A beautiful European capital city that is nowhere near the coast has been named the best place to visit this spring – and with beautiful parks and UNESCO world heritage sites, it’s hardly a surprise.
Madrid was named as the coolest place to visit over the next few months in a 20-strong list compiled by The Telegraph. The Spanish capital needs little introduction as the city sees around 10 million international visitors each year.
In the spring, Madrid’s gardens and parks come alive with a burst of colorful blooms and a far more comfortable heat compared to the summertime.
To soak up the true natural beauty of Madrid, visitors are recommended exploring Parque del Retiro which is the capital city’s most famous park. Alongside its fame, the park is also one of the largest in Madrid and covers 0.5 square miles.
Upon entering, you’ll be met with a conundrum of paths all waiting to be strolled on as you soak up the sights and smells of spring. The Palacio de Cristal is another must-visit attraction in Madrid and consists of a glass pavilion that sits prettily next to a small pond where ducks, turtles and other birds call home.
Of course, you can’t discuss top Madrid attractions in the springtime without mentioning Real Jardín Botánico – a botanical garden found near the Prado. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its immense beauty and scientific importance, this delightful garden looks like something right out of a postcard.
And for those culture creatures, the Semana Santa offers some exhilarating celebrations in Madrid and takes place the week leading up to Easter. In fact, the Semana Santa is one of the biggest celebrations of the year in Spain with a host of processions winding their way through the streets of Spain’s capital city.
These processions take place both day and night and include people adorned with traditional hoods and cloaks with religious figures being carried through the street.
Taking a break from the endless celebrations and picturesque spring nature, Madrid is also dubbed as being a foodie haven.
Madrid is home to a countless tapas restaurants and bars with the spring season being the best time to enjoy an array of mouth-watering dishes in the sunshine. Walking through Madrid’s city streets, you’ll be blown away at the sheer amount of bars and restaurants on offer here, with most of them offering outside terraces to soak up the amazing weather and stunning views.
A Madrid staple featured on many tapas menus is Patatas Bravas which is a dish made of crispy fried potatoes and a spicy tomato sauce.
One visitor from Bristol said of Parque del Retiro on TripAdvisor: “Visiting Retiro Park is the perfect way for one to spend a peaceful evening in Madrid, especially if you are looking to unwind from the busy city.
“There are various monuments dotted throughout the park which contain historical significance and are also architecturally pleasing. Retiro Park itself is so large that it is easy to lose yourself in a leisurely stroll.”
Another, from Los Angeles, chimed in: “Probably one of my favourite spots in Madrid to relax. Manicured lawns, various pathways, and trees galore provide prime spots to sit and watch the world go by. The park’s large lake is a focal point crowned with a monument of Alfonso XII looming over the water. There’s outdoor cafes scattered around where you can sit and sip a beverage.”