In the city rivalry between Madrid and Barcelona, Madrid is the Melbourne and Barcelona is the Sydney. By that I meant that Madrid may not have the instant allure of beaches, major architectural sights like the La Sagrada Familia or epitomize the stereotypes of Spain…Madrid will instead blow you over with it’s culture – on the streets, in the city squares, the food and its people. It’s possible to do a lot in a one day in Madrid even on a tight budget – I barely spent 50 euro in a space of 12 hours!
My first impression of Madrid’s urban dwellers? Chic. The ladies know how to dress in Madrid and are always stylish and glamorous. They made wearing heels in 35 degree heat look comfortable! For me travelling in style in hot weather means wearing practical day time shoes like thongs/flip flops or sandals!
Stroll around in Parque el Retiro
The city’s biggest park stretches over 130 hectares. It was originally built in the 15th century by King Phillips IV as a retreat for the royal family and was home to the Real Sitio del Buen Retiro palace. Most of the palace was destroyed in the Napoleonic wars and now only parts remain, including what is now the army museum.Visitors can hire row boats and cruise along in the lake in the shadow of the King Alfonso II monument. Street musicians perform along the main paths. There’s many smaller gardens and nooks and crannies where many locals were asleep, finding respite from the heat!
Explore Madrid’s streets
I was pleasantly surprised by the cleanliness of the city. The little things surprised me, like the handpainted street signs, narrow laneways and laid back vibe. I was expecting more bustling, non-stop city traffic. There was a protest in Puerto del Sol – the ‘heart of the city’ so it was blocked off but nonetheless the city felt safe with policemen happy to help us with directions to the metro.
Gawk at the architecture
The historic city has many buildings from the Spanish Empire including the Royal Palace and Town Hall. Walking along the busiest street, Gran Via, is a great way to see the mix of old and new Madrid.
Visit the El Prado Museum
It’s free after 6pm! Madrid’s most well-known museum has thousands of artworks. The European collection ranges from 12th to 19th Century artworks and classic contemporary Spanish artworks. My Prado museum highlights included The Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymous Bosch and The Third of May: the Executions on Príncipe Pío by Goya.
Eat and drink outside in a plaza
Plaza Major is a bit touristy but it’s a great place for people-watching! There are many other smaller city squares with outdoor seating, including some which have cooling mist water spraying over you as you sip on sangria.
Eating tapas outside and watching the glow of sunset is a great way to end an evening in Madrid.
