Sightseeing

A few places to
check out

On our day of touring (Thursday, October 17), we have arranged for a double-decker bus tour of Madrid, followed by lunch, then small group tours of the Prado museum with guides. But we can't show you everything to see in Madrid in just a half day. On your own time, consider exploring some of our favorite places listed here!

Must
see!

Mercado de San Miguel

These are two of our favorite places to wander. Make sure you check out the tasty food vendors in the San Miguel Market when you are hungry, then get a beer or glass of wine in the Plaza Mayor for some good people watching. They’re right next to each other!

Plaza Mayor

Retiro Park

Madrid’s version of Central Park, with beautiful walking paths, fountains, cafes, and a small lake where you can rent little paddle boats. We love wandering through here, and we’re hoping in October the leaves will be in full color.

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

A fantastic museum, home to one of Dan’s favorite paintings, Picasso’s Guernica.

La Mallorquina

A famous bake shop that has amazing treats.

Madrid’s royal palace

Tap into your inner princess and tour the opulent halls of Spain’s most famous residence.

Day trip to Toledo

A beautiful, walkable, ancient city about an hour from Madrid, easily accessible by the Atocha train station, which is near the wedding venue.

A few restaurants we enjoy

Madrid is famous for its late-night dining scene. Many restaurants don’t even open until 8pm, and they don’t start filling up until about 10pm! Get your siesta in, and you’ll be ready for a late-night bite. Or be like us, and be the first ones seated!

Restaurante
La Primera

This restaurant is a ‘must try’ because they have—in our opinion—the best flan in the entire world! Try the cheesecake, too. Their Spanish Omelette is our favorite of any we’ve tried (and it’s not listed on the menu). If you’re going, reach out to us for other menu items we love.

Mo de
Movimiento

When we’ve needed a break from croquettes and Iberian ham, we love this place. They serve fresh, organic, modern Italian food that is all served in a beautiful space. You can read a little more about it here. You won’t be disappointed.

Restaurante
Leña

This is a nice Spanish steakhouse by the famous Spanish chef Dani García. It has interesting interiors, great food, and a really famous desert we loved called 'tarta de rosi.’

Corral de la Morería

This is a fun dinner spot with a nightly flamenco show. We found it several years ago and really enjoyed the experience. It’s not a very large venue, so a reservation is required. Ask to sit near the stage for better views of the performance.