It’s hard to think of a city more alive than the Spanish capital. Madrid is perfect for a weekend rich in culture, and even richer in excitement. With a lively atmosphere and mouth-watering food to boot, the hustle and bustle of Madrid is not one you’ll ever forget.
With contemporary architecture blended beautifully with its Spanish Baroque heritage, Madrid is as pleasing on the eye as it is in its activities. With so much to discover, we run down the key things to do in the incredible city.
Walk down Gran Via
It’s hard to imagine Madrid without the Gran Via. Towering belle epoque facades line the boulevard, with the Metropolis building being its most prominent feature. Completed in 1929, the street is lined with eye catching buildings and is the perfect way to get your bearings, whilst taking in some of the city’s most beautiful architecture.
Watch A Game At The Santiago Bernabau
Perhaps the most famous football club in the world, watching a game at the Bernabau is a must for anyone remotely interested in football. The home of Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and a host of other superstars, sitting under the bright lights watching Real Madrid is a truly unique atmosphere. Combine that with a tour of the 85,500 seated Bernabau and it’s every football fans dream.
Centro de Arte Reina Sofia
Picasso’s Guernica. That’s the only carrot you need to dangle to visit the Centro de Arte Reina Sofia. Of course there is much more to the gallery than this, with a whole host of other Picasso artwork and other major draws including work by Salvador Dali and Joan Miro.The Sofia opened in 1992 and was once an 18th century hospital and mainly displays Spanish art.
Plaza Mayor
Built during the Habsburg period, the Plaza Mayor is the centre of Madrid life. Dating back to 1576 when Philip II asked Renaissance architect Juan de Herrera to develop the area, the square is surrounded by three-storey residential buildings and has since acquired the impressive bronze King Philip III statue in the centre of the plaza.
Take in Nightlife
Whilst Madrid is certainly alive in the day, it comes into its own at night. One of the city’s main attractions, you can sample sumptuous food from one of its many Michelin starred restaurants or simply kick back and relax with tapas in one the al fresco cafes.
If it’s an evening of excitement you’re looking for though, then try one of the city’s brilliant casinos. Casino Gran Madrid is one of the finest gaming venues in the Spanish capital and offers a host of great food, and plenty of tables and slots. Home to the Estrellas Poker Tour, the casino is a fantastic place to play.
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