The Traveller's Magazine
Madrid is as regal and exciting as capital cities get in Europe. The huge palace and gardens, iconic and monumental art museums and collections, lush parks and promenades… a trip to the Spanish capital is one you won’t want to miss. Don’t have the budget? That’s nonsense!
Free Museums
If your trip happens to fall on a weekend, lucky you! The Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia is open and free both Saturday and Sunday and is home to Picasso’s famous canvas, Guernica. The Casa Museo de Lope de Vega is free all day on Sunday and the Museos de America and Sorolla are free only on Sunday mornings.
Is a visit to El Prado on your list? Save the entrance fee by stopping by all week long in the evening (except Monday when it’s closed).
A slice of heaven: Madrid Parks
One of the most famous parks in Madrid lies just within walking distance from El Prado, it’s El Retiro. The rose garden, statues, fountains, glass houses and central lake where you can paddle your way around in summer make for the perfect afternoon away from the city bustle. El Capricho cannot be missed however and is only open on weekends. Head to El Capricho metro station and from there it’s only a five minute walk away.
Other parks worth exploring: Campo del Moro and Parque del Oeste.
Tapas, tapas, tapas
One of the great things about Spanish cuisine are the tapas, small portions of food, tasters if you like, of anything from slices of local goat cheese to fried squid. While tapas got their start and are most popular in Spain’s southern region, they’re plenty popular in Madrid now too. Buy a drink and often tapas will be discounted or cost little more than a Euro or two.
Hop your way around and discover which bar serves up the best!
Are you planning a trip to Madrid? Make your jaunt even cheaper by flying with low cost flights to Madrid.
