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Majestic Munching in Madrid – Rick Steves' Travel Blog

Rick Steves visits Madrid’s revitalized food markets and market halls, describing standout stalls, local specialties (jamón, cheeses, cod, tapas), and how markets fit into Madrid’s eating culture and daily life.

Feeling the Pulse of a Great City – Rick Steves' Travel Blog

A narrative walking tour of central Madrid that highlights Puerta del Sol, plazas, neighborhood character, local anecdotes, and practical tips for exploring the city on foot.

Madrid Travel Guide (Updated 2025) – Nomadic Matt

Comprehensive traveler-focused guide covering transport, budgeting, top sights, neighborhood breakdowns, food recommendations, and practical tips for planning multi-day stays in Madrid.

20 Great Things to Do in Madrid – Time Out Madrid

Curated list by local experts featuring Madrid highlights—museums, parks, rooftop views, unique neighborhoods, offbeat attractions, and seasonal recommendations for planning an itinerary.

The 10 Best Things To See And Do In Madrid – The Culture Trip

Accessible roundup of Madrid must-sees including Retiro Park, Templo de Debod, Royal Palace, historic markets and nightlife spots, with cultural context and photo-friendly suggestions.

Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor, 28012 Madrid

Walled rectangular square in the heart of Habsburg Madrid, built in the early 17th century under Philip III; long used for markets, festivals and public events and framed by uniform three‑storey residential buildings with porticoes.

Royal Palace (Palacio Real)

C. de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid

Official residence of the Spanish Royal Family for state ceremonies (though not their private home); built on the site of the old Alcázar after the 18th‑century fire and notable for its grand state rooms and art collections.

Museo del Prado

C. de Ruiz de Alarcón, 23, 28014 Madrid

Founded in the early 19th century, the Prado houses an outstanding collection of European art — including masterpieces by Velázquez and Goya — and is central to Spain’s cultural identity.

Parque del Retiro (El Retiro)

Plaza de la Independencia, 7, 28001 Madrid (main access points vary)

Originally a royal retreat for the Habsburg and Bourbon monarchs, the park opened to the public in the 19th century and features formal gardens, the Crystal Palace and a central lake for boating.

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

C. de Santa Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid

Spain’s national museum of 20th‑century art, known worldwide for housing Picasso’s Guernica and an extensive collection of modern and contemporary Spanish art.

Stroll and relax in Parque del Retiro

Large, elegant 19th‑century park with the Estanque Grande (boat pond), Rose Garden, Palacio de Cristal and shaded paths.

Perfect for a leisurely escape from city streets — boating, people‑watching, outdoor art and seasonal events; central and iconic green space.

Visit the Prado Museum

One of the world’s premier art museums, home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco and other European masters.

Essential for art lovers to see Spain’s greatest classical paintings and understand the country’s visual heritage.

Explore the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral area

Historic royal residence (state rooms) with grand architecture next to the neo‑Gothic Almudena Cathedral and scenic Sabatini Gardens.

Offers history, ceremonial rooms and panoramic views of the city — great for cultural context and photography.

Tapas crawl in La Latina and Huertas

Walk between classic and modern tapas bars sampling small plates, vermouth and regional wines in lively neighborhoods.

A social, delicious way to experience Madrid’s food culture and neighborhood atmosphere; flexible and locally authentic.

Shop and taste at Mercado de San Miguel

Gourmet glass‑covered market offering a variety of ready‑to‑eat Spanish specialties and packaged gourmet goods.

Efficient way to sample high‑quality Spanish products in one spot — ideal for first‑time visitors and gift shopping.