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Travel guide to Madrid

Welcome to Madrid! The city that never sleeps. Get ready to immerse yourself in the capital with a guide to the city that will help you discover all its hidden treasures.

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Your essential travel guide

A perfect route for the curious and adventurous travelers who want to learn more about all the history, the cuisine and the most authentic culture of this amazing city. Madrid, with its elegant architecture and bustling squares, is a place that awakens a passion for urban exploration.

From the iconic Retiro Park to the majestic Gran Vía, every corner tells a different story. Join us on a trip through the Spanish capital and discover what makes Madrid an incomparable travel destination.

What should you not miss when visiting Madrid?

With its unmistakable charm, Madrid is a city that is home to some of the most beautiful treasures in Spain. From masterpieces in world-famous museums to the romantic Retiro Park, Madrid offers unforgettable experiences for all visitors.

The city is proud of its rich artistic traditions, and is home to the famous “Art Triangle”, which includes the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. There are also other vitally important attractions such as the Royal Palace, the Almudena Cathedral and the Plaza Mayor, true symbols of Madrid history and culture.

And there’s no better way to discover Madrid than a stroll through its neighbourhoods. Each of them offers a different experience, from the historic Madrid de los Austrias to the lively district of Chueca. Madrid’s nightlife is another of the reasons why thousands of tourists fall in love with the city. Flamenco bars, fashionable terraces and centuries-old taverns guarantee unforgettable evenings.

Madrid tourist guides: Which one to choose?

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Choosing the right Madrid guide is vital in ensuring you enjoy your stay in the city to the full. There are numerous options, from printed guides that you can buy or request at a point of interest, to mobile apps that offer you personalized routes and advice from local people. For a tailor-made experience, look for guides that are constantly updated and provide detailed information on cultural events, temporary exhibitions and/or shows. A good tourist guide should be intuitive, easy to use and full of practical advice to help you explore the city like an expert.

The Madrid tourist guides include detailed maps, multi-day walking routes and restaurant and accommodation recommendations. Many guide books also offer discounts and special offers for tourist attractions. Remember that the best guide is the one that adapts to your personal interests.

Our hotels in Madrid

Discover the secrets of Madrid neighborhoods

Madrid is made up of numerous neighbourhoods, each with its own personality. Explore these different neighborhoods and discover hidden corners of Madrid and the diversity of its culture. You can start with Malasaña, with its bohemian air and streets decorated with urban art. It is the perfect place for lovers of vintage art and alternative culture. The “Madrid de los Austrias”, on the other hand, will transport you to the past with its imperial architecture and cobbled streets.

The elegance of the Salamanca district is home to the best haute couture shops and luxury restaurants. A little further south, the vibrant and multicultural Lavapiés will surprise you with its markets, independent theaters and a great choice of international dishes. And not forgetting La Latina, the perfect area for tapas and the authentic Madrid atmosphere.

Madrid cuisine: Where to eat?

The cuisine in Madrid is a reflection of the variety and richness of Spanish culture. Here you can find typical dishes such as Madrid-style stew or innovative dishes from chefs with Michelin stars. For an authentic experience, visit the San Miguel Market to buy a wide range of tapas and local products. The historic restaurants and centuries-old taverns are mandatory stops to try the fantastic and delicious typical Madrid cuisine.

Madrid also offers a choice of international cuisine that is on a par with the great capitals of the world. From Japanese to Peruvian cuisine, the options are endless and will satisfy every taste. Remember to book in advance if you don’t want to run out of seats in the most central or popular restaurants in Madrid, especially if you are going to have lunch or dinner during the busiest times of day.

How to get around Madrid easily?

Madrid has excellent public transport that allows you to get around the city and its surroundings. The metro, buses and local trains are quick and economical ways to get to every point of interest. For guests who prefer comfort and flexibility, taxis and private transport services are available at all times. Madrid is also committed to sustainable mobility, which is why it offers car, bike, scooter and electric scooter rentals to allow you to get around with no problems.

One of the most pleasant ways to discover hidden corners of Madrid is by walking. Most tourist attractions are within walking distance, allowing you to capture the essence of the city. For a more technological experience, use the QR codes in strategic locations around the city which provide updated Madrid tourist information and maps.

Madrid museums: Which ones to visit?

Museums and art in the capital are synonymous with a wealth of cultural attractions that you really must not miss. The Prado Museum is a must for all art lovers with its impressive collection of classical works. The Reina Sofía Art Center features modern and contemporary art, highlighting the iconic work of Picasso, "Guernica". The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum also enhances the art scene with a diverse collection that dates from the Renaissance to the 20th century.

In addition to these great names, there are also numerous specialist museums and galleries that are well worth a visit, such as the Sorolla Museum, dedicated to the Valencian painter Joaquín Sorolla, and the National Archaeological Museum, with treasures from Spanish history. Madrid's cultural calendar is full of temporary exhibitions, so there is always something new to explore. Stay in Madrid and discover all the charms the city has to offer with this guide to the capital. Get ready to fall in love with Madrid. You’re ready!

Stay in Madrid and discover all the charms the city has to offer with this guide to the capital. Get ready to fall in love with Madrid. You’re ready!

The content on this page has been created by Artificial Intelligence and reviewed to complete your journey.

By Virginia Menacho

Journalist specialized in travel. She studied at the Complutense University of Madrid and since she finished her studies she has dedicated herself to travel and to enjoy one of her great passions, walking on the beach.