Introduction
Hola do Madrid la ciudad capital del elegante país de España. Madrid has a lot for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a bon vivant or an art enthusiast. Having seven days to your disposal, you will have enough time to spend in the city of culture, landmarks and mouth-watering cuisines. In this Madrid travel blog post I’m going to guide you through the best attractions and best experiences that Madrid has to offer in an itinerary. Let’s get started!
Day 1: Explore the Historic Center
If you can get into the habit of it, you should spend your first day in Madrid exploring the historic center, or “Madrid de los Austrias.” Visit Plaza Mayor, a beautiful square filled with a beautiful architecture that will enrich your start of the day of course! You can then go to see the Royal Palace, a beautiful palace of fitted abundance of Spanish royalty. Don’t miss the tiny streets and dark squares of the neighboring La Latina neighborhood, with its original tapas bars.
Day 2: Immerse Yourself in Art
If you’re an art lover, Madrid is a paradise and none of the trips is complete without visiting the famous museums. Day two starts with the world famous Prado Museum where you will find the works of artists such as Velázquez, Goya and El Greco. Then, go to the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum to see the fabulous collection of European and American art. Lastly don’t forget to visit Reina Sofia Museum, where you will also find Picasso’s wonderful masterpiece, Guernica.
Day 3: Take a Stroll in Retiro Park
On your fourth day you can spend a day out in the open enjoying the beauty of the Retiro Park. With picturesque landscapes and beautiful gardens, not to mention a boating lake, this sprawling park has a lot to offer. Don’t forget to make the visit to the Crystal Palace and to the Monument to Alfonso XII, great places for beautiful photo opportunities. Inside the park is Palacio de Velázquez, an exhibition space for cultural experience.
Day 4: Discover Madrid’s Neighborhoods
Today it’s all about visiting Madrid’s many neighborhoods. First, don’t start with the trendy Malasaña, if you’re really going to enjoy your holiday. Take a trip to its independent boutiques, quirky cafes and street art. Next, head to the upscale Salamanca district, famous for its high-end fashion boutiques and upscale restaurants. End on a cheerful note in the Chueca neighborhood, filled with hip bars as the heart of Madrid’s LGBTQ community.
Day 5: Go visit the Royal Monastery of El Escorial.
Make day five a day trip to Madrid’s Royal Monastery of El Escorial, just outside. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a wonder of architecture and was the home of the Spanish kings. Step in to explore the magnificent library, the royal pantheon and to the captivating gardens which surround the monastery. Visit the nearby Valley of the Fallen, a monumental homage to those who died during the Spanish Civil War, and don’t miss the chance.
Day 6: Indulge in Spanish Cuisine
One cannot come to Madrid without trying its yummy food. Got the taste for traditional Spanish cuisine? Begin with churros dipped into thick hot chocolate. For lunch eat in a mesón (traditional tavern) and devour some delicious, waking up your taste buds with word of mouth and smoky patatas bravas. Huertas or Lavapiés are busy streets to explore in the evening, which you should try a collection of tapas such as tortilla española and croquetas.
Day 7: Experience Flamenco and Shopping
On your last day, deluge yourself with the soul stirring art of flamenco. In the afternoon, enjoy an enchanting flamenco show in fun and lively Lavapiés neighborhood or in the popular Café de Chinitas. And then spend some retail therapy in Madrid’s shopping streets. Take a window shop of the high street fashion stores on Calle Preciados or spend time in the luxurious Gran Vía. If you can resist the artisanal products and local delicacies at Mercado San Miguel, don’t miss it.
Conclusion
Madrid is a place that combines history plus culture plus art and plus culinary delights. With this 7 day itinerary you’ll be in the right place, at the right time, doing all the right things. Madrid is known for its history, so visit the historic center, eat Spanish cuisine and experience the local culture, which all together will be a huge madrsur experience. Change your bags and prepare for a fantastic expedition from the heart of Spain!