To keep in mind: Early October in Madrid typically has average temperatures ranging from 60 to 77°F with high humidity. Bring light clothing, a hat, hand fan, and comfortable shoes for exploring the city. It is very important to stay hydrated specially during the day! Plan to bring an insulated bottle to keep the water cold or ensure to buy water from a nearby store before heading out in town. Notes on transportation: Cabs are inexpensive, reliable, and easy to hail. Airport transfers generally have a flat fee of €30. Although Uber operates in Madrid, it is recommended to download an application called 'Cabify' to have as a backup. Lastly, be cautious of pickpockets at all times and mostly around crowded places.

Visit Madrid's Golden Triangle of Art

It consists of 3 world-renowned museums, the Museo del Prado, Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, which are home to some of the world’s most priceless art collections, featuring masterpieces by renowned artists such as Velázquez, Goya, Picasso, El Greco and many more! Book tickets in advance to avoid wasting time in line.

Wander Around Gran Via, Cibeles, Retiro and the Puerta de Alcala

Walk along Gran Vía, one of Madrid's main avenues known for its vibrant atmosphere, recognizable buildings, and bustling shopping districts. Admire the historic architecture, shop at designer boutiques, and enjoy a coffee or cocktail at one of the many cafes and bars lining the street.

Stroll through Plaza de Cibeles, one of Madrid’s most picturesque sites and home to the Cibeles fountain (Greek goddess of fertility), the Cibeles Palace and Spain’s Central Bank.

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the expansive and picturesque Retiro Park, paddle a boat on the pond, or simply relax amid lush greenery.

End your walk at Puerta de Alcalá, a majestic triumphal arch built in 1778 during the reign of King Carlos III, serving as one of the five royal gates that once provided access to the city.

Discover Plaza Mayor

Immerse yourself in one of Madrid's most iconic and historically significant squares, surrounded by elegant buildings, lively cafes, and street performers. Fried squid sandwiches are a staple street food in Plaza Mayor.

Enjoy Tapas at the San Miguel Market

Conveniently located outside Plaza Mayor, the San Miguel market features a wide array of Spanish delicacies, tapas, and culinary delights. Visitors can sample everything from freshly shucked oysters, Iberian ham, artisanal cheeses, paella, fideua (Erika's favorite), croquettes, ice-cream and more.

Explore the Royal Palace

Tour the opulent Royal Palace of Madrid and marvel at its grand architecture and luxurious

interiors inspired by Bernini’s sketches for the Louvre. To date, the palace remains the official residence of the Spanish royal family and the largest functioning royal palace in Europe. Important note: The Changing of the Guard takes place on the first Wednesday of every month (October 2) and Saturdays at noon. The ceremony is held in the Plaza de la Armería of the palace, and is free to attend through the Puerta de Santiago.

Best Sunsets Spots

-Hotel Riu Plaza España has a rooftop terrace with stunning panoramic views.

-The Principal Hotel has a cafeteria on its rooftop where you have the best views of the iconic Metropoli building

-Dani Brasserie is a restaurant at the Four Seasons

-Azotea del Circulo de Bellas Artes

Indulge in Spanish Cuisine

As the capital of Spain, Madrid boasts a diverse and vibrant culinary scene that reflects the country's rich gastronomic heritage. While it's impossible to pinpoint a single cuisine in Madrid due to the city's diverse offerings, a couple of the standout landmarks are: Sobrino de Botin, established in 1725 and the world's oldest restaurant, famous for its traditional Castilian cuisine, including Cochinillo (suckling pig); Lhardy, established in 1839, is a historic restaurant known for its traditional Spanish dishes, including cocido madrileño (Madrid-style stew) and pastries; and Chocolateria San Gines, founded in 1894, serves the best chocolate con churros in Madrid. Alternatively, you can also enjoy the national pastime of tapas anywhere around the city but easy found in the neighborhood La Latina.

Must-try Restaurants:

-La Maruca, has multiple locations

-La Ancha

-Arzabal

-Horcher

-Lateral, multiple locations

-Restaurante Las Tortillas de Gabino

-Meat

-Bocadillo de Jamon y Champan

-La Tasquita de Enfrente

-Morao, multiple locations

-La Maquina

-Lobito de Mar

-Paco Roncero at Casino de Madrid

-Sala de Despiece (tasting menu)

-BiBo

-Santceloni

-Viridiana

-Federal Cafe

**Lunchtime tends to be between 2-4pm and dinner 9-11pm. You should still be able to find earlier reservations if desired. Avoid restaurants that has people outside trying to drag you in and always ask if their paella is premade.

Learn about Spain’s Traditional Bullfighting at Las Ventas

Considered by many the most important bullring in the world, Las Ventas is not only a sporting venue but also a symbol of Spanish identity and heritage. Visitors can take guided tours of the bullring and museum to learn about the history and significance of bullfighting in Spanish culture.

Visit the Best Football (Soccer) Stadium in the World

Home to Real Madrid CF, the world’s top football (soccer) club, the Santiago Bernabeu is one of the most famous football stadiums, having hosted all major competitions (including European and World Cup finals) across its 75-year history. Also, recent state-of-the-art renovations have transformed the Bernabeu into the most advanced football stadium and a marvel of engineering.

Experience Flamenco

Although originally from southern Spain (Andalucia), Madrid boasts many tablaos (flamenco venues) where you can witness the passion and intensity of this captivating Spanish art form. You can watch the frenetic spectacle in big touristy venues such as Cardamomo and Teatro Flamenco or smaller cozy venues like Las Tablas or Las Carboneras, which make up for their size with the big flamenco artists they attract.

Stores & Shopping

Hours tend to range from 10-11am until 9-10pm. Most shops close on Sundays.

-Calle Serrano has luxury and local stores side by side including Castañer (best Spanish espadrilles), Loewe, Zara and Massimo Dutti and many more.

-El Corte Ingles is a one-stop-shop department store with many locations throughout Madrid. It is the equivalent of Saks Fifth Avenue. They have a tourist "passport" where you get 10% back on everything and they even process your tax refunds.

-Las Rozas Village is an outlet about 30 minute car ride outside of Madrid.

**Do note that you can get tax refund on purchases over $60 if you live outside the EU. Just keep the receipts and process them at the airport before departuring.

If traveling by train, it is recommended to take the AVE, which is the high-speed train. Use this link to view schedules and book tickets in advance: https://www.renfe.com/es/en

El Escorial

•45-60 minutes by car or 60-70 minutes by train (from Chamartin train station)

•Must see: Valle de los Caidos, Royal Basilica of San Lorenzo and Frailes Garden

Segovia

•70-90 minutes by car or 30-60 minutes by train (from Chamartin train station)

•Must see: Roman Aqueduct, Alcazar of Segovia, Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, Segovia Cathedral and the Jewish Quarter. Must try Cochinillo aka suckling pig.

Toledo

•60-70 minutes by car or 40 minutes by train (from Atocha train station)

•Must see: Medieval architecture, ancient synagogues, and stunning views of the Tagus River.

Valladolid

•2.5 hours by car or 1 hour by train (from Chamartin train station)

•Must see: House of Cervantes, Campo Grande park