Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, is a city where grand boulevards, lively plazas, and elegant architecture blend effortlessly with a relaxed way of life, offering a mix of history, culture, and everyday charm that feels both sophisticated and welcoming.
Spain: Madrid – Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro
Strolling Through History: Paseo del Prado & El Retiro, Madrid
Our visit to the UNESCO-listed Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro, Landscape of Arts and Sciences was one of the highlights of our time in Madrid. This elegant tree-lined boulevard and adjoining park together form the city’s cultural and historical heart — a place where art, science, and nature have been intertwined for centuries. Walking through this grand area feels like stepping through layers of Spanish history, where royal ambition, Enlightenment ideals, and the everyday life of Madrid’s residents all come together.
🏛️ Paseo del Prado – The Historic Boulevard
The Paseo del Prado dates back to the 16th century, when King Philip II ordered improvements to this section of the city as part of his vision for a royal capital worthy of Spain’s growing empire. It became known as the Salón del Prado, a fashionable promenade shaded by rows of elm trees, where nobles and scholars strolled to see and be seen. During the 18th century, under King Charles III — often called the “mayor of Madrid” for his dedication to civic improvement — the area was transformed into a showcase of Enlightenment ideals.
Charles III commissioned the creation of several monumental institutions along the boulevard, intended to promote knowledge and the arts. The most famous of these is the Prado Museum, completed in 1785 by architect Juan de Villanueva. Originally designed as a natural science museum, it became one of the world’s greatest art galleries, housing works by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and Rubens. Nearby stand other key buildings that make up Madrid’s “Art Triangle”: the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, which bridges classical and modern art, and the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Picasso’s powerful Guernica. Together, they reflect the vision of a city where culture and learning were made accessible to all.
💧 Fountains, Palaces, and Scientific Curiosity
As we strolled down the Prado, the sound of water from its iconic fountains followed us. These ornate creations were designed by Ventura Rodríguez and depict figures from classical mythology — the Fountain of Neptune, the Fountain of Apollo, and the most famous, Cibeles Fountain, where the goddess rides her chariot drawn by lions. Each fountain symbolises wisdom, art, and power, aligning with the Enlightenment theme that shaped the boulevard. Today, they are beloved landmarks, and Cibeles Fountain in particular has become the celebratory spot for Real Madrid football victories.
Further along, we admired the Royal Botanical Garden, another of Charles III’s legacies. Founded in 1755, it was intended as a scientific institution where botany could be studied systematically. We wandered its pathways lined with medicinal herbs, ornamental plants, and exotic species brought from Spain’s colonies — a living reminder of how exploration and science went hand in hand during that era. Across the street stands the elegant Royal Observatory, built to advance astronomical study. These places together show how the Paseo del Prado was more than just a pretty avenue — it was a grand experiment in fusing beauty, education, and civic pride.
🌳 El Retiro Park – Madrid’s Green Heart
Crossing from the bustling boulevard into El Retiro Park feels like stepping into another world. Once the private retreat of Spanish royalty, the park was originally laid out in the 1630s for King Philip IV, who used it as a place of leisure and theatrical spectacle. The word Retiro itself means “retreat”, and during the 17th century, it served as the royal family’s sanctuary from city life.
The layout of the park reflects centuries of transformation. During the reign of Charles III, much of it was redesigned with formal gardens and avenues of plane trees. Later, after being opened to the public in the 19th century, it became the city’s favourite open space — a democratic park in every sense. We wandered past the Estanque Grande, the great boating lake where couples row beneath the gaze of the grand Monument to Alfonso XII. The stone colonnade and bronze equestrian statue add a stately frame to this peaceful setting.
🌸 Art, Glass, and Quiet Corners
One of our favourite spots was the Palacio de Cristal, a gleaming glass pavilion built in 1887 for an exhibition of plants from the Philippines, then a Spanish colony. Designed by Ricardo Velázquez Bosco, its cast-iron and glass structure was inspired by London’s Crystal Palace and represents a time when engineering and art blended seamlessly. Today, it belongs to the Reina Sofía Museum and hosts contemporary art installations — a lovely contrast to the natural backdrop of trees and ponds.
Nearby stands the Velázquez Palace, another 19th-century exhibition hall of red brick and ceramics, also used for modern art displays. But what we loved most about El Retiro were its smaller details: the shaded walks lined with sculpture, the formal Rose Garden with its bursts of colour, and the peaceful Fallen Angel statue, said to be the only public monument in the world dedicated to Lucifer. Around every corner, there’s a sense of history, layered with the rhythm of everyday Madrid life — joggers, musicians, readers, and children chasing bubbles under the trees.
Getting around Madrid
Eating out for vegans in Madrid
🥗 Vegan Food in Madrid, Spain
Madrid might not be the first place that comes to mind for vegan dining, but the city is quickly growing into a fantastic destination for plant-based food lovers. Here are some top spots to check out:
🌿 VivaBurger – La Latina
A lively vegan restaurant in the heart of La Latina serving creative burgers, wraps, and salads. Their riverside terrace and friendly staff make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
📍 Address: Costanilla de San Andrés, 16, Madrid
🌐 Website: vivaburger.es
🍜 Bunny’s Deli – Chueca
A cosy café offering homemade vegan dishes, smoothies, and desserts. Everything is organic and made from scratch, with plenty of gluten-free options too.
📍 Address: Calle de San Gregorio, 17, Madrid
🌐 Instagram: @bunnysdeli
🛒 Veggie Room – Vegan Store & Café
Madrid’s first dedicated vegan store, selling plant-based groceries, snacks, cosmetics, and eco-friendly products. There’s also a small café serving smoothies and snacks.
📍 Address: Calle de San Vicente Ferrer, 19, Madrid
🌐 Website: veggieroom.es
🍽️ Levél Veggie Bistro – Retiro
A beautiful, peaceful restaurant offering elegant vegan and raw dishes near Retiro Park. Known for its creative menu and stylish presentation.
📍 Address: Avenida Menéndez Pelayo, 61, Madrid
🌐 Website: levelveggebistro.com
🧁 Freedom Cakes Café – Malasaña
A colourful and fun bakery café specialising in 100% vegan cakes, doughnuts, and brunch dishes. Perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
📍 Address: Calle de Cádiz, 7, Madrid
🌐 Instagram: @freedomcakesmadrid
🥙 Distrito Vegano – Lavapiés
A trendy vegan restaurant serving Spanish-style tapas, burgers, and international dishes. Their dishes are creative, filling, and full of flavour.
📍 Address: Calle del Conde de Romanones, 10, Madrid
🌐 Website: distritovegano.com
🌱 Pizzi & Dixie – Malasaña
A stylish vegan Italian restaurant known for its pizzas, pastas, and desserts. Everything on the menu is 100% plant-based and bursting with Mediterranean flavour.
📍 Address: Calle de San Vicente Ferrer, 16, Madrid
🌐 Website: pizzidixie.com
The best time to visit Madrid
🌸 Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the most delightful times to visit Madrid, as the city shakes off the winter chill and bursts into colour. The parks and gardens — especially El Retiro and Campo del Moro — are filled with blossoming trees, while outdoor cafés begin to buzz with locals enjoying their morning coffee in the sunshine. Temperatures usually range from 12°C to 22°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing and walking tours. This is also the time when Madrid celebrates its famous San Isidro Festival in May, with parades, music, and traditional Castizo costumes filling the streets.
What to pack: Light layers are best — a mix of T-shirts, long-sleeved tops, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring Madrid’s cobbled streets and parks. Sunglasses and a small umbrella will both come in handy.
☀️ Summer (June to August)
Summer in Madrid is hot, dry, and lively. Daytime temperatures often climb above 35°C, and locals tend to take things slowly, especially in the afternoons when the heat peaks. It’s a great time for evening strolls, rooftop bars, and late-night tapas, as the city truly comes alive after sunset. Many Madrileños escape to the coast during August, so while the streets may feel quieter, some smaller shops and restaurants close for the holidays. Cultural sites, however, remain open, and open-air cinemas and music festivals add a festive atmosphere to summer nights.
What to pack: Lightweight clothing such as shorts, dresses, and linen shirts. Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle. A light cardigan or shawl can be useful for air-conditioned interiors or breezy evenings.
🍂 Autumn (September to November)
Autumn brings a welcome coolness after the summer heat, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C in September and dropping towards 10°C by November. It’s an ideal season for museums, galleries, and leisurely walks through the golden-hued parks. The Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums are particularly pleasant to explore without the summer crowds. Madrid’s culinary scene also shines in autumn — seasonal produce fills the markets, and the cooler weather makes it perfect for sampling hearty Spanish dishes and vegan tapas.
What to pack: A mix of warm-weather and transitional clothing — jeans, long sleeves, light sweaters, and a medium-weight jacket. Comfortable walking shoes and a scarf are useful as temperatures fluctuate between day and night.
❄️ Winter (December to February)
Winters in Madrid are mild compared to much of Europe, though temperatures can dip close to 0°C at night. Days are crisp and often sunny, with highs around 10°C to 15°C. It’s a magical time to visit if you enjoy a festive atmosphere — Christmas markets light up Plaza Mayor, and the city sparkles with decorations through to the Three Kings Parade in early January. This is also the season for art lovers, as indoor attractions are quiet and cosy cafés offer a warm retreat.
What to pack: Warm layers including jumpers, a coat, gloves, and a scarf. Boots or sturdy shoes are useful for cooler, occasionally rainy days. Don’t forget a hat if you plan to be outdoors in the evenings.
🗓️ Summary: When to Visit Madrid
| Season | Weather | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring (Mar–May) | Mild & sunny | Blossoms, festivals | Outdoor exploring |
| ☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug) | Hot & dry | Long evenings, nightlife | Late-night dining, events |
| 🍂 Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Warm to cool | Fewer crowds, art & food | Sightseeing, culture |
| ❄️ Winter (Dec–Feb) | Cool & crisp | Festive lights, markets | City breaks, museums |
🌆 Overall Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Madrid is spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October). These seasons offer comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and a balance between lively city life and manageable crowds. You can enjoy long walks through historic districts, café terraces in full swing, and cultural attractions without the intense summer heat. Whether you prefer open-air parks in bloom or the golden glow of autumn streets, Madrid in these months shows the city at its most graceful and enjoyable.
Where to stay in Madrid
Madrid is a lively and diverse city, and choosing the right area can make your visit even more enjoyable. Whether you’re after nightlife, history, shopping, or a local feel, Madrid has a neighbourhood that suits every traveller.
🌆 Centro (Sol, Gran Vía & Plaza Mayor)
The heart of Madrid, Centro is perfect for first-time visitors who want to be close to the main attractions. You’ll find iconic landmarks like Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Gran Vía, Madrid’s famous shopping street. It’s always busy, full of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.
Ideal for: Sightseeing, shopping, nightlife
Vibe: Energetic and central
🎨 Malasaña
Malasaña is Madrid’s bohemian and youthful district, known for its street art, vintage shops, and trendy cafés. It’s a favourite among young travellers and creatives. The nightlife here is vibrant, with many bars and live music venues.
Ideal for: Young travellers, nightlife, culture
Vibe: Cool and alternative
🍷 La Latina
One of Madrid’s most charming areas, La Latina offers narrow streets, tapas bars, and a traditional Spanish atmosphere. It’s home to the popular El Rastro flea market and is perfect for exploring local life.
Ideal for: Food lovers, local culture, historic charm
Vibe: Authentic and lively
🖼️ Barrio de las Letras (Literary Quarter)
Once home to Spain’s greatest writers, the Literary Quarter is full of character, history, and art. It’s within walking distance of the Prado Museum, Thyssen-Bornemisza, and Reina Sofía—Madrid’s famous art triangle.
Ideal for: Culture, art, history lovers
Vibe: Elegant and cultural
🛍️ Salamanca
For luxury and sophistication, Salamanca is Madrid’s most exclusive area. Expect designer boutiques, elegant architecture, and gourmet dining. It’s a peaceful area but still close to the centre.
Ideal for: Luxury stays, shopping, fine dining
Vibe: Upscale and refined
🌳 Retiro
Next to El Retiro Park, this area offers a quieter, green escape while still being near major attractions. It’s ideal for families and those who want a more relaxed atmosphere.
Ideal for: Families, nature lovers, peaceful stays
Vibe: Calm and scenic
🎭 Chueca
Chueca is known for being vibrant, inclusive, and full of life. It’s the centre of Madrid’s LGBTQ+ community and has plenty of stylish bars, restaurants, and shops. The area is welcoming and very central.
Ideal for: LGBTQ+ travellers, nightlife, social atmosphere
Vibe: Trendy and welcoming
🏰 Chamberí
Less touristy but still central, Chamberí offers a local Madrid experience with elegant buildings, traditional tapas bars, and museums. It’s perfect if you want to live like a local while staying close to the action.
Ideal for: Families, longer stays, local feel
Vibe: Authentic and residential
📋 Summary Table
| Area | Best For | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | Sightseeing, Shopping | Energetic & Central |
| Malasaña | Nightlife, Youth Culture | Cool & Alternative |
| La Latina | Tapas, Local Charm | Authentic & Lively |
| Barrio de las Letras | Art, History | Elegant & Cultural |
| Salamanca | Luxury, Shopping | Upscale & Refined |
| Retiro | Families, Nature | Calm & Scenic |
| Chueca | LGBTQ+ Scene, Nightlife | Trendy & Welcoming |
| Chamberí | Local Experience | Authentic & Residential |
1. Mid Range: ARTIEM Madrid
The ARTIEM Madrid is a modern, eco-conscious four-star hotel located in the quiet residential neighbourhood of Arturo Soria, offering a refreshing alternative to the bustle of central Madrid while still being conveniently connected to the city’s main attractions. The hotel is known for its warm hospitality and its focus on wellbeing, with thoughtful design features that create a calm and uplifting atmosphere from the moment you enter. Its interiors are stylish yet understated, with plenty of natural light, green plants, and contemporary touches that reflect its sustainable ethos. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, fitted with soft lighting, ergonomic furniture, and high-quality bedding designed for a restful night’s sleep. Guests particularly appreciate the hotel’s “Green” philosophy, which includes initiatives to reduce waste and energy use, alongside a strong emphasis on healthy living. The on-site “The Green” lounge offers an inviting space to relax, work, or enjoy light, nutritious meals and drinks available throughout the day, fostering a sense of community and calm. With its friendly staff, excellent breakfast, and easy access to both Madrid-Barajas Airport and the city centre via metro or bus, ARTIEM Madrid makes an ideal base for travellers seeking comfort, balance, and a touch of mindful luxury in Spain’s lively capital.
2. Luxury – Gran Hotel Inglés
The Gran Hotel Inglés is one of Madrid’s most iconic and historic five-star hotels, blending timeless elegance with contemporary luxury. Originally opened in 1886, it holds the distinction of being the city’s oldest hotel, yet its recent refurbishment has transformed it into a modern haven that still pays homage to its Belle Époque heritage. Nestled in the heart of the Literary Quarter (Barrio de las Letras), the hotel is perfectly situated for exploring Madrid’s cultural treasures, with the Prado Museum, Puerta del Sol, and Gran Vía all within easy walking distance. Inside, guests are greeted with a refined Art Deco style featuring marble floors, polished brass fittings, and rich leather accents that create an atmosphere of understated sophistication. The rooms and suites are designed with comfort and character in mind, offering plush bedding, rainfall showers, and state-of-the-art amenities, while many boast charming views of the historic streets below. The hotel’s restaurant, LOBO 8, serves exquisite Mediterranean cuisine crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and its elegant LobByto bar is known for its expertly mixed cocktails and relaxed ambience. For ultimate relaxation, the Beyonde Spa offers personalised treatments in a serene setting. Whether visiting for a romantic getaway, a cultural escape, or a business trip, Gran Hotel Inglés delivers an experience of pure Madrid sophistication — a perfect blend of heritage, hospitality, and modern comfort.
3. Budget – Hotel BESTPRICE Alcalá
The Hotel BESTPRICE Alcalá in Madrid is a modern and affordable accommodation choice located in the lively Ciudad Lineal district, offering a clean and contemporary base for exploring the city. The hotel’s sleek design and efficient layout give it a fresh, minimalist feel, with bright, well-kept rooms equipped with comfortable beds, large windows, and spotless en-suite bathrooms. Despite its budget-friendly rates, the hotel maintains a high standard of service, with a friendly 24-hour reception team always ready to help with directions, transport advice, or restaurant recommendations. Guests particularly appreciate the hotel’s excellent transport links — the Ciudad Lineal metro station is just a short walk away, providing quick access to the city centre, the airport, and key attractions like Retiro Park and the Prado Museum. While there is no restaurant on-site, the surrounding area offers plenty of cafés, bakeries, and local eateries for breakfast and evening meals. With its combination of value, comfort, and convenience, the Hotel BESTPRICE Alcalá is an ideal option for travellers looking for a simple yet stylish stay in Madrid without compromising on quality or location.
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