I am so blessed to have spent four months living in the heart of Madrid, Spain. Madrid is a wonderful and versatile city. It retains a level of antiquity and tradition despite being one of the most sophisticated cities in Europe. Throughout my stay, I fell in love with various museums, neighborhoods, restaurants and shopping districts. For those of you studying abroad or vacationing, the following is my list of must-sees:

1. Retiro Park

Retiro Park, Madrid’s version of Central Park, I would deem one of my favorite places on earth. It’s serene and contains some great baroque architecture, such as the Crystal Palace. The large glass panels reflect the sky and surrounding little pond, collecting rainbow light in the interior. Modern art exhibits usually occupy the space, an added bonus.

If you pay four euro, you can row these little rowboats around the park's pond, listen to Spanish chatter and accordion players.

2. The Rooftop at the Círculo de Bellas Artes

Very expensive drinks are worth the panoramic view of the city.

3. El Rastro Market

Madrid's largest flea market is open every Sunday from 9AM -3PM in the neighborhood of Embajadores. Vendors sell a combination of new and used products and the tapas deals are prime.

4. Malasaña

Malasaña is a mecca for hipsters and millennials. This neighborhood is characterized by its trendy restaurants, bars and urban street art.

Restaurant Recommendations: Ochenta Grados, La Bicicleta and Ojalá

5. Plaza Mayor

The mere architectural aesthetic of Plaza Mayor gives insight into Madrid's cultural roots. During the Spanish Inquisition, bullfights, markets and executions were hosted in the Plaza. Today the space is utilized for outdoor dining and souvenir shopping.

6. Plaza de Cibeles

While the Cybele Palace's neoclassical exterior is worthy of a walk-by, the building also has a rooftop terrace and restaurant, as well as a small art gallery inside.

7. Casa Patas, Flamenco en Vivo

Your source for authentic Flamenco performances.

8. Calle Serrano

Calle Serrano is the main street of Madrid's fashion district. During Vogue's fashion night out, stores offer free drinks, snacks and discount cards.

Restaurant Recommendations: Platea, Lateral and La Maruca

9. Chocolatería San Ginés

Located on the periphery of Puerta del Sol, Chocolatería San Ginés is home to the world's best churros. For those of you who haven't yet been exposed, churros are sticks of fried dough that are typically dipped in a cup of hot chocolate.

10. Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol may be a tourist trap, but its an essential part of the Madrid experience. Sol is Madrid's busiest plaza and is home to a broad variety of establishments such as nightclubs, bars, department stores, and international restaurant chains (in case you crave a taste of America).

*All photos are original

Source(s):

http://www.aviewoncities.com/madrid/plazamayor.htm