Madrid rewards those who stay a little longer with a rich blend of history, art, and leisurely exploration. Your week begins in the bustling Puerta del Sol, the center of Spanish life. From there, spend a few days visiting the Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, and the sprawling Plaza Mayor. These landmarks tell the story of Spain’s royalty and its grand history. For art lovers, the Golden Triangle of Art awaits, comprising the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museums.
Midweek, take a step away from the typical tourist paths with a visit to Casa de Campo, a sprawling park that offers lakes, a zoo, and cable cars. Use the weekend to dive into Madrid’s culinary scene. Skip the tourist spots and indulge in a tapas crawl through La Latina, ending the week with a day trip to Segovia—a city of Roman aqueducts, fairy-tale castles, and suckling pig roasts that have become legendary.
Must-Do Activities:
Golden Triangle of Art: Dive into Spain’s finest collections.
Casa de Campo: Madrid’s secret nature escape.
Segovia Day Trip: Medieval charm and history outside the city.
“Madrid is a city best savored slowly, with each neighborhood offering its own flavor and flair.”