Madrid: discover the city in two days

Madrid has the advantage of being easy to visit on foot. For this first day in the Spanish capital, we suggest to explore the old town and its main monuments.

Teatro Real

The Puerta del Sol is one of Madrid's most important squares. Home to the famous "kilometre zero" and the emblematic statue of the Bear and the Tree, the symbol of Madrid, it is one of the busiest squares in the city centre. Followed by a maze of narrow streets and more important thoroughfares, such as Madrid's famous Gran Vía, and take time to stroll around and be inspired by the city's typical atmosphere before reaching the Teatro Real, one of Spain's largest opera houses.

Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena

Continue on to the majestic Royal Palace and its sumptuous "Jardines de Sabatini ". Although this is the official residence of the King of Spain, the royal family does not stay here. This imposing monument houses the ceremonial functions. You can take a guided tour of the interior of this impressive building in Madrid, although I'd recommend a visit to the Almudena Cathedral instead: after treading on the sacred ground of this Baroque-style temple in Madrid, take the Calle Mayor towards the Plaza de la Villa before strolling over to the Plaza Mayor to grab a bite to eat in one of the many tapas bars tucked into the square's arcades.

Take advantage of your position to enter the Hôtel Riu and enjoy an aperitif on its Rooftop, which offers a panoramic view of the capital. A unique experience! Head to one of Madrid's most famous tablaos (the venue for flamenco shows), the Tablao flamenco Las Tablas, to savour two symbols of Spanish gastronomy and culture: tapas and flamenco.

For this second day in the heart of Madrid, I propose a route that will take you to the modern part of the city, starting with Retiro Park. In addition to the historical interest of the Gate of Philip IV, one of the gates of the vast urban green space, the major feature of the site is the layout of the park. A veritable green lung for the city of Madrid, El Retiro Park is home to a pond and, on Sunday mornings, hosts a large number of stalls and street artists.

Once you've had your fill of authenticity, head to Sainz de Baranda metro station to take line 9 to Plaza de Castilla. From the stop overlooking the square, take a leisurely walk up to "Las Cuatro Torres", one of Madrid's most modern and futuristic areas. The Four Towers, inaugurated at the end of 2008, are located in theformer Real Madrid Sports City.

Take advantage of the many restaurants and bars nearby to treat yourself to a platter of Iberian Ham and cheese in one of the city's typical "Ham Museums", before continuing on to a must-see visit to Madrid: the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. You can explore the grounds and trophy room of Europe's greatest football club.

After your visit to the stadium, join the 150 bus route, which will take you back to the centre of Madrid in just over 30 minutes. Your weekend in the heart of Spain's capital is coming to an end, but it's sure to be a first, because Madrid is such a magnet for every traveller!