10 ways to fall in love with Madrid
Take advantage of your Royal Holiday membership and stay at the Plaza Basilica Apartments, in the heart of the city.
Ten ways to fall in love with Madrid: Madrid has been the capital of Spain since 1561 and is home to the most important of Spain’s government institutions. It’s also the official residence of the Spanish monarchy and one of the most storied European cities in the entire continent. Fall in love with Madrid starting with these 10 destinations:
- The Prado Museum
Opened in 1891, this museum houses one of the most important collections of paintings in the world, with masterpieces by El Greco, Titian, Rubens and El Bosco. The museum’s offering includes more than 8,000 paintings, 5,000 drawings and 700 sculptures. A visit to the museum is a must!
Prado Museum via getyourguide.com
Diego Rodríguez de Silva and Velázquez (Seville, 1599 – Madrid, 1660).
Las Meninas. 1656-1657. Oil on canvas. 318 x 276 cm. Prado Museum, Madrid. via elpais.com
- Queen Sofia Museum
It could be said that this museum’s collection is the continuation of the Prado Museum, since the collection goes from the nineteenth century to the present with works by Picasso, Miró, Dalí and the famous Picasso painting Guernica, one of the most emblematic images of the contemporary world.
Pablo Picasso (Paris 1937 – 1937). Guernica, Oil on canvas. 349.3 x 776.6 cm
Queen Sofía National Arts Center Museum, Madrid. via tourtravelandmore.com
- Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
Opened to the public in 1992, this museum traces Western painting from the 13th to the 20th century, from the Renaissance to Pop Art. Visitors can admire works by El Greco, Degas, Van Gogh, Chagall, Monet, Edward Hopper, and other famous artists.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum via www.espanaescultura.es
- San Miguel Market
This market is located in a splendid iron and glass building, and is considered an historic monument. The shops are also very interesting and include tapas bars, gourmet foods of the best quality, cosmetics from the Dead Sea, and more.
San Miguel Market via spainattractions.es
San Miguel Market via www.ericvokel.com
- Shopping
Lovers of luxury should head to the “Golden Mile” in the Salamanca district. There you will find the best brands including by: Loewe, Adolfo Dominguez, Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada, Roberto Verino, Manolo Blahnik, Chanel, Armani and Valentino. And of course, don’t forget your credit card.
Golden Mile via eldiario.es
- The Royal Palace
Formerly the official residence of Spanish monarchy, today the Royal Palace can be seen on a guided tour. It was built between 1738 and 1755 and Carlos III established his residence here. The tour lets you admire armor, textiles and upholstery, as well as paintings, carriages, furniture and more.
Royal Palace via elviajerofisgon.com
- The Puerta de Alcalá
A Madrid icon, the Puerta de Alcalá was built during the rule of King Charles III in the eighteenth century. During that time, it was one of the five entryways to what was then the town of Madrid. Enjoy its splendid preservation!
Puerta de Alcalá
- Plaza Mayor (Main Square)
One of the most popular points in Madrid with tourists, locals and foreigners when visiting the Plaza Mayor be sure to enjoy the bars, restaurants and their patios. It’s a great place to walk quietly and admire the nine entryways to the square, or browse the antique coin and stamp shops. This is a must-see destination in Madrid.
Plaza Mayor
- Food
Madrid is a top-notch destination for food lovers. Choose from among its century-old restaurants such as the Malacatín Tavern, Ciriaco House, La Bola, Casa Labra, Café Gijón or Lhardy. Or make a reservation at the Casa Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world.
- Royal Botanical Gardens
This garden dates to 1755, when it was created at the orders of King Fernando VI. Today, it’s a center for scientific research and one of the most peaceful spots in the city. Among the most beautiful species of plants that can be found here are camellias, dahlias, lilies, magnolias and roses. The bonsai collection is also impressive.
Madrid awaits you with all its fun, gastronomy and culture.Take advantage of your Royal Holiday membership and stay at the Plaza Basilica Apartments, in the heart of the city.
Olé!