Madrid was one of my absolute favorite places. The people were so friendly, the atmosphere was so beautiful AND the food was OUT OF THIS WORLD. Based upon visiting European countries such as Italy, France and Sweden, I would say that Spain has the best food. Don’t ask me why, just book your ticket ASAP!
When did I go? I went in the beginning of April. The weather was not ideal but I could care less. My boyfriend and I put on a few extra layers, ate a little more food and easily kept warm. The flights were EXTREMELY cheap because of the time of year. We paid about $350 round trip. I suggest going to Europe in the off-season if you can. Weather is not that big of a deal. If you aren’t going in the summer for the beach, why not pay a quarter of the price and go explore?!
Where did you stay? My boyfriend and I stayed in an Airbnb. I love Airbnb and find it’s one of the best options when vacationing abroad. You get so much more room for your money and you can live more like a local this way. We stayed in an area called La Latina. It couldn’t have been more perfect for us.
How did you get around? I will probably have the same answer to this question on every travel blog post I publish. Our legs took us everywhere. We did not use any type of transportation besides to and from the airport. I love to walk. Additionally, I believe you can see the city the best this way as well as get some exercise in. Movement is very important to me. We did on average a total of eight miles per day!
The Food:
Find a list of all restaurants below. I have written my top 1-2 items to order at each. My favorite restaurant is marked with a star. If you only have the chance to try one of these places, make it Juana La Loca.
Txirimiri - Croquetas de boletus, trufa y jamón & Torrija caramelizada
Café Mistura - Ice cream & Matcha latte
*Juana La Loca - Mussels in a fresh white wine & curry cream & Oxtail fajita with sun dried tomatoes barbecue sauce, provolone & rocket
Roots Café - Turmeric latte
Mamá Framboise - Palmera de chocolat & Blueberry Bretzel
Café Federal - Eggs Florentine & Cortado
La China Mandarina - Firewood rye toast with serrano ham, tomato and oil & Firewood rye toast with cream cheese with smoked salmon and capers
HanSo Café - Matcha latte & Chocolate croissant
El Capricho Extremeño - Tosta with jamón and oil
Pez Tortilla - Tortilla de brie trufado y jamón
Rawcoco Green Bar - Smoothies & Toastadas
La Rollerie - Eggs benedict and yogurt bowl
The Hat & El Viajero were two rooftop bars where we had drinks. I rarely drink so I do not feel qualified to give recommendations on alcohol but both bars had beautiful atmospheres. I believe the last drink I had was during this trip lol. Note: You cannot go wrong with the wine at any restaurant.
The Attractions:
Palacio de Cristal - A gorgeous conservatory in the middle of El Retiro Jardin.
Real Madrid Soccer Stadium - We went on a tour through the stadium which was amazing and I highly recommend!
El Retiro Jardin - A large park in Madrid.
Puerta de Alcalá - A monument located close to El Retiro Jardin.
El Corte Inglés Shopping Center - A large mall with a rooftop filled with different food/drink vendors.
Botanico Jardin - A beautiful garden to explore.
Plaza Mayor - A grand square in the heart of the city.
Puerto del Sol - Another famous square located close to Plaza Mayor.
Plaza de Santa Ana - Yet another iconic square located in close proximity to Plaza Mayor and Puerto del Sol
El Rastro Market - A HUGE flea market held every Sunday filled with anything you could ever want. I bought a vintage rhinestone jean jacket there for 10 euro.
Marcato de San Miguel - This place is a must if you’re a foodie! It is a giant market filled with different vendors. You can try all the local favorites while sipping on some wine.
Palacio de Cibeles - A large, very sophisticated-looking landmark building.
Gran Vía - A street filled with incredible shopping! Be sure to check out Primark Gran Vía.
Edificio Metrópolis Building - A landmark office building of Madrid.
Royal Palace of Madrid - A ginormous palace. The Spanish Royals do not actual live here. The palace is just used for ceremonies and such.
Templo de Debod - An ancient Egyptian Temple.
Almudena Cathedral - A breathtaking church.
Platea Madrid - A gourmet fun food hall with delicious food, drinks and great music. (Another foodie lover’s dream)
Adiós, Frozen Bananas!
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