Things to do in Madrid
The biggest Spanish city, which is also the capital of the country, is Madrid. The city is an artistic hub, three of Europe’s best-known art museums called the “Golden Triangle of Art” are there: the Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza, and Reina Sofia. You should love Madrid for its culture, art, and history without forgetting its nightlife and food. Live the Spanish way of life while enjoying its great weather and its typically Spanish charm. The architecture and history, the churches and traditions, the fun and food will make you wish your trip could last forever.
Prado Museum
The Prado museum is one of the most well-known and splendid art galleries of the world. The museum takes its name from the street where it is located: “Prad". The story of this vast museum of Madrid started when the Spanish Queen visited the Louvre Museum in Paris. Since she was quite impressed by Louvre museum, she decided to build one in Madrid.
Reina Sofia Museum
The Reina Sofia is an art museum located in Madrid, Spain. It is one of the main places to visit in Madrid. The building of the museum was built in the 18th century. The most famous masterpiece in the museum is Pablo Picasso’s “Guernica” which is one of the most renowned paintings of the 20th century.
Thyssen-Bornemisza
Despite the fact that it is small, Thyssen Bornemisza Museum is part of the golden art triangle, together with the Prado and the Reina Sofia museum. This museum, which used to be the most prominent painting collection in the world after the Royal Collection of England, was bought by the Spanish Government and started being exhibited with its artworks from 17th century.
Bernabeu Stadium
The Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, located in Madrid is the soccer arena of Real Madrid. The stadium which was opened in 1947 is one of the biggest stadiums in the world. It comes as a “must” especially for football fans when visiting Madrid.
Toledo
Toledo was declared a World Culture Heritage by UNESCO for its history, monuments and heritage. The city of Toledo, settled on a hill that is surrounded by Tajo River, had been under control of Jewry, Muslims, and Christians. Toledo, which is about 70km away from Madrid, is the perfect destination for a day excursion from the capital.
Seville
Seville, the gem of Andalusia, is full of art and culture, which make the city one of the most enchanting to be visited in Spain. In fact, Seville is one of the most important touristic places in Europe. Also known as the biggest city of Andalusia, Seville draws attention with its dance styles, Flamenco and Sevillanas, besides its history. Narrow streets, splendid structures and delicious food of this city are waiting to be explored.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace of Madrid, Palacio Real in Spanish, carries all the memories of the past. Built in the 18th century, it succeeded to survive until today and attained considerable importance in the world’s tourism as one of the most attracting structures in the world.
Flamenco
The Flamenco was born in southern Spain in the territory of Andalusia, but the celebrity of the dance has quickly reached a worldwide audience. Flamenco consists of several fundamental components, singing, guitar playing, dance, vocalizations, handclapping, and finger snapping. A Flamenco show has always been an amazing experience for the travelers, because the audience can easily feel the tradition of Spain.
Tapas
Tapas is the name of small Spanish appetizers. In the past, Spanish people used to put a small plate at the top of their drink in order to prevent flies or insects from getting in. Later on, they fill the plate with appetizers that go very nicely with their drinks. These plates used to be called tapas. Today, going to a bar, drinking wine and eating tapas after work is an long-established habit in Spain.
Las Ventas Bullring
Las Ventas Arena, located in Madrid was built in 1931. It is the biggest bullring of Spain and it was designed by “neo-mudejar” style. Mudejar refers to a unique style that is the mixture of Spanish and Magribi styles. Las Ventas Arena reminds of Moroccan/Arab architecture with its archways and tiles on its exterior.