Last summer I spent a week in Madrid and wanted to share some practical insights on attractions and accommodation. As Spain’s capital, Madrid has plenty of places worth exploring, with diverse lodging options available.
Main Attraction Recommendations
The Prado Museum is a must-visit. I recommend buying tickets in advance through their official website, as on-site queues can be extremely long. The museum houses many works by Goya and Velázquez—plan to spend at least 3 hours there. Free admission is available during the last 2 hours from 6 PM, Monday through Saturday, though it gets particularly crowded.
Retiro Park is perfect for afternoon strolls. It’s quite spacious, with the Crystal Palace being especially stunning. Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor are both in the old town, easily reachable on foot. The Royal Palace requires separate tickets; the interior decoration is magnificent, and I suggest visiting in the morning to avoid tour groups.
Accommodation Area Suggestions
Depending on your budget and preferences, consider these areas:
| Area | Features | Price Level |
|---|
| Near Puerta del Sol | Convenient transport, central attractions | Higher |
| Lavapiés | Artistic vibe, many restaurants | Moderate |
| Chamartín | Business district, relatively quiet | Moderate-High |
| Malasaña | Youthful energy, vibrant nightlife | Moderate |
I stayed at an apartment near Puerta del Sol, which was indeed convenient—most attractions were within a 15-minute walk. I initially considered staying at a cheaper hostel, but opted for the apartment considering luggage and rest quality. The price was around 70-80 euros per night, with a private bathroom and kitchenette.
Transportation and Practical Tips
The metro system is well-developed; purchasing a 10-ride ticket is much more economical. From the airport to the city center, you can take metro line 8 and transfer, or take the express airport bus directly to Atocha station. Keep your phone and wallet secure on the metro, especially at transfer stations.
For dining, tapas bars in the old town are excellent. San Miguel Market is lively but pricey. Locals tend to frequent neighborhood restaurants, where the menú del día typically costs 10-15 euros for a great meal. Dinner time is generally after 9 PM, so you’ll need to adjust your schedule accordingly.
