Madrid Vacations

When planning your vacation to Madrid, try to visit in May or October. Temperatures during both months average around 61 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a nice contrast to the hotter months of July and August. For those planning a trip regardless of the temperature, the month of July sees the beginning of Veranos de la Vino. A live arts and music festival, Vernaos de la Vino sees several big name musicians perform in front of huge crowds, along with a number of open air flamenco shows for those looking for a bit of local artistry. August is the quietest month in Madrid since most residents go on vacation during this time. Be sure to make your reservations on Orbitz.com for your upcoming Madrid getaway.

San Fernando Royal Academy of Fine Arts Museum

Located in the center of Madrid, the San Fernando Royal Academy of Fine Arts Museums is home to 13 paintings by Goya. Less popular than other museums in the area, the Fine Arts Museum was founded in the mid-18th century.

Barrio de Los Austrias

This street features buildings and architecture from the 16th and 17th centuries. Its Gothic-style look houses a number of local cafes and restaurants.

Descalzas Reales Monastery

Hidden next to a department store, the Descalzas Reales Monastery is an interesting art gallery and museum filled with 16th century paintings and artifacts from the Hapsburg family.

Bodega La Ardosa

This 100-year old building features a red façade and a beautiful smoked glass sign that houses a great spot for delicious tapas.

Gaudeamus Café

This café features a hidden entrance leading to a rooftop seating area that overlooks Madrid.

Reina Sofia National Art Museum

A continuation of the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofia showcases art from the late 19th century to today. It also houses a library and hosts a number of conferences and performances.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

With over 1,000 works of art dating back seven centuries, the third leg of the art walk is a great place to see pieces dating as far back as the early Italian school.

The Royal Palace

Home to the Kings of Spain from Carlos III to Alfonso XIII, this well-fortified palace now offers a number of guided tours detailing the building's architecture and the history of the royal family.

Bernabeu Stadium

Home to Real Madrid FC, this soccer stadium is one of the most exciting places to catch a match in the world. The stadium also offers tours of the facility.

Botin

The oldest restaurant in the world is located in the middle of Madrid. Opened in 1725, Botin offers food cooked on a wood-burning oven, along with a number of interesting appetizers and drinks.

Madrid Rio Park

Running parallel to the Manzanares River, Madrid Rio Park is a 649-hectacre area boasting fantastic views of the city.

Plaza Mayor

Located in the old part of Madrid, Plaza Mayor is a throwback to the era of the Hapsburg Empire. Filled with old-world architecture, this is a great spot for history buffs.

Rastro Flea Market

Think local at the Rastro Flea Market. Taking place every Sunday in Plaza de Cascorro, this market is a great place to buy local art and goods.

Salamanca District

With its wide range of modern shops and delicious cafes, the Salamanca District offers some of Madrid's best stores.

Las Salesas District

Another great shopping area, Salesas Reales has been a place for unique shops and art galleries since the 1970's.

The capital of Spain is one of those cities that can appease most types of travelers— whether they’re interested the arts and architecture, culture, fashion, history, music and nightlife, sports, a robust culinary scene, family-friendly activities, luxury or bargains during their Madrid vacation—which accounts for why it’s the fourth most visited city in Europe. Walking is the best way to explore Madrid, but the subway tourist pass available at the airport is a must for getting around quickly, easily and affordably. Many of the city’s neighborhoods (barrios) are centered around squares, which themselves are centered around street-performer friendly Plaza de la Puerta del Sol and the nearby historic Plaza Mayor, where every thing from bullfights to Inquisition trials once took place. First stop for classic and modern art lovers alike is the Golden Triangle of Art, with the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums. Just remember that they’re closed on Mondays. View Goya frescos from 1798 on the walls of the San Antonio de Florida church, watch the changing of the guard at the royal palace, then stroll through the expansive Park de Retiro. El Corte Ingles is Spain’s big department store, but shoppers looking for upscale or trendy boutiques should head to the Salamanca neighborhood. Most days, however, should revolve around indulging in Madrid’s marvelous food scene. Spend your day nibbling at the city’s marvelous food markets and tapas bars—Calle de la Cava Baja is lined with them—while sipping sherry or rioja, and you’ll soon understand why Madrileños are famous for their late-night dinners, often starting after 10 p.m. Who would be hungry before then? Head to Huertas to play—the barrio teams with bars, nightclubs, jazz and flamenco venues. Party until nearly dawn, then grab chocolate con churros at the famous Chocolatería de San Ginés (open until 7 a.m.), get some sleep and start all over again.

AOL Travel’s Madrid Guide

AOL Travel's Best Madrid Hotels