Travels
5 Best Places to Visit While in Madrid
Madrid is one of the most recognizable Spanish cities in the world. An important place on the tourist map of Europe, where tradition and modernity form a perfect blend. It's such a vibrant and culturally rich city that some find it hard to describe. A large metropolis that in places looks like a small Spanish town, with colorful streets and an unparalleled atmosphere.
Considered the economic heart of Spain, together with Barcelona, Madrid is home to the headquarters of the country's largest companies. The Spanish capital enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Additionally, its airport attracts many visitors, thanks to its numerous European connections, making it easy for tourists to see top-rated European sights, even if they are only visiting for a weekend.
Don't miss these five must-see attractions while in Madrid:
1. Royal Palace: Home of the Kings of Spain
There's no better place to start exploring Madrid than the Royal Palace. Built in the mid-18th century for King Felipe V, the Royal Palace is located on the site of the Alcázar palace-fortress, which was destroyed by fire in 1734. The Madrid Royal Palace is the largest royal palace in Western Europe; it is a perfect blend of Baroque and Neoclassicism styles. You will be dazzled by the palace's interiors, the apartments, their sublime frescoes, and other royal collections. Do not miss the opportunity to admire the sublime works of Goya, Caravaggio, Velázquez, as well as the superb exhibitions of watches and silverware.
2. Puerta Del Sol: Madrid's Most Famous and Central Square
Puerta Del Sol (Sun Gate) is undoubtedly one of the best spots to visit in Madrid; it is a popular meeting place for residents of the Spanish capital. The best time to visit Puerta Del Sol is on New Year's Eve. Each year the clock that dominates the Royal Post Office displays the countdown, which creates a unique atmosphere. Another don't-miss attraction to discover is the Bear and the Strawberry Tree Statue, a symbol of Madrid since the Middle Ages.
3. Prado Museum: The Greatest Collection of Spanish Art
The Prado Museum opened in 1819; it is one of the best places to visit in Madrid and one of the largest museums in the world. Today, the Prado Museum displays European paintings from the 14th century to the 19th century. It is an ideal opportunity to discover the works of the famous Diego Vélasquez, Francisco Goya, and Hieronymus Bosch. Additionally, Prado Museum also exhibits some 6,400 drawings and 3,000 prints.
4. Almudena Cathedral: Madrid's Grandest Church
You cannot visit Madrid without noticing the Almudena Cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin of Almudena. The cathedral was built near the Royal Palace in the 20th century. The cathedral facade will impress you with its neoclassical style to the point where you will not be able to take your eyes off its dome, whose cross rises to over 328 ft. Inside the Almudena Cathedral, you will be amazed by the Neo-Gothic style, that it is uniquely modern, with chapels and statues of contemporary artists. The neo-Romanesque crypt hides a 16th-century painting of the Virgen de la Almudena.
5. Casa de Campo: The Green Lung of Madrid
Casa de Campo is a substantial Spanish park located in the west of Madrid. It's one of the largest parks in the world, about five times the size of New York City's Central Park. Thanks to its 7 mi², its many monuments, and small bars and restaurants, everyone will find something to enjoy. Additionally, the park houses a beautiful lake, Madrid Zoo, and an amusement park, the Parque de Atracciones de Madrid.
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