If we were to describe the city of Madrid in a dictionary, perhaps it would be the ‘city that knows how to live’. No other country in the world celebrates life quite like Spain does, and no other city is the metaphor of life, like the city of Madrid.
Madrid is home to some of the most architecturally pleasing structures in the world. Once you set your eyes on them, they remain etched in your memory forever.
Top things to do in Madrid
The Royal Palace of Madrid
Royalty is not something new to the European continent. That is not to say that it isn’t intriguing and the Royal Palace of Madrid is the classic example of all that is exquisite about Madrid. The Palace was the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, but is currently used for state ceremonies. With a floor space of 135,000 sq feet and 3418 rooms, it is Europe’s largest palace.
The Plaza Mayor
Perhaps more popular than the Royal Palace of Madrid, is the square of Plaza Mayor. The history seen by this square remains unparallel to any other landmark in Madrid, making it the most popular tourist attraction. Built during the reign of King Phillipe III, the plaza was built by Juan Gómez de Mora in the typical Herrerian style. The Plaza Mayor is the ideal combination of picaresque historical tales, exquisite architecture and a vibrant, modern street life. It has borne witness to a host of festivities throughout history, whether it was an execution during the Spanish Inquisition, bull fights or soccer matches.
The Puerta de Alcalá
Located in the Plaza de la Independencia and next to El Retiro park, is the famous Alcalá Gate or the Puerta de Alcalá. A structure of Brilliance, the Alcalá Gate serves as the gateway to Madrid, and can be gazed at its best in the hours of dusk, when the lights shine on its arches. Built in 1778, in the ancient neo-classical style, The Puerta de Alcalá is regarded as the first modern triumphal arch built in Europe.
Parque de Buen Retiro
One of the largest and the most picturesque parks of Madrid, the Beun Retiro or the “pleasant retreat” park is considered to be the favourite retreat of the Madrid locals. The park is house to structures such as the Crystal Palace and the Fountain of fallen angel; each one a brilliant piece of architecture. Until the late 19th century, the Parque de Buen Retiro belonged to the Spanish Monarchy. Other important structures at the park include the Paseo de la Argentina, the Roseleda and the Monument to Alfonso XVII.
Art Triangle of Madrid
There are approximately 25 museums in Madrid, which is testimony of how culturally rich the city must be. You will find yourself immersed in each one of them for hours and hours on end. But even if you are pressed for time, make sure you explore what is known as the ‘Art Triangle of Madrid comprising of The Museo del Prado, the Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza.
The Museo del Prado
The Museo del Prado is the Spanish national Art Museum. Established in 1819, the museum features works of art, dating back to the 12th. The museum is home to the masterpieces of great artists like Bosch, Goya and El Greco. While here, you can also learn about Velazquez’s Las Meninas.
The Reina Sofía
For lovers of Modern Art, the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, is the place to see. The Reina Sofia is the perfect combination of Madrid’s history and future. The museum features the works of Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, Juan Gris among others. Picasso’s “Guernica” is the highlight of this museum. The museum boasts of the finest collections of contemporary art.
Thyssen-Bornemisza
The Thyssen-Bornemisza is the final piece of that puzzle that is the ‘Art Triangle of Madrid’. The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum seamlessly fills in all the historical gaps left behind by the other two museums. The museum features art dating from the 13th up till the 20th century with over 16000 paintings. At one point in history, it was considered the second largest private art collection in the world, just behind the British Royal Collection.
Visit the Gran Via (Broadway of Madrid)
The list of Madrid must-do’s is incomplete until you experience a musical performance at the Gran Via, nicknamed, ‘The Broadway of Madrid’. At the foot of Grand Via, is the Teatro Coliseum, a theatre, built in 1932. The theatre has seen performances from the likes of ‘My Fair Lady’, ‘Cats’, ‘Saturday Night Fever’ and ‘Chicago’, among many others.
Madrid has a lot to offer in term of culture and music, but no experience to any country is complete without a food experience.
Madrid Tapas and Wine tasting tours
Before you embark on a trip to Madrid, do a quick google search of the most famous tapas and wine tasting tours in Madrid. Explore the culinary scene of Madrid by sampling through various restaurants and try delicious tapas dishes, while also learning about the local ingredients used in the dishes. Don’t forget to sample some delicious Spanish wines complemented by salted cod, rich chickpea stew and Iberian ham and pack yourself some souvenirs.
Madrid is a city you need to visit if you want to understand the real reason why God blessed you with this life. The streets of Madrid are exciting, the views, enchanting and the colours surreal. Once you step foot in Madrid, you will never want to leave. Nor does the city ever leave you.
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