Madrid might be the capital – and most populous – city of Spain, but as we discovered on a short weekend trip, it may also be one of the most relaxed. The Spaniards, for the most part, embrace a laid-back approach to enjoying life and so when in Spain, why not live like the locals?
From strolling through one of the capital’s 200-plus green spaces and soaking up the sun with sangria on a sun-basked roof terrace to trying traditional tapas hot spots and museum hopping, this is a city where you can lap up Spanish culture for days yet still leave wanting more.
If you're looking for a city break where you can fully immerse yourself in the local culture, without watching the clock magnetic Madrid has it all. We found a hotel right in the heart of the action so if you're new to the city you'll find it easy to get around and explore the delights on your doorstep...
Where to stay
If there’s one non-negotiable of a city break hotel, it’s a great location – and Ocean Drive Madrid couldn’t be in a more satisfactory spot. Situated in Plaza de Isabel in the city’s heart, you certainly don’t need to worry about hiring a car during your stay. With excellent transport links (the metro is opposite the hotel entrance) and the neighbourhood’s bustling bars, restaurants and shops in strolling distance, you don’t need to venture far to immerse yourself in the metropolis.
If trendy boutique hotels are your vibe, the bohemian interior at Ocean Drive was even more proof we’d hit hotel gold. Decorated with rustic rattan lighting, elegant architecture and a warming Mediterranean colour palette, it’s a real haven of calm. We checked into one of the hotel’s 72 rooms and then headed straight to the rooftop pool for a cocktail and a dip before sunset. With spectacular views across the Plaza, the city is even more of a delight from elevated heights.
A taste of Spain- the best places to eat
For those looking for a gastronomic triumph on their doorstep, Ocean Drive has its own trendy Mediterranean restaurant, Mar Mía. Defining itself as a ‘chic urban beach bar’, the kitchen offers tantalising tastes from both the sea and the land. We feasted on traditional grills, elevated tapas dishes and the famous Pinoso-style rice served in a piping hot paella dish, followed by traditional Basque cheesecake.
You can’t visit Madrid without eating out, and it’s a foodie’s playground. For an authentic Spanish experience, head to La Latina quarter, a 15-minute walk from the hotel, and you’ll find traditional tavernas and tapas bars brimming with locals on their lunch break. It’s busy and crowded for a reason – this is the place to be! Leave your British manners at home if you want to nab a spot at one of the counters and prepare to knock elbows with other hungry diners.
We picked up countless pintxos (small snacks on sticks) along the way because, well, one simply isn’t enough. The pintxo de txaka (crab mayonnaise on bread), patatas bravas, Spanish tortilla (omelette) and jamon croquettes were among some of our favourites. Remember, Madrid’s food scene is there to be savoured, so small bites at
a slow pace is how it’s done.
What to do in the city
Madrid is one of Europe’s most interesting cities, so you can create jam-packed itineraries if you so choose. Prepare to
pack your walking shoes as the city is best admired on foot and by doing so, you’ll find charmingly unique spots. We booked Devour’s Madrid Tapas & Wine Tour and spent an evening immersing ourselves in the local cuisine – it’s also a great way to meet like-minded folk if you’re a solo traveller.
Anyone in search of culture will find some of the best museums in the world, such as the Prado, the Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, and it’s worth booking a tour to visit the impressive Teatro Real opera house. The Almudena Cathedral is also a must-see for any first-time Madrid visitor, and entry is free. Walking around Madrid means stumbling across spots such as the awe-inspiring Royal Palace and many of the vast scenic spaces, such as the Sabatini Gardens, where you can stop to relax.
And, if a drink in the sunshine is more your cup of sangria, head to Plaza de Santa Ana for lunch – you can people-watch and catch some rays for hours.
Not to be missed on your visit…
The grand central square – the breathtaking Plaza Mayor – is found in Hapsburg Madrid, which is the oldest part of the city. Steeped in history, the district offers some unmissable pit stops. Satisfy a sweet tooth at Chocolatería San Ginés, the famous café founded in 1894 that serves warm sugary churros alongside a thick hot chocolate sauce for dunking. It’s only a short walk from the 100-year-old San Miguel Market, which is stuffed with more gourmet treats.
How to book
Rooms start from £215 per night at Ocean Drive Madrid including taxes and breakfast. For more information visit oceandrivemadrid.com or book here via travel booking sites such as booking.com and tripadvisor.co.uk.
