Plaza Mayor is all about gathering with the community. There is dining, shopping, and almost always something different happening in the center. On my last visit, there was a tennis tournament and live music going on!
While spending a day in the heart of Madrid, Ramses is a great option to sit outside on the patio and enjoy some amazing food. Don't ship the pulpo!
What I love about doing a bus tour in Madrid is there are two! One is the historical route, the other is the modern route. My suggestion is do one in the morning, go have lunch, then hop on the second after lunch.
This is a really great guide tour! Book earlier in the day for smaller crowds. Tip: Don't forget to stop by the royal armory after the tour ends!
Spend half a day taking a Paella and gazpacho cooking class with Cooking Point Madrid. You'll start by going on a market tour to buy the ingredients, then head back to the kitchen to cook and eat.
These world famous mushrooms are an experience of their own! Grab a plate as tapas before you have a dinner reservation, or include it in your visit to Mercado De San Miguel as they are close by.
Reservations are usually booked out in advance to dine at the world's oldest restaurant, so plan ahead for this experience! Ask to sit on the bottom level for a really cool underground experience.
This live Flamenco Performance, "Emociones" is a must see! Just one hour long, this show is packed with live music and dancing.
This famous marketplace is not to be missed when visiting Madrid! There is something for everyone here, so come with your group and try food from the dozens of vendors inside. Don't skip the olives!
If you go to one museum in Madrid, go to the Prado. Bosch, Goya, Velazquez, and so much more. Pro Tip: Entry is free m-sat 6-8pm and sun 5-7 pm. Get in line earlier!
While visiting Madrid, a day trip to Toledo is a must. About 1 hour drive from Madrid, this charming hilltop town is rich in history, delicious food, and an undeniable charm. This tour is the perfect intro to your day.
This is a 1.8 mile loop and is fairly easy to walk. It's quiet with a great scenic view of the reservoir and mountains
On your day trip to Arenas De San Pedro, be sure to take a cave tour here- the stalagmites are some of the largest I've seen in person!
If you're only in Arenas De San Pedro for one meal, make it count and stop at Bull-fighting themed Bar Chiquito. Your best bet is just letting the chef cook what they think you'll like. Family style servings!
No trip to Madrid is complete until you visit San Gines for some thick drinking chocolate. This is served with churros that you dip into the chocolate. A perfect treat after visiting the Royal Palace or Plaza Mayor.
If you’re headed to any Spanish speaking country, this playlist will have you feeling the vibes! I love adding to this playlist when I’m in Spain 🇪🇸and discover new music.
You’ll find a lot of bread and empanada shops in Madrid, but this is the top place on my list. The bread is so good that I bring loaves back to the states with me. Try the fermento loaf, pollo empanada, y the little cake
A great local coffee shop that you may miss if you don’t know to look for it! Vegan and gluten free options. Close to Prado Museum. Try the gluten free chocolate cookie!
This Michelin recommended restaurant will not disappoint your sushi cravings! The menu has a little icon next to their most popular dishes, and I say give those a try on your first visit. Great mocktails too!
This I think, is the most elegantly made pastries in Madrid. Definitely French pastry influenced and less of the traditional Spanish pastries, but still a not to miss place if you love a good treat.
This restaurant in the Retiro neighborhood is upscale casual with a great menu!