Curator’s statement
Madrid is a city that effortlessly blends culture, food, and vibrant energy. From historic plazas and world-class museums to bustling tapas bars and intimate flamenco performances, every corner feels alive with tradition. What I love most about Madrid is how easy it is to explore—whether you’re wandering through beautiful neighborhoods, sharing plates of incredible food, or stumbling upon lesser-known spots that capture the city’s authentic charm. Even with just a short visit, Madrid leaves a lasting impression.
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Things to do in Madrid
Tapas, wine, and a very serious amount of olives.
Take a tuk-tuk tour around the city
If you’re short on time, a tuk-tuk tour is a fun and efficient way to see Madrid’s major landmarks. Tours typically range from 1–4 hours and provide a relaxed way to learn about the city while covering a lot of ground.
Visit Mercado de San Miguel
The historic Mercado de San Miguel is a lively food market filled with tapas stalls, seafood counters, and wine bars. It’s a fun place to sample a variety of Spanish dishes, though it tends to be busy and touristy.
Explore the Prado Museum
Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Museo Nacional del Prado, one of the world’s most important art museums. It’s best to reserve tickets and a time slot in advance to avoid long lines.
A helpful tip: the museum offers free entry from 6–8 p.m. if you’re flexible with timing.
Experience an intimate flamenco performance
For an authentic cultural experience, attend a show at Centro Cultural Flamenco Madrid. With seating for only about 50 guests, the venue offers a very intimate setting where the passion and emotion of flamenco truly come to life.
Places to eat & drink in Madrid
Ceiling full of jamón, table full of happiness.
Alma Nomad Bakery
Start your morning at Alma Nomad Bakery, a fantastic bakery known for exceptional pastries and great coffee. Be sure to try the pistachio croissant, cinnamon roll, cardamom kouign-amann, jamón and queso croissant, and any of the danishes—everything is amazingly fresh.
La Casa del Abuelo
For a light lunch, stop by La Casa del Abuelo for their famous gambas al ajillo—garlic shrimp sizzling in olive oil—then grab the iconic calamari sandwich at Bar La Campana (get it to go if the line is long and enjoy it while people-watching in Plaza Mayor).
Finish with churros dipped in thick hot chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés, one of the city’s most beloved spots for this classic Spanish treat.
Casa González
Casa González is another charming spot for traditional Spanish tapas. Order the tabla de ibéricos (full ración) and the tabla de cinco quesos españoles, and add a few more bites like pan con tomate, anchovies or boquerones, olives, and a simple tortilla española. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their very strong vermouth—it’s definitely an acquired taste.
Norah
End the evening at Norah, my favorite restaurant in Madrid and a hidden gem locals frequent. It’s a newer modern Mediterranean spot serving beautifully prepared dishes. My favorite things to order are the grilled focaccia, smoked sardine toast, red prawn carpaccio, roasted lamb salad, grilled octopus, and the unforgettable lemon pie for dessert. Trust me, you’ll want your own slice!
Need to know
Madrid is an incredibly walkable city, so comfortable shoes are a must.
Make dinner reservations whenever possible, and remember that dinner starts late—many restaurants don’t fill up until 9 p.m. or later. Spanish meals are meant to be shared, so ordering several dishes for the table is the best way to enjoy the local food culture.
Don’t miss a flamenco show.
Try to keep your plans flexible—wander, get a little lost, and soak up everything this vibrant city has to offer.
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Lydia Massop-Broomfield
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Madrid page.