Going Places: Madrid Travel Guide (With Kids)

Every summer we like to explore new places that expand our awareness and provide a different experience for us as a family. This year, we chose to wrap up our euro trip in Madrid. Madrid is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, lively atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and an array of child-friendly attractions and activities that will keep your little ones entertained and engaged. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums, indulging in local cuisine, or experiencing the city’s lively nightlife, Madrid has something for everyone. Here’s a travel guide that will make the most of your visit.

p.s. While I don’t usually believe metropolitan cities make a great vacation spot for kids, Madrid is a kid-friendly city & its people are very accommodating, understanding & welcoming to family travel.

 
Where We Stayed
Rosewood Villa Magna Hotel: Situated steps from prestigious Calle Serrano, the hotel welcomes guests to luxurious comfort and thoughtful hospitality evoking a stay in a gracious family home. This urban oasis has been recognized as one of the best new hotels in the world due to its thoughtful and impeccable service & great dining options—Amos, Las Brasas, Tarde O, Flor de Nata & Aqui Me Quedo.
 

Where We Ate
Mercado de San Miguel: One of Madrid’s most popular food markets and a must-visit destination for foodies. Known for its wide selection of Spanish delicacies, an array of stalls and vendors offering tapas, seafood, pastries, produce, wine and more. A popular tourist spot and open all day.

Mercado de La Paz: is another popular food market located in the upscale Salamanca neighhborhood. Offers a more local and traditional market experience compared to the mercado de San Miguel and my personal favorite. Must try the tortilla Española at Casa Dani and the Boquerones (in vinegar).

Ultramarinos Quintin: Hands down my favorite restaurant in Madrid. Located in the heart of the Barrio de Salamanca, Quintin is an evolution of the traditional grocery store for those who appreciate good food in the best company. The food is delicious, vibe is great, service is excellent & the location is great. Order the artichoke with egg and ham shavings, more mushroom pizza, and the sardines. Highly recommend!

Amazonico Restaurante: Located in Madrid’s trendy Salamanca neighborhood, is the creation of Brazilian chef Sandro Silva. Think upscale Rainforest Café with Latin American and Asian fusion cuisine. A good scene and great spot for after-dinner drinks.  

Sala de Despecie: The future of tapas aka small experimental plates in rotation. Food is innovative and delicious, think space-age butcher shop. Crowd is fun and posh & service is fast & flamoboyant. Hard to get in, make sure to make a reservation.

El Pescador: Pioneer of the idea of serving fish so fresh that it didn’t need a sauce. Modern restaurant serving minimally-treated fish and shellfish, served so fresh it doesn’t even need a sauce, typically caught that morning. Shareable seafood platters and perfect for a big group.

Ten Con Ten: Vibrant, cosmopolitan and fun. A before and after in Madrid. A classic and always in style. Very convenient, walk-ins welcome. Food is great, vibe is fun, and sceny. Order the salmon tartare with caviar & the anchovies with dried tomatoes and avocado.

Others I didn’t get to try, but are on the list for my next trip:

Sacha
Filandon
El Paraguas
Kappo
99 Sushi bar
Charrua
San Gines—Treat yourself to churros and hot chocolate.
Aarde
Raw Coco
Mudar—plant-based cuisine.

 

What We Did:
Balloon Museum: We visited this incredible exhibition known as the first inflatable art museum. Equally fun for kids and adults. An excellent activity for the entire family.

*this is traveling exhibit so make sure its location prior to your visit.

Prado Museum: One of the most important museums in the world, housing an exceptional collection of European art, including works by Goya, Velazquez, and El Greco.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: Located near the Prado, this museum offers an impressive collection of art from various periods, spanning from medieval to modern.

Royal Palace (Palacio Real): A stunning palace that serves as the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family and is open to the public for tours.

Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro): A vast and beautiful park where you can take a leisurely stroll, rent a rowboat on the lake, or simply relax amid nature.

Santiago Bernabeu Stadium: If you’re a soccer fan, don’t miss the chance to visit the legendary home of Real Madrid football club.

 

Shopping:
La Marca Well: Great curation of wellness products, activewear & thoughtful gifts. Plus, their plant-based café is an excellent spot to grab a matcha in Madrid.

Walk around Salamanca neighborhood & Calle Serrano—If you’re looking for luxury shopping, this is your spot. Think Rodeo Drive meets Design District surrounded by beautiful architecture and cooling trees. All major LVMH brands have their flagship stores here, you can’t miss their 4-story Loewe store.

Galerias Canalejas: A unique department store inside on of the most iconic historical buildings in Madrid. An enjoyable luxury multi-brand shopping experience paired with excellent dining options.

Salamanca District: Located in the heart of Madrid, the Salamanca neighborhood is famous for its luxury shopping. Calle Serrano and Calle Velazquez are the main streets lines with high-end designer boutiques and upscale stores.

 
Workout:
Tracy Anderson Method
Barquillo Hot Yoga
Asana Groove
 

Hope my guide is helpful during your time in Madrid, and I’m sure you’ll have an incredible experience exploring this dynamic and vibrant city! Xo Gigi