A window into Madrid, Hola!

In September 2025, I found myself with a few free days before a work trip — the perfect excuse for a long weekend in Madrid. I’d always heard the city was a vibrant blend of history, food, and sunshine, and it absolutely lived up to the hype.

Where I Stayed:

Riu Plaza España on Gran Vía

I checked into the Riu Plaza España Hotel, right on the iconic Gran Vía. The location couldn’t have been better — central, lively, and within walking distance of most major sights. From the hotel’s rooftop terrace, the panoramic views of Madrid’s skyline were incredible, especially at sunset when the city glowed gold.

Exploring Madrid’s Royal Heritage

One of my first stops was the Royal Palace of Madrid, or Palacio Real. The sheer size and opulence are hard to describe — every room felt like stepping back into another century, so clean and grand, nicer than Buckingham Palace i'd say!. Just next door sits the Cathedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena, equally impressive in its own right. I’d booked tickets online beforehand, which turned out to be a smart move — the queues outside were long, and it was great to skip straight in.

Historic Squares and Local Flavours

From there, I wandered over to Plaza Mayor, Madrid’s grand central square surrounded by colorful buildings and bustling cafés. Just a short stroll away is the Mercado de San Miguel, a must-visit for any foodie where I tried the Iberico meat and a glass of Sangria of course!.

Green Spaces and Glass Palaces

Needing a break from the buzz of the city, I headed to Retiro Park, Madrid’s most famous green space. It’s a peaceful escape — leafy avenues, fountains, and locals out for their afternoon stroll. I loved wandering through the Palacio de Cristal, a stunning glass pavilion reflecting the light and trees around it. It’s one of those places where you could easily lose track of time just sitting and soaking it all in.

Cocktails with a View

Madrid’s rooftop bar scene is something special. I tried a couple of great spots — one near the Museo del Prado, and another by the Palacio de Cibeles. Both offered incredible views and a relaxed, elegant vibe. There’s nothing quite like watching the sun set over Madrid with a cocktail in hand and live music in the background.

A Pilgrimage to Football Glory

As a NON-football fan, I could have missed a trip to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid, but i wanted to tick it off the list. It’s a short bus ride from the city center, and even if you’re not a huge fan, the scale and history of the place are impressive. The museum tour is supposed to fascinating — trophies, memorabilia, and a real sense of what this club means to the city, although I did skip that part.

Final Thoughts

Madrid turned out to be the perfect city break — compact, walkable, and full of life. The weather in September was warm but comfortable, ideal for exploring on foot. Between its royal landmarks, vibrant markets, peaceful parks, and rooftop bars, the city struck that perfect balance between culture and relaxation.