Second-largest city in Europe … late 9th century walled military outpost …
City of Madrid, Spain – known for UNESCO World Heritage “Golden Triangle of Art” – three art museums – the Prado Museum; the Reina Sofia Museum; and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum.
Where is it
Madrid is situated on River Manzanares, central Iberian Peninsula, 60 kilometres south of Guadarrama mountain range … about 660 metres (2170 ft) above sea level. With 21 districts in Community of Madrid – spanning 606 square kilometres (234 sq. miles); with population of nearly 3.5 million.
Visit The Teatro Real (Royal Theatre)
First stop of day should be the Teatro Real – and there is a reason for it …
Main opera house of Madrid, located in front of the Royal Palace … you take in 2 sights within short walking distance.
Home to Madrid Symphony Orchestra … stages about 17 operas, 2 to 3 major ballets, several recitals annually.
Take a tour of theatre and be pleasantly surprised !
Beautifully restored function rooms, ballroom, plush carpets … velveteen upholstery, period wallpapers; lovingly renovated to incorporate modern acoustics, lighting …
Gorgeous main ballroom … intimate smaller function rooms … decorated with paintings, chandeliers, sculptures of period …
Take a peek at Royal Box if it is open for viewing – enjoy prime view of stage as royalty-of-the-moment … what an awesome view !
Visit the Royal Palace
Across manicured park filled with trimmed bushes and colourful flora is the Royal Palace.
Classical, baroque style, over 135,000 m2 (1,450,000 sq ft) floor space, 3,418 rooms, the Royal Palace of Madrid is largest royal palace in Europe; also, amongst world largest palaces.
Take a guided tour of palace – luxurious rooms, huge collections of armour, weapons and comprehensive collection of renown Stradivarius string instruments.
Visit El Retiro Park
Do you know Madrid has second highest number of aligned trees in the world? Lots of gardens, parks all around.
Second only to Tokyo, locals have access to green area within a 15-minute walk.
There are about 16 square-metres (172 sq. ft) of green area per person – far exceeding the 10 square-metre (110 sq .ft) per local recommended by World Health Organisation.
Wow !
Most popular is El Retiro – 1.4sq. km (0.54 sq mi) – largest park within inner city; lying next to Royal Botanical Gardens of Madrid.
Take a Tuk-Tuk Drive
Wondering how you are going to traverse all over Madrid city to see parks, fountains and monuments ?
Here is the trick – from Teatro Real, you can hail an electric Tuk-Tuk (small 4-person trishaw) to take you all over town; see interesting sights, magnificent fountains, statues; notable buildings, monuments; parks, gardens; amazing streetscapes that is Madrid.
Once you have your bearings, you can return or drop off for leisurely look at sights.
Stroll along The Gran Via
The Gran Via – main street of Madrid – scenic view from roof-top gardens … exercise shopping therapy … or just bath in city’s energy, vibrancy …
As evening approaches … enjoy amazing sunsets overlooking city skyline … Royal Palace … Gran Via …
Complete day with Tapas from local restaurants scattered around city … fried calamari … fritters, exotic Spanish stews … pasta … sangria … finish with huge selection of desserts and gelato …
Final Words
Like most European cities, Madrid is full of surprises … lots of greenery … unique monuments, fountains, amazing theatres, palaces …
One day is really not enough – just have to return and explore more !
