Hola, Lykkers! Madrid isn’t just Spain’s capital; it’s a fascinating city brimming with iconic buildings, historic sites, and modern marvels.
Let’s plan your perfect architectural adventure—complete with must-see attractions, local flavors, a cozy hotel, and estimated costs.
Start at the Royal Palace
Begin your journey at Royal Palace of Madrid, a grand blend of Baroque and Neoclassical architecture and one of Europe’s largest palaces. Wander through rooms with intricate frescoes, golden decor, and sweeping staircases that capture Spanish royalty’s opulence. Entry is about $15.95 USD (cost may vary).
Nearby Stop: Right next door, Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena is a mix of Gothic and Neoclassical designs. Entry is free, but a small donation of $1-2 USD (cost may vary) is recommended for the rooftop tour with city views.
Walk Down Gran Vía
Gran Vía is Madrid’s answer to Broadway, lined with diverse architecture, including the elegant Metropolis Building and the first skyscraper in Spain, Edificio Telefónica. The street buzzes day and night with shops, restaurants, and theaters.
Where to Shop?: Primark Gran Vía is a must for fashion lovers, with trendy finds that won’t break the bank. Allocate around $30-$50 USD if you’re up for some shopping (cost may vary).
Explore Plaza Mayor
A historic square with red facades, Plaza Mayor has witnessed centuries of events. The arches, columns, and open spaces make it a great place to wander and snap photos. Grab lunch at Casa Lucio nearby, famous for huevos rotos (broken eggs), for around $15-$20 USD per person (cost may vary).
Tip: Enjoy a coffee at one of the many surrounding cafes for an authentic local experience—budget around $5 USD (cost may vary).
Puerta de Alcalá and El Retiro Park
Puerta de Alcalá, a beautiful neoclassical gate, is perfect for a quick stop. Then, head to Retiro Park for a peaceful break amid greenery, statues, and the iconic Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace). Rent a rowboat on the lake for around $10 USD per person (cost may vary) for a unique view of the park.
Modern Marvel: CaixaForum Madrid
For a modern twist, visit CaixaForum, a cultural center with a “floating” structure by Herzog & de Meuron and a lush vertical garden. Entry to exhibitions is around $6.48 USD (cost may vary).
Where to Stay?: The Principal Madrid
End the day at The Principal Madrid Hotel, a stylish hotel with rooftop views of Gran Vía. Rooms cost around $350 USD per night (cost may vary), perfect for those seeking comfort and location.
The Principal Madrid Hotel
Ready to experience Madrid’s architectural wonders? This city has it all—from historic squares to contemporary gems. So pack your bags, Lykkers, and get ready to explore!
