“Travelers, there is no path, paths are made by walking”
Madrid is one of the most energetic cities in Europe and the people of this city really know how to live. Madrid has everything that you would want. It's well known for its artists such as Goya and Velázquez and it's famous galleries that include art pieces from a lot of other famous Spanish painters such as Picasso, Dalí and Miró. When it comes to food this city is a culinary masterpiece. Try the array of tapas bars, Michelin restaurants and the famous churros. People come out at night whether it's for dinner or for drinks. The whole city starts buzzing after 9 pm and you can be sure to find whichever bar that suits your mood. In terms of architecture you'll enjoy walking around this historic city, whether it's beautiful plazas, cobble stone alleyways or royal palaces. You will love this beautiful city.
Casa Gonzalez: This is where the locals go. This was one of the highlights of our trip to Madrid. Very warm and accomodating service. Great wine, amazing cured meats and a lot of fantastic cheeses. Simply excellent and a must for wine fans.
Taberna Almendro 13: Traditional tapas bar. This place is always packed so get here early. A good selection of classic tapas dishes and wine. Try the Huevos Rotos.
Santceloni: Contemporary Spanish cuisine and modern decor. Try the tasting menu with the flight of wines. The dishes are very creative and exceptionally good. This is quite expensive and remember to dress up before going here.
Sinfonia Rossini: A great place to go if you want a break from Spanish cuisine. This was one of the best Italian meals we've ever had (the tiramisu was the definitely the best we've tried). Quality, fresh ingredients. This restaurant is a must visit for gourmet food in Madrid.
Chocolateria San Ginés: Probably the most historic churros joint in Madrid. This place has been visited by pretty much every celebrity the last century. Go here for your churros and chocolate - a must in Madrid.
Chocolat: Less touristy than San Ginés - this is more of a local place. This place is absolutely amazing. Try the Porras instead of the Churros.
Café Central: One of the oldest and most historic jazz bars in Madrid. Go here for a classic drink, great live music and suck in the history of this place where many of the greats have performed.
Café Berlin: Another great venue for live music and drinks. There are jazz performances here, so if you're into jazz make sure to check this place out.
Del Diego: A classic cocktail bar. Go here for the gin & tonics, strawberry daiquiries, cosmopolitans and manhattans. The place isn't very big, so expect to be standing while sipping on your drinks.
Kikekeller Bar: A hidden bar in Madrid's Malasaña neighbourhood. It's an interior designer's showroom by day, but on Thursday-Saturday nights, the back opens up and is turned into a very hip bar area.
Hotel Adler: 5 star hotel close to Prado Museum. Spacious rooms, nicely decorated and the hotel has a good restaurant. This place soothes of old world elegance and class.
Hotel Unico: New rooms, modern decor and close to many of the monuments that you want to see when in Madrid. A hidden gem in the hart of the city.
Hotel Regina: Close to Plaza del Sol and Gran Via, this hotel has good rooms at very affordable prices. Right next to metro station. Spacious and modern.
Navigate the city with our Google Map. We've pinned all of the places in our guide to the Google Map below. Simply go to the map when you're online to find your way around the city. If you don't have wifi when you're walking around the city, just make sure to load this map when you have access to wifi (at your hotel or at a café) and you'll be able to find your way around even if you're offline.