As promised, I am going to share with you more about each of my stops taken during my trip to Europe. First up, Madrid, Spain. Despite what I had heard, that I would probably think Madrid was a “so-so”city, I felt the exact opposite. I thought it was a wonderful city. My friends and I loved that we felt like such a part of the Spanish culture in Madrid. Not much English is spoken and they really do follow the typical Spanish way of life (tapas meals, siestas, late dinners).
Before going to Madrid, I first recommend brushing up on some basic Spanish phrases. You will need them! Know how to ask where the bathroom is, how much something costs, etc. I also recommend being comfortable being a tourist. For us, that meant no shame in taking the double-decker tour bus. Honestly, it is the best way to get the lay of the land in a new city. I always like to ride it one full loop, get a complete tour of the city, then decide what I want to get off and see more of. With that being said, I thought I would share with you my absolute “musts” in Madrid.
This park was something we stumbled upon during our double-decker bus tour. It was stunning! It’s a huge park, so you can spend hours here if you like. You can stay busy touring the Glass Palace, rowing across the Grand Pond and seeing the meticulously groomed gardens.
This is a great place for a mid-afternoon break, drinks and a nice lunch. You will have great views of Madrid and can get a new perspective on the city. The meat and cheese platters are delicious too!
When you dream of what living like a royal should be, this palace fulfills every item on the checklist. First of all, it’s massive! It is incredibly old, so everything is very ornate and very detailed. Every room (no pictures allowed inside most of the palace) is decorated with such precision. Wallpaper that matches the upholstery, a room made entirely of mosaic tile, monogrammed velvet wallpaper. I think the term “plush” may have been coined in this palace. Word of warning for U.S. visitors, don’t bother waiting in the long line of people hoping to get in free, you won’t. They only allow Spanish citizens in free. Skip that line, pay the fee (it’s worth it) and head on in.
Plaza Mayor has it all…shopping, restaurants, nightlife. Not only is the square beautiful, but you are bound to find something fun to do here. My favorites were shopping for espadrilles, eating frozen yogurt fondue and taking in a flamenco show (where my friend and I got to participate!) at Mister Pinkleton’s.
So, have any of you been to Madrid? Do any of your “musts” match mine?!
Signed with Style,
Sarah In Style 
3 thoughts on “My Madrid”