Madrid City Breaks

Madrid at a glance

Madrid boasts an intoxicating zeal for life reflected in its world-class museums, art galleries, delicious cuisine and unbeatable nightlife.  With a celebrated history as the Spanish capital since 1561, the city holds a fierce pride for its culture and traditions while equally embracing an ever-changing modern world. Madrid is a fantastic short break destination not to be missed with a vibrant atmosphere and so much to see and do.

Empire building nations influenced Madrid early on, leaving it with a lasting impression of grandeur in its regal palaces, majestic squares and impressive cathedrals. There is also an impressive number of art galleries and museums in the city, thanks in no small part to the Spanish royalty who had an affinity for the masterpieces of their time.

Despite its hearty connection with its past, Madrid is also a global city placed among the largest metropolises in Europe and holds a worldwide influence on current art, culture, fashion and education.

Things to do in Madrid

• Plaza Mayor: This impressive town square is the heart of Madrid’s imperial and political life.
• Puerta del Sol: Historically the location of a city gate, today it’s a bustling, central square surrounded by many shops, restaurants and famous landmarks.
• Museo Del Prado: One of the world’s great art galleries, housed in a magnificent former palace.
• El Rastro Market: The place to be on a Sunday morning, this excellent flea market has food stalls selling tapas and a host of second-hand bargains.
• Parque del Buen Retiro: Elegant gardens that are peaceful during the week and lively at weekends.
• Estadio Santiago Bernabéu: The home of Real Madrid, and one of the world’s most famous and prestigious football stadiums.
• The Palacio Real: The Royal Palace, still being used for state functions is the largest palace in Western Europe.
• Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena: Principal church of the Diocese of Madrid, started in 1883 and was only completed in 1993.
• Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía: A treasure-trove of contemporary and modern art, many of its works having been moved from the Prado.
• Temple of Debod: An authentic Egyptian temple dating from the 2nd century BC.
• Botín Restaurant: The oldest restaurant in the world, dating back to 1725.

Getting around

Madrid has the second largest metro network in Europe. Single and multiple journey tickets can be purchased from ticket machines which provide instructions in number of languages, including English.  

There is also a public bus network which operates on the same set fare for any single journey. 

Metrobus tickets can be purchased for use on both the metro and bus.

Dining in Madrid

Madrid’s cuisine takes Spanish food to a whole new level with innovative fusions based on regional dishes and the latest in gastronomy trends. 

The world’s oldest restaurant, Sobrino de Botín, is situated in the heart of Madrid. In operation since 1725 the restaurant uses an original wood fire oven to prepare its most popular dish – suckling pig.

Must-try local dishes:

• Cocido – a meat based stew with a variety of vegetables including cabbage, chickpeas and carrots
• Patatas bravas – cut and fried potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce
• ChocoTeja – a fondant shell filled with dulce de leche and dried fruits or nuts

Osprey Holidays top tips

Buzzing food markets, such as the Mercado de San Miguel and Mercado de San Anton are fabulous for tapas and the freshest, local produce.