7 places you can't miss when in Madrid
Madrid city is like a warm hug in winter. With its prosperous cultural heritage and a plethora of attractions to explore, the city welcomes every traveller with open arms. Here are seven places you could not miss when in Madrid:
Prado Museum: One of the prominent art museums in the world, the Prado Museum houses one of the best art collections of Europe from the 12th to the 19th century, including works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.
Royal Palace of Madrid: This stunning palace was built in the 18th century. It is still in use and is the official residence of the Spanish royal family. You can explore the palace's elegant rooms, halls, and perfectly manicured gardens that surround the palace.
Retiro Park: This expansive park is a favourite among locals and tourists alike, featuring beautiful gardens, fountains, and a lake where visitors can rent rowboats. You can access it from several parts of the city and enjoy a walk through this historic park.
Puerta del Sol: A place where all the streets lead to. Madrid's central square is a bustling hub of activity, home to the famous clock tower and the "kilometre zero" marker from which all Spanish roads are measured.
Plaza Mayor: This iconic square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors, especially during festivals and events. You can’t miss the statue of Philip III in the centre, which was created by Pedro de Mena and completed in 1616. It depicts Philip III on horseback with a sword raised high in his right hand, ready to fight against injustice. Plaza Mayor is also home to Madrid's most famous flower market, held every Sunday from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm.
Mercado de San Miguel: This historic market offers a wide variety of Spanish food and drink, including tapas, wine, and fresh seafood. If you are a foodie searching for a place to try local food. The market has been operating continuously since 1874. Also, it hosts a food court with several restaurants that serve tapas and other dishes.
Temple of Debod: This ancient Egyptian temple was gifted to Spain and is now located in a peaceful park overlooking the city, offering stunning views of Madrid's skyline. Don't miss out on visiting the temple in the evening when the temple is lit up, creating a beautiful and picturesque scene in the setting sun.