Madrid (Spain) > Reviews > Make the Most of Madrid

Author's product rating:   

Value for Money
Sightseeing
Shopping
Nightlife
Ease of getting around

Advantages:	Good areas :  Puerto Del Sol, Plaza Santa Ana
Disadvantages:	Bad areas :  Chueca can be a bit dodgy at night

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

With the advent of cheaper flights from the likes of Go and Easyjet, city breaks in Spain are becoming increasingly popular, but many people seem content to make do with a visit to Barcelona and are missing out Madrid.

This is a real shame, as Madrid, while being totally different in character to Barcelona has much to offer travellers, particularly those on a tight budget.

It is certainly a thriving metropolis, but with one of the largest underground metro systems in Europe (which helpfully extends to the airport and only costs around 70 pence per single journey) and extensive parks, it is a pleasant place to wander about.

If you are looking for ease of access and a central location, check out the Puerto del Sol. Situated at the heart of Madrid and right next to a tube station, The Hotel Paris is a good (and not too expensive) option for those with a moderate budget, with clean, comfortable and air-conditioned double rooms costing about 48 pounds stirling for two a night, including breakfast.

Make sure you check out the streets towards the Plaza Santa Ana, including great bars such as the Alhambra and De Solero. If you are looking to save money, just keep on buying drinks (una cana (pronounced canya) being the phrase that pays for beer), because with every drink in almost every bar will come a free tapa (or snack) - from olives to tortilla. If you really feel the need for a big meal, and in the 38 degree heat right through summer that is fairly unlikely, the best option is a menu del dia at lunchtime - three courses including wine and bread will set you back about a fiver.

The best way to enjoy Madrid is to do as the local Madrillenos do and sleep in the afternoons after lunch, this will give you the stamina to still be going when the fun really starts at about 11pm at night. This is the time when Madrillenos enjoy walking from bar to bar, eating and generally soaking up the atmosphere, and it is to be highly recommended.

Don't forget to check out the shopping at superstore El Corte Ingles, just off the Puerto Del Sol while you are there (and if you want to cater for yourself it contains a supermarket). Most importantly, however, make some time to visit one or more of the beautiful art galleries there. While everyone always mentions the Prado (home of Goya and Velasquez paintings by the score), often forgotten is the Convento de las Descalzas Reales (Convent of the Royal Barefoot Nuns).

Situated on the Plaza Descalzas Reales (near the Puerto Del Sol) this beautiful and still working convent is chockful of fantastic artwork from all over Europe. The only thing to watch out for is the timing of your visit as it must be done by guided tour - sadly in Spanish, but there is plenty to see even if you don't speak the language - and it is only open from 10.30am - 12.30pm then 4 - 5.30pm so it is easy to end up queuing only to be disappointed. If you are a European National look out for the free entry on a Wednesday at many of Madrid's galleries and museums including this one and the equally beautiful Royal Palace ... but you must show your passport.

All in all Madrid has something to offer everyone, but particularly couples looking for a city break with romance and excitement which won't break the bank.