Madrid, the capital city of Spain, has everything you could potentially wish for if you need a break from your daily routine. Its colourful streets, renowned art museums, mouth-watering tapas and flamenco music and dance will revive all your senses.
When it comes to fiesta and siesta, what could possibly be better than a Madrid hostel (or ‘hostal’ in Spanish)? Youth hostels are indeed perfect places to have a great time with people from all around the world. And the best hostels in Madrid organise social events such as free flamenco classes or pub crawls! In need of a good night’s sleep after all the partying? Book a private room, this way there is no chance you’ll be woken up by fellow travellers. If you are travelling on a budget, note that you can easily find cheap hostels almost everywhere in Madrid.
There are over hundred hostels in the city centre of Madrid, so you will certainly find a hostel in your favourite area. Stay in the neighbourhood of Chueca if you want to be close to some of the trendiest shops, restaurants and bars. Malasaña is another option if you’re looking for a good night out. La Latina is probably your best choice if you want to try some of the yummiest tapas in town without breaking the bank.
If it’s your first time in Madrid, make sure to visit the Puerta del Sol square and Retiro Park. The city also boasts some world-class museums such as the Prado National Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and the Museo Sorolla, to name just a few. If visual arts is not your cup of tea, there are other ways to entertain yourself, like watching flamenco shows in Corral de la Morería or going to a soccer game at the Santiago Barnabeu stadium. If your budget is tight, here are 15 things to do for free in Madrid.
The metro is the fastest way to get around in Madrid, but the main attractions of the city are quite close to each other, so walking will be your cheapest option. Unless you really need to, avoid driving in the city centre: it can be tricky to find your way around if you’re not familiar with the city, and parking can sometimes be a nightmare.