MADRID GUIDE FOR OUR WEDDING GUESTS
ICONIC SPOTS AND HISTORIC WALKS
El Retiro Park
An oasis in the heart of Madrid. Stroll by the famous lake, where you can rent a rowboat, and visit the Crystal Palace, a stunning glass structure that often hosts temporary exhibitions. This park so happens to be where Chester and Marina got engaged.
Madrid de los Austrias
Explore the oldest part of the city, with its Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Highlights include the Plaza Mayor, Plaza de la Villa, and the stunning San Nicolás Church.
Madrid de los Borbones
Discover the grandeur of this era with landmarks like the Puerta de Alcalá, Cibeles Fountain, and Paseo del Prado, which connects some of the world’s most famous museums.
The Royal Palace
The official residence of the Spanish royal family, although used only for ceremonies. A visit here reveals luxurious halls, the Royal Armoury, and the Sabatini Gardens.
Cuesta de Moyano
A pedestrian street lined with charming book stalls. A must-visit for book lovers! There’s also a tourist information booth here with very useful free maps. It's a very good place to start your visit to Madrid.
MUSEUMS AND CULTURE
Prado Museum
One of the most important art museums in the world, featuring masterpieces by Velázquez (Las Meninas) and Goya (The Third of May 1808 and the Black Paintings).
Reina Sofía Museum
The center of contemporary Spanish art, with iconic works such as Picasso’s Guernica and pieces by Dalí and Miró.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
Chester’s favorite! This museum boasts a diverse collection, ranging from Old Masters to modern art, offering an engaging journey through art history. This is one of Chester's favourite museums in Madrid.
CaixaForum
A cultural center with fascinating temporary exhibitions. Don’t miss the vertical garden on its façade.
Sorolla Exhibition at the Gallery of Royal Collections
A unique opportunity to admire the luminous works of Joaquín Sorolla in an extraordinary setting.
Microteatro por Dinero
A one-of-a-kind theatrical experience where short plays are performed in tiny rooms for small (8-12 people) audiences. You just show up, get your ticket and have a drink at the bar while you wait to be called downstairs for the performance to start. The shows are in Spanish but they are very short (about 15 minutes) and around 5€ each so it is highly recommended for the experience of it.
Filmoteca
The Filmoteca Española, housed in the historic Cine Doré, is a must-visit for cinema lovers. With tickets at just €3, it offers classic films, independent gems, and thematic series in a stunning modernist setting. It’s one of Marina’s favorite spots to enjoy the art of film in Madrid.
MARKETS AND OUTDOORS PLANS
El Rastro (Sunday mornings)
Madrid’s most famous open-air market, perfect for finding antiques, crafts, and unique souvenirs.
2nd of May Festivities (Puente del 2 de Mayo)
Madrid commemorates this historic date with reenactments of the 1808 events, street markets, and public performances. Check out the programme and be sure to see some of the events while you're here!
RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS
La Bola Restaurant
Known for its traditional cocido madrileño, a hearty chickpea stew cooked slowly in clay pots.
Malacatín
Another iconic spot for cocido madrileño in a classic Madrid setting.
Casa Lucio
Famous for its huevos rotos (broken eggs), a simple but delicious dish.
Taberna El Sur
A cozy spot with delicious tapas, perfect for sharing with friends.
Casa Botín
The oldest running restaurant in the world, known for its roasted suckling pig, cooked in a wood-fired oven.
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
Círculo de Bellas Artes
A cultural landmark with a rooftop offering spectacular views of Madrid. Perfect for sunset photos!
Temple of Debod
An authentic Egyptian temple gifted to Spain, located in the Parque del Oeste. It’s especially beautiful at sunset.
Madrid Cable Car (Teleférico)
A fun and different way to enjoy aerial views of Parque del Oeste, Casa de Campo, and Madrid’s skyline.
Tabacalera
An alternative cultural space in an industrial building, hosting contemporary art exhibitions, workshops, and events.
Cafe Manuela
This charming vintage-style café is perfect for hanging out with friends while playing a board game. I recommend trying their signature Café Manuela (condensed milk coffee). You can also order beers and tapas, and it stays open quite late. Chester once famously defeated Marina at chess here—a victory he will never forget.
San Ginés Chocolatería
The best place to try churros with chocolate, a classic treat in Madrid, especially at night.
BARS
Cuevas de Sésamo
A quirky bar in the basement where you can enjoy a jug of sangria and a bite while watching a pianist play lively music. The food is not great so I recommend it for after dinner.
Bodegas La Ardosa
A traditional tavern famous for its Spanish omelet and sangria, served in a charming, old-school setting.
Sala X
A modern bar with alternative cinema screenings, live music, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Café Berlín
An intimate venue for live jazz, flamenco, and other genres. Perfect for music enthusiasts.
Cardamomo
A renowned flamenco venue where you can enjoy passionate and authentic performances.