Five places not to miss in Madrid (Spain)

One of Europe’s sunniest capitals (with more than 200 sunny days per year), Madrid awaits its guests with great weather, beautiful architecture and amazing cuisine, making it a great place for strolls and having a good time.

Each time I’ve been to Madrid I was delighted to come across more and more hidden gems, just waiting to be discovered. However, here are the top five places I liked the most, which I highly recommend to be visited when in Madrid. 

Atocha Railway Station (Estacion de Atocha)

This was Madrid’s first railway station, inaugurated in 1851 and modernized at the end of 19th century. The old part of the station now houses an exquisite palm garden, next to which you’ll find the new, modern terminus, providing great connections to all major cities in Spain.

Market of San Miguel (Mercado de San Miguel)

This famous market is housed in a 20th century iron structure that still looks great. Mercado de San Miguel  (http://mercadodesanmiguel.es/) truly is heaven for food lovers, as it has many delicatessen stalls, corresponding to cuisines from all over the world. So, if you want to see and to be seen in Madrid, this is the place to enjoy the traditional tapas, because this beautiful market is one of the most fashionable sites in Madrid.

Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real de Madrid)

The Royal Palace (https://entradas.patrimonionacional.es/en-GB/informacion-recinto/6/palacio-real-de-madrid) has been used by the royal family of Spain until the abdication of King Alfonso XIII in 1931. The palace is now usually used for major social occasions hosted by the royal family. However, many of the rooms are opened to the public and tourists should not miss the opportunity to visit it.

Retiro Park

The most important park in Madrid, having approximately 12 hectares, is a popular leisure place for locals and tourists alike. It has great amenities, such as a big pond perfect for boating, many terraces to relax, as well as several gardens, statues and fountains.

El Rastro Flea Market

This popular open air flea market in Madrid is being held every Sunday and public holiday during the year. Madrid’s most famous flea market takes place in Calle Ribera de Curtidores and alongside surrounding streets. A great variety of products may be found here, as well as many good antique shops,  making it an ideal way to spend a sunny Sunday morning.

Where to stay in Madrid

Every time I go to Madrid, I book a room at Catalonia Atocha Hotel, placed close to Madrid's major touristic sites. Breakfast is just wonderful and the rooms are large and cozy, with beautiful views over the street (https://www.cataloniahotels.com/en/hotel/catalonia-atocha?gclid=CjwKCAjwyOreBRAYEiwAR2mSks5Z_jgV1VpJM252AkAvW-frYLHYsGEw5-XKinr09OJB1d_0ThzG1xoCxkYQAvD_BwE).

Where to eat in Madrid

Madrid boasts an exceptional number of restaurants and tabernas where you may enjoy traditional Spanish dishes, such as cocido (stew) or the gazpacho soup. Taberna Mas al Sur really does excel at preparing it.

For the most traditional Spanish dessert, los churros, go to Chocolateria San Gines, they are doing a great job since 1894  (https://chocolateriasangines.com/).