Places to See in Madrid

The common meeting point is at Puerta del Sol, where the symbolic bear and strawberry tree statue is found (El Oso y el Madroño). After trying the typical crispy sweet churros for breakfast, discover one of the largest squares in Europe, Plaza Mayor, built in 1620. Until the 20th century this square was used for performances, public announcements of sentences during the Inquisition, bullfights and other popular events. Now it is filled with shops selling ice cream, souvenirs, textiles, jewellery and clothes, restaurants with terraces and street entertainers. The most fascinating building here is the Casa de la Panadería, with its colourful fresco painting facade. See the Madrid of the Austrias by following your way down the winding streets through one of the arches of Plaza Mayor.

Follow the history of the Monarchy in Spain and see the largest and one of the most impressive palaces in Europe: the Royal Palace. Located to the East of the Palace is the Plaza de Oriente, which name derives from its eastern position regarding the Palace. Around it are the statues of Spain’s monarchs. Looking towards the palace is the Royal Theatre, built in the 19th century. Tourists are allowed within the Royal Palace, although only 50 out of its nearly 3,000 rooms can be visited. Close to the palace is the Almudena Cathedral. It took over 100 years to build and was finally consecrated in 1993 by Pope John Paul II. A statue of the Pope is in front of the Cathedral in honour of his gesture.

See the impressive works of art in two of the most important museums in the world, the Prado and Thyssen Museums. You’ll find both of them alongside the Paseo del Prado.

Modern tourism also attracts people to visit the Real Madrid football stadium, Santiago Bernabéu. You’ll find several shops surrounding the stadium where you can buy official products from this epic team. During the summer, a large terrace opens at night where you may enjoy an evening drink overlooking the field.