Madrid – Art, Green Escapes and Flavors of the City

Getting There: A Swift and Scenic Ride

We left Barcelona bright and early, boarding a high-speed iryo train from Sants Station to Madrid. The journey was incredibly smooth, comfortable, and punctual — an experience that made us wish all train travel could be like this. If you’re debating between bus, flight, or train to connect these two cities, I highly recommend the train. It’s city center to city center, no airport hassles, and you get to watch the Spanish countryside roll by in comfort. For tips on how to book, check the Commute Options section in my http://www.lathamani.com/spainandportugal

A Leisurely Pace in the Spanish Capital

Our two days in Madrid were all about soaking in the city at our own pace. We didn’t cram the schedule but instead wandered through grand boulevards, lingered in leafy parks, and enjoyed discovering the city’s character through its food and neighborhoods.

To get an overview of Madrid without overwhelming ourselves, we opted for the Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Bus. It’s a great option if you’re short on time — you get flexibility, audio guides in multiple languages, and stops at nearly every key attraction. We used it both as transportation and as a low-effort way to enjoy the city’s history while giving our feet a break.

Prado Museum – A Brush with Spanish History

Now, we’re not typically museum people — but we made an exception for the Museo del Prado, and I’m glad we did. It’s not just a museum; it’s a window into the soul of Spanish art and history. The collection includes works from legendary artists like Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco, and seeing these pieces up close adds depth to stories we only knew from textbooks. If you’re short on time, focus on the Spanish masters and use the museum’s highlights map — it’s easy to navigate even for non-art buffs.

Retiro Park – A Peaceful Green Escape

If I had to pick a favorite moment in Madrid, it would be our relaxed afternoon in Retiro Park. This park is massive — more like a green kingdom in the heart of the city. We found a spot by the lake, watched artists paint portraits, families enjoy boat rides, and locals walking their dogs. It felt like time slowed down. The Crystal Palace glimmered in the distance, and the air was filled with laughter and the occasional tune from street musicians. It’s the perfect place to unwind, read, or just people-watch.

Dining Delights – From Dumplings to Luxury

Madrid’s food scene impressed us with its variety. One evening, we stumbled upon Lelong Asian Club, and what a find! Their dumplings were packed with flavor, and the pineapple fried rice — served right in a halved pineapple — was both delicious and visually delightful.

Another culinary highlight was Palm Court, located inside the elegant Mandarin Oriental Ritz hotel, just across from the Prado. The ambiance was serene, the service impeccable, and the food a lovely mix of modern and classic. It was the kind of place where the atmosphere adds as much to the experience as the meal itself — a quiet luxury moment in the middle of our adventure.

From world-class museums to leisurely park afternoons and dumplings tucked inside golden pineapples, Madrid surprised us in the best way. It’s a city that doesn’t demand to be conquered but instead invites you to wander, discover, and savor.

Next up: Seville — where Moorish magic and flamenco spirit await.