Madrid: The Heart of Spain
Madrid pulses with an energy that's distinctly Spanish—passionate, proud, and utterly alive. This is a city that eats dinner at 10 PM, parties until dawn, and still makes time for afternoon siestas.
Art & Culture
The Golden Triangle
Three world-class museums within walking distance:
- Prado: Spanish masters—Velázquez, Goya, El Greco
- Reina Sofía: Modern art including Picasso's Guernica
- Thyssen-Bornemisza: Eclectic collection spanning centuries
Royal Palace
Larger than Versailles, with 3,418 rooms and stunning state apartments.
Retiro Park
Madrid's green lung—row boats, crystal palace, and Sunday afternoon strolls.
Neighborhoods
Sol & Centro
The beating heart—Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and tourist central.
La Latina
Sunday's El Rastro flea market and the best tapas bars.
Malasaña
Hipster headquarters—vintage shops, craft cocktails, and nightlife.
Chueca
LGBTQ+ neighborhood with great restaurants and bar scene.
Lavapiés
Multicultural, artistic, and emerging as a foodie destination.
Tapas Culture
Madrid invented the tapas crawl. Essential stops:
- Mercado de San Miguel: Beautiful gourmet market
- Casa Labra: Famous for cod croquettes since 1860
- La Barraca: Valencia-style paella
- Lateral: Modern Spanish cuisine
Madrid Rhythms
- Lunch: 2-4 PM (restaurants don't open before 1:30)
- Siesta: 4-6 PM (shops close)
- Dinner: 9-11 PM (earlier is tourist time)
- Nightlife: Starts at midnight, peaks at 3 AM
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April-May): Perfect weather, San Isidro festival
- September-October: Still warm, locals return from vacation
- Summer: Hot but empty—August is vacation month
Ready to experience Madrid? Our specialists can arrange after-hours museum tours, flamenco shows, and the best tapas routes in the city.
