Holidays in Madrid

Spain's capital is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the country, and it's not hard to see why. Its historic buildings, monuments, cultural spaces and extensive entertainment offer make Madrid a very special place. If you stroll down its streets, you'll discover how vibrant the city is and understand why anyone who visits Madrid once is sure to return.

During your visit, you can stay at the Hotel Riu Plaza España, which is located in Edificio España, right on the Gran Vía, and it offers you the best services for you to enjoy an unforgettable urban getaway.

History, culture and entertainment in Madrid

There are so many places to discover in Madrid, so we're going to recommend some you have to see, those that represent the essence of the city. The Puerta del Sol is one you can't miss, especially because it places you at 'kilometre zero', the point from which all the radial highways of Spain depart. You also shouldn't miss the Gran Vía and its delightful bustle, Plaza Mayor, the majesty of the Royal Palace, the Almudena Cathedral, and the Puerta de Alcalá, one of the five gates that once provided access to the city.

If you like nature, Retiro Park is the perfect place for you. This 125-hectare park has lovely green areas, several gardens, one of which contains the oldest living tree in Madrid, a large pond where you can take a boat ride, and the Crystal Palace. You can also visit Casa de Campo, the largest public park in the city, to enjoy different leisure options.

The entertainment offer of Madrid is very extensive: theatre, museums, concerts, art galleries... We suggest you go to the Prado National Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and the Círculo de Bellas Artes. Something you can't miss are the quotes by Spanish writers engraved on the paving stones of the streets in the Barrio de las Letras, the neighbourhood where great literary artists like Cervantes, Quevedo and Lope de Vega once lived. And if you've heard of the Madrid that never sleeps, you should visit the La Latina, Chueca and Malasaña neighbourhoods to discover the joyful and vibrant soul of this beautiful city.

Gastronomy

Madrid's gastronomy stands out for its traditional local cuisine and the most cutting-edge propositions. On its streets you'll find centuries-old restaurants where you can try the most typical dishes, like suckling pig, roast lamb, oxtails and 'cocido madrileño', a stew made with chick peas, vegetables and meat. You'll also find gastronomic markets, like San Miguel and San Antón, where you can sample the iconic calamari sandwiches and a variety of tapas. If you have a sweet tooth, you can't leave Madrid without trying the rosquillas, huesos de santo, churros, buñuelos de viento and torrijas.

Plaza Mayor:

Considered the heart of the Austrian quarter of Madrid, it is one of the largest squares in Europe. There, you'll find buildings from the 16th century, like the Casa de la Panadería, and historic symbols like the statue of Philip the Second, located in the centre of the square.

Gran Vía:

It's the most important avenue in Madrid and is lined with shops. Its most emblematic spots are the Metrópolis building, the Telefónica building and the Carrión building, located in Callao square.

Palacio Real:

Built in the 18th century at the request of Philip the Fifth. Today it is the official residence of the king and queen, although they don't actually live there, and it houses an immense art collection.