A weekend in Madrid to suit all budgets

Madrid is delightful year-round, but spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Accommodations

Luxury:

• Hotel Ritz Madrid: Located near the Prado Museum, this iconic hotel offers opulent rooms and impeccable service. The building was inaugurated by King Alfonso XIII on Sunday, October 2, 1910
• Gran Hotel Inglés: A five-star boutique hotel blending historic charm with modern luxury in the heart of the city. It is the oldest luxury hotel in the city, opening its doors in 1886.

Mid-Range:

• Room Mate Alicia: Stylish, centrally located with an artistic flair. Room Mate Alicia is located on the Plaza de Santa Ana, in Madrid’s Las Letras neighbourhood, which is right in the city centre. It is is housed in an emblematic industrial building from the beginning of the 20th century.
• Petit Palace Plaza Mayor: Located near Plaza Mayor, offering comfort and modern amenities. This beautifully designed boutique hotel is the perfect gateway to the city, allowing you to stroll through its historic streets and relish the vibrant atmosphere. Gain a first-hand insight into Habsburg Madrid,

Budget:

• OK Hostel Madrid: A friendly and modern hostel perfect for budget travellers. Located in the bohemian “Barrio La Latina” in the heart of the historic centre of Madrid and only a few steps away from all major transportation and touristic attractions, such as Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor and the world renowned “Museum Triangle”.
• Hostal Persal: Affordable and centrally located, a stone’s throw from Puerta del Sol, next to Plaza Santa Ana and very close to the Plaza Mayor and the Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofía museums.. Hostal Persal is located in the famous Barrio de Las Letras district, in the historical and tourist heart of Madrid.

Restaurants and bars

• Botín: Founded in 1725, it is the world’s oldest restaurant, known for its roasted suckling pig and roast lambs in Castilian style.
• Mercado de San Miguel: More than 100 years have gone by since the Mercado de San Miguel opened its doors as a wholesale food market. Today, this historical building stands out as one of the world’s main gastronomic markets. It allows visitors to experience the essence and most significant flavors of every corner of Spain.
• Salmon Guru: Adventurous international dishes are served alongside funky cocktails at this dark, vibrant, retro-style bar.
• La Ardosa: The epitome of Spanish character and charm. Famed for both its tapas and cheap d,rinks, La Ardosa dates back to 1892 and sits in the neighbourhood of Malasaña.

If you want to visit more bars during your stay, Madrid Secreto lists 30 excellent choices.

Local Events

Check out the following:

• El Rastro: A famous Sunday flea market in La Latina, located along Plaza de Cascorro and Ribera de Curtidores, between Calle Embajadores and the Ronda de Toledo
• San Isidro Festival: Celebrated in mid-May, honoring the patron saint of Madrid with parades, concerts, and traditional dances.
• Madrid Pride: One of the largest LGBTQ+ events in Europe, typically held in early July.

What to see and do

• Prado Museum: Home to masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.
• Royal Palace: A stunning example of Baroque architecture and the official residence of the Spanish royal family.
• Retiro Park: A beautiful park perfect for a leisurely stroll or boat ride on the lake.
• Gran Vía: Madrid’s bustling shopping and entertainment street. Sometimes referred to as the “Spanish Broadway”.
• Plaza Mayor: A grand square with cafes and street performers.

Culture, history, and traditions

Madrid’s history is reflected in its stunning architecture, from the medieval streets of the Habsburgs to the grand avenues of the Bourbons. Traditions include Flamenco dancing, bullfighting, and fiestas like San Isidro.

Hidden gems

• Sorolla Museum: A lesser-known museum showcasing the life and works of Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla in his former home.
• El Capricho Park: Created in the late 18th century  by Countess-Duchess of Benavente, this beautiful and tranquil park is often overlooked by tourists.
• Calle de Cava Baja: Close to Plaza Mayor, this historic street is full of atmosphere, and lined with charming tapas bars and restaurants.

Example itinerary

Day 1:

• Morning: Visit the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral.
• Afternoon: Stroll through Retiro Park and visit the Crystal Palace.
• Evening: Enjoy tapas at Mercado de San Miguel and cocktails at Salmon Guru.

Day 2:

• Morning: Explore the Prado Museum and nearby Botanical Gardens.
• Afternoon: Wander around the historic streets of La Latina and shop at El Rastro.
• Evening: Dinner at Botín, drinks at nearby Taberna Bodegas Ricla followed by a nightcap or two at one of the many rooftop bars.

Madrid is a city that captures the heart with its vibrant energy and rich cultural tapestry. Enjoy your adventure, and feel free to ask if you need more information or specific recommendations!

Also read: Eight cool things to see and do in Madrid