* Madrid travel guide is not complete. Information will be added.

Madrid weather:

Getting to Madrid:

Madrid is conveniently located in the center of Spain, so there are many trains from different regions of Spain. High-speed trains connect Madrid with, and Malaga. Madrid's main station is called Atocha.

There are also plenty of intercity buses (buses remain the most common form of transport in Spain), which are usually a slower option than trains but also cheaper.

View Madrid:

If you intend to actively explore Madrid or travel by tourist bus MadridVision, then buy it at tourist offices MadridCard- it gives the right to free visits to 40 museums, free use of public transport, significant discounts in shops, restaurants, clubs, etc. (1 day - 28 €, 3 days - 55 €) www.madridcard.com.

You can also purchase in offices PaseodelArtTicket, which provides significant discounts on visits to the three main Madrid museums (Prado, Reina Sofia Center, Thyssen-Bornemisza Collection). Many museums are open for free on Sundays and Saturday afternoons (although this results in a very large crowd of visitors). There are also annual museum passes.

Sights of Madrid and routes around the city:

Tourist route: Old Madrid

Puerta del Sol

The best place to start your walk in Madrid is Puerta del Sol(Puerta del Sol), irregular square, intersection of 8 streets. She is considered the "heart of the Marid"; indeed, both day and night the square is filled with people; there are many cafes and bars where both Madrid residents and tourists spend almost all their time. The name of the square is associated with the “Sunny Gate” that once stood at the entrance to the city; Later, several churches were built on the square.

These days, the main structure on Puerta del Sol is the building Government of Madrid(Communidad de Madrid). This imposing brick building on the south side of the square was built in the 1760s. under Carlos III under the leadership of the French arch. Marche is like a post office. Since 1847 it was occupied by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. In 1931, it was from the balcony of the ministry that the Second Republic was proclaimed. During the Franco dictatorship, the police headquarters was here, and many unpleasant stories and terrible legends are associated with this building by the people of Madrid. In 1963, Communist X. Grimau jumped out of the window of the top floor of the police, miraculously survived, but was soon executed.

The turret, added in 1866, houses the most famous Madrid clock; like the Moscow chimes, on New Year's Eve they give the signal for the beginning of the holiday. According to Spanish tradition, while the clock on Puerta del Sol is striking, you must swallow twelve grapes.

The zero kilometer is marked on the pavement in front of the government building, from which all Spanish roads and the numbering of Madrid streets begin.

In the center of the square there is an equestrian statue of Carlos III (1992), and on the corner with Calle del Carmen (Carmen Street) there is a bronze symbol of Madrid, « OsoatelMadrono» (1967), a she-bear near a strawberry tree (the name of the tree is associated with the shape of its fruits, reminiscent of strawberries).

Explaining the origin of this symbol is difficult; it appeared back in the 11th century. and still adorns the city's coat of arms.

Plaza Mayor

From Puerta del Sol, Calle Postas leads to another famous and older square in Madrid, the.

Just north of Puerta del Sol, on the Plaza de San Gines is located Church of San Gines(Iglesia de San Gines, XIV century, open during services), where paintings by El Greco are exhibited.

The entire area west of Puerta del Sol is called "", or "" - in memory of the royal dynasty that ruled Spain until 1700, when Philip V of Bourbon ascended the throne. By order of one of the Habsburgs, Philip III, it was planned (the equestrian monument of Philip III is installed in the center of the square).

Plaza Mayor received its name, the “main” one, at the beginning of the 16th century, after the reconstruction of Arrabal Square, which had previously been located here. Then the pavement was paved with stone, three-story houses with arcades were built - in 1620. A large square area was opened. In 1853 it was reconstructed by the architect. X. de Villa Nueva. In the XVI-XVIII centuries. Plaza Mayor really was the center of the city: there was a market here, bullfights were held, verdicts were announced, and public executions were held. The square served as the starting (or ending) point of religious processions and carnivals. Philip V, Fernando VI, Carlos IV were declared kings here, and ceremonies dedicated to the canonization of St. Teresa, St. Ignacio, St. Isidro et al.

The square can be accessed from nine adjacent streets - the entrances are decorated with arches.

The main and most beautiful building of the square is Casa de la Panaderia(Casa de la Panaderia, lit. . "bakery"), standing on the north side. The bakery itself was located on the ground floor, and from the second floor balcony, standing next to the colorful frescoes adorning the walls, members of the royal family usually watched the events that took place below.

On the opposite side of the square stands Casa de la Carniceria(Casa de la Carniceria, letters"butcher shop"), a former butcher shop, and now an administrative building.

Palacio de Santa Cruz

From the Plaza Mayor you can exit through the southeastern arcades onto Calle de Atocha (Atocha Street) and, after walking a few blocks, see Palace of Santa Cruz(Palacio de Santa Cruz, apx. X. Gomez de Mora, Baroque, 1620-1640s), now owned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It was built for judicial institutions and a prison for noble persons.

Catedral of San Isidro

After going around the palace, you can find yourself on Calle Concepcion Jeronima (Concepcion Jeronima street), which will lead to the former cathedral Cathedral of San Isidro(Catedral de San Isidro, Baroque, XVII). This huge building is not very interesting from an architectural point of view, but is very revered - an image of St. Isidro, patron saint of Madrid. The church is open until late in the evening and is always full of people.

To the west of the church, between Calle Toledo (Toledo Street), Calle Sacramento (Sacramento Street) and Calle Mayor (Mayor Street) there are ancient quarters in which several interesting buildings have been preserved.

Near Calle Segovia (Segovia street), in the former Arab quarter of Moreria, stands Church of San Pedro el Viejo(Iglesia de San Pedro el Viejo, XV), built on the site of a former mosque, and the bell tower was converted from a minaret.

There is an ancient square next door PlazadelaPaja(Pakha Square), which faces the façade Episcopal Chapel(Capilla del Obispo), the only Gothic building in Madrid.

Calle Sacramento

On Calle Sacramento stands basilicaSan- Miguel(Basilica de San Miguel, Baroque, XVIII), next to it, in Panecillo (trans. Panecillo) - archbishop's palace(Palacio del Arzobispo, baroque).

Walking from the palace to Calle Mayor, you will see one of the main Madrid markets in Plaza San Miguel, Mercado de San Miguel(Mercado de San Miguel) - it is located in a building of the 19th century. with forged openwork columns.

On the neighboring Plaza de la Villa (Villa Square) there is city ​​hall(Casa de la Villa, apx. X. Gomez de Mora, 1640). Here on the square there are preserved Luhanes Palace(Palacio Lujanes, XV), built in Arabic style, and Renaissance Casa de Cisneros palace(Casa de Cisneros, XVI).

Calle Mayor

Continuing your walk along Calle Mayor, turn onto Calle San Nicolas (San Nicolas Street) - here stands the oldest Church of San Nicolas de los Servitas(Iglesia de San Nicolas de los Servitas, Tue-Sat 06.30-20.30, Mon closed), built in the 11th century. on the site of the mosque. Many details of the temple show Arab influence, including the horseshoe arches. The church hosts an exhibition dedicated to Islamic Madrid.

Calle Mayor ends in front of the main temple of modern Madrid - Nuestra CathedralSenora de la Almudena(Catedral de Nuestra Seriora de la Almudena). Its significance is evidenced by its proximity - the temple is located next to the royal palace. The construction of this huge classicist structure began in the 1880s, but was completed only a century later. On June 15, 1993, the temple was consecrated by Pope John Paul I. The initiator of the construction was King Alfonso XII - he wanted to bury his first wife Maria de la Mercedes there, who revered the Madonna Almudena. The cathedral houses a sculpture of the Madonna of Almudena (XVI).

A little south of the cathedral, in a small park, you can see sections of the fortress wall built by the Arabs in the 9th century. Royal Palace(Palacio Real, Calle de Bailen, m. Opera) stands on the top of a green hill; From its windows and terraces there is an amazing view of the lower part of the city, where the Manzanares River flows. In the 9th century. an Arab fortress (alcazar) was built on this site, later replaced by a castle. In 1734, the castle burned down, and King Philip V began the construction of a royal palace in the Italian Baroque style (the original design was developed by H.B. Sacchetti). Construction was completed only 30 years later, and Carlos III solemnly entered the palace. In 1931, after the abdication of Alfonso XIII, the royal family left the palace; now it is used for ceremonial state receptions, a museum is opened here, but the king himself lives outside the city, during Zarzuela Palace(Palacio de la Sarzuela).

The palace is huge. Its total area, including basements and underground premises, is 100 thousand m2. About 50 rooms are open to visitors. The most interesting are: the throne room with two gilded thrones, the “porcelain” room, the ceiling and walls of which are decorated with porcelain, the dining gallery with beautiful trellises, the royal armory, where a collection of medieval weapons is displayed, and the pharmacy with antique dishes and books of royal recipes.

Campo del Moro

Behind the palace, on the slopes of the hill, in the 19th century. by order of Queen Maria Cristina, gardens were laid out Campo del Moro(Campo del Mogo). Their unusual name “field of the Moor” is due to the fact that at the beginning of the 12th century. Emir Ali bin Yusuf's camp was located here. The gardens are decorated with flower beds and fountains.

On the opposite side of the palace, at the main eastern entrance, in 1811 there appeared PlazadeOriente(Oriente square). By order of Joseph Bonaparte, the space around the palace was cleared, and residential buildings, monasteries and churches approaching the building itself were demolished. In their place, statues of the kings of Spain were erected - initially they were planned to be installed on the roof of the palace, but the figures turned out to be too heavy.

In the center of the Plaza de Oriente there is a statue of Philip IV.

Opposite the palace is Royal Theater(Teatro Real, 1850), built under Isabella II. In 1997, the theater reopened after a lengthy restoration and is now given over to the Madrid Opera.

Monasterio de la Encarnacion

North of the theater, on the Plaza de la Encarnacion, there is an active Augustinian Encarnacion Monastery(Monasterio de la Encarnacion, apx. J. Gomez de la Mora, Wed-Sat 10.30-12.30, 16.00-17.30, Sun 11.00-13.30, Mon, Tue closed), founded by the wife of Philip III Margaret in 1611. Facade of the monastery, imitating the Church of San José in Avila, served as a model for many Madrid churches. The temple houses a collection of religious paintings and sculpture from the 16th-18th centuries. and a very revered vessel with the dried blood of St. Panteleimon; According to legend, every year, on July 27, the day of the saint's death, the blood becomes liquid - and if this does not happen one day, terrible troubles will fall on Madrid.

Walking another block north, you will find yourself at Plaza Marina Espanola, where there are two interesting buildings - Palace of the Senate(Palacio del Senado, XVI), which belonged to the Augustinian monks, and is now transferred to the Senate of Spain. Opposite it is located Grimaldi Palace(Palacio Grimaldi, apx. Sabatini, Baroque, 1776), owned by the Marquis Grimaldi.

Not far from the palace, on Calle Torija (Torija street), there is Reparadoras Monastery(Monasterio de Reparadoras, apx. V. Rodriguez, XVIII), created for the Supreme Court of the Inquisition.

Plaza de Espana

In the XVIII-XIX centuries. here stood the barracks of the soldiers guarding the royal palace. The square, the most important transport hub of the city, acquired its current appearance in the middle of the 20th century: on its northern side a multi-storey building of the Spanish government appeared, and on the southern side - a concrete tower madrid(Torre de Madrid). Installed on the square monument to Cervantes- the same symbol of Madrid as the bear from Puerta del Sol. The monument is a huge obelisk on the shore of a reservoir; at the foot of the obelisk there is a figure of the writer, and below are Don Quixote and Sancho Panza.

Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales

If you still have time and energy, we recommend walking along Gran Via, one of the main streets in Madrid, towards Puerta del Sol. At Plaza San Martin (San Martin Square) there is an interesting Monastery of Descalzas Reales(Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales, 10.30-12.45, 16.00-17.45, Fri 10.30-12.45, Sun 11.00-13.30, closed Mon). It was founded by Juana of Austria, daughter of Charles V. for aristocratic women who wanted monastic privacy. In 1556, the ancient Gutierrez Palace was converted into a monastery; later it was rebuilt several times. Nowadays there is a museum here, where the richest collections of paintings, icons, and carpets, donated to the monastery by the queens and princesses who lived there, are exhibited. The founder of the monastery, Dona Juana, is buried in the temple.

Madrid is a historic city in Spain, which harmoniously combines the sights of medieval and modern architecture. Tourist routes through its memorable places will delight even the most picky guest.

The location of the Spanish capital is the central part of the Iberian Peninsula. The administrative center is characterized by a continental mountain climate with strong winds that bring cold air from the Sierra de Guadarrama in winter. It's hot in summer, but very comfortable in spring and autumn. The center occupies 607 km2, rising 646 m above sea level, and is divided into 21 districts.

Madrid (the sights and the route along them will appeal to even sophisticated tourists) is a city of world importance with a great cultural heritage, a bit similar to Paris, Rome and Barcelona:

• majestic buildings;
• park areas;
• museums with unique masterpieces of art;
• a large number of shops.

At night, no one falls asleep here, the city continues to sing, walk, and dance passionately in clubs and bars.

Best time to visit

It is better to walk around Madrid in autumn or spring; in summer there is a lot of scorching sun, heat and stuffiness. In winter, the Spanish city will be chilly due to the coolness and constant rain. In comfortable weather conditions, it is pleasant to stroll through unique attractions, recreation areas, and make purchases in well-known shopping spots (Gran Via, Chueca, Calle Toledo, El Rastro, El Mercado de San Miguel).

How to get to Madrid. The cost of travel

Coming to a European city is not difficult. You can get to the Spanish capital by car or bus, as well as fly on international airlines; the airport is only 13 km from the center, where express buses constantly go. The ticket costs 5€, the final destination is the railway station.

The same journey, in a comfortable taxi, will cost 6 times more. 10 minutes from the first terminal of the airport there is the 5th line of the green metro line, the train will quickly take you to the center. Conveniently, tickets for both the bus and metro are identical, the price is 1.5 – 2 €, depending on how many stations you need to go through (5 or 10).

Rail transport is another option for traveling around Spain. Europe is connected to Madrid and is easily accessible from Paris, Barcelona, ​​Valencia, Milan and Lisbon.

Entertainment in Madrid

Getting to know the city cannot happen without a gastronomic excursion to restaurants. Traditional national cuisine is considered cosmopolitan; in the capital you can try dishes from all regions of Spain; also, for tourists, there are oriental cuisine, Turkish eateries and fusion cuisine.

Traditional dishes of Catalonia:

• Galician Albariño and Ribeiro;
• Andalusian sherry;
• Catalan cava wine;
• Asturian cider

Flamenco and bullfighting are tourist attractions in Madrid. In Corral de Moreira, the spiritual home of flamenco, the most beautiful dance show has been created for half a century. Similar performances can be seen in Las Carboneras, but it is recommended to buy tickets in advance, as well as confirm your table reservation.

The Toros Monumental de las Ventas arena hosts the best bullfighters in the country every Sunday from May to October. Tickets from 3€ to 150€ can be purchased on the website. It is worth considering that the permissible age is from 14 years old, if children do not pass the age restrictions, a compromise option is a bullfighting museum, a tour of the largest arena in Spain, the cost is 10 €.

Shopping

Tourists who are determined to make successful purchases most often start with souvenirs. Many people turn their attention to buying football paraphernalia: T-shirts, balls, figurines. The female half more often purchases lace (from 30 €) and fans (from 5 €). It is not uncommon to find porcelain, which is highly valued in any country, as well as Spanish cosmetics, not inferior to Italian and French, based on olive oil.

Local products are another souvenir option:

Madrid, like other large cities, is famous not only for its sights, but also for its shopping centers, walking routes along which are included in all excursions.

As well as shopping areas with numerous antique and jewelry stores:

1. Salamanca (Sol-Salamanca);
2. Cuatro Caminos;
3. Gran Via;
4. Argüelles;
5. Barquillo.

For unusual things, tourists go to the Rastro flea market, where you can find:

• National costumes;
• decorations;
• basketry;
• ceramics;
• dishes

It works from morning until 3 in the afternoon.

For a successful shopping experience, you need to remember:

1. Shops are open from 8 am to 8 pm. Lunch from 14.00-17.00. Shopping centers operate without interruption.
2. The best option is to come during the season of discounts and sales (after Christmas and before March, from July to early September).
3. It is not customary to ask for a discount in souvenir shops, but this does not apply to flea markets and food markets.

Food and drink

Madrid is popular among tourists for its mouth-watering Spanish cuisine. The area where the best tapas bars are located is the La Latina quarter; you can taste chocolate from famous Spanish chocolaterias in San Guinés and Valor. There is an opinion that you cannot go to Spain and not try the famous jamon; there are 2 types that differ in price and quality: Iberico and Serrano.

A tourist can dine at the oldest restaurant in the world - Casa Botin, where a dish costs from 25 €, tasting lamb and suckling pig. Beer lovers are advised to visit the 100 Montadios brewery.

Here, with a glass of beer, they offer a choice of more than 100 variations of sandwiches starting from 2 €. Connoisseurs of restaurant chic are welcome at Ramses, where the unforgettable decor together with an excellent menu, as well as surprises in the form of non-standard design of chairs and toilet rooms, will not leave you indifferent.

Sights of Madrid. What to see on your own in 1-2 days

Connoisseurs of ancient and modern art can visit many famous monuments and museums in one day, or continue their exploration over more days. You should start with Puerta del Sol - the square, whose second name is “Gate of the Sun”, is considered the radial center of Spanish roads.

If you move along the main street Calle Mayor, you will soon find yourself on Placa Mayor - the second main square, here stands the Baker's House, the Philip 3 Monument, the Butcher's House. In the summer, the Spanish square is converted into theater and music venues, book fairs, and Christmas markets in the winter. Located nearby The oldest market is Mercado de San Miguel.

Continuing along Calle Mayor, you can see the Almudena Cathedral, whose dome offers a unique view of the mountain range and the cityscape. Radom is the Royal Palace, which began to be built back in 1737.

Walking along Calle de Bailen, you will see Plaza Oriente and the Royal Theater with statues of the kings of Spain located on it. The next square along the way is no less interesting; here is a monument to Cervantes, whose official name is “Fountain of Literature”.

The first day of walking around Madrid will end with Debod Park with an ancient Egyptian temple brought in 1968. In the evening it looks especially beautiful and mysterious.

Madrid (attractions with a route for tourists designed for 1 day is described above) deserves to be given a little more time to its architectural monuments. The tourist can devote the second day to museums.

It is recommended to start the tour with the city's famous Prado Museum, where works of European artists are displayed, and continue at the Reina Sofia Art Center, where avant-garde works of art are exhibited. At the Thyssen-Bornemisza museum complex, guides will tell you about the history of the development of Spanish navigation.

• Royal Botanical Garden;
• the Cacha de Campo entertainment center, which has an aquarium and an amusement park;
• Museum of America.

Royal Palace

The building of one of the main attractions of Madrid was built in the 18th century, occupies 135,000 km2, and in modern times ceremonial and official receptions are held here. In 2004, the wedding of the heir to the royal family was celebrated there.

The prototype was Versailles: gray-blue facades, a harmonious architectural ensemble, and the interior decoration consists of marble and mahogany.

Inside you can see a large number of paintings by Giacchino and Tiepolo, frescoes by leading artists, as well as:

• main staircase;
• throne room;
• dining room;
• Gasparini Hall;
• porcelain room.

To get to the Royal Palace, you need to take the metro to Opera, or take buses No. 3,39,148 or 25. Opening hours from October to March from 10 am to 6 pm, from April to September from 10:00 to 20:00. Entrance fee (€):

Palace and Fountain of Cibeles

The intersection of Paseo de Recoletos, Alcalá and Paseo del Prado, where the fountain in honor of the goddess of nature is located, is one of the favorites among tourists. Fans of Real Madrid's victorious matches celebrate here. Each of the 4 corners of the square are buildings from the late 18th and early 20th centuries.

Particularly notable is the Cibeles Palace (Palacio de Cibeles), formerly the Palace of Telecommunications, built in 1918. The white structure resembles a wedding cake. Its height is 40 m, its area is more than 12,000 km2. In 1993 it was included in the list of Spanish cultural heritage sites, after which it was reconstructed. You can enter the Palace for free from 10 am to 8 pm.

The tourist will be interested in:

• trading platform (reading room);
• "CentroCentro" (venue for cultural events);
• exhibition halls.

"Gateway to Europe"

The tilted 2 identical towers are the result of a complex, thoughtful architectural design, engineered by John Burgee and Philip Johnson. They had the task of making a creative design project, which they did, forgetting about right angles and typical designs. After government approval, the foundation was laid in 1989. The opening of the original twin buildings took place in 1996.

Today, these are the only inclined high-rise buildings in the world, which the Spaniards are very proud of. Each of the two 26-story buildings is directed towards each other by 15 degrees - this is 3 times more than the inclination of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Gran Via street

This street is translated as “Big Road” and is considered in absentia the main avenue of Madrid.

It was divided into 3 sections:

1. From Alcap to Red de San Luis (here are houses with luxurious balconies and columns in the neo-Renaissance style).
2. To Callao (a mixture of American, French and modernist styles).
3. Ending with the square in American rationalism.

Wol there are numerous famous buildings, squares, cafes, bars, shops:

• Telefonika - the first city skyscraper;
• bar "Chikote";
• area with 6 cinemas Plaza del Callao.

Plaza Mayor

The intersection of Calle de Toledo, Calle de Atocha and Calle Mayor is known by locals and tourists as a majestic, royal or popular square. Here, cafes and restaurants are open non-stop, street artists and musicians entertain visitors, and merchants offer to buy souvenirs, stamps, and coins.

The history of Plaza Mayor dates back to King Enrique 2. The building of the royal bakery Casa de Panaderia has entered modern times with its original beauty, which since 1590 has supplied the royal court with bread. The main function of this building is to hold important receptions. Later, the Academy of History, the Academy of Fine Arts, and today the city archive were located here.

Puerta del Sol

“Km zero” is the point from which the distance of Spanish roads begins to be calculated. It is believed that if you step into this place and make a wish, it will definitely come true. Nearby is the symbol of the capital - a bear and a strawberry tree.

Nearby is the “Gate of the Sun”, formerly an element of the wall of the destroyed fortress. The semicircular square - Alcala, Mayor and San Jeronimo streets - is considered one of the important transport hubs of the city. Puerta del Sol has numerous shopping areas and cafes, souvenir shops and shops.

To get here, you can use public transport No. 26, 16 and 3 or the metro (Puerta del Sol station).

Buen Retiro Park

Madrid, the attractions and route you can work out yourself, is a green city with a lot of green areas.

One of these is Buen Retiro Park, where there is something to be surprised by:

• channels;
• lake;
• bridges;
• monuments;
• flower beds;
• play areas;
• diversity of flora and fauna.

Local residents call the green zone, which occupies 1.4 km2, a cultural heritage site. Previously, there were chambers for conversion to God, and later a luxurious palace.

After 1808 and the attack of the French, the structure was completely destroyed, but the park was revived in 1869 and opened to everyone. All that remains of the old building are the dance and ballrooms and the formal halls, which now house the Prado branch and the Spanish Army Museum, respectively.

Casa de Campo Park

Only in this park, guests of the Spanish capital will find a large number of original entertainment for children and their parents. On its opposite side there is a zoo with an aquarium - it will appeal to lovers of wildlife and the underwater world. The modern amusement park has 48 attractions.

There are also numerous cafes and restaurants on the site; the space is divided into 5 zones:

1. Peace (Tranquilidad).
2. Machines (Maquinismo).
3. Nature (Naturaleza).
4. Main street (Gran Avenida).
5. Children's area (Infantil).

After the adrenaline you get on the slides, you can relax and refresh yourself on the “main” street. If you want to be closer to nature, you should take food with you and organize a picnic on the grass.

Prado Museum

The building was built in the neoclassical style, designed by Juan de Villonueva, its construction lasted more than 2 decades and opened its doors in 1919. Initially, the collection included only 311 paintings by Spanish artists, but over time, the number increased to 5,000 paintings not only by local authors, but also by Italian and Flemish painters.

Gradually, the collection is supplemented with works by European authors. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm, on Sundays and holidays: from 10.00 to 19.00, the cost of a full ticket is 15 €, children under 18 years of age and students can enter for free, a ticket for pensioners will cost 7.50 €. Easily accessible from Atocha Banco de Espana station.

Reina Sofia Arts Center

Connoisseurs of modern painting are recommended to visit the National Museum, where works by Picasso, Dali and Kandinsky are displayed. Together with the Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums, it forms the “golden triangle of art”.

In 1986, a sculpture exhibition center was located here, later the building was rebuilt, and in 1988 it was given the status of National. The doors opened for tourists in 1992; 13 years later, 3 red buildings with glass elevators inside were added to the building.

The main exhibits belong to:

• Juan Gris;
• Joan Miró;
• Salvador Dali;
• Benjamin Palencia;
• Eduardo Arroyo;
• Eusebio Sempere.

The ticket price depends on the place of purchase.

On the museum's website you can get information about free visiting hours, usually weekdays from 7 to 9 pm.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Until the early 90s of the 20th century, the gallery was the largest private collection. One of the components of the “golden triangle” offers its visitors works of primitivists of Italian roots, as well as works of painters from Holland and Germany. Here you can find geometric abstraction, Russian constructivism and pop art.

The museum is located in the Villahermosa Palace, a 3-story red and white building. Visitors can see works by the great Van Gogh, Gauguin, and Caravaggio.

In 2004, the museum was expanded with the construction of an additional building; now it is difficult for a tourist not to notice the elegant combination of an ancient palace and modern architecture.

The origins of the museum complex go back to the end of the 19th century. It was August Thyssen who laid the foundation for a private collection, which his descendants continued to expand. After several generations of family heritage, several countries tried to get their hands on this unique collection.

The government received a small part of it, purchasing it from the heirs; some copies were leased to the state for exhibition.

Museum of America

In Madrid there is a place where there is a huge number of objects (more than 25,000) that allow you to learn about the life of the Indians. The museum is very popular; the core of the collection consists of items from the pre-Columbian period.

It was the Spaniard Columbus who discovered America in 1492, and the Spanish colonization of the American continent continued until 1898.

In the Museum of America in Madrid you can see many sights and artifacts brought by colonists from America

The museum has been open to public access since 1941; the current shelter was built in the neo-colonial style (American Baroque).

Thematic exhibitions available for viewing:

• knowledge and reality;
• religion and society;
• communications.

The most interesting products are:

• Quimbaya treasures;
• silver vessels;
• Mayan breviary;
• manuscripts;
• Indian utensils;
• Aboriginal mummy;
• gold items.

In addition, you can get acquainted with specimens of ethnographic and colonial type, soldier’s weapons and carbines of robbers. The museum is open every day except Monday. Entrance costs 3 €, reduced price – 1.50 €, children and students visit for free.

National Library of Spain

The largest library institution previously consisted of private collections, but over time the number of exhibits grew and the building could not accommodate the accumulated publications within its walls.

They planned the construction of a new building, which is now operational. Outwardly, the library resembles a palace, crowned with figures of cultural figures. The hall surprises with its exquisite decoration; all rooms are decorated with paintings and sculptures.

The space is divided into halls:

1. Main (printed reproductions of the first books of Spain).
2. Goya (unique photographs, drawings, book illustrations for atlases).
3. Cervantes (unique manuscripts, scientific treatises on the work of Spanish writers).
4. Barbiri (information about music and musical instruments).

Lectures, exhibitions and seminars are often held here, which anyone can attend.

Royal Theater

The theater has been transformed, reconstructed and rebuilt more than once since 1708. It was discovered in its present guise in 1850. The first performance was staged “The Favorite”, after which the theater developed and was held in high esteem. But, due to political convictions, parliamentary meetings were held here for some time.

Only in 1977, after receiving the status of a historical monument, the theater began to follow its original purpose. Now there are 28 boxes, capacity – 1746 people. The premises in the building are decorated with monuments and paintings, and the floors are covered with carpets.

Almudena Cathedral

Local residents say that the statue of Amulden was brought by the Apostle James in the 1st century. In turbulent times, the parishioners hid it so that when Madrid was recaptured from the Arabs, Alfonso 6 could not be found. And only years later, during one of the processions, stones broke off from the wall and the famous statue appeared.

The cathedral was created in the neo-Gothic style and dedicated to the Virgin Mary de la Almudena, the patroness of Madrid. Construction began in 1879 under the supervision of the architect Francisco de Cubas, but later the civil and world wars prevented it, after which its construction continued in 1950, and was consecrated only in 1993.

Monastery of Escorial

The monumental building is located at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama. Built in honor of success in the battle against the French. At the same time, both the house of the King of Spain (with a library and pantheon) and the monastery are reminiscent of the great monarchy. The king's chambers are on the 3rd floor.

The Escorial is a symbol of the “brazier” in which the saint was once burned alive.

The structure includes:

• 300 cells;
• 16 patios;
• chapels;
• towers;
• more than 80 stairs.

Here is a collection of 1,600 works by painters of European origin, which Philip II began to collect.

Monastery of Descalzas Reales

The building is located on Puerta del Sol, the entrance ticket costs 6 euros. The second name of the monastery is “A Little Chronicle of Europe during the Habsburg Times.” Visitors can feel compassion, fascination and wonder at the same time.

Descalsas Reales was founded in 1559 by Juana of Austria, who, after the death of her husband, decided to create a secluded monastery. After the monastery was ready, it accepted girls of wealthy parents who ran away from home from obsessive marriages of convenience. Young people came with gifts in the form of works of art. Gradually the monastery became an influential institution.

Today, 28 nuns live here.

Temple of Debod

An ancient Egyptian temple is located near the observation platform; Egyptian leaders presented it as a sign of gratitude for saving the Abu Simbel temples from flooding. From Piazza di Spagna you can reach it in a few minutes by walking. The construction was dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis.

The debot arrived disassembled on a ship and was then assembled in Western Park. The doors to tourists were opened in 1972. The temple is open daily, except Mondays, from 10 am to 8 pm. Visitors enter free of charge.

Gate of Alcala

Early on, the road to Alcalá de Henares passed here, the city gates served only a symbolic function, and the fortress wall was destroyed. Construction of the gate lasted 14 years until 1778, Carlos III wanted to see a grand entrance to the eastern city border.

Francesco Sabatini, who had previously worked on the Royal Palace, took up the project; Ventura Rodriguez's proposals were rejected.

The neoclassical building consists of 3 vaulted passages with lion heads on the sides. The central span is decorated with 6 pilasters and 4 columns. The arch reaches 20 m. The inscription on it reads: “King Charles III, 1778.” The sides are filled with statues of Arribas: Confidence and Courage, Justice and Wisdom.

Atocha Station

The history of the oldest station begins with the opening of the railway station in 1851 by the Queen. The train ran from Madrid to Aranjuez, where the royal house was located. Some time later, the station burned, and in 1892 a new one was built: 2 pavilions with a wrought-iron roof - a masterpiece of the 19th century. Reconstruction took place in 1992 before

After the Olympics, the old building became a place for retail outlets and cafes, and the platforms were moved. A green area with palm trees and tropical plants, turtles and birds was organized under the canopy.

At the station every week there is a fair of fortune tellers. Anyone who wants to know their fate can come and have their fortune told on their hand, but it is not cheap. The railway station has become not only a functional place, but also a cultural center.

Arena Las Ventas

The largest bullfighting ground was built in 1929 in the Mudejar style. Nearby there is a bullfighting museum, where you can see for free the historical moments of famous fights, see the heads of bulls, bullfighter costumes, and posters from the past.

On the square there are monuments in honor of Sir Alexander Fleming, who discovered penicillin, as well as in memory of a bullfighter who lived in the 70s of the last century, who skillfully fought a fight and beautifully stabbed a bull, but when he raised his hands up to signify the end of his career, the bull, miraculously turned out to be alive, pierced him with his horns. Engraved on the monument is “a bullfighter died, an angel was born.”

Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

A world-class sports ground - the second most important in Spain, for more than 65 years, the football field belongs to Real Madrid. Fans can live the day of their idol: look around the locker room, sit on the players' bench, and take a closer look at the 100-year history of the Madrid football club, which is displayed through cups in the Trophy Hall.

When he headed the Bernabeu club, he decided that the players deserved a grandiose stadium, after which he laid the first stone in construction, which lasted 2.5 years. On the opening day in 1947, a match took place between Spain and Portugal, with the host Madrid side winning 3:1.

The stadium seats 80,000 people, the European Cup final was held here, music concerts and public events are organized.

The tour begins with a panoramic view and continues with a walk through the stands and a visit to the locker rooms. At the end, when the opportunity arises to be on the playing field, everyone can feel what each of the players feels.

El Rastro Flea Market

A large flea market in Europe with a Spanish flavor gives tourists the opportunity to purchase everything: from antiques to military paraphernalia. Such an assortment is not available in the most famous shopping centers: jewelry and clothing, records and stamps - everything that is lying around in Spanish storerooms. There is an opportunity to find valuable things here. It is customary to bargain at the market, but it is recommended to be careful, there are pickpockets.

The old market began its activity in the 16th century along Calle San Cayetano. But this is a place not only for shopping, but also for walking. A theatrical atmosphere and cheerful bustle reign here, and music sounds. The market got its name from the word “rasto” - trace; previously animals from the slaughterhouse were dragged along the street, leaving a bloody trail. Times have changed, but the name remains.

San Miguel Market

An international place to buy and sell goods from foreign countries, it is famous for the fact that here you can find:

• black caviar;
• oysters from France;
• Galician seafood.

The building was erected in the 15th year of the last century in the form of metal structures. The two-level stalls inside are decorated with ceramic tiles; during the cold season, gas lamps are lit here, and the stalls have been transformed into tapas bars. The work is carried out around the clock, tourists do not leave San Miguel almost until the morning.

Warner Brothers Amusement Park

Madrid (the sights, routes and places to stay described above in the article will help the tourist see all the most interesting things, even if the trip is for 1-2 days) is a city of entertainment. The theme park about the heroes of films and cartoons of the film company (Tom and Jerry, Batman, Scooby-Doo) is located not far from the capital and is one of the most interesting.

There are several thematic areas:

• Hollywood Boulevard;
• cartoon city;
• world of superheroes;
• min film studio;
• Wild West.

When coming to Madrid with a child, it is worth setting aside a whole day to visit the amusement park. Unforgettable impressions from colorful shows are guaranteed.

Excursions in Madrid: routes, prices

Madrid is a city for excursions; the attractions here are worth devoting more than one day to; the cost of routes with guides for tourists starts from 20 €.

Article format: Mila Friedan

Video about the sights of Madrid

TOP 10 attractions of Madrid:

An independent trip to Spain allowed me to see the sights of Madrid, churches and museums, relax in Madrid parks, taste Spanish cuisine; if you want to know more, read the story about an independent trip to Spain

After my first trip to Spain, I was very pleased with Madrid and promised myself that I would definitely visit the Spanish capital again. And so it happened, and quickly... And then it happened again... And again... Moreover, having established a base in the heart of Castile, I was also able to see the towns around Madrid - Toledo, Avila, Segovia, Escorial, Aranjuez and others. A summary text about my independent travels to Spain is now offered to the attention of the most respectable public. The first issue will be a story about the sights of Madrid, and then the rest of the “Castilians” will follow...

Unlike the first trip, when a bus from Zaragoza took me to Madrid, all other visits began for me with a flight. Flights were from Prague, Amsterdam, Paris, because no one flies directly from St. Petersburg to Madrid, and in general flights from Russia of little interest due to the high price. For some reason, Czech airlines regularly gives prices in the region of 8,000 rubles for flights from St. Petersburg to Madrid with a transfer in Prague, while Aeroflot, which many call “national carrier” from “national carrier,” does not indulge its customers with anything like that. So I have to fly with transfers, although personally they don’t bother me at all: I go straight to the business box and spend a good time there between flights.

The transfers required to get from Barajas airport to the center of Madrid do not bother me either: for the time being, the best option to travel this route was the metro, because line 8 brings a former air passenger to the Nuevos Ministerios station in a quarter of an hour, and this is a large hub where Several subway lines converge at once and commuter trains also make a stop. The ticket for a very long time cost only 2.5 euros, one coin was actually for the journey and another one and a half served as an additional payment for the trip to the airport. However, since 2012, the authorities of the Spanish capital have increased the surcharge, and now travel by metro costs 4.5 euros. In this situation, all the hitherto unnoticed inconveniences of transfers stand out: the underground passages of the Nuevos Ministerios station require an 8-10 minute walk to change the line from the airport to another.

Interestingly, an additional payment is required only for airport stations, while residents of the town of Barajas located between them pay the standard city fare. In other words, having passed the stop “Aeropuerto T 1-T 2-T 3”, you can get off before reaching “Aeropuerto T 4” and then walk - lovers of economical travel will be able to reduce their expenses. There is also the option of walking from the group of terminals 1-3 to the Alameda de Osuna metro station on line 5; it takes about twenty minutes to walk there. This trip will allow you to get to the center of Madrid for 1.50 euros, the cost of a regular transport ticket.

But why walk, you can get from Barajas Airport to Madrid for the same one and a half euros by city bus, which delivers passengers directly to the Avenida de America bus station - there, by the way, there are automatic luggage storage facilities, which is convenient when a person is in transit in Madrid and wants to walk around the city until the evening. Travel on bus route 200 costs one and a half euros, the trip will take about forty minutes or a little more, depending on the situation on the highway, where the line turns right after parting with Barajas.

I will also mention the intercity bus station directly at the airport, and going to other cities in Spain from Barajas is therefore as easy as shelling pears...

Recently, the question of how to get from Barajas Airport to Madrid has received another answer: by commuter train of the “Cercanias” system. We launched this project a couple of years ago, and now with the help of trains you can quickly get to the Atocha and Chamartin stations without changing, plus it’s also worth remembering about the Mendez Alavro bus station - line C1 passes through all these stations. This way to get from Barajas airport is good for its speed - a trip to the center of Madrid will take no more than 15 minutes, and the price is 2.40 euros versus 5 euros, which has recently been required for the metro. It is also worth remembering that holders of tickets for high-speed trains of the Spanish Railways are allowed free travel on the Cercanias electric trains from the airport to the Madrid station where they have a planned transfer. The disadvantages of the train as a means of getting to the center of Madrid include an inconvenient schedule, only 2 flights per hour, at 28 and 58 minutes, and the fact that departures are carried out only from terminal 4 spoils the matter even more. Of course, the Barajas airport terminals are connected by a free bus, but moving will also require time, carrying things, etc.

Having outlined the ways to get from Barajas Airport to Madrid, I will say that you need to consider options in relation to your goal: it is more convenient to go to one area this way, to another that way. Personally, I used the metro most often, since my favorite hotel “Gran Atlanta” on Calle Comandante Zorita is a couple of steps from the crossing of the “Nuevos Ministerios” station, so when I arrive from the airport, I just drop my things there and go for a walk around the city. However, on my last visit, I was literally scandalized by the conditions of the accommodation: the snoring of the guest next door was heard with all the sounds and sounds. So, on my next voyage, I renewed my acquaintance with the Avant Torrejon hotel, in the suburbs of Madrid. I once had the chance to stop there when, having arrived late, I expected to spend the night and go by bus to Cordoba in the morning. According to the special offer, the hotel costs 43 euros for two, and this is for a room with air conditioning and a rich breakfast is included in the price. The hotel is a 10-minute walk from Torrejon de Ardos station, and although the journey to the center of Madrid takes almost an hour in total, the low price of accommodation makes up for this disadvantage. Again, Avant Torrejon provides a free transfer from Barajas and back, but it is especially convenient to stay there for those traveling by car: there is free parking, and the highway exit is nearby.

Yes, of course, if you wish, for about the same money you can stay in the center of Madrid, even near Puerto del Sol, but the available options will definitely be hostals, which means an old building, shower and toilet on the floor, no air conditioning, no soundproofing no crowd of rowdy young people, the usual contingent of this kind of place. In addition, there may well be a nightclub nearby with partying and blaring music until the morning, not to mention the cost of parking in the center of Madrid. In a word, issues of accommodation must be considered in a comprehensive manner, and the nearest suburbs of the Spanish capital should not be discounted. For example, according to my estimates, a good hotel somewhere in the towns of Parla or Leganes will cost 40-50 euros, versus 70-80 for hotels in the central regions; It’s also worth keeping an eye on the neighborhoods near the Chamartin train station, where transport links are good and accommodation prices are low. In my opinion, it is better to spend more time on the road to the center of Madrid than to suffer because of noisy neighbors or lack of air conditioning...

To finish with practical questions and start a walk around the capital of Spain, I’ll say a few words about the “Madrid Card”. The Madrid museum card makes life much easier for travelers, but its high cost does not allow us to unequivocally recommend its use today: several years ago I happily used the “Madrid Card”, now, most likely, I would not take it. In the end, I have already seen the main attractions of Madrid, and I don’t need a card to walk around the city and travel outside of it.

If you still need a Madrid card, you can buy a “Madrid Card” at tourist offices, for example, at the head office on Plaza Mayor. There is free Internet there, 15 minutes per person, but still there, they sign up for all kinds of excursions, they help you find housing, and they have finally launched an interactive system for getting to know the city. By the way, that’s where we’ll go now to start sightseeing in Madrid. Even though Puerta del Sol is officially considered the main square, and there is the Madrid symbol, a bear eating strawberries, but for me personally the Spanish capital is still personified by Plaza Mayor. Its pompous architecture perfectly demonstrates the morals of Madrid, arrogant and proud. And all because until the end of the 11th century AD, one might say, no one had even heard of it: the future center of Spain was formed around the Arab fortress of Majirit, and then, at the very beginning of the Reconquista, it was a tiny settlement, inferior in all respects nearby Toledo. Even after the Christians reconquered part of Castile in 1083, little changed in the fate of Madrid, since the capital was always moving along with the royal palace, and it was either hanging out in Valladolid or Burgos. Officially, the capital's functions were given to the city by the Spanish King Philip II, and this event happened in 1561.

Spiteful critics, say, from Catalonia or the same deprived residents of Burgos, would certainly say something like “from rags to riches”, and they would, in general, be right. So Plaza Mayor came out rich, having started her “career” as a market, and even outside the historical center, outside the city wall. Only then was it raised in status, choosing it as a venue for special events such as holidays, bullfights and executions; The reconstruction of the entire ensemble was carried out by order of King Philip III. The square acquired its pretentious appearance many years later, after it had been transformed for almost half of the 19th century, uniting all the houses in a single style and thereby creating a regular rectangle of buildings of the same type. Now Plaza Mayor makes a strong impression on tourists and also serves as a popular meeting place among locals, so you can kill two birds with one stone - both to gaze at the architecture of Madrid and at the Madrileños themselves...

There are nine streets leading off the square at once, one of which leads to the square Puerto del Sol, where you can photograph the monument with a bear and strawberries; This kind of photo shoot is almost a mandatory item in the program of every self-respecting tourist. Another thing is that all kinds of protest rallies and demonstrations are systematically held on Puerta del Sol, so photographing can be seriously difficult.

From the square, Calle de Arenal leads to another significant landmark of Madrid, the Royal Palace. Its ensemble, built in the 18th century, is now not used to house the Spanish monarch, but still has the status of an official residence, and therefore the entrance to tourists is periodically closed during ceremonies. Meanwhile, you should definitely get acquainted with the palace interiors, because the average traveler rarely gets the chance to visit a real, working palace of a real king.

And if from the outside the Royal Palace of Madrid looks rather strict and does not leave the impression of a bright building, then the elaborate decorations inside completely compensate for their absence outside. What’s surprising if such outstanding masters as Goya and Velasquez took part in the work on the design, and in general the king’s subjects did their best.

Almost next to the palace stands an impressive Almudena Cathedral, also richly decorated inside, and adding to this luxury of interiors also a luxurious exterior. The residents of Madrid wanted to have a cathedral for a long time; such plans go back as far as the 16th century, and the only thing that prevented them from coming true was the lack of their own diocese - the bishops of Toledo were by no means eager to limit their powers. It was only in the last quarter of the nineteenth century that Madrid was granted its own episcopal see and construction finally began. But the illustration of the saying about “harnessing slowly, but driving quickly” did not work out: the work dragged on and it took almost a hundred years before the Almudena Cathedral received its final form. It is noteworthy that they planned it to be neo-Gothic, but built it in the neoclassical style, to match the palace.

To the side of these two buildings is a pleasant square of the most noble appearance. In the center of the Plaza de Oriente, as this corner of Madrid is called, there is an equestrian monument to Philip IV, and around it stand figures of the most famous kings of Spain, mostly in knightly garb.

On the other side, the Sabatini Gardens adjoin the palace ensemble, an excellent place to relax after a tour of the Royal Palace. On an area of ​​two and a half hectares there used to be stables, the need for which disappeared after the beginning of the era of motorism. The freed space was given to specialists in garden art, and the resulting park met all expectations. Its shady alleys with fountains, sculptures and trimmed bushes are extremely pleasing to the eye.

Coming out of the Sabatini Gardens, from the gate farthest from the palace, you find yourself in Piazza di Spagna, the main decoration of which, the monument to Cervantes, is always surrounded by tourists; For some reason the Japanese are especially trying. They can’t reach the writer himself, sitting on top of the monument, but Don Quixote and Sancho Panza are usually covered with Asian bodies - no matter how many times you’ve been around, you’ve seen this picture so many times.

The idea to immortalize the work of Cervantes was born more than a hundred years ago, but it was realized only in the early 1930s, around the same time when the famous Gran Via, one of the busiest arteries of Madrid, received its final appearance. Translated from Spanish, its name means “big path”, and the path is really long - almost one and a half kilometers. The construction of Gran Via began in the middle of the 19th century, during the restructuring of the historical center. To relieve its narrow streets, drastic measures were required, and the wide avenue became their main embodiment. Gran Via acquired its final appearance already in the 20th century, with the advent of multi-story buildings; During the Civil War, these high-rise buildings were used by the Francoists who shelled the capital for aiming, and the nickname “howitzer alley”, given by the sharp-tongued Madrileños, emphasizes this sad fact with bitter humor.

Now Gran Via is a fairly peaceful place where people come to have fun and have a bite to eat, fortunately restaurants, cafes, and cinemas fill the avenue with a motley “crowd”, interspersed with hotels, office buildings, shops and clubs. The ornate architecture of the buildings forms a unique ensemble, and walking along Gran Via is pleasant in every sense: if you don’t come here to drink and walk, then you definitely need to take pictures of the views.

The eastern end of the avenue ends in Cybele Square, decorated with an impressive monument to this goddess. Why suddenly the residents of Madrid were inflamed with love for the representative of the pagan pantheon is unclear even to historians, but the townspeople celebrate the victories of Real Madrid here - and this means a lot. At the beginning of the 21st century, there were more than enough reasons for celebration, and the figure of the goddess sitting in the middle of the fountain in a chariot drawn by lions began to gradually collapse - according to tradition, players climb onto the monument, greeting the fans from there. As a result, now only the team captain has the right to climb into the chariot; However, in the 2012-2013 season, Los Blancos never had the chance to get into the chariot, and this is not surprising with such a coach and such leadership...

What stands out from the buildings surrounding Plaza de la Cibeles is a huge communications palace, looking like the Moscow skyscrapers of Stalin's times. But the triumphal arch visible in the distance is more reminiscent of the buildings of ancient Rome. This design adorns Puerto de Alcala, one of the most remarkable squares in the Spanish capital. It was furnished on the occasion of the ceremonial entry of King Charles III into Madrid; the monarch personally chose the design of the architect Francesco Sabatini. In those days, by the way, it was 1778, the Porta de Alcalá really was the gateway to the city, and the wide openings of the neoclassical arch, built of stone and granite, were intended for the passage and passage of people. Only a century later, when the space of the square was redeveloped, traffic flows were bypassed, and the building found itself on its own. Now it, like the monument to the bear with strawberries, is considered a symbol of Madrid.

It is best to photograph the arch from afar, say, from Paseo de l Prado - after the photo shoot you can go see the sights of Madrid located behind this boulevard. First of all, we are talking about the famous Prado Museum, although the collection of works of art in the museum Thyssen-Bornemisza is also worth a visit.

It should be noted that the appearance of the Prado Museum in no way promises an acquaintance with masterpieces; it is a rather ordinary building; in my opinion, since the building was built specifically to house the royal collection of paintings, they could have built something more presentable. One way or another, the Prado Palace, opened in 1819, nevertheless accepted the masterpieces accumulated by the Spanish kings, immediately becoming a star of the first magnitude in the museum world. Indeed, just the list of the most famous artists whose paintings are kept in the Prado Museum is amazing, because it includes Rubens, Durer, Rembrandt, Poussin, Botticelli, and, of course, Goya. Paintings by Flemish, Dutch, and Italian painters make the visitor gasp and gasp in amazement in literally every room: although most of the paintings were created in the 15th-17th centuries, the canvases have not lost any of their brightness and richness, not to mention the skill of their creators.

It is difficult to recommend any specific paintings, because everyone has different tastes, but still some masterpieces cannot be missed. The Prado Museum is, first of all, “Maja Dressed” and “Maja Nude” by Francisco Goya, “Danae” by Titian, “The Three Graces” by Rubens. I still remember Dürer’s work, but his paintings definitely won’t appeal to everyone. In general, it’s convenient to go to the Prado Museum website and make a rough plan for your walk. It’s even better to make plans for several walks, because there are a lot of pictures, and you won’t be able to take it all in one sitting. It makes sense to come to the Prado Museum several times, especially since in the evenings, from 6 to 8 p.m., admission is free for everyone, and on weekends, from 5 p.m. onwards, you don’t have to pay for tickets at all - you just go to the box office and take a ticket, thereby saving 12 euros.

You can also enter the second most important art museum in Madrid, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, for free, but this opportunity is not available every day: only on Monday, and only from 12 to 16 o’clock - at least the museum’s website says about this opportunity. So a ticket costs 9 euros, or even 15 euros if the visitor wants to see temporary exhibitions in addition to the main exhibition. There is something to look at there even without additional viewings - the private collection of Baron Thyssen-Bornemisza, which has become the main museum, covers European painting of the 13th-20th centuries and includes paintings by such masters as Gauguin, Pissarro, Van Gogh.

More contemporary works can be seen at the Centro de Arte Reina Sofia on Calle de Santa Isabel, at the very end of the Paseo del Prado, near Atocha Station. This is where the so-called “art” of the avant-garde is overflowing, and some people are delighted with it. Personally, what I liked most about it was the glass elevator, which opened up views of the city as it climbed, and the rides on it turned out to be much more interesting than most of the exhibits - without these panoramas of Madrid in the evening, the Reina Sofía Arts Center would remain in my memory as simply wasted time. It’s good that at least I didn’t have to pay 8 euros for entry, since I had a “Madrid Card” at that time...

As a continuation of your tour of Madrid, it is now appropriate to relax in nature; therefore, we have a direct path to the Royal Botanical Garden, which has existed for more than two and a half centuries. During this time, the flora collections expanded from the original 2,000 plants to the current 30,000. From 1755 to 1781, the Royal Botanical Garden was located in a different location; it occupied its current territory of 8 hectares by order of King Carlos III. The garden area is occupied by many trees and flowers from all continents, it’s damn nice to walk there.

It is no less pleasant to walk through Retiro Park - it is both older and larger. The area east of the center of Madrid began to be developed in the second half of the 16th century; to transform the territory into a pearl of landscape art, the Spaniards invited Bernardo Buontalenti from Italy, who made a name for himself by working in the Florentine Pitti Gardens. For a long time, entry into the park was allowed only to those close to the king, but over time the restrictions have eased, and now the alleys of the Retiro are a favorite vacation spot for the townspeople, and tourists, attracted by the beautiful scenery, enjoy spending their free time here. A monument, fountains, a rose garden, a lake on which you can ride on a rented boat - these are the joys of life awaiting the guests of the park... The Crystal Palace, an original building made of glass and metal, is especially beautiful: it is located on the shore of the lake and in calm weather it appears before the amazed people as if only there were two palaces... In fact, this is not a palace at all, but simply a greenhouse, erected in the last quarter of the 19th century to house exotic plants.

We've seen the main attractions of Madrid, it's time to tackle the minor ones. But for the sake of order, I need to say a few words about the tourist bus driving around the city - there is excursion support in Russian, and for many, it seems to me, such trips can be interesting. A ticket for 1 day costs 21 euros, for 2 days 25 euros, the travel system allows you to get off at numerous stops and board the next bus that arrives; races take place every 15-20 minutes. With the help of tourist buses you can see all the most interesting objects of the Spanish capital without any effort. Well, that is, on the first day after arrival, go for a drive, and then begin a detailed sightseeing of Madrid.

You can start, for example, with the Basilica of Nuestra Señora de Atocha, located just south of Retiro Park. This monumental building was given life by a Dominican monastery founded in the 16th century. The king himself patronized him, and therefore the monks were able to find funds to improve the temple - it was rebuilt according to the design of the architect Francisco de Mora and the interiors were luxuriously decorated. Unfortunately, the cultural treasures accumulated by the monastery disappeared during the Napoleonic Wars; the basilica itself was also badly damaged, and it took enormous efforts of restorers to bring it back to its proper form.

This building is located south of Retiro Park, while if you move north, you will certainly come across another temple, no less large and no less famous. The Church of San Jeronimo also once belonged to the monastery; it was built 39 years after its foundation, in 1503. The similarity of the two basilicas can also be seen in their fate: the French troops that occupied Spain plundered San Jeronimo, expelled the monks and generally made themselves at home. Again, it took years of restoration, which took more than two decades, before the church again regained its characteristic beauty - it was, by the way, chosen for the coronation of Juan Carlos in 1975.

From the Atocha station, towards the center there is a long Calle Atocha, with its eateries and shops. We need to move a little further south, to the parallel Calle de Santa Isabel, where the Church of Santa Isabel stands, completed in 1655, after 16 years of work. It was intended for the Augustinian monastery, but the prayers of the monks did not help the building at all: it took so long to build it, but everything burned down in a moment, and from the beginning of the 18th century another stage of red tape began to drag on, now with restoration. Only by the middle of the century, the church’s impressive dimensions finally acquired a divine appearance.

On Atocha Street itself there is the Santa Cruz Church, which also became a victim of fire at one time. The temple, built at the beginning of the 17th century, stood for exactly fifty years before disappearing in the fire. The second incarnation was more successful, the church stood for a whole century, after which it too was consumed by flames. Needless to say, the firefighters were unable to defend the third version of the building, and although the townspeople raised money by subscription for the fourth, the current version will definitely not last long. As they say, “those born to be hanged will not drown,” and it seems that the fate of the Santa Cruz church is predetermined, the only question is when the next fire will start...

From the facade of the temple you need to walk a little forward towards Plaza Mayor, but do not enter its territory and immediately turn left. Then the bulk of the Church of San Isidoro, built by the architect Pedro Sanchez for the needs of the Jesuit order, will loom in the distance. This was in the first quarter of the 17th century, the Baroque style was just coming into fashion, and the new building shocked many. The Jesuits, however, liked the new style of architecture, they were especially inspired by its splendor - from the outside San Isidoro looks very bright, but its interior looks much brighter. And this is only part of the splendor that was before: during the Civil War, the church was partially burned, and the former interiors were restored only in places.

Walking from San Isidoro further south and turning to the left, a walker in Madrid will find himself on Calle de Embajadores, which will lead him to the Church of San Cayetano, another one that suffered from the consequences of General Franco’s rebellion. For a whole century, starting in 1669, builders worked hard to bring Marcos Lopez’s project to life, and all the luxury of the baroque temple’s design faded into oblivion in a negligibly short period of time. Restorers in the 1960s had to work very hard to restore San Cayetano literally from the ashes, since during the Francoist siege of Madrid the building burned down almost entirely.

Now the route of the excursion around Madrid lies a little back, to the Plaza de la Cebada and then west along the Carrera de San Francisco - it will end right at the Church of St. Francis. It is believed that the original version of this shrine was founded by Francis of Assisi himself in 1217. The current version of the temple was built 543 years later, under King Carlos III. At that time, the church did not gain much popularity, unlike today: a philanthropist was found who agreed to invest his own funds in interior decoration. Many outstanding personalities responded to his call, including the great Francisco Goya. The result of the joint work of artists and sculptors was a highly extraordinary decoration, and today the Church of San Francisco is one of the few churches in Madrid for which a fee is charged for viewing. Moreover, in fact, the temple plays the role of a national pantheon, serving as a burial place for prominent figures of Spanish politics and culture.

Having made a second, extended trip through the city center and seen the sights of Madrid, it’s time to think about food. In such a large city, of course, there are plenty of catering outlets, but you need to approach the choice of establishments wisely. The best places to eat inexpensively in Madrid are on Calle Atocha and Gran Via - there are options for every taste and budget. I can personally recommend a couple of places; for example, in house 118 in Atocha there is a diner “Atocha”, and there they charge 9 euros for a set of salad, paella and a drink, quite divinely. You can also eat inexpensively in Madrid at the Don Galo cafe, located at 16 on the same street; for a three-course lunch you have to pay about 12 euros, slightly above average prices, but in almost the very center of the city.

Gran Via has its own secrets, and knowing them, you can eat so inexpensively that you almost burst: the establishment “All U can eat” in house 45 organizes a “buffet” of different types of meat, salads, pizza - those who paid 9.95 euros, This is the only way to sweep food off the tables. It’s a pity that you have to pay for drinks separately, otherwise it would be a blessing.

And literally next door, at 43 Gran Via, there is a cafe “Vips” - they offer food for just pennies, because ready-made ham sandwiches cost one and a half euros, and large compositions of jamon and all sorts of vegetables cost 4 euros.

In general, food prices in the Spanish capital greatly depend on the class of the establishment. Pretentious restaurants in the center charge a lot of money from the client, but small, often family-run cafes are ready to offer tolerable conditions. Those who want to eat inexpensively in Madrid should expect the following prices: tapas cost 3.50 euros, coffee is about one and a half euros per cup, baguettes not from a store, but from a private bakery cost 70 euro cents, freshly baked bread usually costs about a euro. Supermarkets sell all bakery products much cheaper, but the friendly atmosphere of small bakeries is completely absent there, and the baguettes are not at all full of heat, not to mention the crunch of the crust...

On the contrary, I recommend buying products such as juice or ready-made salads in supermarkets, since small shops always sell at a premium; they are often kept by immigrants from Asia, so pleasant communication a la the traditional “panaderi a” will not work. Of course, grocery stores are found in the center of Madrid much more often than large stores, but whoever looks for will find; for example, we found an excellent “Lidl” right at the back of the Retiro Park, at Calle Narciso Serra 13 - we found it and took advantage of it. In fact, when excellent Spanish cheese costs a little more than 2 euros per package, and a bottle of young wine costs 1.19 euros, it would be a sin not to buy it all and have a picnic...

The question of where to buy souvenirs in Madrid is also relevant. Personally, I liked the offices on Calle Arenal de Madrid the most - not only are the prices low there, but they also offer discounts for wholesale. For example, for now, if a beautiful spoon costs 3 euros, 6 pieces can be bought for 15 coins. Likewise, postcards with views of Madrid cost 20 euro cents individually, but a set of 4 postcards will cost half a euro. I give these figures based on the results of a visit to the “Madrid gifts” store, in house 95 - fans, houses in the Spanish style, plates with views of attractions, magnets and other souvenirs that are usually brought from travel as gifts to relatives and friends are presented on its shelves more than abundantly. In fact, one visit and the question of where to buy souvenirs in Madrid is completely closed.

Lovers of everything extraordinary should also browse local markets, for example, check out the San Miguel market, which is located near the Royal Palace. This is a traditional trading place where they sell mainly food and, of course, the famous jamon. There is plenty of this goodness in Madrid; I have repeatedly come across tempting signs “Museo de Jamon” - they turned out to be just jamon shops, however, with a wide assortment representing varieties from different parts of Spain. After all, the cuisine and culinary traditions on the Iberian Peninsula vary greatly from region to region, and sometimes when moving from one city to another, seemingly nearby, you encounter different dishes, different architecture, different pronunciation. Even in Castile, where this peculiarity of Spain is greatly leveled, the peculiarities of different areas are still evident, as I was convinced of when visiting the towns around Madrid. The first sign was the Guadalajara-Alcala de Henares couple. This is what the next story will be about...

I was in Madrid for a total of four days, no more. However, I have seen almost everything that a decent tourist needs to see, and now, on my next visit, I plan to do “do nothing” and immerse myself in the everyday life of the Spanish capital. Here's what I recommend seeing to achieve that same tourist-zen when traveling to Madrid. It is possible to see Madrid in 1 day and, I believe, you will get an impression of the city. But if you have more time, then seeing Madrid in 2 days will be better than in 1.

For such short visits to tourist cities like Madrid, tourist cards are very helpful in saving your budget. In Madrid there is a so-called City Pass, which allows you to skip the line to major museums and some types of cards include free entrance to the museum and, on top of everything else, it is also free travel. You may not have time to run around everything with your feet. Card for Madrid.

Initially, I took routes to the sights of Madrid in Lonely Planet guide, entitled "Historic Madrid". It lives up to its name only halfway, since along the entire route you come across very striking manifestations of modern Madrid.

The main square, the heart of the city and blah blah blah. Should I take a look? I think you only need to do it once. To make sure for yourself that there is nothing to do on it more than once. First of all, she is small. After our open spaces, I still can’t get used to European standards. “Large area” in their categories is the size in our realities, well, for example, a courtyard in an ordinary residential area. For comparison, Sol occupies approximately a quarter of Palace Square in St. Petersburg.

The historical importance of the buildings surrounding the square is not their most unique characteristic. Former post office building, a couple of hotels. Otherwise, the square has a modern exit from the metro, a glass “shell”, an ancient fountain designed by some Italian - and a lot of people. Moreover, tourists and those who make money from them. I have never seen so many life-size puppets in costumes of Disney characters. Still living sculptures of various subjects that have nothing to do with Spain, the history of Madrid, or even the events that once took place in the square. (Unexpectedly, our popular prints of “Peter I” and “Catherine”, offering to be photographed on all corners in the center of St. Petersburg, seem full of meaning and meaning).

Among the notable details on the square are the zero kilometer mark of Spanish roads (you never know, someone is putting together a collection and wants to add a photo to its colleagues in Beijing, Paris, etc.), the clock on the tower of the old post office building, which is the same thing for the Spaniards , that our Kremlin chimes, and the sculptural group “Bear and Strawberry Tree”.

There are shops on the ground floors throughout the area. There are much fewer cafes and restaurants.

El Oso y el Madrono

The image of the Strawberry tree and the bear adorns the coat of arms of Madrid. It's nice to see the sculpture live. It is not large-scale, it stands on a granite rectangular pedestal. You can pet the bear's paw. It was moved in 2009, I think, and now it stands in Puerta Del Sol at the entrance from Alcala Street.

Plaza Mayor

From Puerta del Sol square we move to the left (if you stand with your back to the clock tower). If you turn left on the second or third street, you get to Plaza Mayor. It is somewhat similar to the Place des Vosges, just as closed on all sides. But in the center there are not lawns with grass, but a paved street. In the middle there is an equestrian monument. If you are in Madrid in May, then in the square you can listen to a number of concerts in honor of the patron saint of Madrid, Saint Isidro (his day is celebrated on May 10, and festivals are organized during the week before and after this date). There are restaurants in the galleries on the ground floors; you can dine at tables set out on the square. There are no museums on the square, so it's just an interesting point on the walk map.

Chocolateria San Gines

From Puerta del Sol, walk along Arenal Street to the current San Gines Church, turn left and then walk along a narrow street and end up at the magical sign of the San Gines Chocolate Shop. This is said to be the oldest churreria in Madrid. Churros are sticks that are made from dough similar to our crumpets and fried in boiling oil. The dough is a little bland, so they sprinkle it with powdered sugar, and most importantly, they serve thick hot chocolate, where you need to dip the churro before eating it.

Decorated in the style of an old Parisian bistro. There are always a lot of people there, however, there is always a table in the basement room. Compared to prices in Spain, on average, “coffee + snack” is inexpensive here. A cup of chocolate with six churros costs €3.80.

San Miguel Market

The market is different from what you see at Boqueria in Barcelona. It is not to buy groceries, but rather to try different tapas, have a snack, eat seafood, sweets and fruits. The benches are small. Dogs are not allowed inside. There are not many tables, but you can continue your walk with bags of food.

Wander through the streets

After the market, return to Calle Mayor and continue to Plaza Villa. On it, turn off and walk down the narrow street (Calle del Cordon) at the first intersection, look back, see the Mudejar tower, take photographs of the nameplates to collect a collection, and go down the steps of the street to Calle Segovia. Honestly, you can wind your way through whatever streets you like, the main thing is to get to Calle Segovia and go right. Something important awaits you there.

Bailen Street Viaduct

An incredible bridge that allows Bailen Street to pass over two hills. I highly recommend going there. It is difficult to take photographs there, since on both sides the viaduct is covered with large plastic transparent panels. The bridge was a favorite place for suicides, and city authorities had to take action. The view from it of the Serra de Guadarama mountain range is stunning.

On Bailen Street is located one of the “youngest” cathedrals in Spain. It was consecrated by the Pope only in 1993. Admission is free; you just need to donate one euro. The current royal couple of Spain were married in this cathedral.

Panorama and Royal Palace

The next building after the cathedral is the active Royal Palace. You can get into some of the chambers, entrance is 10 euros, plus an audio guide for four. Dogs are not allowed there.

But what I like most is the square between the cathedral and the palace, and the panorama that opens from it. It's breathtaking. When I was there for the first time, it was at sunset - I wrote to Sestrik in a text message that I would die right here from such beauty. You can sit on the steps of the cathedral and look at the Sierra forever.

Campo del Moro park

There is a lot of greenery around the palace. Just behind the northern facade begin the Sabatini Gardens, named after the Italian architect who built the royal stables, previously located on the site of the park, in the 19th century. This is a regular park, with clear forms and trimmed bushes. Deliberately artificial, in my opinion.

And if you pass it and go down the hill, you will find yourself in the Campo del Moro park. You can definitely take a walk here. It has paths, ponds, streams, peacocks and some other birds walk around. On a hot afternoon, there is no better place; the crowns of the trees are reliably shielded from the sun’s rays. But you can’t go there with dogs.

It is important to note that for some reason Google Maps in Russian calls the entire park area next to the Royal Palace the Sabatini Gardens. And this is not true. The Campo del Moro park has a separate entrance, at the foot of the slope above which the palace rises. You can't get there through the Sabatini Gardens.

There is a saying among local residents that if a person spends at least one day in Madrid, will definitely come again, because this wonderful place sinks into the soul. The hot sun, warming all year round, the love for everything and everyone inherent in the local inhabitants, and the frantic rhythm of the boiling life incline to a different understanding of the universe - and you will begin to imitate the way of thinking and style inherent in this city, which is so similar to Moscow.

This guide will give you the opportunity to better explore the city, take walks to the main significant places with minimal loss of time and money, look into all the secret corners and feel the atmosphere of the city. Well, be sure to try something tasty and drink something strong - this is Spain, after all. So, if you already have it in your passport, fly to the capital of Spain with our answers to the question what to see in Madrid.

From Moscow The easiest way to fly to the capital of Spain is by direct Aeroflot flight from, or from other capital airports on S7 or Iberia, but this one will be expensive (minimum 9,000 rubles, average 11,000), which is not our style. We are looking for something cheaper and, for example, buying tickets for a Ryanair plane from Vilnius. A four-hour flight will cost you from 27 € one way. Options for thrifty and patient tourists will also be a way to get to Madrid from Barcelona: flight "" (on sale you can catch tickets for 2500₽) and "" with a transfer to (and then fly "Vueling" to Madrid - prepare from 20 € one way). You can also get to Madrid on Brussels Airlines (the entire journey will last six hours and cost 113 €).

Thus, it is realistic to get to Madrid from Moscow for 4000-5000 rubles, but everything should work out as it should: the dates, and the laconic flight connection. But it’s not that expensive yet, for example, from Minsk on Belavia planes the one-way cost rises to 171 € (and that’s with a transfer)! Riga is more lucky - AirBaltic can fly you to Madrid for 88 €.

So, the tickets have been purchased, and after about a four-hour flight, you are already breathing in the Spanish air, surrounded by beautiful architecture and taking selfies with local attractions. A where to go from Madrid, if you use it as a transit point?

You can find a cheap flight or train ticket to/from Madrid directly on this page. Use the search and purchase of tickets through the Omio.Ru website (formerly GoEuro):

Well, for example, to Valencia with its famous “City of Science”. Or to Toledo - the former capital of Spain before Madrid. Well, if we have already traveled around Spain, then we can buy a ticket for the local Renfe railways and go to Zaragoza with its famous Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar, to the city of the kings of Valladolid or to other wonderful cities.

However, you should not completely trust the Renfe website - be sure to compare travel prices on the website https://ru.goeuro.com/ - sometimes it is more profitable to take a plane ticket within the country. But flying to Madrid and immediately leaving is in bad taste. So let's stay and talk about public transport in Madrid.

From Madrid's main airport, Barajas, you can take the metro. You can easily find it by following the signs, and the fare is only 5 € (ticket “up to 10 stations” for 2 euros plus an airport fee of 3 euros). The pale pink line takes you in half an hour to the Nuevos Ministerios stop, where the avenue is located Paseo de la Castellana. This is one of the main indoor galleries of Madrid: it contains establishments dedicated to culture, shopping, business, and in the same place is the stadium of the Real Madrid football team.

You can also leave the airport by bus:

• with the inscription “Airport Express” during the day or N27 at night - its cost is still the same 5 euros, and the ticket is purchased from the driver. The final destination is the Atocha train station (Estación de Madrid Atocha), which may be convenient for those who have rented a hotel near it, or simply live nearby;
• bus 101 - goes to the final stop Intercambiador Canillejas and costs 1.5 €;
• bus 200 goes to the final stop Avenida de América and costs the same - 1.5 €.

Let's continue about the metro: in the first zone, one ticket will cost you € 1.5–2, depending on the number of stations. You probably won't go any further unless you decide to explore the outskirts of the city, but keep in mind that it can be quite dangerous there (for example, in Usera Chinatown on the south side). It would be best to purchase ticket for 10 trips, both you and the person traveling with you can move around it. The cost of such a ticket is 12.2 €, and it includes bus transfers. Keep in mind: at a bus stop or on the subway you may see people sitting on the floor, but you don’t need to be amazed by this. On weekends there are many more of them, and they always include alcohol.

N.B.: Sitting on the floor in Madrid is considered normal, as it is taught from childhood: in kindergarten, at school, during lessons, children can calmly sit on the ground in the courtyard with the teacher, even if it is cool outside. It’s our people who shout “don’t sit on the cold floor - you’ll catch a cold or frostbite.” There is no such thing in Spain, so many Russians are shocked...

Local residents do not order taxis by phone. They do this only if the car needs to be ordered only by a specific time. On any day of the week, including holidays, you can go out and hold out your hand to hail a taxi (of course, in this way there is a risk of catching a car only after 20 minutes). The sign on the windshield lights up either green “libre” (this means that the car is free) or red “ocupado” (busy). At a certain point in the day, a huge crowd forms behind the car. On weekends there are a lot of people wanting to go early in the morning, so getting a car can be quite problematic.

You can also ride on double-decker sightseeing buses, which are very popular in the city. This type of transport is mainly chosen if you don’t want to walk at all: on such a bus you can take a tour of all the sights of the city.

It is difficult to find cheap and at the same time decent housing in the city. In addition to the traditional “Booking”, you will need Airbnb to help. Renting a hotel that meets a number of filter requirements on Booking - city center, rating 9+, breakfast included, free cancellation without prepayment - costs on average 80-90 € in the central part of Madrid. Renting an apartment will be a little cheaper. It is worth considering housing in areas such as Chamartín, La Latina, Legazpi, Tetuán (consider housing in the area of ​​Bravo Murillo and Ríos Rosas streets).

You should not rent housing near Sol and Plaza Mayor. There are a lot of tourists here and therefore quite noisy (however, almost everywhere in the city is noisy).

Lavapies is an unfavorable area for living, although it is located almost in the central part of the city. This quarter has cool underground spots (like near La Tabacalera, all sorts of rubbish is brought there in the summer. It also attracts a diverse crowd - from skateboarders to fashion designers) and is home to artists and representatives of the art sphere. There are also a lot of unemployed migrants, homeless people and guys in this quarter who almost everywhere offer you illegal things, so we do not recommend living here for travelers. But everything is nearby.

Choose your area in Madrid carefully because the city is large. It is worth choosing housing near the center, otherwise you will travel there for a long time and this will cause a lot of inconvenience. Madrid is not like you, where everything is nearby and at your fingertips.

• Mola! Hostel— the newest hostel with fresh renovation and diverse people. This place has amazing soft mattresses and clean, snow-white linen, so your sleep will be very sweet, and in the morning, once you’ve slept well, you can safely go for a walk around the city. A room for two people will cost you 60€.
• OK Madrid Hostal— this hostel has a good layout, the rooms are quite conveniently located, there are cheerful surrealistic murals on the walls in the common areas, and brand new computers are also provided at your service, in case you didn’t bring a laptop with you. The cost of a room for two in low season is still the same 60 €.
• And if you like Hemingway, who loved Madrid very much, then you should definitely live in Tryp Gran Via. The cost of a double room is from 110 €.
• Hotel Nuevo Boston- This is No. 4 of all hotels in Madrid according to the Tripadvisor rating in terms of price/quality ratio. For all the fun - 70 € per night for two.
• Well, the editors of GeekTrips on their April trip to Madrid (which we will definitely write about on our website) will stop in Ibis Budget Madrid Centro Las Ventas- No. 9 according to the TripAdvisor rating, costing 63 € per night for two with breakfast.

You can find affordable housing in Madrid directly on this page through the Booking.com widget

Madrid, of course, is not Rome and not, however, there are quite a lot of attractions here that are definitely worth visiting. Start your journey with the “golden triangle” (the first 3 museums in the list below). It’s worth planning everything well so that you have the opportunity to visit three famous museums for free.

We list the most interesting museums in Madrid:

You can search for free walking tours in Madrid.

In the city you can see such a contrast: unkempt pubs are located near Michelin restaurants. The paparazzi will appreciate Madrid - there are so many beautiful places here. However, you still won’t be able to take the most pleasant impressions from the city home, because only memories will remain in your memory for the rest of your life. So go to classic Spanish bar de viejos(an establishment for old people) - a typical bar with sparse decoration, reasonable prices and very appetizing food. The owner of the establishment is usually behind the bar counter.

Madrid Madriz(Calle Fuencarral, 85) is a very suitable place to have a bite to eat. It is a traditional bar, decorated like many other bars for older people. The people who gather here are varied - from louts who look like homeless people to fashionistas. Good-natured waiters will definitely persuade you to order caña (small beer 0.2 liters) or a cup of coffee. There is also good coffee here, prepared using vintage machines. You can choose café con leche or cortado, and also try tapas. Order bocata de jamon (local jamon baguette), croquettes, sándwich mixto, huevos rotos. For coffee and bocata you will pay only 2.5 € (in other coffee shops you will pay 5-8 € for the same thing). Keep in mind that in such establishments there is an incomparable atmosphere that you will not find anywhere else. This is the beauty of a city in which you observe inhabitants who are not similar to each other, but at the same time live in harmony - only here you will learn what the daily life of the Spaniards is like.

Greek and shop(Calle Corredera Alta de San Pablo, 9) - an establishment in the Malasaña quarter where you can have a cheap meal. There are various sandwiches and pitas, including for vegetarians. For 5€ you can eat pita and drink some drink. No alcoholic drinks are sold here, however, in the section reserved for the store you can purchase whatever you want. And here you can find Greek, Russian and Ukrainian products if you miss something familiar.

Museo del Jamón(for example, Calle Mayor, 8) is a paradise for meat eaters. There are many such stores in Madrid, they are found in all areas of the city. At one end there is a counter with jamon hanging on top. Downstairs are all sorts of cold cuts (try chorizo, a peppery Spanish sausage) and cheeses (try queso manchego). There is a bar on the opposite side. Take the menu and choose Jamón ibérico de bellota - the most amazing jamon (from black pigs) you can imagine. If you're short on cash, go for Jamón serrano (made from white pigs) - it starts at €20 per kilo. There are varieties of jamon, the cost of which reaches 300 € per kilogram. Do not be surprised if you only ordered beer, and in addition to it you will be given a dish of paella or pintxos. In most Spanish bars, tapas comes as a bonus with your drink. It is free, but tips will not be refused.

Toma Cafe(Calle La Palma, 49). When coffee culture was emerging in the city, Toms were its primary source. This coffee shop is the first in the city that has set itself the goal of brewing truly delicious coffee. It has its own barista courses and its own coffee-roaster. They also serve a mixture of several types of coffee and some single-origin coffee. There are milk of all kinds: in particular, natural and plant origin. Baked goods and sweets are available both with and without gluten, and there are also dishes specifically for vegans. Great place to have breakfast.

La Bicicleta(Plaza de San Ildefonso, 9). This cafe, following Tom’s establishment, began to become popular thanks to its excellent coffee and skillful coffee makers. They serve coffee from the famous El Magnifico, the one that... The idea of ​​the cafe is cycling cafe & workplace, bike & dog-friendly, and also hipster-friendly. During the daytime there are large crowds of teenagers with gadgets, and in the evenings the cafe transforms into a cocktail bar. Perfect for get-togethers with friends or before visiting a nightclub.

Federal(Plazuela de las Comendadoras, 9) is another coffee shop founded in the city after the above two. This is a store that belongs to Federal Gafe. In addition to natural food, the establishment offers dishes for vegetarians and vegans. Fans of meat dishes will enjoy all kinds of hamburgers, one of which is made from kangaroo meat. Perfect for breakfast or lunch with a large family. Menu for lunch - 15 €, lunch - 3.50–8.50 €, burgers - from 10 euros and cocktails - 8 €.

Bianchi Kiosko Cafe(Calle San Joaquin, 9). Sandro Bianchi is a famous DJ in the Malasaña quarter. There was a period of time when he wanted to change his occupation and trained as a barista at Toma Cafe. All this encouraged him to open his own coffee shop with delivery. There are always some new types of baked goods, sweet and salty desserts. The establishment is perfect for coffee and light snack lovers.

Hanso Cafe(Calle del Pez, 20) is a recently opened establishment in the Malasaña quarter. The owners are originally from China; before that, their store was located in the Usera quarter. Now they have moved to the heart of Madrid, and their coffee is very popular among the local population. Try coffee, green tea (rich flavor with a greenish tint). There is also a very tasty cake made from Matcha tea. The cost of coffee is 1.80-2.20 €.

Spanish cuisine is extremely heterogeneous and varies from region to region - Basque Country, Galicia, Catalonia, Andalusia, the central part of the country. Try to try tapas (besides, you should already have an idea of ​​how they differ from pintxos), which are found in various areas. You are lucky, because the city has a large selection of places for a quick snack. However, the overwhelming majority of people still choose places where they can sit comfortably and chat with friends.

Some establishments offer lunch right until 2 o'clock in the afternoon, lunch starts at two and ends at three o'clock in the afternoon. By nine in the evening, most of the city's inhabitants gather for the evening meal. The kitchens of small family restaurants do not function during the daytime hours (from approximately four o'clock in the afternoon until eight o'clock in the evening, in the summer and winter seasons it may differ slightly), however, starting from 8 o'clock in the evening, the establishments welcome their guests with open arms again.

As one resident of Madrid aptly noted, “Italians meet over a cup of coffee to talk, while Spaniards meet over a caña or a glass of wine.” The Spaniards love to drink, however, the culture of drinking does not allow them to overdo it, and they seem cheerful and positive. These are cheerful and open people: they hug and kiss literally everyone, love to sing and dance, and never get cocky. There are almost no aggressive people in the city.

A Spanish evening is mainly an evening with tapas and aperitifs somewhere in one establishment and continues in another after dinner. After midnight, large crowds head out to consume cocktails. On weekends, the central part of the city buzzes until dawn.

Mercado de La Reina(Gran Vía, 12) - this establishment is located on the main street of Madrid - Gran Vía - a street that is popular for its elegant-looking bars. Here you will be offered a large number of options for gin cocktails. The side of the establishment closest to Gran Vía is the most crowded. Here people spend time at the bar. This is an excellent option for those who are not looking for stormy stories on their own, but just want to have a good time, drinking a cocktail or two with friends.

Ojala (calle San Andrés, 1)– hipster restaurant near Plaza del Dos de Mayo. The first tier of the building is decorated in a light green shade. There are stunning paintings on the walls, the ceiling is hung with lights with greenish vegetation. The basement floor is made in the form of a beach, the lighting here is made up of lights similar to those found in discos. There are a dozen low tables on the sand. Beautiful lighting combined with sand - it feels like you are at a party by the sea. The establishment is definitely one of those that is definitely worth a visit in order to feel its atmosphere and have a good rest. In addition, the food here is amazing, and breakfast or lunch will cost you about 7–12 €.

La Pescaderia(Calle de la Ballesta, 32). If you would like to dine at this place (especially on weekends), make a reservation in advance. This establishment is one of those places where it is necessary to reserve a table in advance. Be sure to try the traditional Spanish tomato soup Salmorejo, as well as anchovies - the Spaniards love them so much. This establishment is rich in fish dishes. And the atmosphere here is quite comfortable and original. To have dinner for two (tapas and dessert), you will have to fork out €60-70.

Jardin de Salvador Bachiller (El Jardín SB) – a secret terrace on Montera street. Not everyone who wants to get here will get here right away. First you will need to enter the clothing and jewelry boutique, then use the elevator and go up to the 4th floor. There are no identifying signs near the store - which is why only those who are informed about its location get here. The cafe is a small island located in the bustling streets of Madrid. In the middle of the cozy garden there is a swing hidden behind some greenery. In this establishment, rendezvous are often scheduled. Dishes served for lunch from 13:00–16:00 will cost you 16€, and lunch on weekends will cost you 20€. There is also a large selection of teas.

Naif Madrid(Calle de San Joaquín, 16) is a bar that serves burgers. It is located in the central part of the Malasaña quarter on Plaza de San Ildelfonso. In good weather, terraces open here. There is not always enough space for everyone, and many have to be content with sitting right on the floor. Visitors drink beer (purchased right there, from the Chinese for 1 €), chat noisily and sing songs. The establishment offers burgers and rolls, of which there are a lot, as well as dishes for vegetarians. Be sure to try the local hummus.

Harvey's Cocktail bar(Calle Fuencarral, 70) - a bar-restaurant reminiscent of America in the middle of the last century. The walls here are painted scarlet. In a distant corner there is a large poster, and under it there are round sofas made of leather. At the entrance to the establishment there is a neon illuminated sign that attracts visitors. You can listen to Sinatra playing nearby. The kitchen serves visitors until very late. After midnight, around one o'clock, there is still the opportunity to have dinner. For dinner for two people you will pay 30–40 €. In this place you can try hamburgers, grilled meats, quesadillas, all kinds of salads, and also try nachos.

Cafe Comercial(Glorieta de Bilbao, 7) - this cafe is a real classic: it opened in 1887 and is rightfully one of the oldest. The cafe is located near the Antón Martín metro station, a neighborhood that competes with Malasaña and La Latina in terms of its elitism. The establishment is decorated like this: walls made of marble, antique brown chairs made of leather, doors that rotate in different directions, as well as large windows - in them you can see everything that is happening around. During the Spanish Civil War, this place was used as a kind of salon with various kinds of literature. The top floor is still used as a chess club. On weekends there is live music - blues and jazz (15-20 € - entrance ticket). Guests are seated at individual tables rather than crowded together wherever possible, as is the case in most of these places in Madrid. Lovers of the atmosphere of old cafes should come here for churros, coffee or a cocktail.

Great news: club visitors are usually given one cocktail in addition to their entrance ticket. The quality of alcoholic drinks in hot spots is often poor, so you will be offered alcoholic drinks near the club. In the morning you will have a terrible headache after just two or three cocktails. Garrafón is what the Spaniards call a mixture of low-grade diluted swill. Fans of electronic music need to know that such clubs should be visited around 3 am.

Madrid: going to clubs after restaurants

• Sala Siroco(Calle de San Dimas, 3). The establishment is divided into two parts: light music and the club itself. From Wednesday to Sunday there is entertainment with DJs. As a rule, the ticket price also includes beer or a cocktail. Ticket price: 5-12€.
• Costello Club(Calle del Caballero de Gracia, 10). This club has a seating area on the ground floor where you can try cocktails. The bar is located in the basement, where parties are also held. If you have a passion for live music and are not particularly rich, this is the place for you.
• Mondo (Calle de Arlaban, 7)– this club with electronic music is the most popular in the city. You can purchase tickets at RA. Tickets for the coolest parties sell out quickly, but you can always buy them at the door. Must go!

Well, now relax!

The people of Spain are big fanatics of food and clothes. Amancio Ortega founded the largest chain of mass-market stores in the country (Galicia). The Inditex company includes a huge number of boutiques: Zara, Oysho, Bershka, Pull and Bear, Stradivarius, Massimo Dutti, Uterque and others. In Madrid, these stores are located everywhere, but most are concentrated on the streets of Gran Vía, Fuencarral, Carmen (and the streets adjacent to Puerta del Sol).

The largest sales in the city take place during the summer and winter months. In a matter of weeks, you can buy clothes cheaply. If you are not put off by huge crowds of people, then by spending 100-150 €, you can completely change your entire wardrobe.

If you are in the mood for the most exclusive purchases, you should take a stroll through the Malasaña, Alonso Martínez, Chueca neighborhoods, where you can find everything you want, from chocolate to fashionable jeans.

Malasaña has streets lined with good vintage shops. The cost of things here is higher than in mass consumer stores. The Spaniards love vintage, and they would rather buy something here for 50 € than spend money on a new thing in a brand store. Also explore Calle Velarde, Palma, Vincente Ferrer and surrounding areas.

Magpie Vintage(Velarde, 3) - one of the most famous vintage boutiques in the city. Biker jackets, old jeans, shirts and dresses with old-fashioned images, old Adidas T-shirts, wedding dresses from the last century, a large number of trinkets, and sometimes good shoes are sold here.

Stussy(C.Argensola, 10) Mercedes opened in the city about 10 years ago. Mercedes' mother is in her eighties, but this does not stop her from working for the benefit of the store. At first, my mother’s desire to help with shopping seemed somehow ridiculous. However, a few years later, customers go to this sweet old lady for advice (by the way, she doesn’t look like an elderly woman at all). Visitors consult with her both about things and about everyday affairs and concerns.

If you want to purchase several books, go to La Central de Callao(Postigo de San Martín, 8) is an excellent mega-bookstore that occupies more than one floor. In this place you can buy books for absolutely every taste, from detective stories to books on natural history. The first floor is a bar, while in the basement there is a weekly concert.

A huge number of different brand stores are located in the quarter Salamanca

Well, about other things: about what is not included in other sections.

• Based on the calculation 4000-5000₽ per day. This is quite enough for Madrid. Note that this is not very expensive - for example, it tends to 100 euros.
• City residents speak English often and willingly, so learning Spanish is not at all necessary.
• During siesta, only small shops stop working in the area from 14-17 hours of the day.
• The city metro is especially crowded with tourists during the summer months. In this regard, many scammers appear, so you need to be careful not to say goodbye to your wallet or phone.
• Really high-quality wine in hypermarkets starts with a price tag of 3-5 euros.
• Here, each subsequent thing clings to the previous one, all people cling to each other. Everything is intertwined here, and every person is close and dear.
• Shaking hands here is indecent and also in bad taste.
• Relax, take your time, smile, love your life and enjoy yourself. Try to be happy in this unforgettable city. Try to catch that feeling of beauty and magic that is in this city and that so attracts and attracts such a huge number of people from all over the world, and keep it in your heart.

This concludes our article about Madrid. Write your questions in the comments, if you have any, share this article with your friends on social networks and! Well, wait for a report on your independent travel in April-May! See you!