Hola! Are you thinking of traveling to Spain? Then consider visiting Madrid. Located on the river Manzanares, it has more cloudless days than most other European cities.
Things To Do When Visiting Madrid:
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Royal Palace (Palacio Real) - Is the largest building in Madrid and the largest royal palace in Western Europe. See furniture, paintings, tapestries, and other works of art. The palace has 3,000 rooms, of which 50 are open to the public. Visits can be planned year round except on Christmas and when an official ceremony is planned.
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Catedral de Santa Maria la Real de la Almudena - Construction began in 1883, and was not completed until 1993. It is the biggest church in Madrid.
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Prado Museum - On display at the world's largest art gallery are paintings, coins, drawings, and more.
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The Rastro Flea Market - Shop with the locals at this open air flea market that has over 3,500 vendors.
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Las Ventas - Madrid's main bullfighting ring. The season runs from March-October, but the best time to watch a fight is during the San Isidro bullfight festival that is held for three weeks in late May into early June.
Sightseeing Options:
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Hop-on, Hop-off bus tour - Ride along and see great views of the city from the top deck of the bus. You can get on or off as often as you would like. The complete ride takes about 75 minutes, and the bus is handicap accessible. Does not run on January 1st, orSeptember 18th.
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Bravo Bike - Cycle around the city on this three hour bike tour and see many popular sights. Will stop for a break. Must be 10 years or older to participate.
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The Teleferico - The cable car will carry you over Madrid for an amazing birds-eye view. Ride lasts about 10 minutes.
Relax at the End of the Day:
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Chocolateria de San Gines - Taste Spanish cuisine and enjoy their specialty dessert - chocolate con churros. Light, crispy sticks of fried dough that are served with thick, hot chocolate for dipping.
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Corral de la Moreria - See the best flamenco in the city at this premier restaurant.
Tips:
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Peak season is June - August, and late December - early January.
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For an easier visit, purchase a Madrid Card - You will gain entry to over 50 museums, sights, and tours, including the "Discover Madrid" walking tour. The card also allows you to see a theater show, and gives you discounts on restaurants and shopping. The time limit on the card ranges from 24 hours to 120 hours from the first time the card is used.
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If you want to travel around the city on public transportation, buy a Madrid Tourist Travel Pass. Cards are good for one to seven days depending on what suits your needs. Valid anywhere in Zone A or Zone T, and includes buses and the subway.
Madrid is one of the stops on our Port Wine & Flamenco River Cruise Trip. Find out more by downloading the itinerary.
