CPhI can really take it out of you, but save some energy and save some time with our whistlestop tour of places to eat, drink and unwind in Madrid
To help you get the most of any spare time you do have, we’ve handpicked five of the essential things to do in the city.
1 – Gran Via
Image: Matej Kastelic
Meaning ‘great way’, the Gran Via is a major shopping street in the centre of Madrid. It’s also a great way to pack several sights into one attraction, as it’s home to several notable buildings including the Metropolis Building, the Edificio Grassy and the Telefonica Building – Europe’s first skyscraper.
2 – Plaza Mayor
Marques
Another central attraction, the Plaza Mayor is a great place to stop for a coffee or try some tapas. And you’ll be sitting in the middle of some of Spain’s most important history, having been home to markets, bullfights, football matches, and even public executions.
3 – Flamenco!
Image: ChiccoDodiFC
For a great night out, head to one of Madrid’s many flamenco restaurants. This traditional dancing is loud, lively and colourful, and should revive you after a day in the halls.
4 – Tapas
Image: tradville
When you’re travelling in a large group it can be hard to please everyone when it comes to choosing somewhere to eat. That’s why tapas is perfect, and where better to try it than Madrid? Small portions, big variety and lots of flavour. Ten minutes by taxi after the show will take you to La Castela, where you get a free dish with every drink
5 – Temple of Debod
Image: NaughtyNut
You don’t have to be a history fan to find this impressive. An ancient Egyptian temple in the middle of one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan cities, the temple was once situated in Aswan, near the river Nile. However, due to the construction of a nearby dam, Egypt gifted the temple to Spain in 1960.