You’ve just arrived in Madrid, and you’ve heard it’s a city that’s packed with things to do and see, but where does one start? We know everything there is to know about Madrid, and we’ve prepared a list of our top plans in Madrid.
It is easy to see why so many people decide to move to the Spanish capital. The people are friendly, the transport is efficient and reliable and so you’ll always find something to do. In this guide, we’ve included everything from the best places to enjoy the sunset, some great spots for traditional Spanish bocadillos and not-so-traditional, but delicious, breakfast. We’ve also included something for the thrill-seekers, the history-lovers and some special recommendations for the type of person who just likes to sit down and have a drink and watch the world go by (with incredible views obviously!). Just like Madrid, this guide has something for everyone.
1. The secret viewpoint at the Monument to Alfonso XII in Retiro Park
Visiting Retiro is one of the best plans in Madrid as it is one of the largest parks in Madrid covering 350 acres of Madrid’s city centre. Not only is Retiro the perfect park to sit back and relax, but it is also home to the Velazquez Palace and the Palacio de Cristal del Retiro which often have art exhibitions. There’s a lake in the centre where you can rent a boat and paddle around in the sunshine!
Located to the east of the lake is the monument to Alfonso XII. The group of sculptures hides a secret viewpoint from which you can enjoy some stunning views. You’ll have views of the Salamanca neighbourhood, the Literary Quarter and some iconic buildings on the Gran Vía
2. Head to the Círculo de Bellas Artes!
Who doesn’t love a cocktail? And even moreso with views of the city from a rooftop bar! Madrid is home to many rooftop bars and this one, in particular, is spectacular. Azotea del Círculo is located in the centre of Madrid at the Círculo de Bellas Artes. There is a €5 admission fee, and although it is a little pricey, the amazing views make it worthwhile so we recommendyou add it your list of things to do in Madrid!
3. Take a step back in time at the Chamberi ghost Metro station
Have you ever looked at Madrid’s extensive underground Metro system and thought to yourself “How did this all start?”. The Chamberí ghost station gives you a glimpse into just how the underground looked when it started in 1919. You can see the original platforms, walls, arches, and advertising panels as they have been fully restored thanks to the Andén cero project. It’s also free to go in!
4. Soak in the sun and take a dip at a public swimming pool
What better way to spend a long, hot sunny day than soaking up the sunshine and cooling of when necesary in one of Madrid’s many public pools. Casa de Campo has a public swimming pool that is definitely worth a visit! It has three pools to choose from and plenty of grass areas so you can sunbathe and soak up the Spanish sun. It costs just €1.80 to get in and you can buy a pass for the morning (10am to 3pm) or the evening (4pm to 9pm). The pool is accessible from the metro lines 6 and 10 and is located beside the Casa de Campo park.
5. Take a trip to the IKONO museum
Madrid has plenty of museums to roam around but this is one you won’t want to miss. IKONO is a one-of-a-kind space in Madrid that combines contemporary art and photography whilst taking you on a sensory journey. The experience lasts 60 minutes and costs €12.50.
6. Try Madrid’s famous bocadillo de calamares next to Plaza Mayor
What is more iconic than Madrid’s Plaza Mayor and their famous bocadillo de calamres? The Cervezeria Sol Mayor is located beside Plaza Mayor and is the perfect place to get a bocadillo. Most people order it to go and enjoy it sitting on a bench in the plaza. Don’t worry if the bocadillos de calamares aren’t for you, you can enjoy other typical Spanish foods like patatas bravas and croquetas too.
7. Visit Madrid´s Desert City in San Sebastian de los Reyes
Even with Madrid´s hot sunny days, I bet you didn’t know it had a desert city. Located in San Sebastian de Los Reyes, Desert City is a biotechnological nursery specialised in zero landscaping. Here you can see diverse cacti, palm tree forests, olive trees, lavender and so much more. They are also available to purchase to the general public. You can take the intercity bus 171 from Plaza Castilla.
8. Grab a delicious breakfast from La Desayunaria in Chueca
Madrid has so many amazing places to eat and it has some great places for brunch and breakfast. La Desayunaria is an amazing breakfast/brunch place that is based in the Chueca neighborhood. They have everything from pancakes and waffles to grilled sandwiches and fried chicken. One for the foodies who are looking for plans in Madrid. Although it is not a typical Spanish breakfast it is still worth the visit as we think it’s one of the best breakfasts in Madrid. Just make sure you get there before you plan to eat as there is normally a queue down the street to get a table!
For a more typical Spanish breakfast, you can check out any of the hundreds of local bars in the city where they’re sure to serve tostada con tomate y aceite or Spanish tortilla with a cafe con leche for a very cheap price.
9. Get an adrenaline rush at Madrid’s Warner Bros attraction park
Everyone loves the thrill of a rollercoaster, no matter what age you are and Madrid’s Warner Bros attraction park is no different! Accessible by public transport the park is located in the southeast of Madrid. It is something for the thrill-seeking newbies looking for plans in Madrid! Some of the park’s most popular rides are included; Superman, Stuntfall, Batman and for a splash the Rio Bravo.
10. Watch the sunset from the Temple of Debod
The Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple that was gifted to Spain by Egypt in 1968. From this temple, there are beautiful views of the Royal Palace and the Parque del Oeste. It’s the perfect place to sit down and watch the sunset over the city with the Temple of Debod behind you. Why not take ablanket and picnic and relax while the sun sets.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][vc_column_text]
Madrid has so much to offer and this guide is only the tip of the iceberg. Whether it is a hot summer’s day or a cloudy fall day, you will always find some plans in Madrid. Why not check out our blog for everything you need to know about Spain and learning Spanish whilst in Madrid. Head over to our Facebook and let us know in the comments what plans you will be making! And don’t forget to tag us in your Instagram posts whilst in Madrid.
