Madrid was a surprise. Initially it was just to be a few hour layover en route to Morocco, but we decided to change our plans and make it a 5 day stopover. We are so glad we did. Madrid is a world class vibrant city, full of museums, art galleries, restaurants & cafes, musicals, palaces, parks and history sights. An extremely efficient Metro system allows for smooth navigation throughout the metropolis.
Plaza Mayor is a large public square full of history. It was the location of torture and executions during the Spanish Inquisition.
The Bullfighters Bar in Plaza Mayor has mounted bull heads and gory pictures of matadors losing.
Churros and dipping chocolate at Valor
El Retiro Park is a large city park that used to be the President’s garden. (See more pics below.)
Crystal Palace in the park displays art exhibits. Currently empty though.
Sangria! Flamenco dance show was awesome.
We generally take a Hop On Hop Off bus during our first few days in a new city. It gives us a good overview and allows us to add and subtract items from our sightseeing list.
We drank sherry at La Venencia, where Hemingway drank.
Puerta del Sol Plaza a famous plaza.
Temple of Debod, a gift from Egypt. Relaxing with morning coffee
There is so much to do in Madrid! The Rastro on Sunday, Europe’s largest flea market is huge and a worthwhile visit. We want to return and take a private tour of the Royal Palace and the Prado Museum. Also, many musicals are playing, Chicago, Mama Mia and Lion King, all in Spanish. We can’t wait to come back and see some of them. We also want to go to the zoo, and Casa BotÃn, the world’s oldest restaurant for suckling pig- need reservations way in advance.
Randy and Robin's Roving Retirement 