City Trips

The hotspots in Madrid that you want to go to

By Bo Geschiere | #!30Thu, 15 Jun 2023 08:15:06 +0200+02:000630#30Thu, 15 Jun 2023 08:15:06 +0200+02:00-8Europe\/Amsterdam3030Europe\/Amsterdam202330 15am30am-30Thu, 15 Jun 2023 08:15:06 +0200+02:008Europe\/Amsterdam3030Europe\/Amsterdam2023302023Thu, 15 Jun 2023 08:15:06 +0200158156amThursday=9#!30Thu, 15 Jun 2023 08:15:06 +0200+02:00Europe\/Amsterdam6#06-15-2023#!30Thu, 15 Jun 2023 08:15:06 +0200+02:000630#\/30Thu, 15 Jun 2023 08:15:06 +0200+02:00-8Europe\/Amsterdam3030Europe\/Amsterdam202330#!30Thu, 15 Jun 2023 08:15:06 +0200+02:00Europe\/Amsterdam6#

Here she comes again with a Spanish city, I hear you thinking. Sorry, can't help it. Spain has my heart, and that's why I can never stop talking about it. This time it's Madrid's turn. I must confess: it took me a while to book my ticket to this capital; a city by the beach like Valencia or Malaga has a bit more appeal for me. But this time I was forced, because my brother lived here for half a year, so there was no other option. And when I was there – just three days, mind you – he took me to the places that Madrilenian locals swear by. Long story short: this city surprised me and now I must and will follow my minor here next year for my studies. I'm going to manifest it.

Well, the hotspots, that's what you're here for. From the most beautiful rooftop bar and the best tapas restaurant to the best spot for watching the sunset; these are the places in Madrid that you absolutely don't want to miss.

1. Hotel Riu Plaza Espãna
When I was there, I went to three rooftop bars, but the 360º view atop Hotel Riu Plaza stood out for me. Since you are right in the middle of Gran Via (the shopping street of Madrid), you have a view over the entire center, and in the evening, with all the lights, it’s even more beautiful to see. Although you pay €10 for entry, there is always music present and you do not need to reserve. However, I recommend arriving a bit earlier before the sun sets, otherwise, you will definitely be in line.

@iliacorniea Sky Bar 360. 📍Madrid, Spain #madrid #rooftops #spain #skybar360 #madridtiktok #mustvisit #tourist ♬ Original sound – lina †

2. Temple de Debod
This is really a must, if you ask me. The temple itself is a bit touristy; there is usually a line to take a photo. My tip is to walk a bit further to the park behind it. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and quickly claim a spot on the grass. Here you can watch the sunset in the evening with a view over the entire city. Very atmospheric and you are right in the middle of the locals. Always nice.

@megsgapyears 📍temple de debod #sunset #madrid #spain #travel #teachenglishinspain #auxiliardeconversacion ♬ original sound – meg | budget travel

3. La Fisna Vinos
For the very best tapas, you have to come here. The burrata, the stuffed mushrooms with squid, the tarte tatin; it was so delicious. But not only that. La Fisna is originally a wine bar, so you can also find good wine here. The prices are a bit higher than normal, but it’s worth it. Really.

4. El Parque del Retiro
Personally, I’m not a fan of tourist hotspots, but for this city park, I’m happy to make an exception. It’s very large, larger than you would think, and there is a beautiful palace and a large lake. You could even rent a boat here, but that felt a bit too touristy for me. I just sat on the terrace with live music in the background. Also fine. One tip: check the Buienradar app beforehand to see if it’s going to rain. Unfortunately, I forgot that.

@ingrid.peterson Most beautiful park in Madrid! #madrid #parquedeelretiro #madridspain #spain🇪🇸 #travellife #bucketlisttravel #parkpicnic #traveltheworld #europetravel ♬ Daylight – Harry Styles

5. Cafe Manuela
At this little bar, I had such a fun evening back then. From the outside, it doesn’t look promising, but the inside makes up for a lot. The decor is beautiful with high ceilings and a chic bar; very authentic. Furthermore, the staff is super friendly, the drinks are a 10/10, and the atmosphere is nice and relaxed; everyone is playing games at the table. They have a large stack of games at the bar that you can borrow for free, but you can also bring your own UNO card game.

@aprildgr8 What’s your favorite board game? #madrid #mustdo #thingstodo #cafe #boardgame #fun #activity #guiri #fy #fyp #foryou #guiri #malsaña #spain #parati ♬ I’m a Mess – KOZLOW

6. Los 100 Montaditos
No budget left? Then go to this Spanish chain. Please don’t expect a culinary masterpiece, but you can eat well here for little money. Very little money even; a sandwich costs only 1 to 2 euros, and on Mondays they cost 50 cents. There is no shortage of choices, as you can choose from 100 (!) different toppings. You write your order on a note and hand it in at the bar. I do recommend coming here for a quick lunch, not for an elaborate dinner. It can get quite noisy there.