Madrid is the capital and the largest city of Spain, located in the center of the Iberian Peninsula. Mountains and natural parks surround it. It is a relatively flat city, and it is easy to explore it on a skateboard, bicycle, or rollerblade. You can even explore the city on Segway and move through the city without walking. Culture is considered a significant factor in this European City. It comes on the top of the art and culture scene.
Madrid is famous for its food markets, historical buildings and royals, bustling nightlife, sunny blue skies, museums, and unique neighborhoods. There is much more to see and do in Madrid than just joy and life. Here are the top five things you can do on your port day in Madrid.
In the local language, it is known as Puerta del Sol. It is the true center of Madrid and right in the city's center. The square is filled with shops, restaurants, cafés, lots and lots of people, and a spurting fountain. The area is always crowded with people, and the hustle and bustle of the locals reflect here. Also, suppose you get a chance to visit the square at night when the city comes alive with people passing and parties at nightclubs and bars. Even there are some bars and nightclubs situated in Sol. However, you can consider this place the best place to taste the life and vibrancy of Madrid.
Plaza Mayor is a dramatic example of Madrid's architecture. Every city has its main square, and Plaza Mayor is the main square of Madrid and forms the centerpiece of daily life for both locals and tourists. It is unquestionably touristy, but the restaurants and cafes with terraces dropping out to the square contribute to its charm. It is not only a place to have a coffee or some snacks or watch multiple street performances given by locals. Usually, the street starts getting busy around 2 pm and gradually gets busier as night falls. If you are going to Madrid during festivals or holidays, consider this a must-visit location. Several festivals and holiday markets are held in the plaza.
Don't think that Madrid is the area only around Plaza Mayor or Sol. It has something more to offer. And for that, you need to go on an off-beat path to get some more glimpses of authentic Madrid city life. You don't have to go far to explore the locals. There are top three areas to explore in Madrid – Lavapies, Huertas, and La Latina. Whole worlds surround Madrid's downtown: You can explore the multicultural charm of Lavapiés, eat tapas in La Latina, or walk down the historic streets of Huertas.
Also, Read: 5 Famous landmarks in Spain
Madrid is the greenest place in Europe, with several parks and gardens just waiting to be explored by you and your partner. And if you have a port day here, consider visiting this Buen Retiro Park. It has a picturesque man-made lake, a lovely rose garden, and a glimmering crystal palace filled with art installations and more. The park is located to the east of central Madrid. In the late nineteenth century, Felipe IV opened this 300-acre park to the public, previously housing his palace and gardens.
More than 1.45 million square feet of space is spread over 3,418 rooms within the Royal Palace of Madrid, one of the largest and most opulent palaces in Europe. Royal collections and frescoes can only be appreciated from the inside. You will find paintings by Goya, Caravaggio, and Velázquez and tapestries, porcelains, and silverware. The only complete Stradivarius string quintet is among its many exciting features, played on Wednesday and Saturday evenings.
In Madrid, the weather is continental, which is always dry and extreme. You should go to Madrid between September and November if you are planning a fall trip and between March and May if you are planning a spring trip. These are known as the shoulder seasons. The temperature across the city is miled this time of year, making your visit more pleasant. In addition, July and December are the high tourist seasons. There are many exciting festivals held during the summer, so tourism increases during this time. Therefore, spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit because accommodations are considerably cheaper.
