Madrid has one million corners and places that are worth a visit- however, in this blogpost we will focus on the main attractions in the centre of the city.
1. Calle Gran Vìa
The so called 'Great Way' is the spanish equivalent to the American Broadway.
It was bulit between 1910 and 1921 and constituted a pivotal trading route.
Even nowadays, it is the most famous street in the heart of the city.
The Street Gran Vía is also the main transport artery in central madrid - more than one kilometer long.
It starts close to the Plaza de Cibeles (Calle de Alcalá) and ends at Plaza Espana.
What is actually so interesting about it?
Calle Gran Vìa hosts a plethora of clothing shops, restaurants, bars and hotels.
Besides that, there are also a bevy of theatres, cinemas and casinos.
Not to mention the stunning architecture you can find there, for instance if you look at the Metropolis-, the Telefonica- or Schweppes building.
My verdict: Definitely worth a visit/ stroll!
2. Plaza Mayor
As the name already discloses, Plaza Mayor is and was the `Main Square` of the capital of Spain.
Its rectangular shape and the red color of the complex make the plaza mayor a spectacular sightseeing spot.
The plaza serves as a site for concerts from time to time due to its spacial capacity.
In the centre of the square, a monument of a man on a horse can be found.
Multiple cafes and restaurants are located on the edges of the plaza - trying to entice customers with the exclusive location right in the center of Madrid.
!Be cautious! It might be tempting to rest there and have lunch or dinner- however, it is fairly costly to eat on Plaza Mayor. You might be better off in one of the smaller streets nearby...
3. Parque del Retiro
The Retiro is the largest park in the city and simultaneously the `green lung` as they call it in Madrid.
This huge park displays a pond where you can rent a boat and enjoy the sun, various foutains and monuments as well as lawns and green areas to relax and socialize.
Another perk about El Retiro is that it is the perfect place for a run. Retiro offers a score of running trails throughout the park in order to get your miles/kilometers in.
This was one of my favorite things to do in Madrid: go for a run in Retiro or reading a book there while sunbathing.
As you can tell by the people going there, dogowners were just as fond of the park as runners or families.
4.Palacio Real
This ancient royal palace is a stunning landmark not far away from Gran Vía.
In the past, the Spanish Royal Family lived and conducted business there.
Now, the Royal Family resides in a mansion in the outskirts of Madrid, away from the buzz and curious pararazzi. The palace`s purpose today is to serve as a museum.
What can you do there?
You can either just look at this breathtaking building from the outside with all its golden elements and unique architecture.
However, if you want to see more, I recommend to go inside and visit the palace.
There are only a few of the thousands of rooms open to visit but you also have access to the inner courtyard of the palace - definitely worth a visit! (also perfect for rainy days)
5. Catredral Almudena
This famous cathedral is located right next to the Palacio Real.
I love this church because of its colourful ceiling design and simple grey-beige stone style.
In this cathedral, King Felipe VI got married to Leticia in 2004.
The entry is free! Take your time as you wander through this special cathedral.
If you want to know more about it, I suggest you visit the Cathedral museum (which costs about 10-15$): the ticket includes access to the balcony, which provides you with a breathtaking view above the patio of the Royal Palace. You can also access the rooftop of the cathedral to enjoy the amazing view!
6. Templo de Debod
Not far from the Palace is the Temple de Debod.
It was a gift from Egypt to Spain after the war.
Ever since, it is the place to be for watching the sunset with your friends and loved ones - don´t forget to bring a blanket, some wine or beer and snacks while enjoying the sundown.
We have reached the end of this blogpost! But no worries, there is more to come...
In the meantime, let´s talk in the comments:
Which of these places have you already visited?
Or which one of the sights are you going to visit first when you are in Madrid?
Let me know in the comments below!!
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