Destination of the Month: Madrid
Madrid is so much more than Spain’s capital; the city is full of life and culture. Whether you want to eat your way through the city, enjoy the culture and museums, or simply admire the breathtaking architecture, our newest international destination has something for everyone to enjoy. We hope you enjoy our ultimate Madrid bucket list!
1. People Watch at Plaza Mayor
In the heart of Madrid, Plaza Mayor is an architecturally beautiful renaissance square, laid out in the early 1600s. Grab an outside table at one of the restaurants and enjoy a glass of wine and tapas as you people watch. While at the Plaza Mayor, be sure to take a picture with the 400-year old statue of King Philip III, who was in power at the height of the Spanish empire.
2. Eat Your Way Through Mercado De San Miguel
A quick walk from Plaza Mayor, enjoy one of Madrid’s oldest and most beautiful markets. There’s a variety of tapas bars serving Spain favorites like patatas bravas and gambas al ajillo. Mercado De San Miguel is Europe’s largest municipal market with 200 stalls.
3. Relax at Retiro Park (Parque Del Retiro)
With 350 acres to explore, Retiro Park is one of the coolest parks in the city. Whether you’re traveling with little ones or are on a romantic getaway, paddling on the Grand Pond next to the monument of Alfonso XII is a great option for a memorable experience.
4. Shop at the Largest Flea Market: El Rastro Market
On Sundays, it will seem like the entire city has made its way to El Rastro Market. Open from 9 AM to 3 PM, El Rastro is the largest flea market in Madrid with roughly 3,500 stalls.
5. Catch a Game at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
Whether you’re a sports fan or not, it may be interesting to know Madrid’s fútbol club, Real Madrid, is Europe’s most successful fútbol team with a record-breaking 11 European Cups to their name. Step foot in more than 100 years of history at this legendary 85,000 seat stadium. If you can catch a game that would be ideal. However, a tour of Santiago Bernabeu Stadium will offer you an exciting experience as you step inside dressing rooms, visit the dugouts, and get an awesome panoramic view of the empty stadium.
6. Eat at the Oldest Restaurant in the World
Dating back to 1725, Sobrino de Botin holds the Guinness World Record for being the oldest restaurant in the world. With four floors, the restaurant is frequented by both tourists and locals.
7. See a Show at Teatro Compac Gran Via
Gran Via is known as the Broadway of Madrid due to all the cinemas and theaters. Though many have closed, there are still a few iconic theaters.
8. Attend a Flamenco Show at Corral de la Moreria
Flamenco is a dance that originated in Andalusia, Murcia, and Extremadura, and though it is not native to Madrid, the city has some of the most famous shows and dancers in the country. While there are plenty of places to catch a show, Corral de la Moreria is the oldest flamenco house in the world, considered the “Cathedral of Flamenco”.
9. Experience Prado Museum (Museo Nacional Del Prado)
Home to over 9,000 pieces of art, Prado Museum is renowned as the world’s largest art gallery. With an overwhelming collection of masterpieces by renaissance and baroque masters, The Prado is a must-see during your trip to Madrid.
10. Hang out at the Rooftop Bar of Circulo De Bella Artez
Some say the roof of Circulo De Bella Artez offers the best view of the city. Others say it offers the best bar. Whether looking to capture amazing aerial views of Madrid or to relax and grab some drinks, you might want to add this cool rooftop on your Madrid Bucket List.
Orlando Sanford International Airport’s new partner airline, WAMOS Air, will be offering nonstop service from Orlando to Madrid, Spain. If you’re ready to explore Madrid, book your trip of the summer today.
