Madrid, the capital of Spain, should be known for much more than just its love of football. Home to world‑class art museums, incredible cuisine, expansive parks and Europe’s largest royal palace, the city caters to every type of traveller. But what truly makes Madrid special is its inclusive, welcoming atmosphere – few places feel as spirited. Save this Madrid guide to discover the city’s lesser‑known treasures, especially if you love architecture, art, and a genuine local experience.
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Best Time To Visit Madrid
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) bring mild temperatures and lighter crowds – perfect for sightseeing. Summer (June to August) offers lively nightlife and rooftop bars, but be prepared for soaring temperatures.
How To Get There & Get Around
Cathay Pacific flies direct from Hong Kong to Madrid in about 14 hours, with four weekly services for a convenient journey. Once you arrive, you’ll find Madrid highly walkable, thanks to its wide pedestrian boulevards and efficient metro network. For shorter hops, Bolt offers a wallet‑friendly alternative to traditional taxis.
Where To Go In Madrid
Sol (Centro)
At Sol (Centro), historic landmarks meet lively street life. Start at Puerta del Sol – the city’s true hub – and wander through the majestic Plaza Mayor. Then make your way to the regal Royal Palace – one of Europe’s largest – and marvel at the intricate façade of Almudena Cathedral next door. This quarter offers a vivid introduction to Madrid’s heritage, making it an unmissable stop for first‑time visitors.
Chueca
Known as Madrid’s LGBTQ+ hub, Chueca is inclusive, energetic and brimming with quirky boutiques, trendy eateries and a buzzing nightlife. Don’t miss Mercado de San Antón – with three floors of Spanish and international stalls and a must‑visit summer rooftop bar.
Retiro
Named for its vast Parque del Buen Retiro – 118 hectares once reserved for Spain’s royals – Retiro is now where madrileños and visitors alike wander sculpted gardens, row across the lake and linger at landmark sights such as the glass‑and‑iron Palacio de Cristal, which hosts rotating art installations. Just beyond the park’s north‑west gate stretches the historic Paseo del Prado, a tree‑lined avenue and UNESCO World Heritage site that houses the Prado and Thyssen‑Bornemisza museums.
Salamanca
Immerse yourself in Salamanca, Madrid’s most sophisticated quarter and the address of the city’s Golden Mile. Designer boutiques, polished restaurants and chic cafés line its elegant streets, while the Opera Gallery displays standout works by 20th‑century masters.
La Latina
Stroll the cobbled lanes and historic squares of La Latina – Madrid’s medieval heart – and you’ll feel transported back in time. Traditional tapas bars line the streets, their lively ambience spilling into the night. Visit on a Sunday to dive into the bustle of El Rastro, the city’s vast flea market teeming with curiosities.
Where To Eat In Madrid
Sala de Despiece
For an off‑beat tapas adventure, head to Sala de Despiece, where an industrial‑chic space styled like a fish‑market sets the scene for boundary‑pushing small plates. Order the tasting menu to sample creations such as Navarra tomato with fried basil or snap‑crispy fish skin. A must for diners craving a dynamic, memorable Madrid meal.
Sala de Despiece, various locations across Madrid, english.saladedespiece.com
Comparte Bistró
Comparte Bistró builds its ever‑changing menu around peak‑season produce, spotlighting dishes such as steak tartare piled onto a buttery croissant with Béarnaise, or melt‑in‑the‑mouth tuna cheek in Bordelaise sauce. A cosy room and thoughtful wine list round out a refined Madrid dining experience rooted in fresh, seasonal flavours.
Comparte Bistró, C. de Belén, 6, Centro, 28004 Madrid, Spain, +34 910 33 87 07, www.comparte-bistro.com
Casa González
A favourite since 1931, Casa González is part gourmet shop, part tapas bar, celebrated for top‑quality charcuterie and conservas. Let the staff curate a cheese board while you people‑watch in the heart of Madrid’s old quarter – a perfect spot to sample classic local flavours.
Casa González, C. del León, 12, Centro, 28014 Madrid, Spain, +34 914 29 56 18, www.casagonzalez.madrid
Casa Labra
Founded in 1860 near Puerta del Sol, Casa Labra is revered for its cod croquettes (croquetas de bacalao). The no‑frills, old‑school ambience is part of the appeal, drawing locals and visitors alike in search of authentic Madrid fare.
Casa Labra, C. de Tetuán, 12, Centro, 28013 Madrid, Spain, +34 915 31 06 16, www.casalabra.es
Casa Revuelta
Casa Revuelta exudes classic Madrid charm and is famed for its crisp bacalao (fried cod) tapas. The perpetually bustling bar makes for a quick stop – ideal for anyone keen to dive straight into the city’s tapas culture.
Casa Revuelta (Tapas Bar), C. de Cuchilleros, 10, Centro, 28005 Madrid, Spain, +34 912 93 52 94, www.casarevuelta.com
Where To Stay In Madrid
Room007 Select Sol
Room007 Select Sol is a smart choice for budget‑minded travellers. Known for its central location and friendly staff, the hotel pairs sleek modern design with an unexpectedly quiet ambience – rare for an affordable property in Madrid’s bustling centre.
Room007 Select Sol, C. de las Fuentes, 13, Centro, 28013 Madrid, Spain, +34 914 49 61 81, www.roomselecthotels.com
60 Balconies Design
Created by the 311 Studio collective, this stylish apartment hotel occupies a restored historic building in one of Madrid’s trendiest districts. Each apartment sports its own personality – perfect for extended stays. A metro station sits close by, and the Museo Nacional Thyssen‑Bornemisza and El Retiro Park are only a short walk away.
60 Balconies Design, Calle del Almirante, 17, Centro, 28004 Madrid, Spain, +34 915 23 14 24, 60balconies.com
Four Seasons Hotel Madrid
Set at Madrid’s Kilómetro Cero landmark, this opulent retreat offers sweeping rooftop views of the city. Its oversized rooms come stocked with jamón ibérico and local vermouth – just the thing for soothing jet lag. Step outside and you’re only minutes from El Retiro Park and the Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen‑Bornemisza museums.
Four Seasons Hotel Madrid, C. de Sevilla, 3, Centro, 28014 Madrid, Spain, +34 910 88 33 33, www.fourseasons.com
Viva Waratah Jongsaeng
Viva Waratah Jongsaeng is a Bangkok-based full-time hotelier and part-time travel writer with a serious case of wanderlust. When she’s not uncovering Bangkok’s hidden gems, she’s daydreaming about her next adventure, always on the hunt for delicious eats, unique stays and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
