Discover the Jewels of Madrid, the Colourful Capital of Spain

Here’s a little guide to this awesome city which may entice you to visit this year…

Madrid is one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities in Spain home to stunning architecture, world-class art galleries, endless retail therapy opportunities and extensive leisure options. It’s an all-rounder city with so much to explore, admire, enjoy and discover. We’ve put together the main highlights of this energetic Spanish capital which may make you fall in in love when you visit.

Stunning Historic Landmarks
Madrid has centuries of interesting history and was the site of many important historic events. There are various landmarks which act as remnants of the city’s rich past, including the grandeur Royal Palace which features an entrance of royal statues, Neoclassical architecture and a beautiful courtyard and the Plaza de Cibeles, a significant symbol of the city with an iconic marble sculpture of a Greek Goddess, a grandeur fountain and some of Madrid’s most significant buildings. Then there’s the Plaza Mayor, which served as the centre of royal ceremonial events and is still an important gathering spot comprising of a bustling square with al fresco cafes, restaurants, shops and street performers.

Incredible Museum Spaces
Madrid is a renowned arts and culture centre and a city that is blessed with some amazing museums. The Prado Museum is a must visit with one of the world’s finest collections of Spanish paintings, as well as sculptures, prints, drawings and artefacts. The Reina Sofia Museum is another world-class institution which is dedicated to contemporary art with over 22,400 masterpieces, a highlight being Guernica by Picasso which is one of Spain’s most famous artworks. There are many other cultural centres to explore in Madrid, including galleries, festivals and theatres.

Shopping, Shopping & More Shopping
Madrid is undoubtedly a shopper’s haven with some of the country’s best retail therapy options. Browse chic boutiques, traditional old shops, markets, shopping streets, malls and more here. El Rastro is a shopping highlight; it’s one of Europe’s largest outdoor flea markets, held every Sunday with a series of stalls and shops selling clothing, souvenirs, antiques and bric-a-bac amidst a vibrant local atmosphere and live music. Those who want to experience luxury shopping can visit Grand Via, an upscale shopping street with renowned high-street favourites, international designers and local Spanish brands, including the signature El Corte Inglés department store.

Bustling Local Neighbourhoods
Madrid has a very dynamic social scene with a number of happening neighbourhoods, each with their own character and appeal. It’s worth exploring at least a few of the city’s unique spots for an insight into daily lives for locals. Chueca is one of the most colourful neighbourhoods here, known for its LGBT community with trendy cafes, shops, restaurants and bars. La Latina is another region worth exploring; it’s one of Madrid’s oldest neighbourhoods which is famous for its tapas bars, age-old architecture and narrow winding streets. Finally, the multi-cultural bohemian neighbourhood of Lavapiés is one of the city’s most happening neighbhourhoods which has some really impressive street art.

Diverse Nightlife
Madrid’s appeal continues in the evenings until the early hours of the morning. Nightlife is generally experienced later in Spain, with locals dining after 9pm and heading out later to party. If you like a wild night on the town, then Madrid is a perfect choice for a getaway. There are so many late-night spots to enjoy, whether its bars, nightclubs, flamenco bars, wine bars, cocktail lounges or live music venues. Teatro Kapital is the most iconic night spot in Madrid and the largest club in the city with a series of bars playing all sorts of funky beats, a karaoke stage and colourful live performances.

Delicious & Authentic Spanish Food
Foodies, rejoice! Madrid is also an incredible culinary centre with a diverse food scene and delicious dishes from all over Spain. Your appetite is sure to be satisfied here as there are food markets, tapas bars, Michelin starred restaurants, centuries’ old family-run restaurants, Paella joints, international fusion restaurants and cafes, many of which are set in beautiful historic buildings. No trip to this city would be complete without tasting the signature dishes of paella, huevos rotos which is a comfort food comprising of broken eggs with ham and chorizo, bocadillo de calamares – Madrid’s most famous squid sandwhich and pincho de tortilla, the classic Spanish omelette.

If you’d like to tick Madrid of your travel wish list, check out our Cheap flight deals and holiday package to Madrid.