This post is part of our Love Letter series: first-person accounts of what we love about Madrid. Long before I ever dreamed of living in Madrid, the Prado held a special place in my heart. Studying at university, it was the Spanish master Velazquez who opened my eyes to the possibilities of art. I still clearly remember […]
Madrid in March: Best Things to See & Do
With the post-holiday slump officially over and spring just around the corner, Madrid begins to take on new life. If you’re considering visiting Madrid in March, you’ve made an excellent choice. Temperatures are pleasantly warm compared to the winter months, but you’re still beating the oppressive heat common in summer. Plus, with so much to […]
Reina Sofia Museum Highlights: Beyond Guernica
Every year, nearly four million people visit Madrid’s Reina Sofia Museum. For many, it’s to see one painting: Picasso’s masterpiece Guernica, one of the greatest and most influential works of art anywhere in the world. But as Spain’s national museum for modern and contemporary art, and with a collection of over 21,700 works, it’s not […]
All About El Gordo: The Spanish Christmas Lottery Explained
With billions of euros handed out in prize money every year, the Spanish Christmas lottery is the biggest in the world. Walk through the center of Madrid—or any Spanish city or town—this time of year, and you’ll already start to see this beloved tradition come to life. Lines spill out of lottery booths and wind […]
All About the Roscón de Reyes in Spain
Step aside, gingerbread and candy canes—here in Spain, it’s all about roscón de Reyes. All throughout Spain in late December and early January, families sit down to enjoy extravagant holiday feasts that last for hours, with conversation lingering around the table long after the last bite has been taken. The food itself varies from family […]
9 Great Restaurants for Groups in Madrid
It’s no secret that Spanish culture places a big emphasis on getting together with the people who matter most. Usually, those gatherings are often based around some type of meal—a trend we can definitely get on board with. However, discovering great restaurants for groups in Madrid can be a bit challenging if you’re not in […]
How to Be a Good Tourist: Practicing Responsible Travel in Madrid
In the rush of preparing for an upcoming trip, we often overlook a small step that can significantly enhance our travel experience. That step? Embracing responsible travel. Engaging in responsible travel in Madrid—and any city that you visit—involves making choices that have a positive impact on the local community and contribute to preserving the city’s […]
A Love Letter to Usera
This post is part of our Love Letter series: first-person accounts of what we love about Madrid. Photo Credit: r2hox, Text Overlay: Devour Madrid Food Tours By my count, I’ve lived in six different neighborhoods of Madrid. Some more central, some further away, but each with their own character. This year, though, I made a […]
A Love Letter to Palos de la Frontera
When I first realized I was officially moving to Madrid, I was so excited to live in the center. I pictured myself surrounded by stunning historical architecture and the best bars and restaurants. What I quickly learned however, is that if you have any kind of budget, you don’t really get to choose where you […]
Top 8 Tapas Bars & Restaurants in Malasaña
Located just north of Gran Vía and Plaza de España, Malasaña is a buzzing hub of restaurants, shops, and culture that never seems to sleep. This makes Malasaña the perfect place for enjoying tapas, cocktails, dancing, and more! The omnipresent hip, youthful vibe in Madrid’s trendiest neighborhood makes it a favorite hangout among both locals […]
Our 10 Picks for the Best Restaurants in Madrid
Madrid may be on everyone’s radar for its world-class museums, beautiful green spaces and awe-inspiring architecture. But there’s one main reason why the Spanish capital has won us over: the food! Head to one of the best restaurants in Madrid to see exactly what we mean. Here in Madrid, there’s no shortage of places to […]
How To Make The Most Of Winter in Madrid
This blog post was originally posted on November 7, 2013 and was updated on October 25, 2018. Forget the mental image you may have of warm, summer days in Spain—it’s time to embrace the holiday spirit and winter festivities! Yes, you’ll need a winter coat, but no worries—temperatures here are quite mild compared to northern Europe, […]
New Year’s Eve in Madrid: Galas, Grapes, & Gambas
This blog post was originally posted on December 17, 2013 and was updated on January 4, 2023. If Madrid is the unofficial world capital of partying on any given night, just imagine what happens on New Year’s Eve. The last night of the year, known as nochevieja in Spanish, takes the Madrid nightlife scene we all know […]
A Love Letter to Markets
I have traveled to nearly 35 countries, and throughout them all one of my central goals has always been to try the most emblematic dishes of each place. Sure, I enjoy the occasional fancy and pretentious dish with expensive ingredients and elaborate plating. But when I think about the moments where I’ve felt my love […]
Where to Find Luggage Storage in Madrid
Traveling in Madrid, but not sure what to do with your bags? Not a problem! Spain’s capital is well prepared for visitors. No matter which part of town you’re exploring or which public transport hub you’re bound for, there are plenty of options for luggage storage in Madrid! Nobody wants to explore a new city […]
What to Do in Madrid on Christmas Day & New Year’s Day
Wondering what to do in Madrid on Christmas Day when seemingly everything is closed? What about New Year’s? Never fear—you’ve come to the right place! Just before the holidays, Madrid is a flurry of hustle and bustle as crowds make their way to the stores to finish their shopping beneath the twinkle of Christmas lights. […]
The Best Christmas Markets in Madrid: Plaza Mayor & Beyond
It’s the most wonderful time of the year here in Madrid! It goes without saying that Christmastime in Madrid brings an unforgettable sensation of holiday magic, and nowhere does that feel more present than at one of the many Christmas markets scattered throughout the city. Whether you’re looking for traditional goods, artisanal handcrafted gifts, or […]
Christmas in Madrid: Local Traditions & Things to Do
Roasted chestnut stands are popping up in plazas. Giant strings of lights are lighting up over busy streets. Supermarket aisles are glistening with the shiny gold wrappers of turrón… it can only be Christmas in Madrid! While Santa statues and flying reindeer can be spotted in many shop windows, the Christmas traditions in Madrid are uniquely […]
Spanish Food Markets: The Ultimate Survival Guide
We’re big advocates for living like a local through travel. In our opinion, there’s no better (or more delicious) way to do that than by visiting a neighborhood market. And luckily, there’s no shortage of fantastic Madrid food markets, Barcelona food markets, San Sebastian food markets, Seville food markets, Valencia food markets…the list goes on! […]
Nightlife in Madrid: Your Guide to Going Out
Spain is famous the world over for its nightlife and party culture. With trendy bars, happening nightclubs and so much more, Madrid is the place to be for the ultimate night on the town. And of course, it’s worth keeping in mind that nights go late here. Madrileños will often head out to the clubs around the same time […]