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Madrid Travel Guide

Discovering Madrid: Finding Your Perfect Stay in Spain's Capital

By Fred Edward updated on April 23, 2024

Madrid has some fantastic neighborhoods to stay in, each with its own vibe and charm. Here's a quick look at the best areas to stay when visiting Madrid:

Puerta del Sol

Right in the middle of everything! It's super convenient, close to all the major sights, shopping spots, and great places to eat.

Where to stay near Puerta del Sol: Hotel Preciados

Plaza Mayor

Just a short walk from Puerta del Sol, this historic square is surrounded by old buildings, cozy cafes, and trendy shops. You'll feel right in the heart of Madrid's history here.

Where to stay near Plaza Mayor: Hotel Francisco I

Gran Vía

If you love the energy of city life, Gran Vía is your spot. Think theaters, shops, and loads of restaurants. Plus, it's a hotspot for nightlife!

Where to stay near Gran Vía: Hotel Atlantico Madrid

Malasaña

This is where the hipsters hang out! It's got a funky, artsy vibe with street art everywhere, unique bars, and quirky boutiques. Great for exploring something a bit different.

Where to stay near Malasaña: Vincci Vía 66

Chueca

Colorful and lively, Chueca is Madrid's LGBTQ+ district. It's packed with bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to everyone. Day or night, there's always something going on.

Where to stay near Chueca: Only YOU Boutique Hotel

Salamanca

Looking for a bit of luxury? Salamanca is Madrid's posh neighborhood with high-end shops, gourmet dining, and elegant streets. It's a bit quieter than the city center but still well-connected.

Where to stay near Salamanca: Hotel Fenix Gran Meliá

Retiro

Need a breather? Retiro is perfect if you want a more relaxed vibe. It's close to the beautiful Retiro Park, so you can chill out in nature while still being near the action.

Where to stay near Retiro: Petit Palace Savoy Alfonso XII

Eating Like a Local: Madrid’s Tapas Culture

By Fred Edward updated on April 23, 2024

The tradition of tapas in Madrid is deeply ingrained in the culture and culinary history of the city. Tapas are not just a type of food but a social and gastronomic experience. Here's a closer look at the tradition of tapas in Madrid.

Origin

The term "tapas" is derived from the Spanish verb "tapar," which means "to cover." The history of tapas is somewhat debated, but it's commonly believed that the practice of covering drinks with small plates of food began as a way to keep flies out of beverages.
Over time, this evolved into a culinary tradition, with bars and taverns in Madrid offering small, complimentary snacks to accompany drinks.

The Social Aspect

Tapas are not just about the food; they are a social activity. Spaniards often go out for tapas with friends and family, enjoying small bites and conversation.
It's common to visit multiple tapas bars in one evening, trying different dishes and exploring the local culinary scene.

Variety and Creativity

Madrid, being the capital of Spain, offers an incredible variety of tapas. The tapas scene is characterized by its creativity, and each bar may have its own unique specialties.
Chefs in Madrid take pride in experimenting with traditional ingredients and creating innovative tapas dishes.

Tapas Culture

In many parts of Spain, it's customary to receive a free tapa with the purchase of a drink at a bar. This practice, however, is not as prevalent in Madrid, where tapas are often ordered separately.
Some bars in Madrid offer "raciones," which are larger portions of tapas that can be shared among a group.

Timing

In Madrid, lunch and dinner are typically eaten later in the day compared to some other countries. Lunch often starts around 2:00 PM, and dinner may begin as late as 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM.
Given this schedule, people often stop by bars for tapas as a prelude to their main meal.

Traditional and Modern

While traditional tapas like patatas bravas and jamón remain popular, Madrid also embraces modern tapas creations that incorporate international flavors and culinary techniques.

Tapas in Madrid are not just a style of cuisine; they are a way of life. This tradition embodies the social, cultural, and culinary richness of the city, making it an integral part of the Madrid experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring the tapas bars of Madrid is a delightful journey into the heart of Spanish cuisine and hospitality.

Where to start your tapas experience: Mercado de San Miguel. Address: Pl. de San Miguel, s/n, 28005 Madrid, Spain