Why Madrid is the perfect destination for all travellers

Whether you enjoy spending time in nature or surrounded by art, this European destination offers them all

With its stunning architecture, rich history and bustling markets, it’s no wonder the Spanish capital is a popular destination for travellers of all tastes. When it comes to the art scene, Madrid is home to three lavish museums featuring celebrated artists including Pablo Picasso and Joan Miro. While those who prefer browsing the malls will find a plethora of local and international boutiques. Foodies are also in for a treat as the Spain capital offers restaurants at every corner.

Whether you enjoy exploring the streets or touring football stadiums, there is something for everyone. Below, we share the best places to visit in Madrid depending on the type of traveller you are.

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1. The art enthusiast

Above Madrid is home to three world-class museums

Art aficionados will revel in the museum and art gallery selection in Madrid. Head to the Paseo del Artede Madrid (translated to Madrid Art Walk) and find three world-class museums: Museo Nacional del Prado, Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza and Museo Reina Sofia. Here, you’ll get to admire paintings and sculptures by masters including El Greco, Velasquez, Picasso and more. Various street art and murals can also be found around the city—keep your eye out for The Sombrerete Sundial, a piece that depicts a woman hanging clothes while surrounded by an abstract sundial.

2. The foodie

Above Spain’s capital is a food lover’s dream

From tapas to Michelin-starred restaurants, Spain’s capital is a food lover’s dream. Pamper yourself with a meal at three-Michelin-starred restaurant DiverXO which offers avant-garde tasting menus. Or, head to the celebrated food market Mercado de San Miguel for tapas when you feel peckish. When it comes to sweets, you’re in for a treat. While churros can be found all over Spain, locals in Madrid are known for savouring them at any time of the day—even for breakfast or dunked in hot chocolate.

3. The shopaholic

Above Whether you’re looking for local brands or luxury ones, the city offers them all

Whether you’re looking for local brands or luxury ones, the city offers them all. When it comes to the latter, look out for popular brands like Zara, Manolo Blahnik and Loewe. For local ateliers, explore labels such as Tot-Hom and Marcos Luengo that offer timeless pieces made from quality materials and fabrics. Keep your eye out for iconic local establishments that have kept to traditional and craftsmanship for generations—one of them being Antigua Casa Crespo. Handed down through five generations, this label curates handmade espadrilles crafted from Spanish esparto rope.

4. The nature lover

Path through the beech forest covered with leaves in autumn (Montejo de la Sierra, Spain)

Above This city is home to a plethora of nature and parks, with one in almost every neighbourhood

This city is home to a plethora of nature and parks, with one in almost every neighbourhood. Check out El Retiro Park, one of Madrid’s best-known parkland and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans 1.3 square miles. Take a stroll and you’ll be met with various monuments, flora and fauna, including the Jardines de Cecilio Rodriguez, an Andalusian-inspired classicist garden. Around Madrid, you’ll also find other UNESCO World Heritage Sites like El Escorial Monastery, Alcala de Henares old town, Aranjuez and the Hayedo de Montejo.

5. The sports fanatic

Above Fans of football club Real Madrid can visit the iconic Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

Fans of football club Real Madrid will not want to miss taking a trip to the iconic Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. The home stadium of Real Madrid since 1947, the stadium offers immersive experiences and guided tours—learn more about how the stadium has been transformed over the years and some of its highlights.

Avid golfers can practice their swing at one of Madrid’s many golf courses. Choose from a selection of 20 courses, some of which had been designed by legends including Van Hagge, Jack Nicklaus and Rees Jones.

6. The family traveller

MADRID, SPAIN - September 12, 2019: Park Warner Bros, Madrid

Above Head to the outskirts of the city to spend the day at a theme park

Even the little ones are sure to have a blast when they visit Madrid. Head to the outskirts of the city and you’ll find a host of theme parks, like the famous Parque Warner. Dedicated to movies by American film and entertainment studio Warner Bros, this theme park is complete with exciting rides, entertaining live shows, water parks and more.

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Credits

Images

Madrid Turismo by Ifema Madrid

Topics

Madrid Spain

Tatler Asia