Discover Madrid with hotel + breakfasts in the city centre

Madrid is the capital of Spain and is known for its stunning architecture, world-class museums and vibrant culture. Some of the top places to visit in Madrid are:

Top attractions:

• Madrid Royal Palace (Palacio Real): The largest royal palace in Western Europe, with luxurious rooms, stunning gardens and breathtaking views.
• Plaza Mayor: A historic 17th century square surrounded by traditional Spanish restaurants, street performers and beautiful architecture.
• Puerta del Sol: The heart of Madrid, where you'll find the famous kilometre marker, the Tío Pepe sign and the statue of El Oso y el Madroño (The Bear and the Strawberry Tree).
• Gran Vía: Madrid's most famous shopping street, full of fashion boutiques, theatres and iconic buildings.
• Prado Museum: One of the world's greatest art museums, with masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez and El Greco.
• Reina Sofía Museum: A modern art museum with Picasso's famous painting Guernica and works by Dalí and Miró.
• Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: A must for art lovers, with a diverse collection ranging from the Renaissance to modern art.
• Temple of Debod: An ancient Egyptian temple given to Spain by Egypt, it offers an incredible view of the city at sunset.
• Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro): Madrid's most famous park, perfect for a relaxing stroll, boat rides on the lake and a visit to the stunning Crystal Palace.
• Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Home of Real Madrid): A must for football fans, with behind-the-scenes tours of the legendary stadium.

Family activities:

• Parque Warner Madrid: A theme park with Looney Tunes characters, rollercoasters and live shows, great for kids and families.
• Faunia & Aquarium Madrid Zoo: A wildlife park with immersive ecosystems, featuring penguins, sea lions and exotic birds.
• Madrid Naval Museum: A fascinating museum showcasing Spain's naval history, perfect for history buffs and families.
• Matadero Madrid: A creative space with exhibitions, markets and workshops, often hosting family-friendly events.

Local gastronomy:

• Cocido Madrileño: A traditional Madrid stew made with chickpeas, chorizo and beef.
• Bocadillo de Calamares: A Madrid speciality, this simple but delicious fried calamari sandwich is a must-try.
• Huevos Rotos: Fried eggs over crispy potatoes, often served with jamón ibérico or chorizo.
• Callos a la Madrileña: A rich Madrid-style tripe stew, perfect for the adventurous gourmet.
• Churros con chocolate: The best way to start (or end) the day, dipped in thick, rich chocolate at San Ginés Chocolatería.

Day Trips & Nearby Attractions:

• Toledo (1 hour by car or train): A stunning medieval city with a mix of Christian, Jewish and Muslim heritage, including the Alcázar, Gothic cathedral and El Greco Museum.
• Segovia (1 hour by car or train): Home to one of Spain's best-preserved Roman aqueducts, a fairytale castle (Alcázar de Segovia) and the famous cochinillo (roast suckling pig).
• El Escorial (45 min drive): A massive Renaissance monastery and royal palace built by King Philip II.
• Aranjuez (45 min drive): A royal city with stunning palaces and gardens, famous for its strawberries and asparagus.
• Salamanca (2 hours by car or train): A historic university city with a beautiful Plaza Mayor and a rich cultural heritage.