My trip to Madrid was so amazing, I couldn’t fit everything into just one blog. So, this is part two of my three-part series.
After sharing the best restaurants and things to eat in Part 1, now it’s time to tell you where I love to explore, shop and relax.
Museums To Explore
- Visit the Golden Triangle of Art and reserve the skip the line access pass called the Paseo del Arte ahead of time to visit three of the best museums in Madrid: The Prado (Goya and Velazquez and don’t miss Bosch!), The Reina Sofia (Guernica by Picasso) and The Thyssen. These three museums are within walking distance, so don’t forget to pack your comfy shoes! Also try to visit the Sorolla Museum, which includes ceramics and jewelry.
- Visit Palacio Real, Spain’s Royal Palace. It’s quite a treat to see how the royals lived. My favorite room was the Crown Room. If only I could be a queen for a day…Reina Robin! Ha!
- Walk to the ancient Egyptian relic called Temple de Debod. It’s located in Parque del Oeste, which is absolutely stunning and with the fall foliage in full leaf peeping season, it was a great walk to view the shrine. I bet the sunset there is amazing with the reflection of the temple and the water that surrounds it.
Tip: the best time to visit the museums in Madrid is before 11am and after 3:30pm. You won’t be disappointed if you’re an art lover like me!
Shopping Around Every Corner
Just venture down Calle de Serrano in the Salamanca district for the high-end shops such as Marella. You could even get your hair done at Peluqueria Next Hair Salon by requesting Jesus and then walk around the Chueca neighborhood for some vintage and bohemian finds. Also, walk down Fuencarral which is a closed off street with great boutiques.
Believe me when I say there are shops wherever you walk in Madrid. Go explore and you’ll find some unique treasures to bring back home.
Tip: If you’d like some help with some ideas on items to bring back home as gifts, Just Ask me!
Spa Treatments For Maximum Relaxation
After shopping and walking or as a great jet lag treatment, get a massage at Hammam Al Andalus. It’s a super cool place with several Arab baths that have different water temperatures. While I was there, I basically had the pools to myself and could float and swim in the two feet of water from one end to the other. It was peaceful, steamy, restful and serene. I felt revived and highly recommend it.
Tip: Don’t forget to pack a bathing suit!
Coming up next, the conclusion to my three-part Madrid adventure blog.
