Madrid

The 5 best things to do on holiday in Madrid

The 5 activities not to be missed in Madrid on holiday, the complete guide

Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, is a city that harmoniously combines history, culture and modernity. Whether you are an art lover, a fervent football fan or a foodie, Madrid offers an unforgettable experience. Get ready to explore museums fascinating, to enjoy the flamenco, strolling in the parks and discovering majestic palaces. This article will guide you to discover the unmissable places, so that your stay in Madrid be full of discoveries and emotions. So, are you ready to start your adventure?

1 – Immerse yourself in art at the Prado Museum with a guided tour in Italian

Start your artistic exploration at the prestigious Prado Museum. This eminent institution, located in the heart of Madrid, is often at the top of the lists of tourist guides for good reason. It houses one of the finest collections of European art from the 12th to the 19th century. It houses masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya and Rubens. Each gallery transports you to a different world, offering a captivating glimpse into artistic development over the centuries. For a visit to the Prado Museum in Madrid with an Italian-speaking guide, we recommend you Madrid Discovery, who will organize the activity for you.

The Prado is a place where culture comes to life. To make the most of your visit, we recommend checking the opening hours in advance. It can be very crowded, especially on weekends. A tip? Come early in the morning to avoid the crowds and come face to face with the works of art. And to enrich the experience, don't hesitate to choose a guided tour to better understand the historical and artistic context of the works on display.

Here are the 5 masterpieces to discover at the Prado Museum:

  1. Las Meninas of Diego Velázquez. One of the most emblematic paintings in the museum, famous for its complexity and unique perspective.
  1. The Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymus Bosch. A fascinating and mysterious work, rich in details and symbolism, which represents heaven, earth and hell.
  1. The nude of Maja by Francisco de Goya. A sensual and enigmatic portrait, famous for the model’s boldness and direct gaze.
  1. The Triumph of Bacchus by Diego Velázquez. Also known as “Los Borrachos,” this mythological scene depicts Bacchus surrounded by common men in a joyful atmosphere.
  1. The knight with his hand on his chest El Greco. A sober and elegant portrait, with Mannerist touches, which embodies the Spanish nobility of the time.

2 – Stroll through the lively La Latina neighborhood and discover its magnificent streets.

Looking for a taste of the authentic Madrid? Don't miss a visit in the La Latina neighborhood. This area is one of the oldest and most typical of the city, renowned for its winding streets and charming little squares. It is here that the heart of Madrid beats to the rhythm of its people. It is recommended to visit the historic center of Madrid and the La Latina neighborhood in the morning.

The narrow streets of La Latina are full of tapas bars, wine bars and cafes where you can taste local specialties and enjoy a friendly atmosphere. On Sundays, the El Rastro market brings the neighborhood to life, offering visitors the chance to discover handicrafts, vintage clothing and original souvenirs. It is a feast for the eyes and an unmissable opportunity to understand the local culture.

Which neighborhoods are worth exploring for a pleasant walk in Madrid?

The Lavapiés neighborhood it is known for its cultural diversity and picturesque streets, perfect for a stroll. The Salamanca neighborhood, with its luxury boutiques and wide avenues, offers another side of the city to explore. Finally, the historic district of los Austrias, with its cobbled streets and ancient buildings, is ideal for a historical stroll.

3 – Explore the majestic Royal Palace of Madrid with a guided tour.

None visit to Madrid would be complete without a detour to the Royal Palace of Madrid, also known as Palacio Real. This official residence, although rarely used by the royal family as a residence, remains one of the most emblematic buildings in the capital. If you visit Madrid with your family, this is an excursion not to be missed, because your children will be amazed by the magnificent rooms of the Royal Palace.

During your visit you will discover its sumptuous rooms, adorned with impressive frescoes, glittering chandeliers and luxurious furnishings. A tour of the palace's rooms will take you to a journey through Spanish history, revealing the royal past and the sumptuous ceremonies of the past.

Don't miss the Plaza de Oriente, located right in front of the Royal Palace. It is the ideal place for a relaxing stroll, surrounded by carefully tended gardens and statues of Spanish kings. The Royal Palace is open to the public all year round, but we recommend that you check the practical information and opening hours before your visit, as official events may occasionally result in temporary closures.

To make your experience even more memorable, why not choose a guided tour? The enthusiastic guides will share fascinating anecdotes with you and give you a privileged insight into real Spanish life.

4 – Relax in Retiro Park

After exploring Madrid's rich history and culture, take a break in nature in the Retiro Park. Located right in the center of the city, this 125-hectare green space is a haven of peace.

Retiro Park is perfect for a walk or bike ride, for an outdoor yoga session or simply for a moment of relaxation in the sun. Inside the park there are many points of interest, such as the Palacio de Cristal, a magnificent glass pavilion that regularly hosts contemporary art exhibitions. Don’t miss the large lake, where you can rent a boat for a romantic or family experience.

The park also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including open-air concerts and theatre performances. Check upcoming events and schedules when you are in Madrid so you don't miss out. Whether you are looking for relaxation or cultural activities, the Parco del Retiro it is the ideal place to recharge your batteries.

Which are the best parks to relax in Madrid?

Retiro Park is probably the most well-known and loved park among Madrileños and tourists. With its vast green spaces, a lake where you can go boating and monuments such as the Palacio de Cristal, offers the perfect setting to relax. Another much-loved green space is Casa de Campo Park, the largest in the city, which offers a wide range of outdoor activities.

5 – Vibrate to the rhythm of flamenco and football

If you are in Madrid, you cannot miss flamenco and football, two of the most emblematic passions of the city. For a typically Spanish evening, go to one of flamenco tablaos of the city. These venues offer enchanting shows where dancers and musicians come together to create a captivating experience. The haunting music, clicking of heels and passionate melodies will transport you to the heart of the Spanish soul.

When it comes to football, the Santiago Bernabéu, the legendary stadium of Real Madrid, is a must-see for fans of the game. Even if you are not a football fan, a visit to the stadium will impress you with its history and atmosphere. You will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes, explore the club museum and even sit on the substitutes’ bench! Check out the practical information and visiting times to plan your visit, and why not attend a match to experience the euphoria first hand.

Which are the best nightlife activities in Madrid?

The Madrid nightlife is lively and varied. The Chueca and Malasaña neighborhoods are known for their trendy bars and clubs, where you can dance the night away. For those looking for a more traditional atmosphere, attend a flamenco show in one of the city's tablaos is an unforgettable experience.

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