Trip Length

3-5 Days

How to Get Around

On Foot

Metro

Taxi

Months to Go

Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct, Nov

Currency

Euro

Local Language

Spanish

Spain’s elegant Madrid offers both the sophistication of Paris and the trendiness of Berlin, with world-class art museums and gorgeous architecture to top it all off. As is true elsewhere in Spain, everything happens late: tapas bars begin to bustle around 10 p.m. and nightclubs are open well into the next morning. 

Madrid

Spain

Amazónico

The dining room at Amazonico feels like a sexy, tropical paradise, and the crowd is equally beautiful. This buzzy spot in Salamanca is a go-to for a fun group dinner or drinks and bites (sushi, steak, fusion small plates) at the bar before going out. Post-dinner, head down to the restaurant’s Jazz Club for a sophisticated night out. 

Chocolatería San Ginés

This institution—open since 1894—is famous for it's chocolate con churros. 

DiverXO

For a truly memorable meal there’s no better spot than the three-Michelin-starred DiverXo. It’s hard to secure a reservation, quite expensive, and a drive from the city center, but the gastronomic Chinese-Spanish restaurant is really special and perfect for a celebration. Dining here is an experience!

El Retiro Park

Madrid’s most beautiful park, with a lake in the center where you can rent rowboats and paddle around. While exploring the grounds, make a point to stop at—and go inside of—the Palacio de Cristal, a beautiful greenhouse. This is also a great place to go for a run in the morning. 

GOTA

Natural wine bar owned by the team behind one of our favorite spots in Madrid, Acid Café. Located in the hip Justicia neighborhood, Gota serves small plates and spins vinyl records, both of which contribute to making this one of the best casual date spots in the city. 

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

In addition to the Prado, the Reina is one of the absolute best museums in Madrid. The incredible modern art destination has a collection of mostly 20th-century Spanish pieces, including Picasso’s famous Guernica, which depicts the horrors of the Spanish Civil War. The onsite restaurant and café are quite good if you need a snack after browsing the galleries. 

Museo Nacional del Prado

The largest and most esteemed museum in Madrid. The Prado has some of the most famous artworks in the world (Velázquez’s Las Meninas, Goya’s Saturn Devouring His Son, and more). It’s quite big so get a tour guide or go in with a plan of attack!

Restaurante Ten Con Ten

One of Salamanca’s chicest restaurants, Ten Con Ten is a buzzy, modern Spanish restaurant that is always packed with a well-dressed crowd. There’s a big dining room but the tables up front for walk-ins are arguably more fun for drinks and tapas. And don’t sleep on the pastas: the lasagna and truffle risotto are phenomenal. 

Royal Palace of Madrid

The Spanish royals don’t currently reside here, but this is their royal palace—a sprawling building with stunning gardens. This is a must for history buffs—don’t miss the Royal Armoury. Reserve tickets in advance. 

Sacha Restaurant

This classic bistro serves simple Spanish cuisine that has been crafted to perfection. It’s a 15-minute drive from the city center, but the intimate restaurant is renowned and definitely worth the drive. The menu changes but the signature steak with marrow is always available! Reserve a table on the terrace for a romantic atmosphere. 

Salmon Guru

One of the coolest bars in the world. Over-the-top, art-like cocktails and eclectic, retro interiors make Salmon Guru a must-visit. 

San Miguel Market

Iconic covered food hall in a building that dates back to the early 20th century and is filled with stalls selling traditional Spanish tapas. This is a must for lunch—try croquettes, banderillas, tortilla, and more. Rocambolesc is a good spot for ice cream! Don't miss Carrasco for jamón (you can also buy it prepackaged to bring home as a souvenir).

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

Seeing a Real Madrid fútbol (soccer) match is a bucket-list item for sports fans, and the team’s home, Santiago Bernabeu, is one of the liveliest stadiums in the world. This is a really special activity and opportunity to experience Spain’s fútbol culture. 

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