Spain in April is nothing short of magical. Gorgeous spring flowers, plenty of historic sites, and fewer crowds — what more could you ask for? Add to that Madrid’s unique attractions and electrifying vibe, and we guarantee you’re in for a great time.

Ready to take off? Let’s get into some insider tips, recommendations for fun things to do, and explore why April is the best month to visit Madrid.

Weather in Madrid in April

Madrid’s weather in April is delightfully Mediterranean — not too hot, not too cold, and just enough drizzle to give it a subtropical feel.

• Average daytime and nighttime temperatures: Daytime temperatures in Madrid are usually a fresh 60 – 64ºF (16 -18ºC). At night, it gets slightly cooler, with average temperatures of around 41 – 45ºF (5 – 7ºC).
• Rain in Madrid in April: April is considered one of the wetter Madrid months, but the city only experiences an average of ten days of precipitation. These rainy days are not too intense — rainfall is light and usually short-lived.

We recommend packing comfortable layers, including a mix of long and short pants and shirts, and a light jacket. And don’t forget your sunscreen and umbrella.

Fun Things to Do in Madrid in April

There are so many amazing things to do in Madrid that you might not know where to start when planning your visit. Madrid’s April weather is perfect for exploring the city. Here are some of our top picks to add to your Spanish springtime itinerary.

1. Visit the Golden Triangle of Arts

Interested in museums? Then there’s no better place to visit than Madrid. The city is home to many world-class galleries, but three in particular stand out above the rest: the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofia Museum, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Together, these three museums are known as Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art.

The Prado Museum showcases a collection of European art from the 12th to the 20th century. At the Reina Sofia Museum, you can see contemporary works by Spanish artists like Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró. If it’s classics you’re after, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum displays pieces by celebrated European artists, including Van Gogh and Caravaggio.

2. Stroll Around the Royal Botanical Garden

The Royal Botanical Garden, or Real Jardín Botánico, is a gorgeous attraction year-round, but it really comes alive during springtime. The garden is right next to the Prado Museum, so it’s a great place to take a break and absorb the new knowledge you gained after your museum tour.

The park is a serene and peaceful space with fountains, terraces, sculptures, and immaculate lawns, adding to its magical appeal. In April, the park’s 5,000 species of plants and trees bloom, and the weather is perfect for a stroll to appreciate its beauty.

3. Make a Splash at Madrid Zoo Aquarium

The Madrid Zoo Aquarium is home to more than 500 species from around the world. You can see everything from tigers and lions to flamingos and marine animals. There’s no better time than April to explore this fun spot — the crowds are few and you won’t feel like you’re melting in the sun.

The aquarium section is one of its most popular springtime attractions. You can watch Hawksbill turtles, Mediterranean seahorses, clownfish, spotted rays, bull sharks, and many more species going about their day. Or, you can get up close and personal and participate in live interactions with dolphins and sea lions guided by their trainers.

4. Watch Football at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

One thing is for sure — Spaniards are crazy about their fútbol. Visiting Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and watching a Real Madrid soccer game is one of the best things to do in April in Madrid. During springtime, matches are aplenty, and you might even be lucky enough to catch Spain’s La Liga or Champions League clashes.

The stadium accommodates over 80,000 Madridistas who fiercely support their team, so be sure that you don’t pitch up in the opposing team’s kit. And if you can’t get to an actual game, you can always take a tour of the Bernabéu Stadium.

5. Eat Your Way Through Mercado de San Miguel

You can’t visit Madrid without sampling delicious Spanish cuisine, and there’s no better place to indulge than Mercado de San Miguel. This historic market opened in 1916 and is located in a beautifully ornate glass and cast iron building.

On warmer April days, we highly recommend stopping by Michelin-starred chef Jordi Roca’s stall, Rocambolesc. They sell what is arguably the most scrumptious homemade, organic ice cream in the country, and we guarantee you’ll want to go back for seconds.

FAQs About the Best Time to Go to Madrid

Itching to embark on your Spanish adventure but still have some lingering questions? We’ve compiled the answers to some common questions about visiting Madrid in April.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Madrid?

Spring (end of March – June) and fall (end of September – December) aren’t the busiest times for tourism in Spain. During these seasons, the weather is nice and you can avoid the crowds, which, in our opinion, makes it the best time to visit Madrid.

Is Madrid More Expensive During April?

Because April falls in the shoulder season, prices for flights and accommodation are more affordable than during summer’s peak tourist season.

How Safe Is Madrid for Tourists?

Madrid is generally considered a safe destination, but petty crimes like pickpocketing are possible. Because there are fewer visitors in April, the chances of being a victim of theft at tourist destinations or street scams are considerably lower.

Final Thoughts | April: the Best Time to Visit Madrid, Spain

With your newfound knowledge about springtime in Spain, we’re sure you’ll agree that April is the best time to travel to Madrid. The blossoming city is absolutely gorgeous during this time, and it’s not crammed with mass amounts of tourists.

Next read: Before jetting off, check out these fun facts about Madrid to be familiar enough with the city to live like a local during your visit.

The post Madrid in April: Springtime Weather & Things to Do appeared first on Traveling in Spain.

There are numerous museums and monuments scattered across the city, but the true treasures are some of the most famous castles in Spain. Goliath structures boasting stunning architectures and thrilling treks through history offer an overall enriching experience for the whole family.

Does this tickle your fancy? Then we suggest visiting some of the best castles in Madrid on your next trip. If you have extra time, you can also check out some of the castles nearby the capital.

7 Beautiful Castles Near Madrid

There are multiple medieval castles in Spain, thanks to its deeply rich and monarchic history. Madrid’s castles in particular are indicative of the country’s long, and sometimes war-torn, past.

Today, some of the structures have been preserved for the public’s pleasure, and the interiors have been transformed into museums or luxury hotels. Others are under private ownership and are subsequently closed off to the public, but that does not mean you can’t enjoy their splendor from afar.

For whatever the occasion or cause, here is a list of seven of the best castles in Madrid.

New Castle of Manzanares el Real

Sometimes referred to as the Castle of los Mendoza, this Madrid castle is one of the best preserved castles in the city and dates all the way back to 1475. From its perch on the Manzanares river, it was once the residential palace for the ancient House of Mendoza until the late 1500s.

Today, the castle is a museum for other Spanish castles and ancient tapestries, although much of the Isabelline Gothic architecture has been preserved. The Gothic gallery and towers are among its main attractions, and you can even climb some of the battlements.

Castillo de la Coracera

This castle is situated in the San Martín de Valdeiglesias municipality and was constructed sometime in the 15th century. Over the years, it was home to many distinguished Spanish figures, including the heir to the Crown of Castile, Queen Isabella the Catholic.

The fortress is made of berroqueña stone, and its interior includes a cellar and chapel that connects to the main Keep. It is only open to visitors on the weekends for groups and guided tours. And although the interior is minimally decorated, this allows for a calm and imaginative experience.

Castillo de Batres

This Renaissance-style fortress-palace is among Madrid’s finest and is sequestered in the southern municipality of Batres. Built sometime between the 15th and 16th centuries, it was the historical home of the lords of Batres but passed under varied ownership after the 15th century.

Today, the castle has been transformed into a gorgeous venue complete with spectacular grounds. Once inside its bounds, you may feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. You can click here to learn more about its suitability for weddings, conferences and other social events.

Atalaya de Torrelodones

This watchtower is situated in the Torrelodones municipality and is a testament to Spain’s multicultural history. It is an Islamic-era structure from the Umayyad Dynasty in the 9th century that was used to defend the city from Christian conquest. It remains one of the best preserved structures of its kind in Madrid.

The structure is an official Historical and Artistic Monument and is a prized attraction in its city. While access to the interior is prohibited, the exterior is enough to dazzle most. Hikers and dog lovers will especially enjoy the journey up to the tower.

Alcázar of Toledo

About an hour’s drive from Madrid, in the city of Toledo, is this spectacular stone fortification dating all the way back to the Romans. This quadrangular building, framed by four spired towers, is a symbolic monument to the city and has been rebuilt many times in its history.

Today, you will find an impressive structure with many stylistic signatures on its four facades. It is also home to the Infantry Academy, the Army Museum, and the Regional Library of Castile-La Mancha. Despite the drive to get there, you can choose from a number of interesting Alcázar of Toledo tours to get the full experience.

Castillo de Pioz Guadalajara

For only an hour’s drive outside of Madrid, you will find this abandoned castle in Spain’s Guadalajara province. The fortress dates back to the early 15th century and comes with all the regular assortments like towers, an impressive outer wall, and even a moat.

Unfortunately, the castle’s abandonment has caused deterioration in certain sections. Because of this, the interior of the site is closed off to visitors, both for your own safety and the castle’s. The exterior, however, is a sight to behold and will make for a perfect stop for a day trip.

Alcázar of Segovia

One of the better-known medieval Spanish castles, this fortress is just over an hour’s drive away from Madrid in Segovia. It sits at the confluence of the Eresma and Clamores rivers atop a rock, originating in the 11th century. Altogether, it has been a royal palace, a state prison, a Royal Artillery College, and a military academy.

Along with its dense history, the castle’s distinctive shape atop the rocky crag (almost like the bow of a ship) also attracts many a crowd. Most of the interior, along with its opulent decor, are available for touring along with the Armory Museum. You will find that there are several exciting Alcázar de Segovia tours to choose from.

Final Thoughts on the Castles in Madrid

Most know that beautiful Madrid is a great place to be if you want to let your hair down or kickstart your kickoff. But not many know that Madrid is one of the best places to see castles of all shapes and sizes.

Although a few of the structures’ interiors are closed to the public, this does not mean you will miss out on the allure or sheer magnitude of these ancient buildings. For most, if not all of them, the architecture is as captivating as the history, and can just as easily be appreciated from afar.

So, if you’re looking for a trip rich with historical sightseeing or if you just simply want to pass the time, then the ruined alcázars and fortifications of Madrid are waiting for you. Remember, they’re not getting any younger!

The post Castles in Madrid | 7 Amazing Madrid Castles appeared first on Traveling in Spain.

Given the dozens of things to do here, it can seem impossible to plan a trip to Spain for just a week. What must you see, and what can you skip? Which Spanish cities should you visit and which cities should you ignore? What about getting around in this beautiful country?

These are some of the questions that may be racing through your mind while thinking about your visit. Relax; this guide is here to help.

When planning a Spain itinerary, 7 days certainly isn’t enough to see everything, but it’s enough to have a visit you’ll never forget. You just need to know where to go, and this guide will give you exactly that.

Getting Around in Spain

As one of the most developed cities in the world, getting around Spain is easy. Not only does the country have efficient public transportation, but you also have the option of traveling privately.

Getting Around by Train

Spain has an efficient rail system that travels from city to city using high-speed and regular trains. It’s the most expensive public transportation option, but Spain’s trains are also the most convenient way to see Spain in a week.

While you can book tickets in person, booking online ahead of time is recommended as tickets aren’t always available in person.

Getting Around by Bus

Riding a bus is the most financially savvy way to travel around Spain. Sometimes, a bus is the only public transport system available in smaller towns and cities. However, traveling by bus has the disadvantage of being uncomfortable, especially for longer distances.

You can get tickets in person or purchase them ahead of time to save yourself any logistical headaches.

Getting Around by Tram

While scarce and only found in the major cities, traveling by tram is a possibility in Spain. The country has just a few operational tram routes, found in Barcelona, Tenerife, Madrid, Bilbao, Majorca, Zaragoza, Seville, Valencia, Alicante, La Coruna, Vitoria-Gasteiz, and Murcia.

The nation plans to add more routes in the coming years, so keep an eye out for that.

Getting Around by Car

Driving yourself around Spain is easily the most convenient way to travel in the country. This option offers the most flexibility and ensures you can explore Spain at your own pace without worrying about departure times.

You can rent a car here or bring your own vehicle; just read up on the rules of driving in Spain. The main disadvantage of driving around is that you’ll often feel tired while trying to see Spain in 7 days, since destinations aren’t close to each other.

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Getting Around by Plane

If time is of the essence, you’ll want to travel around Spain by plane. The country has over 40 airports that fly domestically from city to city.

Spain 7-day Itinerary

Without further ado, here’s how to spend a week in Spain.

Barcelona

This Catalonian seaside city is arguably the most popular Spanish destination. Barcelona has a beach, globally-renowned delicacies, and a rich history highlighted by some of the best architecture.

It’s also the most common landing spot for international tourists, so this 7-day Spain itinerary begins here.

Day 1

The first day here should be spent sightseeing. You can join in on a Barcelona biking tour or go on self-guided days out.

Your first stop should be the world-famous La Sagrada Familia to see the work of Antoni Gaudi, with Casa Batllo as another possible destination. You can also get a Barcelona museum pass to get in touch with the city’s rich cultural heritage. With that in hand, you’ll have access to Museo Picasso and Gaudi House Museum to see the most iconic work from either artist. The former is in the Gothic Quarter, but you can leave that for day two.

If you have time, head to Bunker del Carmel to enjoy scenic views of the sun setting behind the city, or substitute that for a beach visit.

In the evening, grab supper at one of the many Barcelona restaurants, including seafood specialists Disfrutar, authentic Restaurant can Culleretes, and Brugarol Barcelona. There’s also nightlife fun here, with clubs and bars lining the streets.

Before that, though, do try to catch a show at the Gran Teatre del Liceu.

Day 2

Wake up and breathe in some fresh air at Park Guell or the Horta Labyrinth before enjoying breakfast at one of the cafes on La Rambla. Afterward, stroll around the Gothic Quarter to marvel at more architecture, including some Roman ruins and the cathedral, with La Boqueria nearby for purchasing snacks.

On this day, you should venture just outside of Barcelona. We recommend a Montserrat day trip from Barcelona. This wondrous mountain range has an incredible number of things to do. This includes cable car rides, watching a performance by a boys’ choir, or visiting the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey for picturesque views.

Alternatively, plan a day trip to Costa Brava to visit its beaches and the Dali Theater Museum, and stroll through the Medieval City.

Sleep in a luxury hotel in Barcelona or Valencia. A high-speed train will transport you between the two cities in about 3 hours, so plan accordingly. We recommend sleeping in Valencia, so keep your day trip short.

Valencia

Depending on what time you arrive here, a ton of fun awaits.

Day 3

Your first few hours in Valencia should be spent exploring the historic city center. Here, you’ll find the UNESCO World Heritage Site La Lonja, which is a Gothic masterpiece. Afterward, explore the cathedral or the Palace of the Archbishop for a piece of Spanish history.

For something wacky, find the second-narrowest building in the world (107cm), where you’ll enter via the La Estrecha restaurant. End your time in Valencia’s Old Town by going to the Central Market to enrich your tastebuds with Spanish delicacies.

In the afternoon, head to the City of Arts and Sciences, which boasts otherworldly architectural marvels. Here, you’ll find a planetarium, the Valencia Aquarium, an IMAX theater, and a host of other entertainment options. There are also pools and a verdant garden as alternatives.

Enjoy the sunset by Valencia’s palm-lined promenade or by swimming in the ocean if the weather permits. We recommend swimming at either Playa de las Arenas or Playa de la Malvarrosa, two Blue Flag beaches.

Refresh at your hotel or Valencia Airbnb before heading out to end the evening by enjoying a show at the Palosanto Flamenco. You can also choose to be lowkey and just enjoy a delicious meal at one of many restaurants in Valencia.

Day 4

On the fourth day of your Spain 1-week itinerary, wake up and enjoy a filling breakfast at one of Valencia’s cafes. Afterward, head to El Carmen to hunt for incredible street art that you can post on your Instagram.

Substitute street art for an art gallery boasting dozens of artworks at the Fine Arts Museum San Pio V. Or, visit the Museum Centre del Carmen, both of which are some of the best free things to do in Valencia. If you’re more interested in animals, head to the Valencia Bioparc, which is home to giraffes, monkeys, leopards, and more.

As the day closes, go on a wine tasting tour before returning to enjoy a sunset with uninterrupted views at the Serranos Tower, El Miguelete Bell Tower, or Quart Towers. Afterward, take a high-speed train to Madrid that lasts 1 hour and 35 minutes.

Madrid

While many may just look at Madrid as the capital without much to offer, this city is as good as many in Spain.

Day 5

After breakfast, go on a Madrid segway tour with a guide that takes you to attractions like the Royal Palace and the Cathedral of Almudena around the historic city center.

Afterward, it’s time to visit Madrid’s best museums. For your first stop, join a skip-the-line Prado Museum tour and view over 8 000 artworks and sculptures. There’s also the Reina Sofia Museum waiting, with walls draped in artworks by Picasso, Dali, Juan Gris, and more. You can visit these places using a Madrid museum pass.

Your next stop should be the Royal Palace, which used to be home to royalty and has rooms that prove that. Next to the palace is the Plaza de Oriente, one of the best plazas in Madrid.

Plaza de Oriente features a fountain with a statue of Philip IV, which is worth taking a picture with. There are also statues of Spanish monarchs dotted around the peaceful plaza garden. Another treat here is the Royal Theatre, where you can catch opera performances later in the day.

As the day winds down, head to El Retiro Park for fresh air, boating, and visits to a glass palace. Shop ‘til you drop at Gran Via, before heading to the bustling Puerta del Sol for a light snack.

For dinner, opt for a Madrid cooking class over dining at a restaurant. This will teach you how to cook Madrilenian delicacies — and you can take a piece of Madrid with you forever.

Seville

Wake up early and take a high-speed train to Seville, with the journey lasting approximately 5 hours. You can also opt for an overnight ride to make the most of day six.

Seville is most famous for its cathedral, tapas, and iconic square.

Day 6 & 7

You’ll likely arrive here in the early morning to afternoon, meaning you have to make the most of your half-day visit.

On the sixth day of your one-week in Spain itinerary, start your exploration with a visit to the La Giralda cathedral. You can either go here on your own or join in on a Seville cathedral tour to admire in awe the architectural masterpiece.

Combine that with a visit to the Real Alcazar palace, and you’ll have learned quite a lot of Seville history.

As the day winds down, head to Plaza de España, which boasts dramatic architecture, awe-inspiring water features, and artistic tiling. Before retiring to your hotel, fill up with dinner at Bodega Santa Cruz, which sells tapas, fried bites, draft beer, and other Seville food. Alternatively, enjoy tapas and a flamenco performance with this tour.

Parts of day 7 will be spent in Seville. After refreshing for the day ahead, start your final day by visiting the Santa Cruz neighborhood for its narrow cobbled streets and bright houses. If you’re a movie buff, you’ll be happy to know it was the filming location for that Romeo and Juliet balcony scene.

Another famous filming location is the Baths of Maria de Padilla, where Game of Thrones was shot. As your final action in Seville, head to the Metropol Parasol (or the “mushroom building” as it’s commonly known). Take a picture here, then dash to Malaga afterward.

Malága

After a 2-hour high-speed train ride, you’ll be in Málaga, having been in Spain for a week. It should be later in the afternoon now, and you should have a few hours before your flight back home (we recommend an evening flight).

Day 7

The must-do activity in Málaga is a visit to the Museo Picasso, which houses over 200 pieces of Picasso artwork. Book a guided tour and spend your time here reflecting on his incredible talent.

Step back in time with a visit to the Roman Theater for some snaps before ending your journey at the Jardín Botánico Histórico La Concepción. This exotic garden offers stunning views of Malaga and the Mediterranean — perfect for ending your 7-day trip to Spain.

Final Thoughts on Spending 7 Days in Spain

If you only have 7 days, Spain is able to offer you some incredible attractions to ensure your short time in the country is memorable. With this guide, you should know where to go and what to do.

With the activities laid out in this guide, all travelers will be catered for. Art lovers have several art galleries waiting, history buffs have many buildings to spot, and gourmands will leave the country having tasted some mouth-watering dishes with this Spanish itinerary.

Now, start making preparations for how you’re going to see Spain in one week. Use our Spain packing list guide so you’re well-prepared for the journey.

The post One Week in Spain: 7-Day Itinerary & What to Do appeared first on Traveling in Spain.

Spanish plazas tell the rich history of their respective cities and are known to be delicately ornate. Often used as a public meeting spot, these plazas are ingrained in Spanish culture, just like its many cultural festivals.

Not sure which plaza to visit? Don’t worry. We have a list of the best and most famous plazas in Spain.

What are Spanish Plazas?

A plaza is an open public space in a city, it is usually in the shape of a square, but some are semi-circular. They are generally characterized by a landmark building like a cathedral or city hall or have a monument like a fountain or a statue. Spain is well-known for having many plazas, each with its own architectural style and influence.

Why Does Spain Have So Many Plazas?

The tradition of every Spanish city having a plaza came from a royal decree from the Spanish Monarchs that stated every city needed a centralized meeting space. Plazas became sites of marketplaces, for people to enact public justice, celebrate certain events, and even hold theatrical shows.

Famous Plazas in Spain

If you are looking for a plaza in Spain to explore, you’ve come to the right place. We list the most popular squares Spain has to offer.

Plaza Mayor, Almagro

Plaza Mayor de Almagro is the location of Almagro city hall and the historic theater of Corral de Comedias de Almagro. The deep emerald green characterizes the plaza on the first and second floors of the square’s buildings.

The square has a monument of Diego de Almagro, a Spanish conquistador who assisted in conquering Peru. The square’s architecture is heavily influenced by the arrival of the Függer family, making the buildings reminiscent of those from Northern Europe. The plaza is used as a performance space by the Almagro International Festival of Classical Theatre.

Plaza del Taller, Santiago de Compostela

This plaza marks the end of the pilgrimage for people walking the Way of St James as it houses Catedral de Santiago de Compostela. This cathedral is Romanesque but also has Gothic and Baroque additions.

The plaza provides excellent people-watching opportunities as you witness pilgrims rejoice in completing their 30-day journey. Many Christians from around the world take up this 30-day pilgrimage which has various starting points and routes, all ending at the cathedral. Even if you are a secular person, you can still revel in the plaza’s beauty and history.

Plaza de Cervantes, Alcalá de Henares

As a homage to writer Miguel de Cervantes, the plaza is a center for regular literary and cultural events, including the annual Mercado Cervantino.

The Plaza also serves as a bridge to two of the city’s most notable streets, the Calle de Libreros and the Calle Mayor. The latter street is home to the Cervantes Birthplace Museum and a bench that features the statues of Cervantes’ most popular characters.

Since the plaza is in the city’s center, you can explore the surrounding area, which includes the University of Alcalá. Once you stroll around, you will realize why the city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Plaza de Espaná, Seville

This semi-circular plaza is one of the most breathtaking sites you will experience on your trip to Spain. The plaza is surrounded by a row of buildings used today as government institutions, and there are two tall towers on either side of the plaza.

On the foot of the building are mosaics of tiles, each fresco depicting all 52 Spanish provinces. The tiles are typical of Andalusia, the region where Seville is located. The plaza also has 52 benches lining it.

The plaza’s other notable features are the round canal, with many small bridges, and the fountain in the middle of the plaza. This plaza tops the list of free things to do in Seville.

Puerta del Sol, Madrid

Puerta del sol is a popular meeting spot in Madrid, a pedestrian-only plaza. It is home to the famous clock whose bells ring in the new year on the 1st of January every year.

Tradition holds that people welcome the new year by eating twelve grapes to the twelve chimes of the clock. The square also features a bear and a strawberry tree statue and the grand Tío Pepe sign atop one of the buildings.

The square is right in the center of Madrid, and it is common for students and activists to perform peaceful protests there. So don’t be alarmed if you see a large group of people gathered there.

A stone slab located on the pavement in front of Casa de Correos marks the starting point for all major radial roads in Spain, Kilometer Zero.

Plaza de Colón, Madrid

Featuring a giant statue of Christopher Colombus, this is one of the busiest plazas in Madrid. There are plenty of places to sit and relax in the square, and it offers beautiful views of the National Library of Madrid –  the Biblioteca Nacional.

Near the end of the plaza is Spain’s giant national flag and the famous Jardines del Descubrimiento, the monument erected to honor Spain’s discovery of the Americas. The square is also home to the theater of Fernán Gómez Centro Cultural de la Villa, which has exhibition halls.

Designed by the architect Antonio Lamela and built in the 1970s, the square has two prominent towers called Torres de Colón (Columbus Towers). These iconic towers are visible from different points in the city.

Plaza de Maria Pita, A Coruña

Maria Pita, the plaza’s namesake, is A Coruña’s most famous resident and is known as the city’s savior. During a battle in the 16th century, Maria Pita helped protect the city’s locals.

The plaza showcases typical Galician architecture, and, on the northern side of the square, the City Hall of A Coruña stands in all its grandeur.

Walking through the plaza, you are given the impression that you are in a Royal court, enhanced by Town Hall and Palacio Municipal. The Palacio Municipal also has a clock museum and various meeting rooms. We’re sure you won’t want to miss visiting Plaza de Maria Pita!

Plaça Reial, Barcelona

When planning your Spain itinerary, don’t forget to add the Plaça Reial to your list. There is an elegant ambiance in the square, enhanced by streetlamps, the fountain, and palm trees. It is no wonder that Plaça Reial is one of Barcelona’s busiest places, especially at night.

This beloved square was built in the mid-19th century and was designed by Francesc Molina to build a monument to King Ferdinand VII. The monument was never erected, and instead, the fountain of Three Graces stands as the square’s main attraction.

Plaza del Dos de Mayo, Madrid

If you are a fan of Baroque architecture, Madrid’s Plaza del Dos de Mayo is just for you. The plaza is also a great place to visit for history lovers as it marks the day when the people of Madrid rebelled against the French troops occupying the city.

Every year, street parties celebrate this momentous occasion, but the square is worth visiting all year round. There are also play parks if you have children, a weekly market of crafts and vintage goods, and many places where you can grab a snack.

Plaza Alta, Badajoz

During medieval times, the plaza was originally a Moorish zoco (market). In the 15th century, the arches were added to assist with bullfighting, and currently, the square is undergoing restoration work. It is busiest during festivals like the Jazz and Classical Music festivals and Easter Week.

Although not the prettiest plaza on the list, it is an excellent place if you like to enjoy street musicians or want to revel in some Moorish architecture. The area is also surrounded by many cafes and restaurants, making it an excellent stop if you want a meal or some coffee.

Esta Es Una Plaza, Madrid

Esta Es Una Plaza is unique in that it is a community initiative designed to combat the lack of green spaces in Madrid. Since its creation in 2008, the plaza has been growing… literally! A group of dedicated locals ensures that it is well maintained.

This community-run space focuses on uplifting the people in the area and promoting unity between social groups, no matter your religion or nationality. The plaza has changed into a cultural hub that encourages the community to be more ecological, self-sufficient, and literate.

Although not as flashy and historical as the other plazas on our list, this plaza still understands the heart of what Spanish squares are meant to be: a place where people can socialize and come together as a community. This plaza is one to check out.

Final Thoughts on the Plazas in Spain

Visiting a Spanish plaza is an excellent idea to have a more relaxing day out in a Spanish country. They are also great if you love admiring Spanish architecture and delving a little deeper into its history.

Plazas are also a great way to meet new people, both locals and tourists, and find out about fun activities to do around the city. Some plazas even host festivals or markets during certain times in the year.

If you are traveling with your kids or want to cool down, why not check out our list of the best water parks in Spain?

The post Plazas in Spain | 11 Famous Spanish Squares appeared first on Traveling in Spain.

Luckily, we’ve been there and done all the research to help you find your way around the best things to do in Madrid. The Madrid City Pass offers excellent value for money if you’re spending a while in the city or even if you’re a frequent visitor.

Madrid’s Cards and Passes for Tourists

Madrid has a wonderful selection of cards and passes for tourists to the city. Depending on which one you choose, the cards will help you save on transport costs and entrance fees. Like the Madrid City Pass, some will even let you skip the queues to a few of Madrid’s most popular attractions.

Here’s our review of the Madrid City Pass and some extra info on other passes and cards for tourists in Madrid.

Madrid City Pass

Although many Madrid cards are on the market, the Madrid City Pass is the city’s most popular option for tourists. Most likely because the pass does not have time limits like other tourist passes and because it’ll give you priority access to Madrid’s most famous museums.

The €70 ($76) pass remains valid for one year after the purchase date; that’s what makes it so great for frequent visitors. There’s far too much to see in Madrid, and fitting all the must-see spots into a short vacation just isn’t going to work.

So, it’s a must-have for visitors spending a while in Madrid or returning during the year. The Madrid City Pass offers free admission to two famous attractions, free rides on the hop-on-hop-off bus for 24 hours, and discounts on excursions and attractions for a year.

If you’re equipped with the Madrid City Pass, here are just a few of the experiences you can enjoy and how much you’ll save with the card.

The Prado Museum

The Prado Museum holds the world’s most expansive collection of Spanish paintings and a large selection of works from all over Europe. Altogether, Prado’s collection contains over 8 000 fine art pieces and close to 1 000 sculptures.

Besides all the beauty held within it, the Neoclassical-style building, completed in 1819, is a spectacular sight on its own. The building was initially designed as a natural science museum. Instead, it was opened to the public as a Royal Museum of Painting and eventually the National Museum of the Prado.

The Prado Museum and its art have withstood three European wars and witnessed many Spanish dynasties. The museum has the world’s most complete collection of works by El Greco, de Goya, and Velázquez and has essential works by Bosch, Raphael, and many others.

Because it has such unique history and so much to offer its visitors, The Prado Museum is extremely popular with tourists and locals. While the museum allows free visits on certain days, getting into the Prado Museum is a lot easier with the pass.

Here’s how the pass will help:

• General Entrance + Guide Book (without pass): €24 ($26)
• Price with Madrid City Pass: Free
• Bonus: Skip the queues and free audio guide available on the app.

Reina Sofía Museum

This museum is a vital part of the global contemporary art scene. It houses thousands of artworks dating back to the early 19th century. The museum’s most famous piece, Picasso’s Guernica, is one that many people worldwide visit Madrid to see.

The museum comprises two venues that each contain a variety of art collections and exhibits. Art lovers will appreciate the museum’s exhibits that discuss critical statements of contemporary art. But, all pieces can easily be enjoyed by anyone who appreciates beauty.

The Reina Sofía Museum is a must-see attraction for everyone visiting Madrid. Although the museum has free entrance on certain days, the lines at those times can be extremely long. While this is okay if you’re a local, you don’t want to lose any time as a tourist.

Here’s how the card will help:

• General ticket (without pass): €12 ($13)
• Price with the Madrid City Pass: Free
• Bonus: Skip the queues and access the apps audioguide.

Hop-on-Hop-off Bus

Madrid’s Hop-on-Hop-off Bus is one of the best ways to see the city. It offers three different routes, the historical, modern, and night routes. Your ticket will include an audio guide in 14 languages.

The best part of taking a ride on Madrid’s tour bus is that you can jump off whenever you like. The bus will pass by fifty-two iconic places in the city and stop at the nearest bus stop, where you can disembark.

Your ticket is valid for the day, so you can use it for touring the city instead of hailing a cab or using the metro. When you’re ready to head to the next location, you can catch a new bus every 30-40 minutes.

Here’s how the pass will come in handy:

• General ticket for one day: €20.70 (＄58)
• Madrid City Pass: Free for the first 24 hours

Tours and Excursions

Your Madrid City Pass will give you up to 20% off on many tours and excursions around the city. Once you’ve booked your Madrid pass, you’ll receive a discount code that you can use to visit sites like the Real Madrid Stadium, Madrid’s Royal Palace, and much more.

Madrid Museums Pass

There are a few fantastic options for art and history appreciators. Spain offers visitors a selection of Madrid museum passes that are valid from 10 days up to 1 year. These passes are designed to suit every type of tourist visiting Madrid.

If you’re spending a while in Madrid, or are a frequent visitor, consider getting the “Annual State Museums Pass.” This card will take you to all of the state’s museums, as long as you bring your pass and photo ID with you.

There are also options for 10 and 15-day passes. While the 10-day pass will grant you access to about five museums, the 15-day pass lets you visit eight of Madrid’s museums. This variety of options is excellent because you’ll have some room to choose your Madrid tourist pass according to your vacation.

Madrid Metro Pass

The Madrid Tourist Card is a pre-loaded public transport pass that will make moving around Madrid a breeze. You can load the card according to how many days you’ll be in the city. During that time, you’ll be able to use Madrid’s public transport without additional cost.

The card is rechargeable for ten years, so you can keep it and charge it up on your next visit to Madrid.

Are Madrid’s Cards Worth it?

Buying a Madrid City Pass will be well worth your money if you’re planning to spend a while in the city and want to see many of Madrid’s attractions. If you do buy the pass for your visit, be sure to use the hop-on-hop-off bus in the first 24 hours to maximize the benefits of your card.

If you are only in Madrid for a few days on your journey through Spain, consider buying one of Madrid’s museum passes instead. Paired with a Madrid Tourist Card to cover the transport costs, seeing Madrid will be a lot easier.

Hopefully, our review of Madrid’s card will be helpful on your next trip to the magnificent city.

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