Read this article if you want to visit Madrid!
Madrid is the capital of Spain, the political and cultural center of Spain, and the largest city in Spain. Madrid is a city that combines royal style, artistic treasures, modern life and passionate culture. Whether you like history, art, food, or just want to feel the soul of Spain, this is a stop not to be missed!
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🌟Recommended attractions:
1. Royal Palace of Madrid
One of the largest royal palaces in Europe, it has an extremely gorgeous interior, displaying the royal apartments, banquet hall, armory, etc. Although the royal family no longer lives here, it is still used for state events and it is recommended to make an appointment in advance to visit.
2. Puerta del Sol
One of the most central landmarks in Madrid, it is also the starting point of the "Spanish National Highway Zero". The famous bear and strawberry tree statue is also located here, suitable for checking in.
3. Plaza Mayor
A rectangular square with a history of more than 400 years, surrounded by classical buildings. This was once a market, a bullring and a site of religious inquisition. Now it is a place for leisure, sitting in an open-air cafe and watching street performers.
4. Retiro Park
Madrid's Central Park, once a royal private park, is a place where you can go boating, strolling, and visit the Crystal Palace.
5. Las Ventas Bullring
Las Ventas Bullring is one of the most famous, largest and oldest bullrings in Spain. It is also a symbol of Spanish bullfighting culture and a must-visit place to understand Spanish culture.
6. Plaza de España
Plaza de España in Madrid is one of the most famous and landmark squares in the city. It is located at the western end of Gran Vía in the city center and is a frequent gathering place for citizens and tourists. The square houses a monument to the Spanish literary giant Cervantes, the Madrid Tower, once the tallest building in Europe, and the retro-style skyscraper Torre de España.
7. Puerta de Alcalá
Puerta de Alcalá is one of Madrid's iconic historical buildings and one of the city's most representative landmarks. The Alcalá Gate was built in 1778 by an Italian designer for King Carlos III of Spain. It was built decades earlier than the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin.
8. Cathedral of Our Lady of Almudena
The cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in Madrid. Although Madrid is the capital of Spain, it did not have its own cathedral until 1993, which makes Almudena a relatively "young" cathedral because the construction of the church was interrupted many times due to wars and coups. It was not until 1993 that it was consecrated by Pope John Paul II himself.
9. Grand Avenue
Gran Vía is the busiest and most vibrant street in Madrid, known as "Broadway of Madrid" and "the heart of the city". It is not only a shopping paradise and a cultural gathering place, but also a check-in destination for architecture enthusiasts.
10. Gate to Europe
The Gate of Europe (also known as the KIO Twin Towers) is a very recognizable modern architectural landmark in Madrid, located in the financial district in the north of Madrid. The Gate of Europe is the world's first pair of tilted skyscrapers. Each tower tilts inwards 15 degrees, hence the name "Gate of Europe". It guards the northern entrance of Madrid and symbolizes an open mind to the world.
11. Plaza Mayor, Madrid
One of the oldest and most medieval squares in the historic center of Madrid. The square is not big but has a quiet and quaint atmosphere. The cobblestones on the ground and the flowers on both sides of the road create the "old city charm" of Madrid. It is suitable for walking 🚶 and photography 📷
12. San Miguel Market
Mercado San Miguel is one of the most famous and popular food markets in Madrid. It is also a food paradise and cultural landmark that combines tradition and modernity. The market offers more than 30 stalls, providing a multicultural fusion of food options to suit all tastes.
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🌆City Features:
Madrid has a rich nightlife and is one of Europe's "cities that never sleep", with its streets and alleys full of vitality. In addition to visiting the attractions, you can also do the following activities:
✅Visit art galleries and museums
Prado Museum: the pinnacle of Spanish classical painting
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: Artworks of various schools
Queen Sofia National Art Center: mainly modern art works
✅Taste Spanish cuisine
Authentic Spanish churros, Cocido Madrileño and tapas bars are found in every corner of the city.
✅Wander in the characteristic neighborhoods
Go to the Lavapiés district in Madrid, a multicultural gathering place with graffiti walls, bars, street art, and more. It is also a gathering place for trendy culture in Madrid.
✅Dance art appreciation
There are many places in Madrid where you can enjoy the Spanish specialty dance - Flamenco💃 dance. It is recommended to book tickets in advance, then order some Spanish tapas and enjoy it!
*Recommend "Tablao Flamenco 1911" (formerly Villa Rosa) at the Calderón Theater, one of the oldest flamenco taverns in Madrid, where you can order tapas and show tickets
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If you want to have an in-depth tour of Madrid, it is recommended to visit for at least 3 days. You don't have to visit every attraction in a hurry. You can also spend half a day on a cultural and artistic tour of Madrid. In the evening, you can go to a flamenco tavern to watch a dance performance and experience the beauty of Spanish culture and appreciate its cultural charm!
Madrid also has many accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury hotels, so you can choose according to your needs and budget.