Madrid is a great city with lots of different neighborhoods.
La Latina, Lavapies, Chueca, and Malasaña are equally as good during the day as they are at night. These 4 neighborhoods are filled with different cafes, resturants, bars, and secondhand stores. Salamanca offers a more luxurious shopping experience and Michelin star restaurants. Chamberi is a more traditional aristocratic area. Sol-Gran Via is the heart of the city (aka Times Square). Barrio de las letras is home to many Spanish Golden Age literature authors.
The best way to enjoy the city is to walk around and discover new places. Trust your instincts!
ACTIVITIES
Spain's main art museum. It includes artists from the 12th to the 20th century, such as Goya, Velazquez, Bosch, amongst many others.
Contemporary art museum. Most famous for Picasso's Guernica, or many Dali pieces.
Madrid's Royal Palace is located in the Plaza de Oriente, in front of the Royal Theatre and next to Madrid's Cathedral, La Almudena. It's by far one of the most beautiful corners in all of Madrid. You can also book a palace tour if you're looking for the full experience.
For the sports fan, the world's biggest club - Real Madrid. The stadium was recently renovated, and is an icon of the city. For those in Madrid on the 30th, there will be a Real Madrid game at home. If you're not here during that time, the tour of the stadium is fun.
Spring is a great season to visit the parks. El Parque del Retiro is Madrid's Central Park. You can visit the crystal palace and take a boat on the lake, or simply walk around and enjoy. Great spot for a picnic lunch.
Every Sunday from 9AM to 3PM, Madrid's largest flea market takes place in one of the most quaint neighborhoods. You can find anything from vintage clothing to home goods. We recommend touring the area even on a regular day.
Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BC that was transported to Spain as a gift in the 70s.
FOOD
Great spot for Spanish tapas. Can be busy, so we recommend avoiding Spanish meal times (2pm lunch/9pm dinner). Try the carrillera, the bravas, and the huevos rotos.
The best places to try food are within the local markets. We recommend Antón Martín, in the southern center of the city, and Vallehermoso in the northwestern center. Some favorites: Kitchen 154, and Biang Biang in Vallehermoso; and Asian Army, Yokaloka, and Casa Jaguar in Antón Martín.
A Jazz pintxos (small tapas) restaurant with a wide variety. Great for an afternoon snack.
Open since 1894, the most famous churros in town.
Classic American brunch spot with Eggs Benny and Mimosas. Best Holandaise in town. Make sure to get a reservation at least a couple days in advance.
Another great brunch alternative. Smaller, in a beautiful area called Lavapies.
Our favorite restaurant - Georgian cuisine. Be sure to get a reservation in advance.
Drinks
The best local vermouth in Madrid.
Finest asian inspired cocktails in Chueca.
Speakeasy - never been, let us know.
Great place to have a glass of wine. Huge variety.
Thrifting
Magpie is a great store. This entire street is filled with incredible thrifstores. Spend a couple hours going in and out of each store.
Another great option for thrifting are the Vintage Humanas. There are many around the city, make sure you go to the ones specifically labled as Vintage (it will specify on google maps).