Visit Madrid
Madrid’s wide streets, lively plazas, and constant motion capture the essence of Spain’s capital. The Gran Vía stretches ahead, lined with shops, theatres and cafés. Locals sit at outdoor tables sipping coffee or wine. Street performers fill the squares with music and movement.
The historic centre is full of narrow streets and hidden courtyards. Buildings in shades of ochre and terracotta rise above quiet lanes. Markets are filled with jamón, olives and fresh produce. The scent of churros drifts from bakeries on early mornings.
Plaza Mayor dominates the old town with its striking red appearances. From here, streets lead to the Royal Palace, grand churches and artisan shops. Parks like El Retiro provide green spaces and lakes for a pause between explorations.
The Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral showcase its royal heritage. Streets like Calle de Toledo and Huertas reveal old neighbourhood life with artisan shops and tapas bars. Museums such as the Prado and Reina Sofía display world-famous art. Parks, markets, and plazas give a real sense of local rhythm. Every street has something to see, taste or experience.
Top sights to visit
- Puerta del Sol The heart of Madrid and a central meeting point for locals and visitors alike. Famous for its clock tower and the iconic “Kilometer Zero” plaque. The surrounding streets are filled with shops, cafés and street performers.
- Royal Palace of Madrid A grand palace showcasing royal history with luxurious rooms, art collections and historic artifacts. You can tour the Throne Room, Royal Armoury and beautiful gardens. Its architectural splendor and interiors make it a must-see landmark.
- Plaza Mayor A historic square surrounded by uniform buildings with arcades and vibrant cafés. It hosts markets, events and seasonal fairs throughout the year. The atmosphere is perfect for people-watching while enjoying traditional tapas.
- Parque del Buen Retiro) Madrid's premier public green space. This former royal garden is perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Inside, you'll find the stunning Palacio de Cristal; a beautiful glass and iron pavilion that often hosts art exhibitions. You can also rent a rowboat on the large lake.
- Gran Vía Often called Spain's Broadway, this magnificent avenue is the commercial and entertainment heartbeat of the city. Walk down the street to admire the stunning architecture and catch a show in one of its historic theaters.
- Mercado de San Miguel A historic market offering gourmet tapas, fresh seafood, wines and local delicacies. Its glass-covered structure makes it an architectural gem as well as a culinary hotspot. Sampling the market’s offerings gives a true taste of Madrid’s food culture.
- Lavapiés Neighborhood A multicolor district with street art, quirky shops and a tasty tapas scene. It’s known for its bohemian atmosphere and cultural festivals. Hidden courtyards and intimate cafés make it a great place to explore off the beaten path.
- Templo de Debod This ancient Egyptian temple was dismantled and relocated to Madrid in the 1960s. Sitting on a hill near the Royal Palace, it provides a unique historical anomaly and is famous for offering the best spot in the city to watch the sunset.
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History of Madrid
Madrid’s origins are modest. Muslims built a fortress called Mayrit along the Manzanares River in the 9th century,. It defended the region and controlled the surrounding lands. Remains of its walls can still be traced in the city’s oldest streets.
By the 11th century, Christian forces captured the area. Madrid remained a small town for centuries, overshadowed by Toledo and other major cities. Its growth accelerated in 1561 when King Philip II made it the capital of Spain. Palaces, churches and administrative buildings were built to house the monarchy and government.
The 17th and 18th centuries brought expansion and wealth. Grand plazas such as Plaza Mayor were constructed. Royal institutions, including the Royal Palace and El Escorial nearby, shaped Madrid’s identity. In the 19th century, Madrid modernized. Streets were widened and new neighbourhoods built. Railways connected the capital to the rest of Spain. Public squares, markets, and theatres added to the city’s social life.
The Spanish Civil War in the 20th century caused heavy damage, but the city rebuilt quickly. After Franco’s dictatorship, Madrid became the political and economic heart of a modern democratic Spain.