Anna's Adventures

about madrid:

Madrid is a vibrant, dynamic city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, incredible art scene, and lively atmosphere. To me, it’s a perfect mix of Paris and New York City—so if that’s your vibe, you’re definitely in the right place!

where to stay:

We’re loyal fans of Hyatt hotels, so we usually opt for one of their properties. For this trip, we had the choice between the Hyatt Regency in the business district and the Hyatt Centric in a more touristy area. I’m so glad we chose the Hyatt Regency, even though it was a bit farther from the main attractions. The business district was quieter, which is more our vibe.

What to pack:

I’m a big believer in a travel capsule wardrobe, and since we only use carry-on luggage, my packing is pretty much down to a science. While I won’t list every single item, I’ll share a quick rundown of my absolute must-pack essentials.

• A comfy walking shoe that works day and night is a must. I’m a big fan of white tennis shoes because they go with just about everything. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so be sure to break them in before your trip!
• A cross body bag is a must! I’m still on the lookout for a new one that’s both stylish and functional. Pickpocketing is common in Europe, so make sure to keep your belongings close at all times.
• A power adapter is essential. While our hotel had USB outlets, if you need to use anything with a US plug, be sure to bring a plug adapter.
• A light puffer jacket is a must. It can get chilly at night, so you’ll want something to keep warm. I recommend a light jacket, as it’s easy to pack and perfect for layering.

3-day itinerary:

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Day 1: Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and Mercado de San Miquel

• I don’t have any specific breakfast recommendations since we only ate at the hotel, but it’s important to fuel up for the day, so be sure to grab something!
• Start your day at the Royal Palace, Madrid’s iconic landmark. Spend time exploring the grand rooms, the Royal Armory, and the beautiful gardens—it’s the perfect place to get lost in! Each room is stunning, so make sure to take lots of photos.
• Next, visit the Almudena Cathedral, a striking blend of neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque architecture. Take your time exploring the interior and be sure to check out the terrace for amazing views of the city.
• For lunch, head to Café de Oriente, a charming spot with a view of the Royal Palace. Try a Spanish omelette or a croissant with a café con leche.
• After lunch, walk over to Plaza Mayor, just a short stroll away. This historic square is great for a leisurely walk and some people-watching. There are plenty of shops here, so don’t forget to pick up a souvenir!
• For dinner, make your way to Mercado de San Miguel, where you can sample a variety of Spanish tapas and local delicacies. It’s a great spot to try jamón ibérico, seafood, or paella.
• End your day at the Cibeles Fountain, another iconic Madrid landmark. It’s a perfect spot for photos and enjoying the view.

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Day 2: Art, Parks, and Shopping

• After breakfast, head to the Prado Museum, one of the world’s most renowned art museums. Spend a few hours admiring masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and other Spanish masters. Learn from my mistakes—don’t use your phone or camera inside the galleries. We opted for the audio tour, which made the experience even more enjoyable.
• For lunch, enjoy a meal at Café Murillo. This darling cafe is located near the museum, so you don’t have to walk far. The chicken pot pie was one of my favorite dishes of the trip—so fresh and delicious.
• Next, walk over to El Retiro Park, Madrid’s sprawling green oasis. Rent a rowboat on the lake, stroll through the rose garden, or simply wander at your leisure. This park is huge, so make sure to use your map to navigate the walkways.
• Finish your evening at Galería Canalejas, a luxury mall with high-end brands. It’s perfect for some shopping and people-watching. Don’t forget to stop by one of the cafés inside to recharge after all that shopping!

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Day 3: Temples, Churros, and Iconic Views

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Chocolatería San Ginés, famous for its delicious churros and hot chocolate. It’s a must-visit on any trip to Madrid! The best part? It’s open 24/7, so if you can’t make it for breakfast, be sure to stop by at another time during your trip.
• Next, visit the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple right in the heart of Madrid. It offers stunning views of the city, and it’s especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset. If the weather is nice, relax on the lawn in the nearby park and soak in the sunshine.
• For lunch, head to Mercado de San Ildefonso, a trendy food market with a wide range of delicious food stalls. From sushi to Spanish croquettes, there’s something for everyone.
• After lunch, take a stroll down Gran Vía for some shopping or sightseeing. Just be mindful of your belongings, as this street is known for pickpocketing.
• End your day at Plaza Mayor as the sun sets. You can do some last-minute souvenir shopping or unwind with a glass of wine at one of the surrounding cafés.

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Anna’s Advice:

• Be sure to book tickets in advance for major attractions like the Royal Palace and Prado Museum to avoid long lines and the risk of them being sold out.
• Also, make reservations at the restaurants you’d like to dine at. Keep in mind that most places in Spain don’t open until after 8 PM, so plan accordingly when booking your table.