1. Plaza Mayor – Historic square with classic architecture and lively street scenes, ideal for day and evening shots.
2. Palacio Real (Royal Palace) & Sabatini Gardens – Grand palace exterior with beautifully landscaped gardens and views over the city.
3. Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro) – Expansive park with lakes, sculptures, and the stunning Crystal Palace.
4. Puerta del Sol – Bustling city center with famous landmarks and vibrant urban energy.
5. Gran Vía – Madrid’s main shopping street, excellent for capturing dynamic city life and historic buildings.
6. Templo de Debod – Ancient Egyptian temple with striking views over Madrid, especially beautiful at sunset.
7. Plaza de Cibeles – Iconic fountain and surrounding architecture, great for both daytime and night photography.
8. Circulo de Bellas Artes Rooftop – Panoramic city views with the Gran Vía and historic skyline in the foreground.
9. Mercado de San Miguel – Vibrant food market with colorful stalls and lively atmosphere.
10. Almudena Cathedral – Impressive cathedral with elegant exterior and detailed interiors, often beautifully lit at night.

• Sol & Gran Vía – The bustling city center with iconic landmarks like Puerta del Sol and Gran Vía’s theaters and shops. It’s ideal for sightseeing, shopping, and soaking up Madrid’s energetic vibe.
• La Latina – Famous for its tapas bars, narrow streets, and lively plazas like Plaza Mayor. It’s the perfect neighborhood for food lovers and enjoying Madrid’s vibrant nightlife.
• Malasaña – A hip, alternative district known for street art, vintage shops, and trendy cafes. It offers a youthful, creative atmosphere with plenty of live music and bars.
• Chueca – Known as Madrid’s LGBTQ+ hub, Chueca is vibrant, inclusive, and filled with stylish boutiques and buzzing nightlife. It’s great for cultural diversity and modern dining experiences.
• Salamanca – An upscale neighborhood with luxury shopping, elegant architecture, and high-end restaurants. Perfect for a more refined, sophisticated side of Madrid.
• Retiro & Barrio de las Letras – Home to the beautiful Retiro Park and the literary quarter with charming streets and cafes. Ideal for relaxing walks, museums, and cultural exploration.
• Lavapiés – A multicultural neighborhood known for diverse food options, cultural festivals, and a bohemian vibe. It’s great for adventurous eaters and those seeking a dynamic urban experience.

City Specialties (Madrid-Specific)

• Bocadillo de Calamares — A Madrid classic: a sandwich filled with deep-fried squid rings, best enjoyed near Plaza Mayor with a cold drink.
• Cocido Madrileño — A hearty chickpea-based stew with meats, sausage, and vegetables, traditionally served in multiple courses — Madrid’s ultimate comfort food.
• Callos a la Madrileña — A rich, spicy tripe stew with chorizo and blood sausage — a bold and historic local dish.
• Rosquillas de San Isidro — Small, sweet anise-flavored donuts popular during Madrid’s annual San Isidro festival.

Regional Specialties (Community of Madrid)

• Oreja a la Plancha — Grilled pig’s ear, seasoned with garlic and parsley — a popular bar snack in Madrid and central Spain.
• Sopa Castellana — Garlic soup made with paprika, bread, and poached eggs — rustic and warming, especially in winter.
• Torrijas — A Spanish-style French toast soaked in milk, sugar, and cinnamon, traditionally eaten during Easter but found year-round in Madrid.

National Specialties (Wider Spanish Cuisine)

• Jamón Ibérico — Premium cured ham from acorn-fed Iberian pigs, widely available in Madrid's markets, tapas bars, and restaurants.
• Tortilla Española — Classic Spanish omelet made with potatoes and eggs, sometimes with onions — a must-try in nearly every tapas bar.
• Paella — Though originally from Valencia, paella (especially seafood or mixed versions) is commonly served in Madrid for visitors and locals alike.
• Sangria — A festive punch made with red wine, fruit, and brandy — frequently ordered by travelers enjoying Madrid’s lively terraces.