Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor, the main square of Madrid, boasts a fascinating history that dates back to the late 16th century when it was named Plaza del Arrabal, hosting the city’s most popular market. Today, it is a top tourist attraction with a lot to offer.
One of the highlights of the plaza is the equestrian statue of King Philip III, located in the centre. Sculpted by Giambologna and finished by Pietro Tacca in 1616, it originally stood at the entrance to Casa de Campo Park before Queen Isabella II had it moved to the Plaza Mayor in 1848.
The plaza's most striking building is the Casa de la Panadería, the first to be established in 1590, which was initially the most important bakery in Madrid. Today, it houses the Plaza Mayor Tourist Information Centre and the Tienda Casa de la Panadería, a shop selling souvenirs of Madrid made by local artisans. Another popular spot is El Arco de Cuchilleros, the most famous of the nine entrances to Plaza Mayor.
Plaza Mayor is also an excellent place to enjoy a coffee or grab a bite, people-watch, and soak up the city’s rich history. Throughout the year, there are various events, including the drum parade at Easter, outdoor concerts, and the Christmas market in December, so be sure to check the calendar when you're visiting.
Avila & Salamanca Tour from Madrid
A day trip from Madrid offers the perfect excuse to step back in time, and few places capture Spain’s medieval legacy quite like Ávila and Salamanca, both proudly listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Your adventure begins in Ávila, a walled city that appears lifted straight from the pages of a history book. Its imposing stone ramparts, punctuated by 88 defensive towers, encircle a beautifully preserved old town. Step inside and you’ll find Romanesque gems such as the Ávila Cathedral, part fortress and part place of worship, as well as the Basilica of San Vicente, famed for its architecture and colourful stonework. Ávila sits just over 100 kilometres from Madrid, and you can easily reach it by train or coach, both options run frequently throughout the day.
From Ávila, continue west to the golden-hued city of Salamanca, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. Its nickname, La Dorada, The Golden City, comes from the glow of its sandstone buildings, especially beautiful at sunset. Wander across the Plaza Mayor, often hailed as Spain’s finest square, then lose yourself among the cloisters, libraries and carvings of the historic university quarter. While Salamanca is delightful by day, it truly comes alive at night, its tapas bars and buzzing student energy make it tempting to extend your stay beyond a day trip.
Tour Bernabéu — Real Madrid Museum
Madrid attracts a great number of visitors who come to the city for one reason alone, football. Real Madrid CF, Europe’s most successful club, has supporters across the globe, and for many, visiting the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a dream come true.
Football fans have the unique chance to step onto the legendary pitch, explore the trophy room, and relive the club’s remarkable history. There’s also an on-site restaurant and café, along with a gift shop with Real Madrid memorabilia.
While the entry fee is on the higher side, the experience is well worth it for anyone passionate about the sport. And if you happen to be in Madrid on a match day, make sure to secure your tickets in advance, watching Real Madrid play live, whether in La Liga or the Champions League, is an unforgettable experience.
