What to do in Madrid for a Week
Introduction
Welcome to Madrid! If you are to run around this city for one whole week or a week’s worth of fun and joy, is something that will surely captivate you. Madrid is greatly rich in history, art, and entertainments and what is more – it is all here for you. Here you will find a general plan of the most important attractions that is suitable for a one week stay in Madrid.
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center
Firstly, dedicate some time to visiting Madrid de los Austrias or Madrid’s historic center. I suggest starting with the Plaza Mayor that has been the actual center of Madrid since the beginning of the 17th century. From there, one can just make his or her way around the small alleys to get to some of the famous places of interest inclusive of the Royal Palace, the Almudena Cathedral, and of course the heritage market of Mercado de San Miguel where one can have a FY of the kind of foods consumed by the locals.
In the afternoon it will be necessary to visit the Museum of Prado, where are exhibited the tableaus of masters of the European painting, among which there are works of Velazquez and Goya.
Finish you day strolling in the locals area like La Latina or Malasaña, while have tapas and drinks.
Day 2: Royal Experience
Second day’s schedule should begin with a visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid. Admire the great thing this beautiful building and stroll through the splendor of the rooms, the garden and the Armoury Royal.
Next, go to Sabatini Gardens and Campo del Moro park in order to make a nice walk and open some windows to take a fresh air.
Performers present the program after sunset and they dance flamenco, a traditional Spanish dance usually associated with passion and Afril. There are many opportunities throughout Madrid and some of them are the Cardamomo or the Corral de la Morería that give unforgettable performances.
Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo
Toledo is the perfect example of an ancient Spanish town that is only an hour away from Madrid, so if you wish to escape the chaotic city for a few hours do so by following the instructions below. It is best to get lost in the narrow medieval streets; visit the Toledo Cathedral, Alcázar and enjoy the scenic views from the Mirador del Valle.
Please remember to taste the marzipan of Toledo which is well known to the whole world.
Day 4: Art and Parks
MRP Starting your day with a visit to an art gallery, particularly to Reina Sofia Museum that displays art work of modern art and contemporary art and Picasso’s Guernica.
Subsequently, take a lovely stroll at Retiro Park and can rent a boat on the lake, go to the Crystal Palace, or just spend time strolling along the park.
In the evening, walking through a colorful district of Chueca filled with clubs, bars, and associated with a liberal attitude towards the representatives of lesbians, gays, bisexual, and transgenders.
Day 5: Shopping and Gastronomy
One interesting thing in Madrid is shopping; therefore, it is essential to spend some time going shopping around the city. Begin with some of the sophisticated shops located along the Gran Via Street and the Serrano Street. In this regard, tourists can visit El Rastro flea market which is among the frequented traditional markets held on Sundays.
Do not miss your chance to tast popular dishes of Madrid, that are paella, cocido madrileño and churros con chocolat. You did not indicate whether you have visited some of the markets in the city but do visit the Mercado de San Antón or Mercado de San Ildefonso to taste the city’s cuisine.
Day 6: Museum Hopping
Spend your last two days in Spain the way you only deserve, visiting galleries and the major art district of Madrid is the way to go. Other notable attractions include Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum that displays artwork of different Europeans art dating from the medieval age to the modern and contemporary age.
For the something different try to visit the Sorollo Museum that contains the works of the famous Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla famous for his bright paintings depicting landscapes and sea coast views.
Day 7: Exploring Neighborhoods
Spend your last day in Madrid to get exploring and discovering its various districts. First of all, one should visit Barrio de las Letras, it’s a district with a rich history due to the literary greats that came from there. Its narrow streets were charming; its ‘literary’ houses, exemplified by Museo Casa de Cervantes and Casa de Lope de Vega were beautiful; and new-age shopping outlets and bistros look inviting.
Then proceed to Salamanca District, which is more or less the up-market section of the city with its many chic shops and gourmet restaurants to its credit. It stops along the Golden Mile – which is more of Limbe’s high fashion stores.
Finish the day in the cosmopolitan Lavapiés location where you can taste ethnic food and surrounded yourself with the bohemian art.
Conclusion
You can get an idea about the history and culture of the city and also get a feel of the lively atmosphere that Madrid avails within a week. No matter you are art lover or a gourmet food junkie or just finding fun in walking around the street, Madrid is also a good place for you. If you follow this route, your vacation experience will be quite memorable in particular area. ¡Buen viaje!
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