Curator’s statement
Madrid is as incredible on your fifth visit as it is on your first. While you’ll always find yourself returning to the cherished favorites from previous trips, that list only grows with every stay—there is always a new plaza or a hidden taberna waiting to be found. Even as a grand European capital, Madrid offers a true sense of local life once you step away from the main squares. It perfectly preserves the authentic Spanish essence; you can still feel the heartbeat of the city in the neighborhood cafes where a cold drink is almost always accompanied by a thoughtful, complimentary tapa.
The Fora Difference
Book with Sharon to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Madrid
Unlock perks by contacting Sharon to book your trip.
Things to do in Madrid
Congreso de los Diputados
Explore the city on foot
Madrid is a city best felt through the soles of your shoes; wandering the winding side streets allows you to discover hidden plazas and local life that you simply can't see from a vehicle.
Fun fact: Madrid is one of the sunniest capitals in Europe, making it the perfect city for these long, leisurely walks.
The Bear and the Strawberry Tree
No visit to the heart of the city is complete without seeing the iconic statue of "El Oso y el Madroño" in Puerta del Sol.
Fun fact: This bear has been the official symbol of Madrid since the 13th century and represents the historic growth of the city’s lands.
Congreso de los Diputados
Pause to admire the grand neoclassical architecture of the Spanish Parliament, guarded by two massive bronze lions.
Fun fact: These lions, named Daoiz and Velarde, were cast using the bronze from cannons captured during the Spanish-Moroccan War in 1860.
Puerta del Sol
Stand in the literal center of Spain at this bustling plaza, where you can find "Kilometre Zero" marked right in the pavement.
Fun fact: This is also where thousands of Madrileños gather every New Year's Eve to eat twelve grapes at midnight for good luck.
Barrio de las Letras (Literary Quarter)
Spend an afternoon getting lost in the neighborhood where Spain's Golden Age writers lived. Look down as you walk to see famous literary quotes inscribed in gold on the cobblestones.
Tour the Old City & the Royal Palace
Take a guided tour through the historic "Madrid de los Austrias" and end at the Royal Palace, the largest functioning royal palace in Europe.
Fun fact: While it is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, they actually reside in the more modest Palace of Zarzuela, leaving this 3,418-room masterpiece for state ceremonies and visitors.
Places to eat & drink in Madrid
Casa Alberto
Sobrino de Botín: No trip to Madrid is complete without a meal at the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world, famous for its wood-fired suckling pig. Sharon’s pro tip: If you can't get a reservation, arrive right at 1 pm when they open—they often have tables reserved for later slots (like 3 pm) that they will give to walk-ins willing to finish within two hours!
El Corte Inglés Gourmet Experience (Callao): Head to the top floor for incredible views of the Gran Vía. Sharon’s pro tip: Buy a bottle of wine at the wine store for around 20 euros, and they won’t charge you corkage to drink it there—they’ll even provide a complimentary tapa!
Casa González: This charming deli and wine bar in the Literary Quarter offers an incredible selection of wines by the glass. It’s worth the wait for a table to soak in the atmosphere of a spot that has been a local favorite since 1931.
Casa Alberto: Located in the building where Miguel de Cervantes once lived, this iconic tavern is the place to sip a traditional vermut at the bar. Word of warning: Their pork crackle tapa is legendary and highly addictive!
The Markets (San Miguel vs. San Anton): If it’s your first time, the glass-walled Mercado de San Miguel is a must. For a more local feel, try Mercado San Antón or Mercado de San Fernando, where you’ll find a grittier, authentic neighborhood vibe.
Need to know
Mind the clock: Dining in Madrid starts late. Lunch is typically around 1 pm or 2 pm, and dinner rarely begins before 9 pm.
Look for tabernas: Don’t just stick to formal restaurants. Look for the small, bustling tabernas filled with locals—this is where you’ll find the most authentic food and the best “drink-plus-tapa” culture.
Navigating the city: The subway system is incredibly clean, safe, and easy to navigate. Don’t be afraid to hop on the Metro if a destination seems too far to walk.
Travel Advisor
Sharon Joyner
Get in touch with Sharon
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can expect a response from Sharon within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Madrid page.