Showing posts with label tourism in Madrid. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tourism in Madrid. Show all posts
Friday, June 1, 2012
THE PIC NIC EXPERIENCE BY ABC SERRANO
The ABC Serrano shopping center opens the first urban picnic experience in Madrid.
The best place to watch the 2012 UEFA European Football Championship
The Picnic Experience by ABC Serrano is an anti-crisis venue for professionals who live and work in the area and require an open space in which to enjoy the outdoors and exclusivity in the privileged location, of the financial, commercial and residential (around Calle Serrano and Paseo de la Castellana) district of Madrid.
The Pic Nic Experience is open from May 30 to July 1, Monday through Thursday, from 13:30 to 21:00 Friday from 13:00 to 16:30, with special hours on match days Euro (you can watch the games that are played on Friday and Saturday).
Located in one of the most emblematic buildings of Madrid, the ABC Serrano shopping center –once the buiding that housed the Abc daily newspaper- offers unbeatable views of the Castellana.
The prestigious chef, Pedro Larumbe, offers a picnic menu that is healthy and light with a choice of gazpacho or crudités, salad or two sandwiches (one vegetarian), with either fruit or ice cream for dessert.
Excellent price of 7€ for a single basket and 12€ for two!
Located at Serrano 61 at the very top, MUF reccomends a a delicious cold Freixenet cava to accompany your picnic.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Mercado de San Antón
We discovered the Mercado de San Antón today!!! Once upon a time this was the local market for residents in the area. Located at Augusto Figueros 24, in Chueca, they have put together a traditional market combined with restaurants and bars where you can pick your tapa made from the different selection of goodies! On the ground floor is the market and on the second floor you can find "Show Cooking".
On the third floor there is a great terrace, where you can have lunch and or dinner. Price was right too!!! Open from Sunday to Thursday from 10 a.m to midnight, and on Fridays to Sunday its open to 1.30 in the morning.
We found a great meat shop- La Finca- here is a picture of Alberto... you can buy a nice piece of meat and they will barbecue it for you at the terrace restaurant!!!
The meat is for real!!! La Finca is a new concept in meat... They call it "meat for happiness". They have a web: http://www.jimenezbarbero.com/ in Spanish, but you can visit it or even buy online!
The market also has a web, but its in Spanish: http://www.mercadosananton.com/
METRO
Chueca
Gran Vía
BUS
No. 147
No. 15
Worth a visit!!! Great atmosphere and the price is right!!!
Friday, May 20, 2011
Explore Madrid on a classic Vespa!
 |
| Fancy doing this when in Madrid? |
If you want to see Madrid in a more unconventional way, why not see it whizzing around on a classic Vespa, just like Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck? Trip Chic is a new company which rents out vintage Vespas in Madrid for very reasonable prices and they'll bring it to your hotel complete with helmet, gloves and anti-theft device. They also run custom-made Vespa tours, so you can take in all the city's sights (with plenty of stops for tapas along the way!) in style and just like in the old movies! For more details email: info@tripchic.es
Friday, May 6, 2011
Madrid Card announce a special card for kids and a 120 hour tourist pass!
Neoturismo, the comany behind the Madrid tourist Card, have just announced a new card for kids and new 120 hour tourist pass.
The cards are a great way to save money during your visit to Madrid. These include free access to 50 of Madrid's museums, a free visit to the Santiago Bernabéu and Atlético Madrid football stadiums and the Plaza de Toros at Las Ventas, as well as free entry on the 'Discover Madrid' guided tours. Plus you will receive a wide range of discounts in shops, restaurants and bars. You can beat the queues at the main attractions as it gives you preferential entry, which in itself is a huge bonus! For a few Euros more you can combine the Madrid Card with a travel pass, allowing you unlimited travel on public transport, which is certainly very handy, and you can also buy an add-on for the sightseeing bus.
Prices are as follows:
Madrid Card:
24hours: 32€
48hours: 42€
72hours: 52€
NEW! 120 hours 85€
Madrid Card for kids:
24hours: 18€
48hours: 24€
72 hours: 30€
120 hours: 48€
Prices valid until 31st December 2011.
The card can be bought at all the tourist information points, a number of travel agencies, in T2 and T4 of Madrid airport as well as online. You can find out more about the benefits of the Madrid Card by visiting the Madrid Card Website and if you purchase you card online, you will receive a 5% discount.
The cards are a great way to save money during your visit to Madrid. These include free access to 50 of Madrid's museums, a free visit to the Santiago Bernabéu and Atlético Madrid football stadiums and the Plaza de Toros at Las Ventas, as well as free entry on the 'Discover Madrid' guided tours. Plus you will receive a wide range of discounts in shops, restaurants and bars. You can beat the queues at the main attractions as it gives you preferential entry, which in itself is a huge bonus! For a few Euros more you can combine the Madrid Card with a travel pass, allowing you unlimited travel on public transport, which is certainly very handy, and you can also buy an add-on for the sightseeing bus.
Prices are as follows:
Madrid Card:
24hours: 32€
48hours: 42€
72hours: 52€
NEW! 120 hours 85€
Madrid Card for kids:
24hours: 18€
48hours: 24€
72 hours: 30€
120 hours: 48€
Prices valid until 31st December 2011.
The card can be bought at all the tourist information points, a number of travel agencies, in T2 and T4 of Madrid airport as well as online. You can find out more about the benefits of the Madrid Card by visiting the Madrid Card Website and if you purchase you card online, you will receive a 5% discount.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Madrid's parks and gardens
Now that the sun's shinning and summer feels as if it's just around the corner, we thought we'd take a look at some of Madrid's parks and gardens. As you will see madrileños, are really spoilt for choice when it comes to places for kicking back and relaxing on a hot summer's day.
Retiro Park- a must any time of year!
The Retiro, Madrid's green space in the centre, will linger in your memory, particularly if you see it in late spring or early autumn when its colours are most vivid. Long ago, a royal palace was here and some traces of it can still be found today. Here you can enjoy the lake (boat hire available), impressive monuments, ancient trees and the extravagant crystal palace (used as an art space). There is even a ruined chapel. The park always has a great atmosphere, especially on weekends when it comes alive with musicians and other entertainers. Look out for puppet shows for children at weekends. It's a great place to explore by bike. Right next to the park are the botanical gardens, which are worth a visit too. There are a number of entrances including the one on Calle Alfonso XII near Atocha metro (L1) and train station, and another on Calle Alcalá near Retiro metro (L2).
Casa de Campo- great for kids!
Located south-west of Madrid, but still a quick metro ride from the centre, Casa de Campo is a massive open space, much bigger than Central Park or Hyde Park. You can walk for hours here in unspoilt nature, or if you are looking for activities, there are sports facilities, a large lake with hire boats, an amusement park, aquarium and a zoo, which is said to be one of the best in Europe. The Teleférico (cable car) connects the park with Parque del Oeste in the centre of Madrid and the journey is 11 minutes. There is also an outdoor swimming pool very popular with madrileños in the summer. Metro: Batán or Lago (both L10). Journey around 10 mins from Plaza de España. Metro station Casa de Campo (L5, L10) not recommned as it's further to the attractions and it leaves you in a residential area. The Teleferico leaves from near Monlcoa Metro (L3, L6).
Parque de la Montaña- the place to see the sunset
This park is located very near to Plaza España and the Royal Palce in the pleasant Argüelles neighbourhood. We recommned a visit here to see the Temple of Debod, an Egyptian temple donated to Spain by Egypt. The temple itself is only small, but it's a popular place to come and watch the sunset and see it reflected on the waters of the small pool in front of the temple. You can also get some spectacular views of the nearby mountains, especially during the winter months when they are snowcapped. You can get here by taking the metro to Plaza de España (L2, L3 or L10). Alternatively it's about 5 minutes walk from Argüelles metro (L4, L6).
Parque del Oeste
Another of Madrid's most attractive green spaces is ideal for a summer walk as it's less busy than the Retiro. It's located on the edge of the main university campus. We recommend taking the Teleférico (cable car trip) from here to Casa de Campo for superb views over the city. Entry free. Be warned it can be a bit dangerous around here at night! Metro: Moncloa (L3, L6) or Ciudad Universitaria (L6).
The Sabatini Gardens
These too are a relaxing place on summer days and are located right next to the Royal Palace. Although they look old, they were actually only completed in the late 1970s, but were made in the neoclassical style. The gardens are named after the 18th century Italian architect Francesco Sabatini, who designed some of the original palace. On display are a number of statues of Spanish monarchs and there's also a fountain and pool. From these gardens you can get some great views of the palace, as well as see across to the nearby mountain range. Just below is another open space, the Campo de Moro, which is more of a park. We must warn you that in the past there used to be a group of 'deaf' people, pretending to be from a charity (may have been UNICEF) who would approach visitors to give a small donation and sign a piece of paper with fake charity logos to say where they come from. DO NOT give them any money- it's a scam, even if they do try insulting you if you refuse. They are not from any charity and have no official ID, but touirsts still would give them money. Luckily we've not seen them for a while but you never know, and they may be doing the same thing elsewhere in Madrid. Metro: Ópera (L2, L5, R)
Principe de Anglona Gardens- shhh... it's a secret!
These leafy gardens are a bit of a secret even amongst the locals! You will find them located in La Latina on Plaza de la Paja, where it meets Calle Segovia, although the entrance is a bit hard to spot- look for a black gate with a black plaque next to it. These date from the 18th century, when they were part of what were the grounds of a palace, and in recent times they have been lovingly restored to their former glory after years of neglect. Whilst these gardens are small, they are very cool in the summer and a quiet place to relax with a book. In the spring, you will also see the rose arches in bloom. Metro: La Latina (L5).
The Royal Botanical Gardens- a must for lovers of plants
On Paseo del Prado, just a stone's throw from Retiro Park and very near to the Prado Museum, are the Royal Botanical Gardens. These were built way back in the 1780s by King Fernando VI, after being relocated from the neighbouring town of Aranjuez. Here you will find species of plants from all over the world, including many rare ones, delightfully laid out. Entrance to the gardens costs 2,50€ and is open all year round, however opening times vary depending on the season. See website for more info.
Parque de Juan Carlos I
This was recommnded to us by Chris, one of our readers. It's one of Madrid's biggest and newest parks. As well as 13km of pathways and some small lakes, the park contains themed gardens, water features, a giant greenhouse and a number of sculptures. It's an ideal place to take the kids on a hot summers day! To get there, it is a little far from the centre, although still accessible from there by metro (around 40 mins). You can reach it by taking either metro line 8 to Campo de las Naciones or from Canillejas metro station on line 5.
Parque de El Capricho- full of historical treasures
Whilst the Parque de Juan Carlos I may be modern, the El Capricho park located next to it, is over 200 years old! The park used to be the weekend house and grounds of the Duchess of Osuna
- the house still stands today. Much of the park's orignal features still exist, although they have been restored after several periods of abandonment. Visitors to the park can enjoy the lakes, a memorial island to the Duchess, landscaped gardens, a hermitage, a number of water features and an iron bridge; many of these were created in the French romantic style. Also in the summer months, there are often concerts, theatre performances and other cultural events in what are known as Tardes de Capricho. It's a very beautiful and peaceful place to be anytime of year. The park is only open on weekends and public holidays- opening times 9am-6.30pm winter and 9am-9pm summer. We can't find any information about whether it's possible to visit the house. To get there, take the metro to El Capricho (L5).
Retiro Park- a must any time of year!
The Retiro, Madrid's green space in the centre, will linger in your memory, particularly if you see it in late spring or early autumn when its colours are most vivid. Long ago, a royal palace was here and some traces of it can still be found today. Here you can enjoy the lake (boat hire available), impressive monuments, ancient trees and the extravagant crystal palace (used as an art space). There is even a ruined chapel. The park always has a great atmosphere, especially on weekends when it comes alive with musicians and other entertainers. Look out for puppet shows for children at weekends. It's a great place to explore by bike. Right next to the park are the botanical gardens, which are worth a visit too. There are a number of entrances including the one on Calle Alfonso XII near Atocha metro (L1) and train station, and another on Calle Alcalá near Retiro metro (L2).
Casa de Campo- great for kids!
Located south-west of Madrid, but still a quick metro ride from the centre, Casa de Campo is a massive open space, much bigger than Central Park or Hyde Park. You can walk for hours here in unspoilt nature, or if you are looking for activities, there are sports facilities, a large lake with hire boats, an amusement park, aquarium and a zoo, which is said to be one of the best in Europe. The Teleférico (cable car) connects the park with Parque del Oeste in the centre of Madrid and the journey is 11 minutes. There is also an outdoor swimming pool very popular with madrileños in the summer. Metro: Batán or Lago (both L10). Journey around 10 mins from Plaza de España. Metro station Casa de Campo (L5, L10) not recommned as it's further to the attractions and it leaves you in a residential area. The Teleferico leaves from near Monlcoa Metro (L3, L6).
Parque de la Montaña- the place to see the sunset
This park is located very near to Plaza España and the Royal Palce in the pleasant Argüelles neighbourhood. We recommned a visit here to see the Temple of Debod, an Egyptian temple donated to Spain by Egypt. The temple itself is only small, but it's a popular place to come and watch the sunset and see it reflected on the waters of the small pool in front of the temple. You can also get some spectacular views of the nearby mountains, especially during the winter months when they are snowcapped. You can get here by taking the metro to Plaza de España (L2, L3 or L10). Alternatively it's about 5 minutes walk from Argüelles metro (L4, L6).
Parque del Oeste
Another of Madrid's most attractive green spaces is ideal for a summer walk as it's less busy than the Retiro. It's located on the edge of the main university campus. We recommend taking the Teleférico (cable car trip) from here to Casa de Campo for superb views over the city. Entry free. Be warned it can be a bit dangerous around here at night! Metro: Moncloa (L3, L6) or Ciudad Universitaria (L6).
The Sabatini Gardens
These too are a relaxing place on summer days and are located right next to the Royal Palace. Although they look old, they were actually only completed in the late 1970s, but were made in the neoclassical style. The gardens are named after the 18th century Italian architect Francesco Sabatini, who designed some of the original palace. On display are a number of statues of Spanish monarchs and there's also a fountain and pool. From these gardens you can get some great views of the palace, as well as see across to the nearby mountain range. Just below is another open space, the Campo de Moro, which is more of a park. We must warn you that in the past there used to be a group of 'deaf' people, pretending to be from a charity (may have been UNICEF) who would approach visitors to give a small donation and sign a piece of paper with fake charity logos to say where they come from. DO NOT give them any money- it's a scam, even if they do try insulting you if you refuse. They are not from any charity and have no official ID, but touirsts still would give them money. Luckily we've not seen them for a while but you never know, and they may be doing the same thing elsewhere in Madrid. Metro: Ópera (L2, L5, R)
Principe de Anglona Gardens- shhh... it's a secret!
These leafy gardens are a bit of a secret even amongst the locals! You will find them located in La Latina on Plaza de la Paja, where it meets Calle Segovia, although the entrance is a bit hard to spot- look for a black gate with a black plaque next to it. These date from the 18th century, when they were part of what were the grounds of a palace, and in recent times they have been lovingly restored to their former glory after years of neglect. Whilst these gardens are small, they are very cool in the summer and a quiet place to relax with a book. In the spring, you will also see the rose arches in bloom. Metro: La Latina (L5).
The Royal Botanical Gardens- a must for lovers of plants
On Paseo del Prado, just a stone's throw from Retiro Park and very near to the Prado Museum, are the Royal Botanical Gardens. These were built way back in the 1780s by King Fernando VI, after being relocated from the neighbouring town of Aranjuez. Here you will find species of plants from all over the world, including many rare ones, delightfully laid out. Entrance to the gardens costs 2,50€ and is open all year round, however opening times vary depending on the season. See website for more info.
Parque de Juan Carlos I
This was recommnded to us by Chris, one of our readers. It's one of Madrid's biggest and newest parks. As well as 13km of pathways and some small lakes, the park contains themed gardens, water features, a giant greenhouse and a number of sculptures. It's an ideal place to take the kids on a hot summers day! To get there, it is a little far from the centre, although still accessible from there by metro (around 40 mins). You can reach it by taking either metro line 8 to Campo de las Naciones or from Canillejas metro station on line 5.
Parque de El Capricho- full of historical treasures
Whilst the Parque de Juan Carlos I may be modern, the El Capricho park located next to it, is over 200 years old! The park used to be the weekend house and grounds of the Duchess of Osuna
- the house still stands today. Much of the park's orignal features still exist, although they have been restored after several periods of abandonment. Visitors to the park can enjoy the lakes, a memorial island to the Duchess, landscaped gardens, a hermitage, a number of water features and an iron bridge; many of these were created in the French romantic style. Also in the summer months, there are often concerts, theatre performances and other cultural events in what are known as Tardes de Capricho. It's a very beautiful and peaceful place to be anytime of year. The park is only open on weekends and public holidays- opening times 9am-6.30pm winter and 9am-9pm summer. We can't find any information about whether it's possible to visit the house. To get there, take the metro to El Capricho (L5).
Thursday, April 7, 2011
iPad rental now available to visitors in Madrid though PadInTheCity
To help you get the most out of a trip to Madrid, PadInTheCity are offering iPad rental for 39€ a day. The iPad 2 comes loaded with Madrid and travel related apps, and they'll even deliver it to your hotel. However to rent one, you need to present ID and give a 500€ credit card guarantee as a deposit, which won't be charged unless you fail to return the device. We think it's a great idea and wonder whether other cities will follow suit.
To find out more, here's a link to PadInTheCity.
To find out more, here's a link to PadInTheCity.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Restaurant Recomendation: LA PARRA
Restaurant Recommendation: LA PARRA
MUF re-discovered a traditional Madrid restaurant, once nice but now excellent!
We started with an excellent Mojito made with a secret recipe… excellent. We then tried a red wine from Extremadura: MIRABEL, a first for MUF and then a well known Viña Sol, a white from the Catalonian area of the Penedés.
Four for dinner, the menu was extensive, each plate better than the other:
The starters, Croquetas de Jamón (Ham croquettes with a special sauce) (12€); Patatas mini (baby potatoes with bone marrow and a béchamel sauce) (16€) and TARAMALAMAR with Tar am, algae and calamari (13€) and of course a plate of delicious Bellota Jam (24€) Excellent!
The second course consisted of SOCARRAT DE ARROZ (a vegetable paella with lobster and a light aioli sauce (23€), PEZ MANTEQUILLA, butter fish in a teriyaki sauce (26€) and the other guests enjoyed a beautifully cooked Sea Bass (24,50€).
The Parra has kept its madrileño clientele during its 28 years of existence and is a favourite with madrileño society. The owners, Ginés and Tessa Sanchez Rubio, and now their daughter, Tessa, are very involved with their guests making La Parra a nice place for a great meal as well as see friends.
The Maitre d', Luis Moratilla has been around forever and the young chef, Carlos Martín Gorriz has brought novelty to the menu, which makes a great evening.
Where: Just off the Serrano area, in a little street- Monte Esquinza, 34 (91-3195498). Metro: Alonso Martínez (L4, L5, L10). They speak English.
Open for lunch as well as dinner, you can email and reserve:
laparra@pankha.com
MUF re-discovered a traditional Madrid restaurant, once nice but now excellent!
We started with an excellent Mojito made with a secret recipe… excellent. We then tried a red wine from Extremadura: MIRABEL, a first for MUF and then a well known Viña Sol, a white from the Catalonian area of the Penedés.
Four for dinner, the menu was extensive, each plate better than the other:
The starters, Croquetas de Jamón (Ham croquettes with a special sauce) (12€); Patatas mini (baby potatoes with bone marrow and a béchamel sauce) (16€) and TARAMALAMAR with Tar am, algae and calamari (13€) and of course a plate of delicious Bellota Jam (24€) Excellent!
The second course consisted of SOCARRAT DE ARROZ (a vegetable paella with lobster and a light aioli sauce (23€), PEZ MANTEQUILLA, butter fish in a teriyaki sauce (26€) and the other guests enjoyed a beautifully cooked Sea Bass (24,50€).
The Parra has kept its madrileño clientele during its 28 years of existence and is a favourite with madrileño society. The owners, Ginés and Tessa Sanchez Rubio, and now their daughter, Tessa, are very involved with their guests making La Parra a nice place for a great meal as well as see friends.
The Maitre d', Luis Moratilla has been around forever and the young chef, Carlos Martín Gorriz has brought novelty to the menu, which makes a great evening.
Where: Just off the Serrano area, in a little street- Monte Esquinza, 34 (91-3195498). Metro: Alonso Martínez (L4, L5, L10). They speak English.
Open for lunch as well as dinner, you can email and reserve:
laparra@pankha.com
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Apps for visting Madrid
Who wants to lug around a massive map and guide book around the city, or spend ages finding an internet café to find out the bus times, when the info can be accessed from the palm of the hand? We've done some digging around to find some useful apps for visitors to Madrid to make their trip a bit easier. Note that the apps mentioned here are not endorsed by us, nor are we connected with the developers.
Metro Plans. There are a number of free unofficial ones as well as the official Metro de Madrid (Presslite) paid app. We use one called Metro Madrid (PhoneSoftware), which usually works well, although it does have annoying adverts. It's also not hard to figure out how to use even though it's in Spanish. The app allows you to calculate metro journeys, find out opening times and find out where the nearest metro station is. On the other hand, the official app does pretty much the same thing, but comes in several languages and allows you to use it offline. It costs 0.79€ to download.
The EMT Madrid (EMT Madrid) has a similar app which allows you to calculate your bus journey and find the nearest bus stop as well as providing other travel information. The cost is free, but requires a network. In Spanish.
Lonely Planet Madrid City Guide (Lonely Planet). Don't want to lug a heavy guidebook around? This app contains everything you need for a stay in Madrid including, offline maps, recommended places, practical info, city history and guides to the different districts. The app costs 4.99€ and can be used offline.
Navigaia Madrid (Navigaia) is another city guide, which comes in both free and full paying versions. The guide contains points of interest, photos and maps, whist the paying version includes more detailed maps, descriptions, hotels, shopping, restaurants, cafés and bars as well as video. Available in English and French.
Madrid Barajas Airport Stats (Traland.com). Want to check the status of your flight? This app contains realtime information for all flights departing and arriving at Madrid Barajas airport. It costs 1.59€ to download.
Madrid Offline Street Map (Networking 2.0) No need for a network connection as you find your way around the city or plan your routes. It also contains transport maps and a short travel guide, 3.99€
Prado Museum Audioguide (AMFINOMI). This app allows you to discover the secrets behind fifty of the most famous pieces of art in the Prado Museum in the form of an audioguide. You can also learn more about the artists, see plans of the museum and zoom in on the paintings. In total there is three hours worth of audio content. It costs 3.99€, although there is a limited light version for free. Works offline.
Wi-Fi Finder (JiWire). Instead of traipsing around Madrid trying to find a wi-fi spot, this app allows you to search for wi-fi and you can download the locations to access offline. If you switch on GPS, it will pinpoint the closest hotspot to you. Both free and paying locations are listed in search results. Free to download.
Although Madrid is User Friendly does not have an app as yet, remember both our blog and website can be accessed on smartphones and tablets.
Metro Plans. There are a number of free unofficial ones as well as the official Metro de Madrid (Presslite) paid app. We use one called Metro Madrid (PhoneSoftware), which usually works well, although it does have annoying adverts. It's also not hard to figure out how to use even though it's in Spanish. The app allows you to calculate metro journeys, find out opening times and find out where the nearest metro station is. On the other hand, the official app does pretty much the same thing, but comes in several languages and allows you to use it offline. It costs 0.79€ to download.
The EMT Madrid (EMT Madrid) has a similar app which allows you to calculate your bus journey and find the nearest bus stop as well as providing other travel information. The cost is free, but requires a network. In Spanish.
Lonely Planet Madrid City Guide (Lonely Planet). Don't want to lug a heavy guidebook around? This app contains everything you need for a stay in Madrid including, offline maps, recommended places, practical info, city history and guides to the different districts. The app costs 4.99€ and can be used offline.
Navigaia Madrid (Navigaia) is another city guide, which comes in both free and full paying versions. The guide contains points of interest, photos and maps, whist the paying version includes more detailed maps, descriptions, hotels, shopping, restaurants, cafés and bars as well as video. Available in English and French.
Madrid Barajas Airport Stats (Traland.com). Want to check the status of your flight? This app contains realtime information for all flights departing and arriving at Madrid Barajas airport. It costs 1.59€ to download.
Madrid Offline Street Map (Networking 2.0) No need for a network connection as you find your way around the city or plan your routes. It also contains transport maps and a short travel guide, 3.99€
Prado Museum Audioguide (AMFINOMI). This app allows you to discover the secrets behind fifty of the most famous pieces of art in the Prado Museum in the form of an audioguide. You can also learn more about the artists, see plans of the museum and zoom in on the paintings. In total there is three hours worth of audio content. It costs 3.99€, although there is a limited light version for free. Works offline.
Wi-Fi Finder (JiWire). Instead of traipsing around Madrid trying to find a wi-fi spot, this app allows you to search for wi-fi and you can download the locations to access offline. If you switch on GPS, it will pinpoint the closest hotspot to you. Both free and paying locations are listed in search results. Free to download.
Although Madrid is User Friendly does not have an app as yet, remember both our blog and website can be accessed on smartphones and tablets.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Twenty-five things to do in Madrid
Here are some of our suggestions of things we recommend doing whilst you are in Madrid. Trying to fit them all in during your visit would be impossible; even some of us who have lived here several years still have a couple to do!
1. Have a delicious, but not very healthy breakfast of chocolate and churros (long friend doughnuts).
2. Visit Picasso's works at the Reina Sofia.
3. Imagine you're a millionaire wandering around the exclusive streets of the Barrio Salamanca hopping from boutique to boutique. Shops now open on Sundays.
4. Go see a Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid match. Surprisingly often there are tickets!
5. Stroll around some of Madrid's alternative neighbourhoods like Malasaña, Chueca or Lavapiés.
6. Go bargain hunting at the Rastro street market on Sunday mornings in La Latina.
7. See the indoor jungle at Atocha Station.
8. Go see the vertical garden at the Caixa Forum (Paseo del Prado 48) and the impressive staircase inside.
9. Watch the sunset at the Templo de Debod, an Egyptian temple in the Parque de la Montaña, near Plaza España.
10. Try traditional cocido madrileño (Madrid style stew).
11. Have a coffee at either Café Comercial or Café Gijón, where many famous writers used to frequent.
12. Get away from the stress of the city centre by making a visit to Casa de Campo, an unspoilt wilderness on the edge of the city.
13. See the Goya frescoes at the Basilica de San Francisco el Grande.
14. Make a visit to La Latina on a Sunday afternoon and have a caña on the terrace in one of the many bars in the barrio.
15. If you are in Madrid for New Year's Eve, do what the madrileños do and go to Sol and eat grapes at the stroke of midnight.
16. Join in with the locals at the San Isidro celebrations in May. May 15 is San Isidro.
17. Make a visit to Retiro Park. Walk or row in a boat.
18. Wander around the Prado, taking in some of the world's most important pieces of art.
19. Go see a zarzuela performance.
20. Catch the changing of the guards ceremony on the first Wednesday of the month.
21. See the city from above by going up to the rooftop terrace of the Circulo de Bellas Artes. It has superb views.
22. Buy sweets from Caramelos Paco in Calle Toledo, one of Madrid's best known shops.
23. Take the Teleferico (cable car) from Moncloa to Casa de Campo.
24. Check out the street artists on Calle Arenal on weekends.
25. Go see a film a the Cine Dore, a delightful old cinema which hasn't changed in years.
1. Have a delicious, but not very healthy breakfast of chocolate and churros (long friend doughnuts).
2. Visit Picasso's works at the Reina Sofia.
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| Churros, a breakfast favourite in Spain |
4. Go see a Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid match. Surprisingly often there are tickets!
5. Stroll around some of Madrid's alternative neighbourhoods like Malasaña, Chueca or Lavapiés.
6. Go bargain hunting at the Rastro street market on Sunday mornings in La Latina.
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| The bustling Rastro Market |
8. Go see the vertical garden at the Caixa Forum (Paseo del Prado 48) and the impressive staircase inside.
9. Watch the sunset at the Templo de Debod, an Egyptian temple in the Parque de la Montaña, near Plaza España.
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| Templo de Debod- the best place to watch the sunset |
11. Have a coffee at either Café Comercial or Café Gijón, where many famous writers used to frequent.
12. Get away from the stress of the city centre by making a visit to Casa de Campo, an unspoilt wilderness on the edge of the city.
13. See the Goya frescoes at the Basilica de San Francisco el Grande.
14. Make a visit to La Latina on a Sunday afternoon and have a caña on the terrace in one of the many bars in the barrio.
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| Café life in La Latina |
16. Join in with the locals at the San Isidro celebrations in May. May 15 is San Isidro.
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| Celebrating San Isidro in traditional costume |
18. Wander around the Prado, taking in some of the world's most important pieces of art.
19. Go see a zarzuela performance.
20. Catch the changing of the guards ceremony on the first Wednesday of the month.
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| Huertas- a barrio of Madrid with great food and nightlife |
22. Buy sweets from Caramelos Paco in Calle Toledo, one of Madrid's best known shops.
23. Take the Teleferico (cable car) from Moncloa to Casa de Campo.
24. Check out the street artists on Calle Arenal on weekends.
25. Go see a film a the Cine Dore, a delightful old cinema which hasn't changed in years.
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| Cine Dore |
Monday, January 31, 2011
New Madrid tourist bus info now online!
The EMT has just launched its new website in English containing details of the new open-top sightseeing bus service in Madrid. It has information about routes, ticket prices and downloadable maps.
Click here to buy tickets for the Madrid tourist bus!
Click here to buy tickets for the Madrid tourist bus!
Friday, January 28, 2011
Open-top sightseeing buses return to Madrid
From next Monday 31st January, the open top tourist buses will be making a return to the streets of Madrid after being suspended for a month due to the withdrawal of MadridVision's licence. However for the moment it will be run by the EMT (the public tranpsort consortium for Madrid) until another operating company can be found to run it on a long term basis.
The relaunched service will run every day from 10am until 7pm at frequencies of every twenty minutes, and tourists have a choice of two routes: Historic Madrid and Modern Madrid. These routes will be the same as those of the old service. The point of departure for both routes is the Neptune Fountain on Plaza Cánovas del Castillo (opposite the Prado Museum on Paseo del Prado), although there are numerous stops around the city. New to this service is the addition of a team of multilingual stewards who will be on hand to help tourists out. Tickets costs 17.50€ for adults and 9€ for children between 6-16 years and over 65s, you can buy the tickets on the bus or to save hassle, you can buy them online here. For more details check the EMT website.
The relaunched service will run every day from 10am until 7pm at frequencies of every twenty minutes, and tourists have a choice of two routes: Historic Madrid and Modern Madrid. These routes will be the same as those of the old service. The point of departure for both routes is the Neptune Fountain on Plaza Cánovas del Castillo (opposite the Prado Museum on Paseo del Prado), although there are numerous stops around the city. New to this service is the addition of a team of multilingual stewards who will be on hand to help tourists out. Tickets costs 17.50€ for adults and 9€ for children between 6-16 years and over 65s, you can buy the tickets on the bus or to save hassle, you can buy them online here. For more details check the EMT website.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Madrid Card new prices for 2011
Unfortunately due to some changes early this year, the MadridVision sightseeing bus, due to changes in its management can no longer be included in the package- however you can buy an addon for it. Also no longer included is entry to the IMAX, Parque de Atracciones, Zoo-Aquarium, Teleferico and Faunia. This is because the new Madrid Card is now what used to be the cheaper 'Culture Card'.
Madrid Card 24 hours Adults € 39.00
Madrid Card 48 hours Adults € 49.00
Madrid Card 72 hours Adults € 59.00
Madrid Card 120 hours Adults € 69.00
Madrid Card Children (6-12) 24 hours € 20.00
Madrid Card Children (6-12) 48 hours € 28.00
Madrid Card Children (6-12) 72 hours € 34.00
Madrid Card Children (6-12) 120 hours € 42.00
Madrid Card + Public transport (zone A) Adults 1 day € 45.00
Madrid Card + Public transport (zone A) Adults 2 days € 59.00
Madrid Card + Public transport (zone A) Adults 3 days € 72.00
Madrid Card + Public transport (zone A) Adults 5 days € 88.00
Madrid Card + Public transport (Zone A) Children (6-12) 1 day € 23.00
Madrid Card + Public transport (Zone A) Children (6-12) 2 days € 33.00
Madrid Card + Public transport (Zone A) Children (6-12) 3 days € 40.50
Madrid Card + Public transport (Zone A) Children (6-12) 5 days € 51.50
Madrid Card + Public transport (Zone T) Adults 1 day € 51.00
Madrid Card + Public transport (Zone T) Adults 2 days € 69.00
Madrid Card + Public transport (Zone T) Adult 3 days € 84.00
Madrid Card + Public transport (Zone T) Adults 5 days € 105.00
Madrid Card + Public transport (Zone T) Children (6-12) 1 day € 26.00
Madrid Card + Public transport (Zone T) Children (6-12) 2 days € 38.00
Madrid Card + Public transport (Zone T) Children (6-12) 3 days € 46.50
Madrid Card + Public transport (Zone T) Children (6-12) 5 days € 60.00
Madrid Card + Tourist Bus Adults 24 hours € 59.00
Madrid Card + Tourist Bus Adults 48 hours € 73.00
Madrid Card + Tourist Bus Youth (6-16) and Senior (over 65) 24 hours € 48.00
Madrid Card + Tourist Bus Youth (6-16) and Senior (over 65) 48 hours € 61.00
Prices valid from Monday 17th October
Madrid Card
The card can be bought at all the tourist information points, a number of travel agencies, in T2 and T4 of Madrid airport as well as online. You can find out more about the benefits of the Madrid card by visiting the Madrid Card Website and if you purchase you card online, you will receive a 5% discount.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Monday, November 1 is a holiday in Spain and in Madrid
November 1 is All Saints Day in Spain and a holiday. November 9 is a holiday in Madrid, but not in the rest of Spain. December 6, 8 and 25; January 1 and 6 2011 are national holidays, as well.
We will have a complete holiday calendar for 2011 within the next week .
We will have a complete holiday calendar for 2011 within the next week .
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