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Get Lost in Madrid: A Guide to its Unique Gems

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I visited Madrid, and these are all the places I loved and also others I'm looking forward to visiting when I go back. I hope it's useful to all the fellow travelers out there! 💃
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Museums

Here are all the museums I visited in my short time in Madrid and some I wish to visit someday. I also listed the days when they have free entry!

 
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It has free entry on Saturdays from 2:00 pm until 8:00pm and Sundays from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm
Museo Sorolla
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It has free entry on Saturdays starting at 2:00 pm and Sundays from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Museo del Romanticismo
 
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It's has free entry on Thursdays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm and Sundays from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Museo Cerralbo
 
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It has free entry Monday through Saturday from 6:00pm to 8:00 pm
Prado Museum Hours | 2023 Complete Guide
 
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It has free entry Monday through Saturday from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm and Sundays from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
 
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Free entry in Mondays from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza (Museo Nacional ... - Viator

Food

These are all the restaurants and food markets I visited, plus others I researched before going but wasn't able to try. They all have great reviews. It includes a mix of traditional cuisine options and alternatives for vegans, dessert lovers, and var...

 
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This place is situated in the center of Madrid and is a tribute to the rich Spanish culinary culture.
Mercado de San Miguel
 
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It's a Madrid classic since 1967 near Plaza Mayor
Mesón Rincón de la Cava
 
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Traditional, contemporary food. 
FISMULER, Madrid - Calle Sagasta 29, Trafalgar
 
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This restaurant offers an elegant dining experience and specializes in Cantabrian cuisine. It provides good quality food at a reasonable price.
LA MARUCA, Madrid - Menú, Precios y Restaurante Opiniones
 
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This stylish establishment is both a cocktail bar and a restaurant, offering a variety of traditional Spanish dishes and contemporary interpretations of tapas plates.
Restaurante Ten Con Ten
 
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Specializes in Spanish tortillas
La Redonda
 
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This Italian restaurant is upscale and boasts a heated courtyard. Their extensive menu features a variety of pasta, fish, and meat dishes. It comes highly recommended by Guía Repsol.
Numa Pompilio Restaurante
 
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This place provides a warm and fairytale-like atmosphere where guests can enjoy a variety of tapas, sangria, cocktails, teas, and desserts. Additionally, they serve brunch.
El Jardín Secreto
 
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This restaurant offers a trendy dining experience with innovative international cuisine and cocktails in a lively ambiance. By Dabiz Muñoz (⭐️⭐️⭐️ Michelin)
StreetXO
 
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French food and the best entrecote in Madrid to many.
L´Entrecote Café de Paris - Madrid
 
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100% homemade Asian food. Fair prices, great food, and service, according to reviews.
Shangrila Bar Dimsum
 
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This restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind atmosphere for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Its green bar serves healthy cuisine in an exceptional setting, situated inside a glass dome with a terrace area encircled by gardens and a pond.
La Cúpula de Los Peñotes
 
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Vibrant indoor market with grocery vendors, international food stalls & public events. Recommended places to try: Caracola and El Cunzato
Mercado Antón Martín
 
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This restaurant boasts a lively atmosphere and a unique Italian menu, featuring outdoor dining and a cool retro ambiance. Little brother to the famous Bel Mondo
Villa Capri
 
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Desserts: Natural pastry with cinnamon rolls, cheesecakes and cookies! ALL from scratch with natural ingredients.
Salt In Cake
 
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Mexiterranean food 🇲🇽🇪🇸 Madrigal, the celebrated international chef with a Michelin star, is leading a fresh range of flavors in his Mexican-inspired culinary vision.
La Unica Madrid
 
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This cozy eatery occupies a small but beautiful space and focuses on serving delicious plant-based meals, desserts, and organic beverages.
VEGA
 
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2nd best pizza in the world in2022! This charming and playful restaurant offers traditional Italian dishes, an extensive wine collection, and outdoor seating on a terrace.
Bel Mondo
 
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This late-night hotspot serves delicious Mexican cuisine, such as meat-filled tortillas, along with refreshing margaritas and beer.
Takos Al Pastor
 
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This cozy establishment serves up delicious homemade vegan burgers, hot dogs, and other comforting dishes, along with a selection of beer and wine.
Distrito Vegano Invernadero
 
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This is a must! This buzzy bar is styled like a market butcher shop and serves upscale tapas. It offers bench and counter seating for its customers.
SALA DE DESPIECE
 
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Looking for a cozy spot to enjoy some delicious traditional tapas? Look no further than this tavern! With brick walls and fresh seasonal ingredients, you won't be disappointed. Plus, you can sip wine or beer while savoring every bite.
Taberna & Media
 
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Experience the essence of the sea in the heart of the Spanish capital!☀️☀️ Soles Repsol
Estimar Madrid
 
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Enjoy elevated cuisine featuring seasonal ingredients at a chic location that has a cocktail bar. ⭐️ Michelin ☀️☀️ Soles Repsol
Saddle Madrid
 
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I had a great experience at this restaurant! The food was absolutely delicious, and the drinks were fun and unique.
El Jardín de Salvador Bachiller
 
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I must say, I am genuinely amazed by how delicious their food is! Their menu features a variety of tapas that are influenced by Basque cuisine.
perretxiCo Chamberí
 
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A great alternative if you're looking for yummy and healthy food
Magasand: Home

Experiences And Sightseeing

This is a list of all the interesting experiences and sightseeing places to visit. It includes a mix of architecture, art, historical places, shopping alternatives, and beautiful views.

 
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One of the most beautiful things about Madrid is the incredible views of the city. If you're looking for breathtaking views of Madrid, the cableway is the way to go! You won't be disappointed.
Madrid Teleférico (Teleférico de Madrid) Tours & Tickets
 
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Great for architecture lovers since it's a historical landmark and won the Architecture prize at the World's Fair Exhibition in Brussels in 1958
Pabellón de los Hexágonos
 
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A magnificent walk that descends from Las Vistillas (Plaza de la Morería) to the foot of the Viaduct.
Cuesta de los Ciegos
 
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Space located in the heart of Madrid where temporary exhibitions are held.
Palacio de las Alhajas
 
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Immersive experiences in Japanese culture, food, and lifestyle. 
Running Sushi
 
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Baroque 17th-century church with an elaborate interior, known for its murals & painted dome.
Iglesia de San Antonio de los Alemanes
 
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This bridge is gorgeous! It's near Matadero, where you can join various immersive and artistic experiences, and by Madrid Rio, where you can find fantastic stores and shops.
Puente Cáscara Matadero Madrid Rio | Simón García
 
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The Sabatini Gardens can be found in front of the north façade of the Royal Palace, situated between Calle de Bailén and Cuesta de San Vicente, on a terrace that offers a scenic view of Campo del Moro. These gardens are designed in a neoclassical sty...
Jardines de Sabatini | Turismo Madrid
 
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The Puerta de Alcalá is a Neoclassical gate located near the city center of Madrid and serves as the entrance to the Parque del Buen Retiro. It was once a part of the Walls of Philip IV.
Puerta de Alcalá | Explora Madrid
 
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The Temple of Debod is a historic Egyptian temple that was disassembled as part of the International Campaign to Save the Monuments of Nubia. It was then reconstructed in the heart of Madrid, Spain, specifically in Parque de la Montaña.
Templo de Debod
 
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The Cibeles Palace, formerly referred to as the Palacio de Comunicaciones and Palacio de Telecomunicaciones until 2011, stands as a remarkable sight with its two buildings sporting elegant white facades in a historic region of Madrid.
Palacio de Comunicaciones
 
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This street in central Madrid is iconic for its fantastic shopping, stunning rooftop terraces, and charming cafes.
Calle Gran Vía
 
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The Plaza Mayor, situated in the heart of Madrid, Spain's capital, stands out as a prominent public space that served as the bustling center of Old Madrid.
Plaza Mayor
 
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It is the largest royal palace in Western Europe. There is free entry from Monday to Thursday from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm for UE and Iberian American citizens.
Palacio Real de Madrid
 
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One of Madrid's most frequently visited open-air flea markets is held every Sunday and public holiday throughout the year. You can find it along Plaza de Cascorro and Ribera de Curtidores, between Calle Embajadores and the Ronda de Toledo.
El Rastro de Madrid
 
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There's a stunning cathedral located in the heart of Madrid. It's conveniently situated near the Royal Palace and the Debod temple, allowing you to explore all three attractions in a single day!
Catedral de la Almudena de Madrid
 
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From 18 March until 23 July
Madrid - Balloon Museum
 
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Take in the spectacular panoramic view of Madrid! This location offers an excellent vantage point to admire the entire city and its iconic landmarks.
Faro de Moncloa

Nightlife

I included a list of bar options to enjoy Madrid's unique nightlife and beautiful rooftop views.

 
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Secret cocktail bar set in a 17th century library.
Jack´s Library
 
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Gastrobar and Sky bar located on the 26th floor · Rooftop bar on the 27. Experience Madrid like never before at the stunning 360º Rooftop Bar. This elevated and multi-level venue offers panoramic views of the entire city from its stylish outdoor terr...
Hotel Riu Plaza España
 
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The Hyatt Centric Gran Via Madrid boasts a delightful rooftop cocktail bar that serves a range of delicious snacks, bowl food, and grilled dishes.
El Jardín de Diana
 
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One of the world's 50 best bars of 2023. This dark, retro-style bar offers a variety of exciting international dishes to enjoy with funky cocktails.
Salmon Guru
 
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Enjoy contemporary Spanish cuisine and innovative cocktails at a stylish rooftop venue with stunning views of the Gran Via promenade.
Picalagartos
 
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Enjoy signature and classic cocktails in an elegant street-level bar or a cozy vaulted cellar.
1862 Dry Bar
 
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Located in the bustling heart of Madrid, LE TAVERNIER rooftop is a delightful urban oasis with multiple spaces. Often referred to as the "secret port of Gran Vía," this rooftop draws inspiration from the various ports and taverns that sailors encount...
LE TAVERNIER
 
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If you're looking for a cozy and inviting bar in Madrid, Angelita Bar is definitely worth checking out. Located in the trendy heart of Madrid, this bar boasts a wide selection of wines and cocktails, as well as a delicious menu of small plates and ta...
Angelita Madrid
 
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Enjoy modern Spanish cuisine and a wide selection of wines in a relaxed and cozy atmosphere.
La Venencia
 
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GOTA is a wine bar that specializes in natural wines, good music, and shareable dishes.
GOTA
 
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On the ground floor of Amazónico, you can experience a unique blend of sensuality and first-class music. Live concerts are available every day of the week, providing a space to indulge in the nostalgic flavor of jazz and savor fantastic cocktails.
The Jungle Jazz Club
 
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This establishment combines a popular bar and an art-house movie theater located within the remains of a classic cinema. It hosts events and concerts as well.
SALA EQUIS
 
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Stop by this convivial spot with comfy couches, a curved bar, and a giant treble clef. It's the perfect place to sing along to your favorite tunes while enjoying drinks with friends. Don't miss out on this must-visit destination!
Toni 2 Piano Bar
 
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What a lovely rooftop! It's the perfect place to unwind with  a vermouth drink after a day of shopping on Gran Vía.
Ella Sky Bar Madrid

Quick Getaways

Here are some alternatives for quick getaways you can take if you're looking to escape from the city rush and enjoy the beautiful scenery and culture of Spain.

 
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Toledo is a historic city located on a hill overlooking the plains of Castilla-La Mancha in central Spain. The region's capital is famous for its old walled city, which boasts a variety of medieval Arab, Jewish, and Christian landmarks. Additionally,...
THE BEST Day Trips from Madrid to Toledo - TripAdvisor
 
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Segovia, located northwest of Madrid in the Castile and León region of central Spain, boasts a rich architectural heritage shaped by centuries of settlement. Visitors can admire the medieval walls, Romanesque churches, a former royal palace, and a Go...
THE BEST Day Trips from Madrid to Segovia - TripAdvisor
 
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Castile and Leon, an autonomous region of Spain, boasts eight World Heritage Sites and is renowned for its exceptional Red wines. The area is home to Spain's most respected DOs, including Ribera del Duero, Toro, Rueda, and Bierzo. Castile and Leon's ...
Ávila and Rueda wineries from Madrid Wine tour - Viator
 
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Avila is a city with a rich history. It is known for being the highest provincial capital in Spain, situated at an impressive 1132 meters (more than 3700 feet) above sea level. Additionally, Avila is famous for its stunning medieval city walls, some ...
Ávila: Excursiones y Tours desde Madrid - TourScanner
 
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Salamanca is located in the northwest of Spain and serves as the capital of the Salamanca province, which is a part of the Castile and León region. This city has a rich history dating back to the Celtic era, and it is recognized for its striking sand...
THE BEST Day Trips from Madrid to Salamanca - Tripadvisor
 
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Aranjuez is a charming town located south of Madrid, in central Spain, on the River Tagus. The city is home to the Royal Palace, which boasts stunning Renaissance architecture with a French influence. The Palace's interior is exquisitely decorated, i...
Madrid to Aranjuez - TripAdvisor
 
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The Parque Jardín Histórico at Monasterio de Piedra provides a fantastic tour of abundant nature. The landscape is breathtaking, with paths and trails intersecting with waterfalls, streams, lakes, and caves, all under the shade of centuries-old trees...
Monasterio de Piedra
 
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If you're in Spain, head to Brihuega in Guadalajara, Castile-La Mancha, to witness the renowned lavender fields. Spanning over 1,000 hectares, the fields offer a spectacular sensory experience in July. You can also enjoy sunset concerts held amidst t...
Brihuega

Parks

I am a vast nature-loves, so I included a list of the most beautiful parks in Madrid where you can enjoy the beautiful landscaping.

 
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El Retiro Park, which covers over 125 hectares and boasts over 15,000 trees, has recently been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vast green space serves as an oasis in the heart of the city and offers a variety of exciting monuments and g...
Parque del Retiro (Parque de El Retiro) Tours y Entradas
 
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The Real Jardín Botánico de Madrid is an expansive botanical garden spanning 8 hectares located in Madrid. Its entrance is accessible to the public at Plaza de Murillo, adjacent to the Prado Museum. The park boasts a collection of over 5,000 distinct...
Real Jardín Botánico
 
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El Capricho is widely regarded as one of the most stunning gardens in Madrid. The Duchess of Osuna, María Josefa Pimentel, designed it on her estate in Alameda de Osuna, which used to be located outside of Madrid. The garden combines formal and natur...
Jardín histórico de El Capricho
 
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These gardens have a long history, dating back to 1631 when the Duke of Frías sold a large parcel of land to Philip IV. The land was rich in orchards and benefited from a spring called the Fuente del Berro spring, which provided ample water for irrig...
Parque Quinta de la Fuente del Berro

Coffee Shops, Breakfast, And Brunch

Coffee shops are always a must! So here's a roundup of some coffee places you can try

 
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“Stereotype-free coffee atelier.”
Osom Coffee Atelier (Café De Especialidad Madrid)
 
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This relaxed establishment provides coffee, smoothies, light food options, and a weekend brunch.
Religion Speciality Coffee
 
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The best spot for churros and chocolate! Founded in 1894 & open 24 hours.
Chocolatería San Ginés
 
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Aesthetic coffee shop
Saint Marcos Coffee
 
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This bakery creates delicious and artfully crafted croissants, cookies, bread, and other baked goods. They have won awards for their exceptional croissants and bread.
PANEM
 
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This place is renowned for its delightful afternoon tea experience. It has a charming and elegant outdoor setting. In addition to a unique tapas menu, they offer an array of imaginative cocktails, mocktails, and wine.
El Jardín del Ritz
 
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The restaurant offers creatively crafted breakfast, brunch, and lunch options with global influences. Located in a trendy destination, they strive to provide a unique and exciting dining experience.
EatMyTrip Brunch & Cocktails Madrid
 
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Breakfast and brunch all-day concept restaurants. I visited the one in Barrio de las Letras.
La Rollerie
 
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They offer specialty roasted coffees, and artisan bread made using sourdough, organic flour, and a long fermentation process.
Novo Mundo

Where To Stay

I noted some of the websites where I looked for options. The rental we opted for was an Airbnb in Plaza Mayor, which was fantastic.

 
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I utilized Plum Guide to search for vacation rental options. What I appreciate about this platform is its curation of the finest vacation rentals, holiday homes, short-term rentals, and Airbnbs from over 25 websites. They go through a thorough home t...
Book a stay in one of the best homes in Madrid - Plum Guide
 
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This is where we found the beautiful place we stayed at. I also used this for searching options. There are a lot of fantastic alternatives available!
Madrid Vacation Rentals | House and Apartment ... - Airbnb
 
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Booking is an excellent option, allowing you to search for rental properties and hotels.
5760 hotels in Madrid, Spain.