Madrid – A Mix of Old and New

It is estimated that more than 15million British tourists visit Spain each year. While many opt for the sandy beaches along the Costa Del Sol, Madrid is fast becoming a place for those who seek something more than a full English Breakfast and British pubs. Madrid has got it all. A five minute stroll around the city centre is more than enough to tell you that this is a city moving with the generations without forgetting where it has come from. The mix between old and new is subtle. Whether you are an art lover, sports fanatic, party animal or simply in need of a relaxing break, you will be able to find in Spain’s capital city. There are certainly a wide variety of hotels in Madrid. A popular hotspot among European travellers has meant you can find a room for as little as €16.

Cat’s Hostel is a trendy spot for young explorers and offers internet access and breakfast. For those wishing to avoid the cheap and cheerful nature of hostels can find affordable accommodation in every part of the city. Hotel ME Madrid is located just a stones throw away from a number of top attractions and museums. One Madrid hotel that takes the biscuit must be the Hotel Villa Magna. The 5-star hotel is situated on one of Madrid’s most exclusive streets. It boasts 151 rooms and suites and for the right price you can find yourself looking onto the landscaped gardens which surround the building.

Culture is certainly an aspect that Spanish people pride themselves on. For a touch of Art, visitors can head to the Golden Museum Triangle where they will find the world famous Museo Del Prado, a gallery hosting some of the most important works of art in Spanish history. Sightseeing has never been so fun!

Madrid offers an attractive climate for most of the year with the summer months offering a lot of sunshine. The best time to visit is in spring during the months of April and May. The city boasts one of the best metro systems in Europe but, with most places within walking distance, a walk around the city would be most advised. After all, with so many beautiful buildings to see, you would not want to miss out. There are a number of deals on offer throughout the year which could maximise your use of the facilities and more importantly, minimise the price!

The Puerta Del Sol is the most popular spots for gathering tourists and local tour groups. Think Trafalgar Square’s little brother. On one side you have streets leading to the shopping quarter and the other way will lead you towards the Palacio Real or ‘Royal Palace’. Shoppers can find everything they need in El Cortes Ingles, Spain’s number one department store, while those wishing to continue down the road to the Palace will be come across one of the most beautiful buildings in the whole city. Whichever way you choose, be sure to get a picture underneath the statue which is located in the middle of the Plaza. The bear climbing the madroño tree has become the symbol of Madrid. Some of the locals believe ‘if you haven’t seen the bear, you haven’t been to Madrid’.

Over the years Madrid has become the centre for fashionista’s and party lovers from all over Europe. The Teatro Joy Eslava is one of the most popular spots for those wishing to dance the night away and possibly get a glimpse of the odd celebrity. Housed in a 19th Century theatre, the club claim to have been open every day for the past 25 years. Make sure you dress to impress and don’t be put off by the wait that can be expected on Friday and Saturday nights. You certainly won’t need a tour guide in Madrid, being spoilt for choice is compulsory.

Those wishing to enjoy Madrid but avoid the club scene need not worry. Why not visit a traditional Flamenco show at Corral de la Moreria, one of the most famous tablaos in the World, where you can enjoy a Spanish meal whilst watching some of Spain’s most talented dancers. For those looking for a little bit of an adrenaline rush, bull fighting is still common practice in Madrid. Las Ventas Bullring offers shows from March until December and tickets, although pricey, are usually available from various shops in the city.

One thing Madrid is famous for is of course its football. Real Madrid is one of the most successful teams in the history of the game and no visit would be complete without a tour around the Santiago Bernabeu stadium. Match tickets are easily available unless it is the weekend of El Classico which sees the visit of arch-rivals Barcelona. Real are not the only top flight team in the city. If you are looking for the club of the people then Atletico is the place to be. The Vicente Calderon Stadium certainly provides the best atmosphere in town and tickets are also easily accessible.

Fine dining in Madrid does not always consist solely of Tapas and Paella. In fact, despite being situated in the centre of Spain, Madrid has some of the best seafood restaurants in the whole country, and Madrid Hotels are plenty. If you are looking for a unique dining experience then look no further than Botin. Opened in 1725, Botín is listed in the Guiness Book of Records as the oldest operating restaurant in the world. Once a favourite of Ernest Hemingway, the menu still delights with specialities including roast suckling pig (cochinillo) and roast lamb (cordero). Casa Lucio is another restaurant which has a renowned reputation among sports stars, celebrities and even the Spanish Royal Family.

While the beach may be the most popular place for children, families should not be put off by Madrid. The City has a fantastic range of activities that can include the whole family. The Zoo offers dolphin shows, bird feeding and a chance for kids to get close to their favourite animals. There are also a number of parks across the city for those local for a chance to let off some steam.

Flights to Madrid are frequent from all European countries and a metro shuttle is available to and from the city centre for a price cheaper than the average beer.

Madrid is, most definitely, a unique experience and fast becoming one of the trendiest, cultural cities across Europe.

Top rated hotels in Madrid