Madrid, Capital of Spain

Currency: Euro

Language: Spanish

Tax Refund: Can be done when leaving European Union

Best way is to take the metro from the airport to SOL where you could connect to all parts of the city

Attractions

Plaza Mayor

Perhaps the best known plaza in Madrid, this impressive square is now one of the main stops on any tourist visit. Originally built outside the city walls, this enclosed square has played host to bullfights, markets, symphonies, tournaments and executions. Today it is ringed with tourist shops, cafes and restaurants. The statue of Philip III sits in the middle.

Royal Palace

One of the biggest palace in Europe, in the past the royal family used to stay here. It is important to note that photography is not allowed inside. The nearest metro station is opera but the palace is within walking distance. Cost around 10 Euro per person to enter. Open from 10am to 8pm.

Plaza de Cibeles

A massive roundabout at the intersection of Calle de Alcala and Paseo del Prado, this plaza houses one of Madrid’s emblems. Major attractions includes the Fountain of Cibeles, which portrays the Roman goddess of fertility sitting upon a chariot pulled by two lions. On the southeast corner dominating the Plaza is one of the world’s most beautiful city halls, the Palacio de Cibeles and the Bank of Spain (Banco de España) building. Within walking distance of SOL.

El Retiro Park

The most famous park in Madrid City, able to just walk around in the cooling weather and enjoy the surroundings. There is a lake in the middle also, it is located behind Prado museum. 

Prado Museum

The 3rd largest museum in the world, contain many master piece, located on the way to Retiro Park. Open from 1000 to 2000 from Mon to Sat, till 1900 on Sun. Free entrance from 6pm and 5pm from Sun.

Real Madrid F.C

Nearest metro: Santiago Bernabeu

One of the greatest soccer stadium in the world with the glamour of well known soccer stars that will awe you. A visit to this stadium definitely can’t be missed when youa re only a stone throw away. Even if you aren’t lucky enough to catch a match, you should definitely come for the stadium tour.

Shopping

Puerta Del Sol

Nearest metro: SOL

Extremely common for tourists with all the famous brands especially Inditex brands, the official center of Madrid, walking distance from and to most attractions. Nearby Plaza Mayor, the famous chocolateria San Gines is also nearby. The only shopping place that is open on Sunday.

Gran Via

Nearest metro: Gran Via, Callao.

One of the busiest avenue in Madrid. It is the Broadway from plaza de espana to plaza de cibeles. Can walk on the way after visiting the plaza mayor.

El Rastro (Flea Market)

El Rastro de Madrid or simply el Rastro is the most popular open air flea market in Madrid. It is held every Sunday and public holiday during the year, must be carefully of pickpockets. Open from 9 am to 3 pm. Although it sells many second hand items, it is still worth walking around. 

Serrano Area

Metro: Serrano

The prime area of Madrid where the luxury thrives, most of the luxury brands can be found here including Prada, Gucci, and LV.

Restaurants

Mercado de San Miguel

A traditional glass markets selling all sorts of food. Expensive but good for the experiences. Extremely crowded at night. Open till late. Extremely near to Plaza Mayor.

Las Bravas

Pasaje Matheu, 5, 28012 Madrid, Spain

Famous for its Brava Sauce, 2 of their restaurant are located near each other. Within proximity to SOL and Plaza Mayor makes it an ideal location. Great place for some light bites. Highly recommended are its fried potatoes and tortilla.

Chocolatería San Ginés

Calle de Pasadizo De San Ginés 5 (metro: Sol)

Specializing in chocolate con churros, this Madrid fixture is open 24 hours a day. The perfect place to top off a night on the town. Also offers the usual assortment of coffees and teas. Good to spend the night rather than a bar.                                    

La Zapateria Tapas Bar

Calle de Victoria 8 (Metro: Sevilla)

Great potato dishes that come mixed with chorizo or other ingredients. Also try the pincho moruno (pork skewers) or something else displayed on ice in the front window. The Ribeiro on tap (sparkling white wine from Galicia) is not to be missed. Cheap and good. Highly recommended.                                    

Las Cuevas de Luis Candelas

C/ de Los Cuchilleros, 1, 28005 Madrid, Spain

Located within touching distance from Plaza Mayor, this restaurant are famous for its roast dishes. Definitely have to order the roast piglet and lamb. Open from 1300 till 0000, Fri and Sat till 0030. Reservation are highly recommended.

Restaurant Botin

17 Calle Cuchilleros, 28005 Madrid, Spain

Known as the oldest restaurant in the world, Botin is famous for its sucking pig and roasted lamb. Located near to Plaza Mayor and SOL. Definitely not on the affordable side, the main cost around 20 euros and a 3 course meal cost around 40. Open from 1300 to 1600 and 2000 till 0000. Reservation are highly recommended.

El Tigre

Calle de los Infantas 30 (Metro: Gran Vía / Chueca)

Probably the most well-known tapas bar in Madrid, a must do. Don’t get frightened by how crowded the bar is and go in anyway. This is one of the liveliest places in the city! Get beers, big glasses of wine or “un mini de mojito” and get free big plates of tapas every time you order, open from 1130 to 0130, closed on Sun.

Café Mur

Plaza Cristino Martos, 2, 28015 Madrid, España

A nice breakfast place located while on the way to the Royal palace, great for brunch also with affordable prices. Open from 0900 to 2200 from Mon to Thurs, 0200 to 0900 on Fri, 1000 to 0200 on sat and 1100 to 2200 on sun

La Rollerie

Calle de Atocha, 20, 28012 Madrid

Famed for its pastries especially its cinnamon roll. It is a place that served up excellent breakfast and brunch. Located near plaza mayor and sol on Calle Atocha. Open from 0800 in the morning.