Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain! Only a 2,5-hour flight from London’s Heathrow to a city that never sleeps, and tradition meets modernity. Below you will find out what you must see and what to try when visiting this Spanish hot capital 😉
How to get from Heathrow to Madrid
From Heathrow airport to Madrid we have several flights a day operated by such airlines as British Airways, Iberia or Air Europe. It is best to book your tickets in advance, especially in the summer season. After landing at Madrid-Barajas airport, which is one of the largest in Europe, you will get to the city center by metro, express bus or taxi.
Madrid must-see – pearls of the Spanish capital
Madrid is a combination of history, numerous museums and modernity
The Spanish capital is famous for its unique “art triangle” – three world-class museums located close to each other on the Paseo del Prado. The Prado Museum is one of the most important art museums in the world, where we can admire the works of Spanish masters such as Velázquez, Goya and El Greco, as well as a rich collection of paintings: Rubens, Titian and Hieronymus Bosch. Don’t miss Velázquez’s “Las Meninas” and Goya’s “Black Paintings”. The Queen Sophie Art Center is a place where we can admire the painting “Guernica” by Pablo Picasso, one of the most important works of art of the 20th century. The museum focuses on modern and contemporary art, presenting also works by Dali and Miró.
If you are not fond of art 😉 it is worth taking a walk and visiting the Royal Palace (Palacio Real). It is the official residence of the Spanish royal family, used today only during state ceremonies. In this Baroque palace with 3000 rooms, you can admire the Stradivarius instrument collection or the royal armory. Another place worth visiting is Plaza Mayor – a square from the 17th century, surrounded by buildings with 237 balconies overlooking the square. For centuries, it was a place of coronations, processions, corrida and public executions, and today it is teeming with life thanks to cafes, restaurants and street artists performances. But the heart of Madrid is Puerta del Sol. This is where the Spaniards welcome the New Year. The square is also famous for its symbol – the statue of a bear climbing a tree of strawberries.
If you are looking for peace, it is worth going to Park Retiro. It is an oasis of peace in the city center, the former royal garden, and today a favorite place for residents to rest. In the park is the Crystal Palace (Palacio de Cristal). Impressive glass construction from the nineteenth century, and an artificial lake where you can rent a boat.
And for those who want to see modern Madrid, they must necessarily go to Gran Vía – the city’s main shopping spot, called “Spanish Broadway”. We have numerous theaters, cinemas and musicals here. It is also a paradise for shopping enthusiasts, with boutiques ranging from luxury brands to popular chain stores.
And if you want to try Spanish specialties and tapas you have to go to Mercado de San Miguel. It is a historic iron market from 1916, transformed into a gastronomic center.
Cuisine of Madrid – what you have to try
In Madrid, you should definitely try traditional tapas, among which reign patatas bravas (potatoes in a spicy sauce), jamón ibérico (Iberian ham) and tortilla española (omelet with potatoes). Also not to miss churros con chocolate – crispy sticks of dough soaked in thick hot chocolate, ideal for breakfast, and paella – an aromatic dish with rice and seafood, best eaten in one of the restaurants at Plaza Mayor.
Practical tips
The best time for a trip is in spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) when the temperatures are pleasant. Avoid August, because most residents then go on holiday, and many local shops are closed.
Transport – Madrid is worth taking the underground, which is one of the best in Europe. Clean, safe and we will reach all the main attractions. It is worth considering purchasing a Madrid Card, which includes access to many museums and unlimited public transport.
Language – although in popular tourist destinations you can communicate in English, the knowledge of basic Spanish phrases is always appreciated and can significantly enrich your experience.
Madrid is a city, open, welcoming and friendly to people who will come here. The locals say: “If you are in Madrid, you are from Madrid” (De Madrid al cielo). And with direct connections from London Heathrow is an ideal place for a city break or a longer holiday….