Madrid is a spectacular city! Though we do not have an Untour program there, some of our guests from our Spanish UnTours in Barcelona, Andalusia, and Cordoba make their way there for an overnight or two, to round out their experience of Spain.
And for good reason! Madrid is a beautiful and fascinating place. That’s why we are including it in our upcoming Saturdays in Europe series, which will include a flyover tour of the city and a visit to the Prado, presented live from Spain on Zoom.
If you are new to Madrid, here are some highlights to look forward to seeing.
Plaza Mayor
Madrid’s most central grand square has been the sight of lively markets, bullfighting, executions, and trials during the inquisition. These days it hosts outdoors cafes and people watching.
El Retiro Park
Parque del Buen Retiro is a gorgeous park in the city’s very center, over 300 acres of green space that includes monuments, fountains, and rentable row boats. It’s a local and family favorite.
Prado Museum
Goya, Velázquez, El Greco, oh my! Spain’s national museum of art holds one of Europe’s most important collections of western art, with the Spanish masters well represented.
Royal Palace of Madrid
The Palacio Real is the largest royal palace (by floor space) in Europe, impressive and lavish. Visit its art collection and galleries, and the lovely grounds, including the Sabatini Gardens.
Museo Reina Sofia
Spain’s National Museum of 20th Century Art is a treasure trove of Spanish modern art, with heavyweights like Miro, Dali and Picasso well represented. (Pablo’s opus, Guernica, lives here.)
Barrio de Salamanca
This charming old town neighborhood is a beautiful and charming place to stroll. The Salamanca district is home to some of the city’s most lovely architecture, along with its archeology museum.
Mercado de San Miguel
Dating back to 1916, this lovely and popular indoor market is full of stalls selling all manner of Spanish foods, making it an essential stop for any foodie passing through the city.
Plaza de Cibeles
This picturesque palace-flanked square features impressive neoclassical sculptures and the beloved Cibeles Fountain. It is a popular gathering place for soccer victories and other celebrations.
Casa de Campo
This massive green space to the west of Madrid was once the sprawling ground of the royal palace. At more than 4 times the size of Central Park it is easy to get lost in, a true oasis.
Gateway of the Sun
The Puerta del Sol is another of Madrid’s beautiful squares and a popular gather place, especially at year’s end when people gather to watch its landmark clock count down to the New Year.
Until you can travel to Spain again, why not join us later this month for a virtual tour of Madrid and a special live presentation on the Prado. Visit our UnTours at Home page for all the latest options.