Travel Guide to Madrid, Spain

Madrid:

Funky Fact: Madrid was founded sometime around 860 A.C.

1. Street art by Nean

The Madrid tile street artist and basketball enthusiast Nean has plastered the town in comical graphics. His art can be found in the neighborhoods of Malasaña, Chueca, and Huertas

2. Palacio de Cristal

Built in 1887 its original purpose was to showcase tropical plant from the Philippines. In the late 1880s the Philippines was a Spanish colony. Today the Crystal Palace is used as a museum and art exhibit space.

3. Vinos de Madrid

Madrid has been famous for it wine industry for centuries and early production dates back to the 13th century. It’s rumored that Romans brought the first ancient vines to the region. Madrid produces red, white and rosé wines. 

4. Almudena Cathedral

Originally the plans for this stunning church began in 1879 yet wars, regime changes, financial issues drug on for over a hundred years and in 1993, the cathedral was finally completed.

Webpage and Information: Almudena Cathedral

5. Tiled street signs in Madrid 

Our story begins when Madrid became the capital of Spain back in the 16th century and to some extent medieval traditions still reigned. To support the court, a huge influx of artisans descended on the town and set up shop in the narrow streets surrounding the palace (then still the Alcazar built by Mohammed I of Cordoba back in the 9th century). As was the custom at that time, artisans formed guilds, each of which congregated in certain districts. These weren’t the official names of the streets of course, but more or less you could navigate the city in reference to whatever trade was plied in any particular area.

6. Madrid City Hall

Also called Ayuntamiento de Madrid, construction of this white shimmering castle like building was finished in 1919. The building was originally used as post office.

7. Plaza Mayor

Once the original centre of Old Madrid. It was constructed during the reign of Philip III. This lively square lined with cafes is the hear of life the city.

8. Iglesia de San Manuel y San Benito

Built in 1911 this church was intended as a residence and church for the Augustinians Fathers. Its adorned with Neo-Byzantine architectural elements with a tall Italian-style bell towers.

9. La Panarteria

A playful quirky place to enjoy the local street art culture in a fabulous gallery filled with a variety of artist.

Webpage and Information: La Panarteria

10. San Miguel Market

This victorian glass ceiling covered market offer the cities best selection of gourmet tapas and has over 30 vendors. Gastronomy seekers will find a wide variety of fresh tapas, meats, olives, cheeses, pickles and baked goods. Libations of beer, wine, champagne, and sangria are sold as well. Built in 1916 and renovated in 2009, this is the best place in Madrid to find a wide variety of exceptional cuisine under one roof.

11. Lavapiés Neighborhood

This artistic and vibrant, multicultural neighborhood is cascades down the hillside over medieval cobble streets. The neighborhood is filled with street art, color, Indian cuisine and historic Spanish pubs.

12. La Casa De Las Bolas

Completed in 1895. This brightly painted building reflects the neomudéjar (Moorish Revival architecture) architecture and hints at Spain historical connection to Arabic countries. Nicknamed La Casa De Las Bolas due to the marble spheres decorating the facade.

13. Rockade Madrid

An epic bar adorned with kitch, art, vintage pinball machines, and arcade games. Their food menu is as varied as the decor with tacos, hot dogs, burgers and nachos. Don’t miss the cave room arcade room downstairs.