Madrid is a fantastic destination for people looking to experience authentic Spanish life. It’s a cultural and artistic hub, which makes it particularly popular option for Spanish-English language exchanges.
Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a little longer, you’ll almost certainly fall in love with Madrid’s bustling, energetic, and vibrant atmosphere. From day to night, there’s countless things to do and see to keep those with varying tastes and budgets occupied.
And if there’s one thing you should know about Madrilenians its that they love to socialise. They are also very friendly. So you definitely won’t be short on opportunities to practice your Spanish speaking and listening skills.
Here we reveal the top things to do during your weekend in the Spanish capital.
Visit the Royal Palace
Madrid is packed full of stunning architecture. The jewel in the crown has to be the Royal Palace of Madrid. The official residence of the Spanish royal family, the Royal Palace is now open to the public. It’s the largest functioning palace in Europe and you’ll be able to explore every inch of its 135,000 square metres.
The Royal Palace contains over three thousand rooms, each as ornately decorated as the last. Whilst its grounds are impeccably presented as you’d expect.We Are Travel Girls shares their experience admiring the ‘Palacio Real’ and its magnificent gardens:
“In my opinion, the Royal Palace of Madrid is the most impressive monument of the capital. It’s so majestic from the outside and the inside is even more beautiful with its stunning frescoes and luxurious decor so you must go inside despite the queue (only 11€ for an adult ticket). You can also walk around the lovely Sabatini Gardens which used to be where the royal stables were.”
The palace is home to a number of art exhibitions, with national and international talent both proudly on display. Art lovers will also want to visit Museo Reina Sofía and Museo Nacional del Prado, art museums that have a world-renowned reputations for showcasing the best collections.
Explore Plaza Mayor
The epicentre of Old Madrid, public space Plaza Mayor offers an insight into city life. In addition to being one of the prettiest places in Spain, its architecture and vibrant street life are both utterly immersive.
The central square hosts the city’s annual Christmas market. Its many arches and winding lanes also lead you to other forgotten parts of central Madrid.
Dine at Mercado San Antón
Spanish food and drink is a feast for the senses, but in Madrid there’s so much more than tapas to enjoy.
Sample Spanish gastronomy at its best by visiting Mercado San Antón. Based at the heart of the Chueca neighbourhood, the market presents three floors of amazing local produce.
Here you’ll find cured meats, fruits, vegetables, seafood, and sweets as well as international flavours from as far away as Greece and Japan. Mercado San Antón really is a foodie’s paradise.
If you’re looking for more food, drink and shopping, you should also visit the city’s open air flea market, El Rastro. It’s held every Sunday between Calle Embajadores and Ronda de Toledo, and is the ultimate local cultural experience.
Enjoy an Evening in La Latina
For any self-respecting night owl, the city’s La Latina neighbourhood is where the party is at. The district is home to several bars and restaurants, not to mention an electric vibe.
Locals and visitors alike come out to play in the La Latina barrio. It’s a hotspot for local celebrations and outdoor concerts too, with the La Paloma Festival in August a particular highlight.
Stroll Around El Retiro Park
Take a break from city life by venturing to El Retiro Park. The stunning green space is the largest park in Madrid covering more than 125 hectares and housing over 15,000 trees.
Originally owned by the Spanish royal family, El Retiro is packed full of interesting monuments and hidden gardens. It has a boating lake, where you can take to the water for just 6 to 8 Euros.
Take in the Views from Templo de Debod
Enjoy a slice of ancient Egypt right here in Madrid. Templo de Debod is a real ancient Egyptian temple that was dismantled and rebuilt in the city.
As well as being a great place to take in history, the temple boasts stunning views. Watch sunset from this interesting vantage point before enjoying the peace and tranquillity of its surrounding gardens.
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