Traveling to Madrid on a Tight Timeline

A vacation of several weeks would just barely scratch the surface of the wonderful city of Madrid. One of the most exciting cities in the world, Madrid is virtually packed with attractions that would take several weeks or months to experience. If you are in Madrid on a layover or perhaps have some time after a business meeting, take advantage of these must-see wonderful sights. You will not get to everything, but you can certainly get a great sense of the vibrancy that is characteristic of Madrid.

Begin by getting a feel for the city simple by walking through it. Start by strolling down the most important street in Madrid, La Gran Via. Combine sightseeing with shopping as you browse in any of the hundreds of shops and stores and marvel at the wonderful architecture of buildings like the Edificio Metrópolis. Three more stops will give you a sense of the great diversity of Madrid: the Madrid Cathedral, the Royal Palace, and the Templo de Debod. The most important church in Madrid, the largest royal palace in Western Europe, and an authentic second century Egyptian temple, respectively, you will see the immensity of Madrid’s offerings.

Next on the agenda should be visits to some of Madrid’s exceptional museums. The Prado is considered to be one of the best museums in all of Europe and features an art collection that is simply stunning. Spend an hour of your precious visit strolling through works by Goya, Bosch, Rembrandt, Fra Angelico, and many more. Save another hour for the CaixaForum. This amazing building houses an extensive art collection, and it is a work of art in itself. If you’re running short on time, look at the vertical garden that grows on one of the exterior walls. It is a marvel.

Of course, you can’t go to Madrid without taking a little time out to eat. You’ll can see, hear, and smell the flavor of Madrid by enjoying the many eateries throughout the city. Try the oldest restaurant in the world, Botin. Scrumptious Mediterranean food is served in the rustic wood-beamed dining rooms. Treat yourself to the cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) or cordero asado (roast lamb). For something a little lighter, try tapas at any of the wonderful bars or restaurants in the city.

Finish up your whirlwind Madrid tour by enjoying the best flamenco in Madrid. If you can get into Corral de la Moreria, you will be treated to wonderful dancing and music while you enjoy a meal. Otherwise, many other restaurants offer flamenco flair.

Though you’ve only spent a few hours in this lovely city, you will have memories for a lifetime. And an overwhelming desire to come back.