The Ultimate Madrid Travel Guide
The removal of Franco’s remains is one option, but the destruction of the giant cross appears to have been dismissed as has the possibility of evicting the Benedictine monks who inhabit the site. The most likely outcome is the establishment of a museum or interpretation centre which will put the monument in its context and use it as a reminder of the horrors that resulted from the Civil War. But the debate has shown how raw feelings remain in Spain and how problematic the country has found the experience of coming to terms with its traumatic past.If you’re visiting over Easter, you’ll be treated to the townsfolk’s own enactment of the Passion of Christ, though be aware that the small town becomes packed with visitors at this time. Every year in mid-April, the town holds the Fiesta del Anís y del Vino, an orgy of anís- and wine-tasting. An older annual tradition takes place on July 25, when the feast of St James is celebrated with a bullfight in the Plaza Mayor, with further corridas in the August fiestas (usually Aug 13–18). There are dozens of fiestas in Madrid, some of which involve the whole city, others just an individual barrio.
March is the driest month in spring with temperatures ranging in the low 40s to 60s. April and May have similar rain amounts to November, so pack your umbrella. Weather in May becomes quite pleasant for enjoying the outdoors with temperatures in the low 70s. You’ll enjoy seeing the city flock to patios and parks as locals appreciate the longer days and warmer temperatures.
If you aren’t familiar with it, flamenco is a Spanish art form consisting of song, dance, and guitar playing. It’s a passionate and powerful art form which in my opinion, is an absolute must-do in Spain, especially if you can experience it in a cave. Built in 1916, San Miguel Market opened as a local food market before growing into Madrid’s first gourmet market. It consists of over twenty stands whose offerings range from the finest Iberian ham to exquisite cheeses from Asturias to the freshest shellfish and seafood from Galicia.
Apart from the obvious non-food related shopping (yeap, Zara is indeed a bit cheaper over there!) there are tons of foodie temptations around. You know how much I love food markets anyhow but the Mercado de San Miguel stole my heart. The building is beautiful, the atmosphere lively and it’s open until late in the evening. The biggest range of stores is along the Gran Vía and the streets running north out of Puerta del Sol, which is where the department stores – such as El Corte Inglés – have their main branches.
Not only will you learn more about every place you visit, but it’s one of the easiest and fastest ways to see travelog Madrid’s top sights. One of the best ways to learn about a city’s unique history and attractions is with a guided walking tour. Lead by locals, you’ll get an inside look into Madrid and discover the city’s food culture, fascinating museums and beautiful architecture. Seville Day Trip by High Speed Train Discover the capital of Andalusia during this independent day trip to Seville by high-speed train and take a guided walking tour of the city center. Start off at Plaza de la Villa, probably the oldest square in the city and home to some of its most ancient buildings, including the fifteenth-century Torre de los Lujanes.
Breathtaking in their vivid portrayal of Madrid life and the Miracle of St Anthony, they’re definitely worth the trip across town to get here. Aquopolis Madrid Ticket Buy your ticket to Aquopolis Madrid and spend a fantastic, refreshing day of fun in the amazing pools and wonderful slides of this water park. Segovia Day Trip Segovia is one of 15 Spanish cities declared UNESCO world heritage. Lisbon, Porto & Fátima 6 Day Tour Set off to Portugal from Madrid and discover Porto and Lisbon, as well as exploring Alcobaça, Batalha and Fátima on this unmissable six-day trip. Segovia Hot Air Balloon Ride Discover Segovia from the air and enjoy bird’s-eye views of some of the city’s main attractions on a hot-air balloon. Retiro Park & Cibeles Palace Observatory Tour Admire the impressive views of Madrid and visit one of the most important corners around the capital with this Retiro Park & Cibeles Palace Observatory Tour.
The hotel is the Four Seasons brand's first in Spain and sits just steps away from luxury shopping along the famous Gran Via. The property includes a rooftop terrace and pool as well as a four-level spa. Madrid is an inland city that's been the Spanish capital since the 17th century. English isn't as widely spoken in Madrid as it is in Barcelona, making it an ideal place to dust off your Spanish in restaurants, cafes, and shops. You might want to plan for a mid-morning snack as you're exploring, however.