Part 3 of 3
For our 2022 Spring Break adventure, we packed our bags and headed to Spain, kicking off an unforgettable journey that took us to three incredible cities: Malaga, Marbella, and Madrid. In this third and final post of the series, we topped off our trip in the capital city of Madrid. Click here and here for parts 1 (Malaga) and 2 (Marbella).
PostScript
I cannot express with enough passion the joys I experience traveling with my children. If you are a parent of small (or medium) children waiting for them to be “just a little older” before taking them out into the world, please don’t. Take the trip. Buy the family pass. Pack the little clothes, haul the extra suitcases. It’s worth it. I promise. Even if not for them, it’s worth it for you.
With its rich history, grand architecture, and vibrant culture, Madrid offered a perfect mix of relaxation, exploration, and delicious food to cap off our adventure.
We stayed at a nice Hyatt property The Thompson Madrid. The hotel was beautiful and really immersed us in the quintessential Madrid architecture.
Ready to plan your Madrid adventure? Feel free to reach out for travel recommendations or booking assistance. Let me help you create your perfect Spanish getaway!
How We Got to Madrid
From Marbella, we took another high-speed AVE train straight to Madrid, enjoying the picturesque landscapes along the way. There was a convenience rental car return at the station in Marbella where we could drop off our one-way rental we got in Malaga. The train ride was about 3 hours and some of the higher maintenance passengers were able to buy snacks before boarding at the station. Madrid’s Atocha Station is centrally located and a perfect starting point for the city’s many offerings.
We stayed at a nice Hyatt property The Thompson Madrid. The hotel was beautiful and really immersed us in the quintessential Madrid architecture.
Must-See Attractions in Madrid
1. Royal Palace of Madrid
No trip to Madrid is complete without a visit to the Royal Palace. This grand architectural marvel is the largest functioning royal palace in Europe. Inside, you’ll find opulent rooms with intricate decor, frescoes, and historical artifacts. The palace gardens are equally beautiful and worth a leisurely stroll.
2. Mercado de San Miguel
For food lovers, the Mercado de San Miguel is a must-visit. This bustling market offers a taste of Spain, from jamón ibérico to seafood paella, and decadent desserts like churros with chocolate. We spent a couple of hours here sampling tapas and soaking in the lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for an afternoon break or even a casual dinner.3. Prado Museum
The Prado Museum is one of the world’s top art museums and boasts an extensive collection of European masterpieces. Art aficionados will be thrilled to view works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Even if you’re not a die-hard art fan, the beauty and magnitude of the pieces on display make this an unforgettable stop.4. Retiro Park
After taking in the sights at the Prado, take a short walk to Retiro Park, Madrid’s version of Central Park. The sprawling park offers lush greenery, a peaceful lake where you can rent rowboats, and various sculptures and monuments. It’s the perfect spot to relax and people-watch after a day of sightseeing. There’s also some great climbing trees in the park, there’s my little monkey hidden here.
5. Gran Via
Gran Via is the heartbeat of Madrid’s shopping and entertainment district. Lined with shops, theaters, and historical buildings, it’s perfect for a night stroll or an afternoon shopping spree. We ended our day here, grabbing a casual dinner before heading back to our hotel.Where to Eat in Madrid
Madrid is a food lover’s dream, and we couldn’t resist trying some of the local specialties. Our very favorite place was the Mercado de San Miguel (above) for eating a wide variety of Spanish and global delights. If you don’t eat anywhere else recommended in this post, please spend some time in the Mercado, it’s a must visit!
1. Casa Lucio
Famous for its huevos rotos, Casa Lucio is a traditional Spanish restaurant that serves simple yet incredibly flavorful dishes. The vibe is cozy, making it a great spot for a laid-back meal.2. Sobrino de Botín
For a historical twist, try Sobrino de Botín, the world’s oldest restaurant. Known for its roast suckling pig, the restaurant serves traditional Castilian fare in an ambiance that feels like a step back in time.3. Taberna La Daniela
If you’re craving cocido madrileño, a hearty stew that’s a staple of Madrid, head to Taberna La Daniela. The food is authentic, and the service is excellent.Final Thoughts
Madrid is a city that captures your heart with its combination of old-world charm and modern flair. Whether you’re exploring the Royal Palace or enjoying tapas at Mercado de San Miguel, there’s something for everyone in Spain’s capital city. We took our tired and full selves home from Madrid back to the states after a week of Spanish delights!
Ready to plan your Madrid adventure? Feel free to reach out for travel recommendations or booking assistance. Let me help you create your perfect Spanish getaway!
