Madrid welcomed us with open arms as our gateway to an incredible week-long Spanish adventure. As Spain’s vibrant capital, this city perfectly balanced historic charm with modern energy, making it an ideal starting point for our trip.
First Impressions
Arriving in Madrid in the afternoon, we immediately felt the city’s distinctive rhythm. Madrid embraces the night – dinner doesn’t happen until 9pm or 10pm, something we quickly learned to appreciate. The city’s energy is infectious, with world-class food, incredible architecture, museums, and a nightlife that stretches until dawn.
One thing that caught us off guard was the siesta tradition – many businesses close during the afternoon, particularly in Madrid. It’s part of the authentic Spanish experience that makes this city so special but not so convenient when you are hungry with a little jet lag.
Culinary Journey at the World’s Oldest Restaurant
Our first stop was Restaurante Botín, and what a way to begin our Spanish culinary adventure! This isn’t just any restaurant – it’s officially recognized as the oldest restaurant in the world. Walking through those doors, you can literally feel the history in the original architecture.
The traditional Castilian-style menu featured incredible dishes like suckling pig and lamb roast. After a long international flight, this hearty, authentic meal was exactly what we needed. The restaurant is conveniently located just steps down from Plaza Mayor, making it easy to explore Madrid’s historic heart afterward.
Art and Culture at Museo del Prado
The Museo del Prado proved to be the perfect evening activity and one of Madrid’s crown jewels. As one of the world’s oldest and most famous art galleries, it houses an incredible collection of up to 1,500 paintings on display.
We were mesmerized by works from masters like Velázquez and Goya’s haunting Las pinturas negras (The Black Paintings), along with pieces from artists across Europe. We spent about two and a half hours there, which felt just right for seeing the highlights, though art enthusiasts could easily spend much longer.
Where We Stayed
We chose an Airbnb strategically located near both the Prado Museum and the train station. This location was perfect since our day ended at the Prado and the next morning we’d be catching an early train to Toledo. It saved us money on taxis and gave us more time to explore.
Modern Madrid Discoveries
Don’t miss Madrid’s popular landmarks including the great bear statue in the central Puerta del Sol, the Reina Sofia and Prado museums, and Plaza Mayor. These iconic spots capture the essence of what makes Madrid special.
On our return to Madrid at the end of the trip, we experienced the city in a fun with a scavenger hunt that was on my phone that took us through neighborhoods we might have otherwise missed. It was a fun way to discover hidden gems and learn local history while exploring the city at our own pace.
The Madrid Experience
What struck us most about Madrid was how it manages to be both deeply traditional and thoroughly modern. The warmth of the locals and the slowness of the meals created an atmosphere that invited us to slow down and savor every moment.
The best time to visit Madrid is in late spring to early summer (April through early June) and early fall (September through October), and having visited in October, we can confirm the weather was absolutely perfect for walking around the city.
Final Thoughts
Madrid served as both our introduction and farewell to Spain, bookending our journey perfectly. Whether you’re marveling at world-class art, dining in a restaurant older than most countries, or simply soaking in the vibrant street life, Madrid offers an authentic taste of Spanish culture that will leave you planning your return visit before you’ve even left.
The city’s combination of history, culture, cuisine, and that unmistakable Spanish zest for life makes it clear why Madrid captures the hearts of so many travelers. It’s not just a stopover – it’s a destination that deserves your full attention and will reward you with memories that last a lifetime.
