The Spanish capital is the ultimate place to visit to get a taste of everything that encapsulates the ever popular Iberian nation. Madrid is lively, charming, welcoming and, above all else, authentic.
Madrid’s rich culture
Madrid is proud to boast a number of world-class museums and art galleries. With its walls full of Velázquez and Goya paintings, the famous Museo del Prado stands out as a particular highlight. Wander the halls here and you’ll have more than 7,000 works to admire.
But some of the lesser-known museums, such as the Museo Lázaro Galdiano, are not to be missed either. Inside the Galdiano you’ll find a wide-ranging collection of more than 15,000 sculptures, paintings, items of jewellery and archaeological treasures, some dating back 2,500 years.
The Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza is also well worth a visit. Charting the past seven or so centuries of Western art, it’s considered by many experts to be the world’s greatest collection of private art. Gaze upon works from the masters, including Monet, Renoir and Van Gogh.
The Reina Sofía offers a window into Spain’s top contemporary pieces. Among other thought-provoking works from Dalí and Miró, it’s home to Pablo Picasso’s anti-war painting Guernica, perhaps the most famous Spanish artwork ever created and a true work of genius.
Take a bite out of Madrid
The Spanish capital isn’t afraid to flaunt its foodie credentials. With tiny tapas spots, seafood bars and charming taverns to dine out at, there’s no shortage of places to sample local delicacies in Madrid.
Enjoy a steaming bowl of cocido madrileño, slow-cooked chickpea stew, at Taberna de la Daniela – or head to the barrio of La Latina to sample Spanish tortilla and deep-fried cod at one of its many tapas bars.
Home-grown cuisine aside, Madrid is a melting pot of regional Spanish cooking – Valencian paella, Galician seafood, Castilian suckling pig, Basque pintxos and Iberian ham can all be found here.
Make your way to Mercado San Miguel, just a stone’s throw from Plaza Mayor, to find stalls serving dishes from all corners of the country. Eat your way around the iron and glass covered market, tucking into oysters, garlicky prawns and moreish fried croquettes.
History among the mountains
Change up the tempo and head into the heart of the Guadarrama mountains to visit the stunning town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, the former home of the King of Spain.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a great destination for a day trip, offering a wealth of fascinating history and elegant architectural brilliance. Breathe in the fresh cool air and head to the grand monastery, built in the 16th century by Felipe II.
Such is the vast nature of the complex that it’s worth taking a guided tour. Mesmerising paintings and frescoes decorate the walls and the baroque Royal Pantheon houses tombs of Spanish monarchs.
Car hire in Madrid is the perfect way to explore every side of this eclectic city, before venturing out to explore more of the wider region and beyond.
