As a tourist destination, Madrid lives up to its reputation, from its vibrant nightlife to its cultural and artistic treasures. With one foot firmly rooted in tradition and another steeped in modernity, Madrid offers a special charm that will surely captivate its visitors.
The Spanish way of life may seem to be too frenetic, but Madrileños do know how to slow their pace down a bit and enjoy simple things, like a breakfast of chocolate and churros. In Madrid, one of the best places to enjoy these culinary delights is the San Gines chocolaterie. Be forewarned, though; just like other famous establishments in any city, San Gines can be packed with customers especially during the early hours of the morning, with partygoers capping a long night with a breakfast of chocolate and churros.
Madrid prides itself for being the home of the world’s largest art gallery: the Prado Museum. The museum opened in 1819 and boasts a collection of over 9,000 works of art. The best time to visit the museum is during the weekdays, just before five in the afternoon when it is less busy. The museum also offers various free educational activities (although you may have to brush up on your Spanish). Additionally, the museum exhibits works borrowed from other museums from around the world.
A life in Madrid would not be complete without getting to know some of the traditional foods. One of the best places to experience this is in the La Latina Neighbourhood. After ordering your drinks, (either a beer or wine), the waiter will serve you some traditional tapas –.
Another good way to sample a city’s culinary offerings is by visiting local markets. In Madrid, one of the best places to visit for such a purpose is the Mercado de San Miguel. Here, visitors can sample a wide array of food items including cheeses, fruits and veggies, wines and meats.
Another Madrileño cultural gem that you should definitely try is watching a zarzuela — a uniquely Spanish theatrical genre that combines aspects of the operetta with spoken parts. The Teatro de la Zarzuela, which opened its doors in the 19th century, hosts various performances at reasonable rates. If you’re looking for something more contemporary, consider watching a play at the Microteatro por Dinero. Opened in 2009, the theater has been renowned for its experimental plays. Typically, five plays run simultaneously in the various rooms in the theatre.
Santiago Bernabeu is home to Europe’s most successful football team- Real Madrid. Once you move here you will not be able to escape the excitement of watching a game and who knows, you might even become a Real Madrid supporter.
It is said that Madrid hosts the largest open air flea market in Europe called ‘’El Rastro’’ . The market holds up to 3500 different stalls and covers through several streets in one of Madrid’s oldest neighbourhoods. Once you’re settled in Madrid, you will be able to enjoy the history that the market brings to the city every Sunday throughout the year.
The beautiful gardens of El Parque de Retiro, is one of Madrid’s popular places. Whether you’re interested in a stroll, taking a boat ride on the lake or just admiring the architecture with a book in your hand, the park offers all of this and more.
A great way to explore your new home, Madrid, is to see it from a bird’s eye view. Luckily, the cable car ‘’El Teleférico” gives you this opportunity. Dating back from 1969, the cable car rises high above the city and lets you take in all the historical sights and glaze down on the beautiful green parks and gardens.
Altough Andalucia, in the southern Spain, is one of the roots where Flamenco originated from, Madrid has certainly been influenced by it. Since the 19th century, Madrileños have been able to experience it while having a meal at a tavern or just having a drink at one of many bars. So what are you waiting for- bring on the shoes and be a part of it.
If you are considering a move to Madrid or want to relocate because of work or study then movetomadrid.com can help you find the perfect place, easy and stress free.
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