A city filled with life, culture, and elegance, Madrid is one of the most favorite destinations not just in Europe, but also in the world. People who want to experience the best of tourism in Spain choose Madrid to be on their top list.

Other than the best art museums where Renaissance to semi 20^th art pieces, this beautiful city also introduced me to other historical sights and breathtaking views. Whether it is your first time or not to visit this city, let me give you the five things you should see when you travel to travel.

Let’s get to it!

The Prado

The Prado Museum or Museo Nacional del Prado is where I found a massive catalog of Baroque and Renaissance masterpieces and the largest collection of Spanish art. It occupied the 18^th century Neoclassical building and was designed by a famous architect in 1785. in 1819, the museum became open to the public.

I discovered that this museum is a very important national landmark in Spain as its holdings include Italian, French and Spanish paintings till 1700, paintings from the 18^th to 19^th century, artwork from the Spanish Golden Age, and more than 140 works by Francisco Goya. Visitors will be captivated by over 20,000 art pieces that include 1,000 sculptures, 4,800 prints, 8,000 drawings, 7,500 paintings, and other historical documents and works of arts.

Retiro Park

Just a few steps from the Prado, I discovered the Retiro Park. This is considered as the green heart of Madrid and a former royal property. Today, the public can enjoy statues, gardens, and more. While the lake is made-made, the park offers peaceful waters. During sunset, one of the best sights to see is the statue of the Alfonso XII monument.

I enjoyed paddling through the Grand Pond close to Alfonso XII’s monument before I ended my sunny afternoon. To house the Philippine Exhibition back in 1887, the iron and glass pavilion was built. This is where I spent time watching strange swamp trees and bald cypresses.

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Madrid is an architectural and historical wonder that is worth visiting. Interestingly, it is Europe’s largest palace and has been standing for about three centuries. This palace was built in the mid-1700s for King Philip V and had a perfect blend of neoclassical and baroque styles.

This palace has six floors and about more than 3000 rooms. Although only a few of them are open to the public, the grandiose and magnificent feel did not disappoint me. The main staircase is one of the areas that really stand out, and Francesco Sabatini designed it. The royal chapel, the throne room, and the dining room made me glimpse at the royal life.

Puerta del Sol

The Puerta del Sol is one of the most famous destinations in Madrid and is located just a few walks from Plaza Mayor. This grand square is a famous meeting place, suffused with meaning for Madrid and Spain.

I started my tourist journey in Puerta del Sol by visiting the Clock of Puerta del Sol that serves as the protagonist on major timing events. After that, I explored other spots like Kilometre Zero Stone Slab, El Oso y El Madrono, and The Mariblanca and the Statue of King Carlos III.

San Gines

During the winter season, the Spanish hot chocolate is among the most luxurious things that locals and tourists can ever taste. This drink can be thick and rich, so I needed to use a spoon for drinking it. The sugary churro is a perfect pair to this hot drink.

Since the 19^th century, the Chocolateria San Gines has been serving hot chocolate and churros. So, I did not waste time going to this place since I wanted to taste the famous churros.

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