This past summer, the last leg of our honeymoon consisted of travelling across Spain with some family and friends. We set Madrid as our first stop, and planned a route that would eventually end in Barcelona. Now, I had been to Barcelona once before…years ago…but I had never set foot anywhere else inside this beautiful country. The only thing I knew or had heard of when it came to Madrid was the fabulous art…the big three galleries of the Prado, the Reina Sofia and the Thyssen. Other than that, I was going in with no expectations, no set plans and no major ideas of things to see and do. We took it day by day and really ended up enjoying our time in this vibrant city. And truth be told…we never set foot in an art gallery…whoops!! Anyways, here are some of my top activities, sites and things to do when visiting Madrid.
Visit Madrid’s Royal Palace
This was one of the first things we did when we arrived in Madrid. Even though this gorgeous palace is no longer a royal residence, it still houses events, ceremonies and big receptions. The rooms (the 50 that are open to the public) are incredible – lavishly decorated and wonderfully over the top. I loved the grand foyer and staircase with all the marble and granite. Just stunning and absolutely worth a visit.
Try Tapas…or even a whole Tapas Tour!
This may be the best place in the world to try tapas and I suggest trying as many of these small dishes as possible. There’s a street that we went down called Calle Cava Baja and it is stacked with tapas bars…hop around to different places and try their signature dish or house special (often at great prices). Or, book an organized Tapas tour and meet some more visitors such as yourself!
Relax at a Café in Plaza Mayor
This is the historic centre of Madrid and the perfect place to sit back and take in the Spanish life. In the middle of the square, you can behold a massive statue of King Philip III atop a horse. When we were there, the square was dominated by scaffolding but the charm of the cobblestone streets was still prevalent and our food and coffee was excellent.
Stroll the Gran Via Avenue
Gran Via is a very popular stretch in Madrid and worth a wander. You can take in several sites and maybe even stop for a rest in the lovely Plaza de Espana Square. Also, for the shoppers, the Gran Via shopping centre has over 100 shops to choose from! 
Take in a Flamenco show
Even though Madrid is not considered the epicentre of Flamenco, it is a great place to immerse yourself in the art and some of the best dancers call Madrid their home. Try to see Flamenco in a small bar or tavern, not on a giant stage. We went to a place called Las Carboneras and it was nothing short of amazing. The passion behind the dancers and the musicians was palpable and the performance was absolutely striking. It was honestly my biggest highlight of Madrid. Not to be missed!
Wander the El Rastro Flea Market
El Rastro is the most popular open flea market in Spain and it shows…we could barely move through the crowds. But that aside, there was so much to see and buy (if you’re in the market for second hand items, antiques, jewelry or handbags). It’s only open on Sundays though so plan accordingly!
Catch a Sporting Event
Football is huge in Spain and Madrid has some epic games held at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. A word of advice though — big games can sell out quickly so book as far in advance as possible. We made that mistake and didn’t get lucky scoring tickets last minute. Next time!
Visit Buen Retiro Park
This is one of the largest parks of the city. The park initially belonged to the Spanish Monarchy, until the late 19th century, when it became open to the public. I highly suggest renting Madrid’s electric bikes to tour the large park. One – because it is massive and there is a LOT to see. And two – because those bikes are a TON of fun! We ended up adding more time to our rental because we couldn’t get enough of them, and even decided to bike all the way back to our AirBnb. 
while navigating the park…Take in the Palacio de Cristal
Built in 1887, this palace is made almost entirely of glass, set in an iron framework, and is used today for contemporary art exhibitions. It was modelled after London’s Crystal Palace and in front of its striking facade is a delightful artificial lake that’s home to many geese and swans. It’s one of the prettiest stops in the whole park. 
Check back next week for our journey into Segovia to see the castle that helped inspire Disney!! xo