48 hours in Madrid; all you need to know

The perfect city break can be defined by many things. The weight placed on seeking the perfect location to spend an evening tastefully sipping sangria or the pull of touring landmarks steeped in centuries worth of history, every traveller seeks that thing that makes them tick when they explore a new destination, so immersing in a city that has it all has to be a solution designed for any bucket list.

We spent a weekend diving into Madrid's vibrant culture and charismatic centre, in this blog you'll find my tips and tricks for exploring the city, a budget friendly itinerary and a carefully crafted appraisal spotlighting a 'dream'.

The Spanish Capital city sits at just over 2000ft, making it one of Europe's highest capital cities and therefor offers a panoramic view of surreal landscapes around the city. It would be fair to make the assumption that with elevation also comes cooler whether, especially over the Winter months, but having just returned from a mid January escape, I can confirm a clear blue sky spread across the city, sun beamed throughout the weekend and no coats were worn during the daytime. A comparison to an English summer day would be my best description but I don't wish to insult the Spanish forecast in such a way.

As you wonder the streets you become captivated by such a glorious array of architecture, an old world meets the hustle of city life, creating an atmosphere desired by many destinations. Buildings stand tall and vibrant, painted in dulled tones of the rainbow, each unique to the next. Side streets welcome boutique shops and intimate experiences but just steps away you can find your fashion favourites in quantities perfect for a day of treats. The endless choice of bars and dining options is almost a challenge for weekend breakers, but the outdoor seating, protected from the breeze yet immersive with life beyond the restaurant, made cozy by rows of golden fairy lights and homely by the laughs of visitors in every language is truly an option not to be overlooked.

PS. Did you know if you do not live in the EU you can claim the tax paid whilst shopping back. Keep your receipts and before heading through security at the airport, use one of the machines scattered around to claim! Simple & a great way to save a little extra throughout your city break.

For me, the biggest perk of city breaks is being able to change the pace, unwinding Friday but spending Saturday being a real tourist! After all, Madrid is home to an array of landmarks, ranging from the Royal Palace to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (yes many do count the infamous stadium as a landmark!) so there's plenty to do and see. But my personal favourite spot in Madrid? El Retiro Park.

Once owned by the Spanish monarchy, El Retiro is one of the biggest parks in the city, inviting visitors to soak in the creativity of street artists, from saxophone players to caricaturists, and simply enjoy being present. My experience of the park was second to non. We wondered the gardens, stopping for a drink and a choccy pancake along the way, and watched as others laughed as they attempted to row around the lake. A scene from Bridget Jones, some how exactly the same but completely unchaotic at the same time. The air felt cleaner, fresher, and a gentle breeze was welcomed not moaned about. Call it cheesy but being outside, feeling the warmth on your cheeks in a month commonly considered miserable can only deepen a sense of appreciation for a city so wonderful.

Whilst it's easy to get swept away in the perfect simplicity of existing in Madrid, having a rough idea of how you're going to spend your day is always beneficial, so if you're heading for a 48 hour break and are hoping for a little inspiration, here's how we spent our weekend in the city :

Friday Night...

Arriving no earlier than 9pm, we had mentally prepared for a short wonder around the area, accompanied by a quick bite to eat, but after a short few minutes in the uber we knew we were in a city that breathed 24 hours a day. Streets were hustling with people, from suits to mini skirts, and our hotel was right in the heart of it all.

Staying at Motel One, we had a swift check-in, practically threw our bags on the bed and head straight out to explore. We strolled up the main high street, passing shop after shop, taking in the bold advertisements that lit the darkened sky. It wasn't long before we found ourselves at a Tapas called 'TapaTapa', indulging in tuna tata and potato bravas (it wasn't as good as it sounds but we were too hungry to care!), before heading to the Sam Miguel market.

Sam Miguel Market is a food hall filled to the brim with fresh fruit, fancy fish to steak cooked to perfection, plastic cups of local beer and bougee bars for a glass of fizz. It was almost midnight and the market was still beaming with locals and tourists enjoying an atmosphere tailored for the perfect evening. (around a 30 min walk from our hotel)

After a long day of work, travel and exploration, it was back to the hotel to rest up for a busy day. 'Dear Motel One, if you happen to come across this blog, I would love to sell the perfect nights sleep on your behalf, the pillows so perfectly plump, a haven for my head to dream of new adventures. As far as 'not being able to beat your own bed' goes, you have well and truly shone above and beyond.'

~Regards, Emily.

Saturday ...

We spent Saturday walking the city streets, 25k steps later, I feel it's only right to share how! Note you can take a hop on hop off bus around the city if you don't wish to walk all day. So to summaries ...

We started at 'Parque de Atenas', walking through the greenery towards the Royal Palace. Unfortunately we didn't take a tour but we did admire the grand architecture from outside, and the best part was there were no crowds. Whilst you're there, you can also head to the Gallery of The Royal Collections, where you'll find a diverse range of pieces from the Patrimonio Nacional Collection.

Next, we head towards Madrid's Plaza Mayor, a standing monument to where the city first began, where we were able able to appreciate charming architecture, accompanied by a coffee and croissant in the centre of it all to complete the morning. Once we'd re-energized, we ventured towards the El Ritiro park via El Oso y el Madroñ, the infamous bear and tree statue! You'll be able to enjoy an extra snack, an ice cream or cold beer as you wonder the park, and a trip on the row boats is a must too if you get the chance!

Spend the rest of the afternoon at your own pace, enjoying the sites and surroundings before heading into the heart of the city for a night out! We started with a rose at Lamucca Bar & Restaurant, before heading to fat cats cocktail bar, a real hidden gem, with no signage outside so make sure to use your maps! We then stopped off for a family serving of paella at La Carmela restaurant. Opposite you'll also find two Irish pubs to kick start a fun evening of bar hopping or for a friendly pint to put you to sleep!

Sunday ...

It can be easy to waste the day when you have an impending evening flight, but there's still plenty to see before you head to the airport. Gran Via is an iconic street for shopping in Madrid, from Zara to Hermes you can't go far wrong, presenting shops to pick up the mandatory fridge magnet and keyring and of course some treats to take home for yourself too.

If you are traveling with a football fan, then it is also worth trying to get tickets for a game too, no harm in watching the most famous teams play in their home city! Unlucky for Ryan we were unable to get tickets this time, but maybe for those who don't book so last minute you'll have a better chance.

... Madrid, it was a pleasure x