000, why not buy a wall tapestry or a rug based on some of Goya’s sketches? The Royals and the Ritz hotel have bought some in the past so they must be special! Failing that, pop in for a browse of current exhibitions.
c/ Fuenterrab¡a – 2 – 28014 – Madrid
Realfabricadetapices.com
Visit the top arty places for a bargain price
Get your hands on an “Abono Paseo del Arte”, a museum pass that allows you to visit the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen museums at a discount. It’s valid for a year so if you’re planning on visiting all three, it’s a no brainer!
Availiable from museum box offices
Gomadrid.com
Learn to play authentic Spanish guitar
Manzanero’s guitars are famous in both the amateur and professional world. Take a trip down to his local workshop to see for yourself and admire the craftsmanship and detail that goes into each one. If you’re lucky, you may even experience the musical genius himself.
Calle de Santa Ana – 12 – 28005 – Madrid
Guitarrasmanzanero.com
Trick your tastebuds with an ice cream with a twist
With more than 35 different flavours ranging from the traditional caramel to the unusual cider or olive oil, this ice-cream parlour offers a refreshing break from the Madrid heat. With 35 years of experience in preparing these frozen temptations the diverse range available means that one is never enough!
Paseo del Pintor Rosales – 48 – Madrid – 28008
Maps.google.co.uk
People watch at a Classic Pasteler¡a
The La Mollorquina bakery is a local and tourist favourite since 1894. A sweet-tooth mecca for anyone, these sweets are prepared fresh from the oven and are melt-in-the-mouth fantastic. Drop by for fast and inexpensive delicious cakes and sweets.
c/ Mayor -2 -28013 – Madrid
Guidepal.com
View the iconic symbol of Madrid
Madrid’s famous landmark “El oso y el madro¤o” translates to “the bear and the strawberry tree”. Many myths exist as to the reasoning behind this particular design, but head on down yourself to make up your own mind! And don’t worry, the bears of Madrid have long gone.
Calle de la Bolsa – 4 – 28012 – Madrid
Enforex.com
Visit an exhibition all about extra virgin olive oil
This traditional olive warehouse is part of the Heritage Community Foundation Olivarero and aims to bring people into the world of olives and olive oil. Housed in a unique yet traditional building, each area represents the rural life and culture of olive farming.
c/ Prim – 12 – 28004 – Madrid
Pco.es
Watch horse racing at the Hippodrome of Zarzuela
A day out at the Hippodrome of Zarzuela racing tracks is sure to bring out the competitive side in anyone. Whether you choose your winner by funniest name or the point and bet method, this buzzing and lively atmosphere is a fun day for all.
Avenida Padre Huidobro – S/N – 28023 – Madrid
Hipodromodelazarzuela.es
Ski in the height of summer
Thought ski slopes belonged in the snowy mountains? Think again! Take a short trip just outside of the city and you’ll find Parque de Nieve, Europe’s biggest indoor ski slope. This slope is open all year round, regardless of the weather!
28939 – Arroyomolinos
Madridxanadu.com
Freefall at about 130 miles per hour
Not content with taking in the sights with two feet firmly on the ground? Then a tandem sky dive is just for you! Perfect for the let’s-do-that-again memories, with this experience, you get an adrenaline-packed bird’s eye view of beautiful Madrid!
Carretera Nacional de Madrid a Andaluc¡a – 4 – 45300 – Oca¤a
Skydivemadrid.com
Take a photography tour of the city
Whether you’re an avid photographer or just eager to learn, the Madrid Photo Tour is not to be missed! Learn anything from the basics to advanced skills, all while taking a trip to the secret spots and hideouts of Madrid to get the best images for your holiday collection.
Various Locations
Madridphototour.com
Go on a wild goose chase
Tired of monotonous tour guides, but still want to explore the city? Then bring out your competitive side with a Madrid Treasure Hunt! Explore all the hidden treasures and fabulous features of Madrid by avidly searching for the secrets of the city! A fun experience for the whole family!
Various Locations
Huntthegoose.co.uk
Visit Spain’s oldest pet shop
Missing your beloved furry friend back home, or just fancy a trip to oooh and aaaah at all the lovable creatures? Then take a trip to Madrid’s oldest, family-run pet shop! With more than 50 years of service dedicated to domestic animals, you might even get a new addition to the family!
Maestro Vitoria – 8 – 28013 – Madrid
Aquariummadrid.es
Discover new art galleries
Explore the international galleries of Madrid with original artwork and contemporary additions dedicated solely to representing the works of young artists. Spot the upcoming Picasso or Warhol in the making within these contemporary galleries where a younger, radical take on new and unconventional media is seen.
c/ Mar¡a Pan‚s – 7 – 28003 – Madrid
Art-madrid.com
Visit an Egyptian temple
Thought pyramids belonged in Egypt…? A gift from Egypt to Spain in the late 1960s, the Temple of Debod is one of the few Egyptian landmarks outside Egypt and the only one in Spain. A peculiar monument of Madrid but definitely not one to be missed!
Paseo Pintor Rosales – s/n – 28008 – Madrid
Inspain.org
Visit Madrid’s largest antique and second-hand bookshop
The library books Madrid opened its doors in 1985 and offers one of the largest collections of antique and second-hand books available. A collector’s haven, here you can find anything dating from the 16th to the 20th century from topics on anything from pharmacy to philosophy!
c/ Campomanes -5 -Madrid
Librosmadrid.com
Clear your mind, body and soul
You don’t need to be a supple size 6 and eat truckfuls of tofu to enjoy yoga! It suits any body shape and size from little nippers to the golden ages! Take some time out to relax and unwind in some of the most beautiful settings of Madrid.
c/ Artistas – 43 – 28020 – Madrid
city-yoga.com
Taste traditional Spanish patatas bravas
Pleasing the palate with an authentic taste of Spanish food is the challenge met with ease here at the famous Plaza de Quintana. Open since 1963, the menu has changed little since then and offers everything from the classic Madrid tapas to the house speciality patatas bravas.
c/ Alcal – 337 – 28027 – Madrid
docamar.com
Enjoy authentic Italian food
Don Giovanni is the restaurant of Sicilian chef Andrea Tumbarello. Living in Madrid since 2005, he opened this restaurant to offer a cosy place to enjoy authentic Italian food and it doesn’t disappoint! With a burst of colour and tantalising tastes the creativity served is not to be missed!
Paseo Reina Cristina – 23 – 28014 Madrid
Watch a spanish performance with your meal
The El Arrozal is another traditional Spanish restaurant, tastefully decorated with a wide range of antiques mostly from the 19th century. With 45 different varieties of rice available, you can enjoy good food while marvelling at the extensive collection of hand-painted plates by great artists.
c/ Segovia 13 – 28005 – Madrid
Elarrozal.com
Learn Spanish and gain work experience
What better way to learn Spanish than to get stuck in the midst of culture? With classes to suit all abilities, Don Quijote offers the perfect programme taught by the most experienced teachers. Learn a language while exploring its culture and gain valuable work experience.
Various Locations
Donquijote.org
Embrace your vegitarian side
A surprising hit with meat lovers, this recently converted tavern is now a vegetarian restaurant offering the best meat-free dishes within the historic centre of Old Madrid. Admire the traditional ambience of the lower levels decked in the blue-and-white tiles reminiscent of Andaluc¡an taverns.
Plaza de la Paja – 10 – 28005 – Madrid
Elestragonvegetariano.com
Visit a mini Palace in the city centre
The Museum Cerralbo houses a unique collection of traditional pieces collected by the late Enrique de Aguilera y Gamboa on his travels across Europe. Built in the late-19th century, the architecture of this building is as grand as the masterpieces it holds.
c/ Ventura Rodr¡guez – 17 – 28008 – Madrid
Museocerralbo.mcu.es
Experience the outdoors, indoors
For those adrenaline monkeys in search of the next rush, Espacio Acci¢n is for you. This well established centre offers both indoor and outdoor climbing and mountain activities guided by highly trained professionals. So get strapped up and get stuck in, an adventure is waiting!
c/ Marcelino Alvarez – 6 – 28017 – Madrid
Espacioaccion.com
See eight of the worlds eco-systems in one place
Faunia, the nature theme park in Madrid offers the opportunity to visit penguins from the South Pole, lemurs from African forest or toucans from temperate forests. An incredible adventure is waiting for you.
Avenida de las Comunidades – 28 – Madrid
Faunia.es
Enjoy a German beer
Experience genuine German cuisine in the heart of Madrid with dishes prepared by a Teutonic chef who works with food brought directly from the country. With offerings such as authentic tender knuckles and sausages, the high quality Spanish foods also on offer help remind you of your location.
Calle Princesa – 5 – Semis¢tano – 28008 – Madrid
Restaurantekruger.com
See the King of Spain
The national day of Spain (12 October) is celebrated with an annual parade in the Plaza de Col¢n. It’s presided over by the King of Spain and attended by government officials and military figures. Join in as thousands of spectators come from across the land to pay tribute at this ceremonial event.
Paseo de la Castellana to Plaza de Cibeles
Torrelodones.info
Watch the Vuelta a Espa¤a
Since 1935, the three-week international cycle race, Vuelta a Espa¤a, has been attracting cyclists from across the globe. If you’re lucky enough to be in Madrid as they pass through, then bring a packed lunch, park up on the kerb and cheer for your national team!
Paseo de la Castellana
Cyclingfans.com
Get into the top art spaces for free
La Noche en Blanco is a one-night extravaganza. Translated to “staying awake all night” you get to live the night of the city by participating in different activities. People from all origins and ages take part in this giant playground of poetry shows to live performances!
Various Locations
Renttopapartments.com
Run 10km on New years eve
Kick off the new year in style with the San Silvestre Vallecana 10k race through the capital. This is an event with great tradition that everyone who is up for it can join. More than 35,000 people joined in last year, so dust off those running shoes and set those resolutions to work.
Vallecas – 28031 – Madrid
blondietravelblog.com
Have a cocktail and a private tour
Ever wondered if Night At The Museum is based on a true story? Well now you can find out what goes on when everyone goes home with Channel Foundation, a programme offering exclusive after hours tours. Complete with a cocktail-party in the magnificent museum gardens.
Matthew Inurria – 2 – 28036, Madrid
Fundacioncanal.com
Discover Madrid in your own time
Ever feel like you’re walking with your eyes closed and missing out on all the hidden treasures? These walking routes highlight all the secrets of Madrid with specific itineraries to enable you to explore the many squares and streets of Madrid without missing out on a thing!
Various Locations
Feelmadrid.com
Soak up the Spanish culture with a coffee and a book
Whether you want to soak up the Spanish culture with a coffee and lose yourself in a good book or just sit and observe the busy hustling life of Madrid. These coffee shops are a must for a break from the hectic life of a tourist!
San Joaqu¡n – 3 – 28004 Madrid
Tiposinfames.com
Warm up over a breakfast coffee
When the weather gets cold or you want to escape from all the tourism, take shelter in the many coffee shops Madrid has to offer. Admire magnificent views of the city or bask in the decadence of a beautiful traditional setting. These places have nothing on Starbucks!
Various Locations
Taste the infamous Goson Noir from Nunos
Another one for the sweet-toothed. Step into this surprisingly large bakery and patisserie full of sugary treasures. From their year-round offering of the popular Christmas Rosc¢n de Reyes to Belgian brioches, all treats are handmade by the Patisserie Champion of 2009 and his team.
Calle de Narv ez – 63 – 28009 – Madrid
Nunos.es
Enjoy the greenery in El Jard¡n de Serrano
This elegant shopping centre located in two restored 19th-century mansions is a pleasant and relaxing boutique outlet. With small, local and larger international outlets, they offer anything from fashion and jewellery to lunch and dinner. If you’re lucky, you might even catch one of the exhibitions on show.
c/ Goya – 6 – 8 – 28001 – Madrid
Jardindeserrano.es
Eat tapas with the locals
La Chata is one of the most traditional and authentic taverns in the city with its heavily ornamented tile facade depicting traditional scenes from Old Madrid. And it doesn’t stop there; with more tiles on the inside and a stand-up tapas bar at the entrance, this place screams tradition.
Calle Cava Baja, 24 28005 Madrid
Lachatamadrid.com
Spend a day in the snow
Venture just outside of Madrid and you’ll find Spain’s largest ski resort, La Pinilla. This place offers a break from the seaside image of Spain with terrain park for snowboards. With 24 pistes and a 773m vertical descent, this is best left to the intermediate to advanced skiers!
Carretera Pinilla – S/N – 40592 – Cerezo de Arriba
Lapinilla.es
See some of the citys best street art
Take a tour along the streets of Madrid and marvel at some of the magnificent urban street art completed by local and visiting artists. Get inspired by the colourful masterpieces and bask in the beauty of simplicity and realism. And the best thing, it’s all free!
Various Locations
Flickr.com/streetartmadrid
Sip cocktails in a vintage caf‚
With the authentic charm of a vintage doll house, Lolina is a cafe that prides itself on its original furniture and d‚cor taken straight from the 1950s, 60’s and 70’s. This place has everything including the cocktail party atmosphere where you can hear classics from your favourite decade.
Calle del Esp¡ritu Santo – 9 – 28004 – Madrid
Lolinacafe.com
See a film at the Madrid International Film Festival
You don’t have to be a world renowned filmmaker to enjoy the International Film Festival of Madrid. It shows everything from small independent films to Hollywood blockbusters. With all genres in a diverse range of languages, this celebration is open to all with a love of film.
Various Locations
Madridinternationalfilmfestival.com
Complete 18 holes in a game of mini golf
Mini-golf is always fun, but nocturnal mini-golf is better! Pot holes in this crazy night time adventure complete with fluorescent decorations, laser effects and robotic lighting! Open until late, you can challenge your friends while dancing the night away to the house music on offer.
Madrid Xanadu mall – A5, exit 22, Madrid
Minigolfmadrid.com
Immerse yourself in a private flamenco class
Immerse yourself in the Spanish culture by learning the rhythm of the ancient flamenco dance and learn skills to make your friends back home blush! A qualified teacher will guide you as you learn to move to the latino beat like a professional!
Various Locations
Henorita.com
Splash around in the aquapark
Take the family for a splash at Aquapolis, the largest water park in Europe. Complete with a variety of different pools and exciting rides! Those looking to stay dry can entertain themselves with the onsite go-kart track or grab a bite in the picnic areas.
Villanueva de la Canada – 28691 – Madrid
Aspainattraction.com
Take a trip to the largest palace in Europe
See how the monarchs of Spain live and take a trip to the Palacio Real. Used by the Royals until the 1930s, this palace is said to be the largest in Europe housing a whopping 2,800 rooms with more than 44 staircases and 270 balconies!
Calle Bailen -0 – 28001 -Madrid
Ctspanish.com
Keep up to date with the latest events
To get the latest info on what’s going on within Madrid in the time you’re there, grab a copy of InMadrid. A free monthly magazine written entirely in English, it gives you the entire insider scoop on the latest art, theatre and nightlife happening in the capital.
Various Locations
In-madrid.com
Explore Madrid’s medieval old quarter
Explore Madrid’s medieval history with this impressive guided walking tour. It will take you through the historical streets of the Madrid Old Town including a stop off at the Royal Palace. For a relaxing day full of sight-seeing, this tour is a particular highlight.
Various Locations
Madridtoursandtravel.com
Learn the tips and tricks of travelling in spain
Learn the tips of the travelling trade in Spain with this handy guide! The Spanish culture is like no other and whether you’re stuck on how to tip, pay the bill or are just want to get to grips with their timing, here are some handy know-how’s.
Various Locations
Latortugaviajera.com
Get tickets to the latest VIP events
Party like a film star as you spend the night getting A-List treatment with this luxurious VIP treatment package offered by Madrid Deluxe. Enjoy the best shows, live concerts and more from the most exclusive locations. It may not come cheap, but it’s worth every penny.
Various Locations
Le-citydeluxe.com
