🏰 Madrid Travel Guide

Madrid, one of Europe's highest capitals, is known as the "City of the Sun." It boasts world-class art galleries, a royal palace, plazas, and a vibrant nightlife. I find Madrid to be more authentically Spanish, lacking in Mediterranean charm but enriched by a rich history and culture.

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📍 Must-visit tourist hotspots

1. Royal Palace of Madrid

• Features : The official palace of the Spanish royal family, with a magnificent interior and over 3,000 rooms.
• Editor’s Tip : Visit in the morning for a less crowded day, so combine it with a visit to the nearby Almudena Cathedral .

2. Puerta del Sol

• Features : The heart of Madrid, where the famous "Zero Kilometer Marker" is located.
• Editor’s Tip : Another must-photo is the “Bear and Strawberry Tree” statue, a symbol of Madrid.

3. Plaza Mayor

• Features : The square is surrounded by classical buildings and has a relaxed atmosphere.
• Editor’s Tip : There are many restaurants around the square where you can try traditional snacks.

4. Museo del Prado

• Features : One of the four largest museums in the world, it houses a large collection of famous Spanish and European paintings, such as works by Goya and Velázquez.
• Editor’s Tip : There is a free admission period in the evening, but it can be quite crowded.

5. Reina Sofía Art Center

• Features : Collection of modern art, the most famous of which is Picasso's "Guernica".
• Editor's tip : A must-see for art lovers, it forms a perfect contrast between classic and modern with the Prado Museum.

6. Gran Vía

• What : Madrid's main shopping avenue, lined with theaters, department stores, and boutiques.
• Editor’s Tip : The neon lights are especially beautiful at night, making it a great place for a stroll.

7. Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

• Features : The home stadium of Real Madrid Football Club and a pilgrimage site for fans.
• Editor’s Tip : If you can get tickets to the game, the atmosphere will be absolutely stunning!

8. Retiro Park

• Features : Madrid's most popular green space, with lakes, a glass palace, and statues.
• Editor’s Tip : Perfect for a picnic, boating, or a leisurely stroll.

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🍴 Must-try food in Madrid

Madrid has a rich food culture, a fusion of flavors from all over Spain. I personally recommend the following:

1. Cocido Madrileño (Madrid Stew)

   • A traditional chickpea stew, served in several portions, with the soup served first and the main course later.
   • Suitable for winter enjoyment, very warming to the stomach.

2. Churros con Chocolate

   • A favorite of Madrid residents for breakfast or midnight snack, it is most authentic when eaten with hot chocolate.
   • The editor recommends the time-honored brand San Ginés .

3. Madrid-Style Sandwich (Bocadillo de Calamares)

   • Fried squid stuffed in a baguette is a typical street food in Madrid.
   • They can be found everywhere around Plaza Mayor.

4. Iberian ham

   • A must-eat throughout Spain! Madrid has many specialty shops and is best enjoyed with a glass of wine.

5. Spanish Omelette (Tortilla Española)

   • A thick slice of potato and onion omelet, simple yet classic.

6. Tapas platter

   • In Madrid, ordering a beer or a glass of wine usually comes with snacks, which is a great deal.

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🚇 Madrid Transportation Guide

Madrid has a well-developed transportation network, and tourists can basically travel around the city by public transportation.

1. Metro de Madrid

• Route : There are 12 major subway lines covering the city and suburbs.
• Tickets : It is recommended to purchase a multiple-trip ticket (10-trip ticket) or a tourist pass (Abono Turístico) , which allows unlimited rides.

2. EMT Bus

• The bus network is dense, suitable for short distances and places where it is inconvenient to take the subway.
• Night buses (búhos) are convenient for returning home at night.

3. Trains

• Suitable for day trips to nearby suburbs such as Toledo and Segovia.

4. Walking

• Madrid's city center is full of attractions, and you can walk to Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Gran Via.

5. Airport Transportation

• Metro Line 8 : connects the city centre to Barajas Airport.
• Airport Express Bus (Exprés Aeropuerto) : operates 24 hours a day and goes directly to the city center.

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🎯 Editor's Summary

Madrid is a city of royalty and art. I think the best ways to enjoy it are:

• During the day, visit museums, palaces and squares to experience Spanish history and culture.
• In the evening, walk into a tavern, eat tapas while watching a flamenco show , and experience the most authentic Spanish style.

📌 Editor's Note:

• The weather in Madrid is very hot in the summer and very cold in the winter, so you should bring appropriate clothing.
• Dinner is served late, usually starting after 9 o'clock.
• It is recommended to book tickets online for popular attractions such as museums and palaces to avoid queuing.