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Family city trip to check out Madrid; capital of Spain with something like 3.5 million people. Lots of history, old buildings and culture. We only had to get used to the late dinners in Spain, starting 10PM even 11PM! For us from Holland very very late. But great Spanish tapas!
Day 1 – Arrival & short walk
After arrival and settling in in our hotel we walked over the Puerta del Sol towards the Plaza de Cibeles to see the Fountain of Cibeles, Palacio de Cibeles (city halls) and went to the top floors for a nice view, Bank of Spain building (at that time we were there it was bankrupt). After we went for a nice Spanish dinner.
Day 2 – Walk through Madrid center part 1
Today we explored Puerta del Sol in more detail with the statue of King Charles II, Post Office and others. Then we continued our walk towards the Cathedral Fuerzas Armadas. Then we continued exploring towards the Royal Palace (which we visit in more detail next day), we checked out the Cathedral de la Almudena including the crypts. We continued behind to explore Roman ruins and some various other buildings and theaters. We ended at the Plaza de Castilla and its gate and towers and explored the surrounding park.
Day 3 – Walk through the Madrid center part 2
Today we explored the Royal Palace, gardens and the area around it. See the gallery for an impression.
Day 4 – Day trip to El Escorial
We hired a car for the day to explore: El Escorial, Royal Seat of Lorenzo and the valley of the fallen with biggest standing cross in the world. After we went to WarnerBros Themepark with the kids. No lines, one hour nonstop longest rollercoaster!
Day 5 – Puerta de Filippe IV & Departure
In the morning we checked out the Puerta de Filippe IV with a great the park nearby and neighborhood. A nice morning walk. After the KLM flight back to Amsterdam. Conclusion: we saw all we wanted to see of Madrid.
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Did you visit Madrid too or do you have questions? Please leave a comment at the bottom of the page. Love to hear from you!
Further reading
Sometimes it’s impossible to cover every single place of interest, activities, food, and others that might be relevant. In the below list you find a list of relevant links with further information about Madrid which I have carefully curated. These will help plan your trip even better.
- Spanish food doesn´t always mean tapas. Check the following article to discover what other food you must try in Spain.
A Spanish foodie glossary – Pintxos, tapas, raciones - If you’re planning a city trip to Madrid and need more inspiration, then make sure to check this 3-days in Madrid itinerary as well.
