Curator’s statement
This was a pre-cruise stop. We flew in to Madrid, took the subway to our hotel, and then explored this pleasantly walkable city for the next two days. As we walked around, I remember telling my wife that I could see us coming back to explore more of Madrid. One day, we took a quick train trip up to Segovia to walk around the city and grab a bite to eat. Lastly, it was a comfortable train ride to Barcelona with a chance to see the countryside before boarding our cruise ship.
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We flew into Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport in Madrid, purchased a three-day pass from the kiosk, and took the subway from the airport to Hotel Porcel Ganivet, which was right around the corner from the subway station. The hotel staff provided us with a map of the area with suggestions on where to go. The area around Toledo Gate is pleasantly walkable, so you can walk up C. de Toledo to Plaza Mayor, window shop, and people-watch along the way.
Hotel Porcel Ganivet
Walk along C de Bailen
We grabbed a bite to eat and a beer at La Chisprea, very tasty and the staff was super nice. The square had a lot of vendors, and a concert the day we were there. Make sure to make time to stroll through Mercado de San Miguel to sample some amazing food and wine. Walking along C. de Bailen you will be entertained by street performers as you take in some amazing architecture like the Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena and Royal Palace of Madrid while on your way to Temple of Debod. They also have performers around the park at Temple of Debod.
La Chisprea food
Heading in the opposite direction on C. de Toledo, you can walk down to Toledo Bridge, use the crosswalk, again more street performers as well as a beautiful park along the river to walk around. We had a group of six and was lucky to find space in Lola Punales to grab some local food/beverage for dinner before heading back to the hotel and enjoying a beverage by the rooftop pool.
More walking near Royal Palace
Toledo Gate
River and park
Lola Punales
The next day was spent taking a train ride up to Segovia to walk around the city and eat a late lunch/early dinner/drink at La Oja Blancar. Segovia deserves its own trip report.
Travel day to Barcelona: We checked out of the hotel and took the subway, which was still within the three-day pass window, to the train station. Train departed at 10 am; duration was three hours. Once in Barcelona, we jumped on the subway to get to the port. Pay attention to the signs and attendants for directions and look for the kiosks where you can pay by credit card. Subway exit at the port you had to cross the street to catch a bus within the port to get to the dock where the ship was located.
Lola Punales food
Need to know
My wife and I travel light: a carry-on and day pack. If you are going to be using the subway, you want to be mindful of what you carry with you as you will have stairs.
Use Google Maps for POIs, directions, and public transportation info. Also download the Metro app in Madrid for public transportation info. Get pass information prior to arrival. eSim plans are cheap to get data internationally.
As in any city, watch your valuables. We had no issues in Madrid, but my brother had a guy try to rip off his necklace in Barcelona.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Madrid page.
Travel Advisor
Peter Kuhlman
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