Strolling through the capital of Spain in winter is a unique experience. Whether you like to feel the cold walking through its century old streets or if you'd rather enjoy museums and theatre, Madrid is a very good choice for this time of the year. The city offers activities and walks you will be passionate about, and places to visit where you can learn about the culture and history of this little piece of Europe. Today we highlight four places you can visit in Madrid this winter. And best of all, renting a car from Madrid will allow you to visit the whole country in a very short time.
El Retiro. This beautiful park is the most important and the one offering more activities. You can lose yourself among its wooded nooks and enjoy street shows as puppet theatres or independent musicians. In the centre of the park you will find a pond where you can rent a rowboat while contemplating the monument to Alfonso XII located on one of its banks. If you're lucky enough to see a snow-covered park, you'll love it. El Retiro is full of beautiful spots for couples in love and activities for the little ones. Buen Retiro Park is a place you can not miss when visiting Madrid.
La Puerta del Sol. Along with Plaza Mayor, this square is one of the most famous in Madrid. The main building of the square is "Casa de Correos" which houses the famous clock where since 1962 the bell is rung at end of each year. A very interesting fact is that in La Puerta del Sol you will find the "Kilometre Zero" the start point where all the radial roads of Spain begin. You can not leave Madrid without your picture on it!
Royal Palace (also called Palacio de Oriente).Its construction began in 1738. Centuries of history are hidden behind this palace. It is the official residence of the Spanish royal family and is now used for official events and receptions. So you can visit the inside with an entrance that costs around 10 euros and watch the Changing of the Guard (free) which is held every Wednesday at 11 am. You also can not leave without visiting its spectacular gardens dating from the Middle Ages. Walking through them will make you feel like a king.
Gran Vía. It is the most important and famous street in Madrid. Perfect for lovers of culture, it is filled with theatres, cinemas, restaurants and shops. There are many varied options offered in just one of the streets of Madrid, Gran Vía.
The magical corners of this beautiful city are in every neighborhood, square and corner. We have just discovered some of them... but there are many more. Come to Madrid and discover its full potential.