This piece by Author Lek Boonlert and Co-Author Lek Nittaya explores downtown Madrid's fantastic sights, a must for any Spain study abroad voyage.
Madrid is regarded as one of the world's most artistic cities, and one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Its lively atmosphere and huge range of attractions appeal to tourists of all ages, from the honeymooning newlyweds to the retiree travellers. It is the capital of the Spain, located in the centre of country, on the Castillian Plateau.
Learn Spanish in Madrid
Downtown Madrid is a wonderful place for tourists to explore, even after they have seen every site there is to see. Madrid is one of the best cities in Europe for its shows and events. Flamenco shows and musical concerts are held on a regular basis throughout the city centre. If opera is what tourists are looking for, then visit Madrid's Royal Theatre and the Zarzuela Theatre, which both host plenty of performances throughout the year.
Sport is a major part of the Madrid culture, and visitors can find plenty of sports spectacles to enjoy. Firstly, football is the most important sport in the city, which is part and parcel of Spanish culture. One of the world's largest football team, Real Madrid, plays games out of the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Tickets usually sell out quickly, so get in early. In addition to Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Getafe are other important soccer teams in the city. Football is sometimes overshadowed by the bull fighting season, which is held in May. Tickets also go quickly, so those interested, get in early.
Festivals in Madrid's centre occur several times a year. The biggest event held on the streets of downtown Madrid is the city's Gay Pride Parade. Millions of travellers and locals flock to the city's streets to enjoy the festivities. It is held in final week of June and first week of July. Another popular festival would have to be the sheep driving parade through the streets, called La Transhumancia. Come and see livestock walk the middle of Madrid. Don't worry, no cars are on the road during this event.
Yes, we have got to it...shopping! Shopaholics will be thrilled with the array of shopping districts just within the central region of Madrid. Markets, department stores and shopping districts are available in the heart of the city. The Sol-Salamanca districts are extremely popular for high-end shops and designer labels. In addition, the El Cortes Ingles is the most popular department store in the city. It has several chains in the heart of Spain's capital.
Dining might not seem like an interesting activity for some. However, there are so many fascinating dishes to try when holidaying in the centre of Madrid. Some of the must haves include Sopa de Ajo (type of garlic soup), Gallinejas (lamb stew) and Callos a la Madrilena (beef tripe). If heading out to dinner or lunch, remember that locals in Madrid usually eat much later than other parts of the world. Lunch is generally at 14:00 or 15:00 and dinner is eaten at around 21:00.
While in Madrid, it is madness not to learn a bit of the language or some of the cooking. There are various culinary schools and courses found throughout the city, especially in some of the restaurants of central Madrid. Universities and language schools boast excellent Spanish courses for foreigners.
Lek Boonlert is an editor and content reviewer at DirectRooms and is responsible for all Madrid City Centre Hotels content.
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