Things to do in Madrid

Four days of summer in Madrid, El Rastro, Palacio Real and more.

In July 2023 I went to Madrid for a four-day trip, a long weekend. I went there mainly to see my girlfriend who was working there for the summer. I suggest not doing the same, Madrid in July is extremely hot, temperatures were constantly around 40°C and during the afternoon was impossible to be outside. I think that the best period to visit can be autumn or spring.

Anyway, Madrid impressed me positively, the city has a friendly vibe of freedom, acceptance and an open mind, it is very beautiful and the nightlife is interesting. It reminded me of London but with the characteristic Spanish grace and rhythm.

Madrid

As the capital city, Madrid exudes an undeniable energy, emanating from its bustling streets, grand architecture, and world-renowned artistic treasures. From the historic plazas that have witnessed centuries of events to the cutting-edge galleries and gastronomic scene that propel it forward, Madrid presents a tapestry of experiences that cater to all interests. Madrid stands as a vibrant and captivating metropolis that seamlessly combines rich history, contemporary culture, and an infectious zest for life.

Probably because of the extremely hot weather, but also because of culture, the days in Madrid, and Spain in general, start late in the morning and finish late at night, for me it was nice to see so many people out late at night every day not only on the weekend, and see the city deserted in the afternoon - Siesta time!!!. During those days I was doing the same because there was no other way, I would love to be out and get as much as possible from the city but during the hottest part of the day, it was impossible to be outside.

In four days I was able to see the prominent landmarks of the city, Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, Parque del Retiro, and Palacio Imperial. Randomly, we were able to visit el Rastro de Madrid on Sunday.

Plaza Mayor

One of the first places we visited was Plaza Mayor, a true emblem of Madrid's historical and cultural heritage, is a square that holds the heart of the city within its centuries-old walls. Stepping into Plaza Mayor is like entering a time capsule, as the square has witnessed many events, from royal celebrations to vibrant markets and lively festivities. I have to say that I was expecting a bigger square but, time after time, its historical importance came up and the feeling changed. Enclosed by stunning three-story buildings adorned with charming balconies, the plaza exudes an air of elegance and grandeur. The central statue of King Philip III on horseback commands attention, surrounded by cobblestone paths that lead to quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Near Plaza Mayor you can find the famous Mercado de San Miguel, that worth a visit, and a picture, and Puerta del Sol, Madrid's bustling central square, a vibrant hub that serves as the symbolic heart of the city. This square is full of energy, as day turns to night, the square comes alive with a kaleidoscope of lights, bustling activity, and a palpable sense of urban spirit. The square is adorned with a variety of landmarks, including the iconic Tio Pepe neon sign, the equestrian statue of King Charles III, and the Kilometer Zero marker that designates the centre of Spain's radial road network.

El Retiro

On the second day, we decided to find a place to escape from the hot weather and visited El Retiro Park. On the way there, we walked through the neighbourhood of Lavapies, which is just south of the city's historic centre. Lavapies exudes an authentic and eclectic atmosphere that's characterized by its narrow streets, colourful facades, and a fusion of cultures. Known for its bohemian spirit, the neighbourhood is a creative hub with a thriving arts scene, galleries, theatres, and street art that reflect the myriad influences of its residents. A tapestry of international cuisine, from traditional Spanish to flavours from around the globe, in fact here we had an Ecuadorian dinner on the first day.

On the way to the park, there is also the El Prado museum, but we didn’t visit it, my girlfriend had already been there and I preferred to do other things. El Retiro Park stands as a lush oasis of tranquillity and natural beauty, with its origins tracing back to the 17th century, this expansive green haven offers a respite from the city's bustling energy. El Retiro also boasts intricate sculptures, charming fountains, and meticulously manicured gardens that provide a delightful escape for both locals and tourists.

One of the main things to see in the park is the iconic Palacio de Cristal, which stands as an interesting architectural marvel. This stunning glass and metal structure, reminiscent of a delicate glasshouse, has become an icon of Madrid's artistic and natural fusion. Designed in the 19th century, the Palacio de Cristal's transparent walls allow sunlight to cascade through, casting an ethereal glow upon the plants and art installations that inhabit its interior. As seasons change, the palace becomes a canvas for ever-evolving exhibitions that bridge the gap between nature and human creativity.

Another attraction of the park is the Monument to Alfonso XII, which is a tribute to the Spanish king who reigned during a transformative era. Perched by the picturesque Estanque del Retiro (Retiro Pond), the monument's grandeur is accentuated by its central position and neoclassical design. While walking in the park with my girlfriend, who is Ecuadorian, she told me how this place became a symbol of Madrid for the Ecuadorian community, a reference not only for expats but also for the people living in Ecuador.

El Rastro

El Rastro, Madrid's famed open-air flea market, transforms the historic La Latina neighbourhood into a bustling treasure trove every Sunday and public holiday.

We read about it, our hostel was in La Latina, but we couldn’t imagine that the market was just outside the main door. It was a surprise, we got out thinking of walking around trying to find the market and we opened the door and it was right there in front of us.

Winding through narrow streets and lively plazas, El Rastro offers a vibrant mosaic of sights, sounds, and scents. From antique trinkets and vintage clothing to handmade crafts and quirky collectables, the market's eclectic offerings cater to every taste. Amid the friendly haggling and animated conversations, visitors can unearth unique finds and hidden gems, all while immersing themselves in the spirited atmosphere that defines this Madrid tradition. As the sun casts a warm glow on the stalls and the aroma of street food fills the air, El Rastro encapsulates the essence of the city's bohemian spirit, welcoming both locals and curious explorers to partake in its lively spectacle.

Calle de Embajadores is the main street of the market, the more popular and, of course, the more crowded, it is also the one more similar to a “regular” market, all the later streets look more to a flea market that is more similar to the soul of El Rastro.

If you have read other posts on this blog you know my passion for markets, usually I visit markets everywhere I go, so I was very happy to have the opportunity to see El Rastro. I liked the colourful vibe, in one of the pictures you can see a lady writing poems with a typewriter.

Palacio Real

On the last day, I was alone because my girlfriend went back to work and left me the most tourist places in the city to visit on my own. So I went to see Palacio Real and its surroundings.

The Palacio Real stands as an architectural marvel and a testament to the grandeur of Spain's royal history. With its neoclassical façade and imposing presence, the Royal Palace exudes opulence from every angle. I didn’t visit the inside, even if the weather was very hot and going inside was tempting the price didn’t convince me. Adjacent to the Palacio Real, the Cathedral Almudena presents a harmonious blend of architectural styles, its breathtaking façade, is adorned with intricate sculptures and elaborate detailing. I didn’t visit the interior of the cathedral either, for the same reason as the palace, but I used its stares to relax a bit under the shadow.

Near Palacio Real there is Plaza de Oriente with the equestrian monument of Felipe IV in the middle, the square is framed by the beautiful Royal Theater (Teatro Real) to the north and the Royal Monastery of San Francisco el Grande to the west. It's a place of grandeur and elegance, characterized by statues of Spanish monarchs lining its central promenade. I just passed by this square, I was on the lookout for a place where I could find some escape from the heat.

Plaza Espana

Not far from Palacio Real and Plaza de Oriente, Plaza de España stands as a dynamic urban space that pays homage to the city's past while embracing its contemporary spirit. The square is framed by towering skyscrapers, with the iconic Edificio España commanding attention with its grandeur. At its heart, a majestic monument to Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes presides, flanked by sculptures of his most famous characters, Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. The surrounding gardens provide a serene contrast to the bustling streets, offering a place for relaxation and reflection. I loved this contrast, I enjoyed the shadow and the tranquillity of the green in the square while I was surrounded by tall buildings and the noise of the city.

As I mentioned before, the weather was extremely hot and the green of the square was not enough, so I had to find someplace with an AC. I walked back to the centre near Plaza Mayor and I found a coffee shop where I spent the hottest hours of the day.

I couldn’t leave without going back to Puerta del Sol square and seeing "El Oso y el Madroño", which is an emblematic bronze sculpture located in the square. Depicting a bear reaching up to a berry tree, the statue is a symbol of the city's identity and history. This iconic image references Madrid's coat of arms and is an embodiment of the blending of nature and urban life. The statue has become a popular meeting point for locals and a must-see for tourists.

I visited other places in Spain, like Barcelona or the Balearics, but I never thought of visiting Madrid before. I think that this city is underrated, for me is one of the best capitals in Europe, I liked it very much. Here you can find nice places to visit, very good museums, a relaxed vibe and very good food, what else?!