Plaza Mayor(Main Square)

Madrid, Spain: Madrid: A City of Energy and Elegance Madrid, the heart of Spain, is a city that pulses with life and captures the imagination of all who visit. A harmonious blend of regal history, vibrant culture, and modern sophistication, Madrid is more than just the country’s capital — it’s a destination where every street corner tells a story. The city’s historic landmarks are a testament to its grandeur. The Royal Palace, with its opulent halls and intricate gardens, offers a glimpse into Spain’s royal past. Nearby, the Plaza Mayor serves as a lively meeting point, with its cobblestone streets and grand arches echoing centuries of tradition. Art lovers are spoiled for choice in Madrid, home to the world-renowned Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, showcasing masterpieces from Goya to Picasso. Madrid’s culinary scene is equally compelling. The city boasts a thriving tapas culture where locals and visitors alike gather to share small plates and lively conversation. Markets like Mercado de San Miguel tempt with fresh seafood, cured meats, and fine Spanish wines, while hidden taverns serve the perfect churros con chocolate to savor during an evening stroll. As night falls, Madrid truly comes alive. The city’s nightlife is legendary, offering something for everyone. Traditional flamenco shows, buzzing rooftop bars, and clubs that keep the music going until dawn embody the city’s motto: Madrid nunca duerme (Madrid never sleeps). Yet, Madrid isn’t just about the action. The city has its serene side, too, with expansive green spaces like Retiro Park inviting leisurely picnics and peaceful boat rides. Madrid is a city of contrasts — historic and contemporary, vibrant and tranquil. It’s a place where passion, elegance, and warmth converge, leaving visitors with memories they’ll cherish long after they’ve left its sunny plazas.

Spend 4 days in Madrid exploring iconic sights like the Royal Palace, Gran Vía, and Plaza Mayor. Visit Mercado de San Miguel for gourmet tapas, and don’t miss El Tigre for generous portions with drinks. Grab €1 tacos at Takos al Pastor near Sol. Wander through Retiro Park and admire the Crystal Palace. Discover Prado Museum’s masterpieces and snap photos at Cibeles and the Metropolis building—Madrid’s stunning blend of history, flavor, and vibrant street life. #historicallandmarks #localguides #madrid #spain

Spain and Portugal Trip, Seven Days of Highlights! Experience the exotic atmosphere of the two countries and enjoy the blend of romance and history. Start your dream journey now! -- Spain and Portugal are located on the Iberian Peninsula, with a long history and unique regional styles. Spain is known as the country of bullfighting, while Portugal is known as the initiator of the Age of Exploration. 🏰🛶 Come to Spain and Portugal to experience the profound history and the vastness of the ocean! -- 🚩Suggested Route: In-depth tour of Spain and Portugal Day 1: Jerónimos Monastery -> 25 de Abril Bridge -> Monument to the Discoveries -> Belém Tower 📍In Lisbon, explore the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, stroll across the 25 de Abril Bridge, and feel the weight of history. Visit the Monument to the Discoveries, trace the maritime history of Portugal, and finally enjoy the sea view at the ancient Belém Tower. Day 2: Cabo da Roca -> Toledo Old Town -> Toledo Cathedral 📍Head to Cabo da Roca, the edge of Europe, and experience the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean. Afterwards, explore the ancient city of Toledo, immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere, and visit the magnificent Toledo Cathedral. Day 3: Plaza Mayor -> Royal Palace of Madrid -> Puerta del Sol -> Plaza de España -> Gran Vía 📍In Madrid, start your city tour from Plaza Mayor and visit the magnificent Royal Palace of Madrid. Afterwards, head to the bustling Puerta del Sol, then stroll to Plaza de España, and finally shop and relax along Gran Vía. Day 4: Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar -> Aljafería Palace 📍Experience the sacred atmosphere of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, and then explore the Aljafería Palace, full of Moorish architectural style. Day 5: City of Arts and Sciences -> Casa Milà -> Sagrada Família -> Valencia Cathedral 📍Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, then go to Casa Milà to admire Gaudí's architectural masterpiece. Then visit the unfinished Sagrada Família, and finally experience the solemnity of religion at Valencia Cathedral. Day 6: Alhambra 📍Spend the whole day exploring the magnificent Alhambra and experience the unique charm and rich history and culture of this red palace. Day 7: Plaza de España -> Seville Cathedral -> Alcázar of Seville -> Royal Alcázar of Seville 📍In Seville, revisit Plaza de España and experience its unique architectural style. Afterwards, visit the world-famous Seville Cathedral and the ancient Alcázar of Seville, followed by a visit to the magnificent Royal Alcázar of Seville. -- Must-see attractions: ✨Royal Palace of Madrid 5 stars✨ Address: C. de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid, España Opening hours: Jan 7-Mar 31 Mon-Sat 10:00-18:00; Sun 10:00-16:00 Duration: 1-2 hrs One of the best-preserved palaces in the world, where the traces of history are clearly visible. 🏰Casa Milà 5 stars🏰 Address: Pg. de Gràcia, 92, 08008 Barcelona, España Opening hours: Mar 4-Nov 1 09:00-20:30, 21:00-23:00 Duration: 1-2 hrs Wavy appearance, unique architectural style, every corner is full of artistic atmosphere, giving people unlimited imagination. 💒Sagrada Família 5 stars💒 Address: C/ de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona Opening hours: Mar 1-Mar 31 Mon-Fri 09:00-19:00; Sat 09:00-18:00; Sun 10:30-19:00 Duration: 2-3 hrs A landmark of Spain, the delicate carvings inside and the varied styles of the exterior complement each other, a close combination of art and faith. -- 🧳 Travel Checklist: 📞 Prepare your phone card for hassle-free internet access. 🔌 Travel adapter is essential for voltage conversion. 🪪 Passport and visa in hand for smoother immigration. 👕 The weather in March is still slightly cool, so pack light jackets and long pants. 🔋 Charger and power bank to keep your phone powered up. -- Spain and Portugal trip, experience the blend of passion and history. Don't miss this guide, let's embark on a wonderful adventure together!

Plaza Mayor is one of the most iconic and charming spots in Madrid. Located in the heart of the city, this historic square is surrounded by beautiful architecture, traditional Spanish restaurants, and lively street performances. The atmosphere is both vibrant and relaxing, making it a perfect place to sit at a café and enjoy people-watching. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning, the square never loses its appeal. During holidays and festivals, it transforms into a bustling hub full of decorations and cultural events.

It was a solo trip to Madrid, Spain 🇪🇸 I started Madrid adventure at the stunning Retiro Park, one of the city’s most iconic green spaces. With its wide avenues lined by trees 🌳 charming fountains ⛲️ and serene lake, it’s a photographer’s paradise. We especially enjoyed the Crystal Palace and the small rowing boats on the lake, perfect for capturing peaceful reflections. The light ✨ in the early morning is magical here, offering soft tones for the best pictures. A must-visit for anyone wanting a moment of tranquility in the heart of the city. 📍Plaza de la Independencia, 7, 28001 Madrid, Spain I then headed to historic Plaza Mayor, where I wandered through its grand arcades and admired the beautiful architecture. The square is vibrant and lively, with street performers and cafes ☕️ where you can sip on a café con leche while soaking in the atmosphere. We visited in the late afternoon, and the golden light cast a warm glow over the cobblestone streets ✨ It’s the perfect spot for both candid and posed shots. Don’t forget to snap a picture of the equestrian statue of Philip III at the center 📸 📍Plaza Mayor, 28012 Madrid, Spain I also explored the Palacio Real, the majestic home 🏠 of the Spanish royal family. The palace is incredibly photogenic, with its grand façade and sprawling gardens. The architectural detail is breathtaking, and visiting in the early morning ☀️ or later in the evening helped avoid the crowds while still getting the full grandeur of the site. It’s a must-see for any history or architecture lover. 📍Calle de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid, Spain I also walked around Madrid’s lively Gran Vía, the city’s equivalent of Broadway. The lights 💡 neon signs, and elegant buildings made for a perfect urban photography experience 🙌 I captured the vibrancy of the street and the dramatic architecture, especially around the Metropolis building. Gran Vía never sleeps, and visiting at night gives you a completely different feel of the city, which I would highly recommend to anyone seeking dynamic city shots. 📍Gran Vía, 28013 Madrid, Spain A visit to Mercado de San Miguel was a great way to dive into Madrid’s food culture while capturing the lively atmosphere. It’s a historic covered market where local vendors offer an array of delicious Spanish delicacies. I tried the jamón ibérico and took photos of the bustling food stalls and vibrant displays of fresh produce. The lighting ✨ inside is warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot for vibrant, detailed shots. It’s an experience not just for the taste buds, but for your camera too 📸 📍Plaza de San Miguel, s/n, 28005 Madrid, Spain Each spot offers its own unique charm and opportunities to take breathtaking pictures, from historic landmarks to vibrant street life. I would highly recommend starting early to avoid the crowds, especially for popular sites 🙌🙌🙌 #solotrip #Vacation #travel

The short holiday is coming, and here's your 8-day Spain travel guide! Experience exotic customs, explore the romantic capital, and start your dream journey! / Spain, located in southwestern Europe, has a long history and is the bassinet of ancient empires. 🏰 Its style varies greatly from south to north, offering a diverse range of experiences. 🌅 It's often called the pearl of Europe, radiating charm! 💃🕺 / 🛤️Itinerary: Day 1: Madrid Arrive in Madrid, enjoy the airport pickup service, and get ready to start your wonderful Spanish journey! Day 2: In-depth Madrid Tour Royal Palace of Madrid->Plaza Mayor->Puerta del Sol->Mercado de San Miguel->Prado Museum->El Retiro Park Visit Madrid's famous attractions, from palaces to museums, and experience the fusion of history and art. Day 3: Exploring Toledo Toledo Old Town->Toledo Cathedral Set foot in the ancient city of Toledo, listen to the echoes of history, and experience the atmosphere of the ancient cathedral. Day 4: First Impressions of Barcelona Gothic Quarter->Plaça de Catalunya->Barcelona Cathedral Delve into the heart of Barcelona and experience the city's unique charm and cultural heritage. Day 5: Barcelona Architecture Tour Sagrada Família->Casa Milà->Casa Batlló->Park Güell Admire Barcelona's modern architectural wonders and experience Gaudí's magical architectural world. Day 6: Exploring Girona Girona Cathedral->Ancient City Walls->Eiffel Bridge Step into Girona, feel the charm of this ancient city, and explore the traces of history. Day 7: Beach Time in Barcelona Barceloneta Beach Enjoy the sun and waves on Barcelona's beach and relax. Day 8: End of the Journey, Return Home End your wonderful Spanish journey and return home with cherished memories. 🌟 / Recommended Attractions: ✨ Royal Palace of Madrid: Don't miss one of the best-preserved palaces in the world, a close combination of history and elegance! 💒 Sagrada Família: A landmark building in Spain, with exquisite interior carvings and diverse exterior facades, it is breathtaking. 🏰 Casa Milà: The wave-shaped exterior and unique architectural style make you feel like you are in a fantasy world. Let your imagination run wild! / 🎒 Travel Essentials: Spain Travel Packing List 📞 Prepare a phone card to stay connected and share your travel moments anytime. 🔌 Bring a plug adapter that is compatible with Spanish power outlets for worry-free charging. 📜 Passport, visa, and flight tickets—don't forget important documents for a smoother trip. 👗 The weather in Spain in March is moderate. Bring a light jacket and comfortable shoes for easy sightseeing. 🔋 Prepare chargers and power banks to ensure your devices stay powered up. 💰 A small amount of cash plus a credit card makes shopping and dining more convenient, safe, and easy. / That's all for the Spain trip. I hope this guide is helpful. Have fun, and keep your love and spirit of exploration alive! 🎉

#celebrateit Before my arrival in Madrid, I read that many compared Madrid to Barcelona and found it boring/inferior. But that was not what I found. I enjoyed Madrid city landscape a whole lot. It has the similar sophisticated, classical styled architecture like that of Paris or London. Places not to miss for citywalk: 1) Plaza Mayor 2) Gran Via 3) Pl. de Colon 4) Royal Palace P/S: If you’re a fan for museum, I can never stop recommending archeological museum (Biblioteca Nacional de España)—kindly check out the next post.

7-Day Spain & Portugal Itinerary: The Best of Both Countries! Enjoy stunning scenery, culture, and cuisine as you explore two countries and experience a different side of Europe! -- 🌟 Itinerary Overview: Day 1: City of Arts and Sciences - Casa Milà - Sagrada Família - Valencia Cathedral Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, then explore the fantastical Casa Milà, admire the magnificent Sagrada Família, and finally experience the history of Valencia Cathedral. Day 2: Alhambra Spend the whole day exploring the Alhambra and marvel at the Moorish architecture and beautiful courtyards. Day 3: Plaza de España - Seville Cathedral - Alcazaba - Royal Alcázar of Seville Start at the spectacular Plaza de España, then visit Seville Cathedral, explore the ancient Alcazaba, and finally stroll through the Royal Alcázar of Seville. Day 4: Jerónimos Monastery - 25 de Abril Bridge - Padrão dos Descobrimentos - Belém Tower Experience the tranquility of Jerónimos Monastery, stroll across the 25 de Abril Bridge, admire the grandeur of the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, and finally visit the historic Belém Tower. Day 5: Cabo da Roca - Toledo - Toledo Cathedral Enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from Cabo da Roca, then explore the ancient streets of Toledo, and finally visit the majestic Toledo Cathedral. Day 6: Plaza Mayor - Royal Palace of Madrid - Puerta del Sol - Plaza de España - Gran Vía Start at the bustling Plaza Mayor, then visit the Royal Palace of Madrid, stroll through Puerta del Sol, return to Plaza de España to experience a different side of the city, and finally explore the vibrant Gran Vía. Day 7: Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar - Aljafería Palace Visit the historic Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, and before ending your trip, explore the unique Aljafería Palace. 🎉 -- 🧳 Travel Essentials: What to Bring on Your Spain & Portugal Trip! 📄 Passport, visa, and ID card: Don't forget your travel documents. 💳 Credit card and some cash: Make shopping and payments easier. 🔌 Plug adapter: No more charging worries. 📱 SIM card: Stay connected. 👗 Seasonal clothing: Comfortable shoes for exploring. 🧴 Sunscreen and moisturizer: Stay beautiful on the go. 💊 Medications: Health and safety are important. -- On your Spain & Portugal trip, every step is a scenic view, and every moment is worth cherishing. We look forward to your next adventure and discovering more unique beauty!

Let's explore Spain during the Qingming Festival holiday! This five-day itinerary will guide you through this charming country. It's packed with useful information, so save it now! -------- 📅Itinerary: Day 1: Lisbon Start your Spanish adventure in Lisbon, a city rich in history. Day 2: Toledo—Alcázar of Toledo Explore the ancient city of Toledo and experience its rich history. Then, visit the magnificent Alcázar of Toledo. Day 3: Plaza de España—Plaza Mayor—Royal Palace of Madrid—Puerta del Sol—Plaza de Santa Ana—Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar Visit several famous attractions in Madrid and experience the cultural charm and historical heritage of Spain. Day 4: Columbus Monument—La Rambla—Sagrada Família Commemorate the great explorer Columbus, stroll along La Rambla, and finally visit the breathtaking Sagrada Família. Day 5: Plaza del Ayuntamiento—Valencia Cathedral—City of Arts and Sciences Experience the solemnity of the Plaza del Ayuntamiento in Valencia, visit the Cathedral, and finally, explore the modern City of Arts and Sciences. Conclude your five-day wonderful journey and return home with cherished memories!🌟 -------- Pre-trip Essentials: 🧳 What to bring for your trip to Spain! 📞 Prepare a phone card to stay connected. 🔌 Don't forget a plug adapter; voltage compatibility is crucial. 🪪 Ensure your passport and visa are ready for hassle-free entry and exit. 👕 Spain in March has significant temperature differences between day and night, so pack both warm and light clothing. 🔋 Bring chargers and power banks to keep your phone and camera powered up. 💊 Essential medications are also important for health and safety. -------- Enjoy the exotic atmosphere of Spain, experience the passion of bullfighters and flamenco dancers, and don't forget to create lasting memories!

First Encounter, Exploring Madrid: A Journey of Modern and Historical Convergence After touring the city of Barcelona, Spain left a great impression on me, so this time I set my destination to Madrid, one of the travel hotspots in Western Europe. Located in the heart of Spain, unlike Barcelona which is near the coast, Madrid is surrounded by mountains, has a unique climate, and is full of historical sites. Upon landing, I found that the summer heat in Madrid was even more intense than I had imagined. Stepping outside, a wave of scorching heat hit me, and the sun overhead was relentless. From the airport, you can take the metro directly to the city center, where several transportation hubs make it easy to get around. Setting foot in Madrid, I felt its unique atmosphere. The city is vibrant, with a rich historical ambiance and a modern urban chic. Upon arriving in Madrid, I didn't rush to my accommodation but chose to stroll around the city center first. My first stop was the expansive Puerta del Sol, the heart of Madrid and one of Spain's symbols. As a transfer station and city center, the square was bustling with people, and street performers attracted many tourists. Most of the buildings here are old-fashioned, and standing in the middle of the square, it's easy to imagine the historical scene from hundreds of years ago. I initially planned to make a detailed itinerary before touring Madrid, but I found it very difficult—there are simply too many attractions that interest me in the city. Museums and historical sites are scattered all over. If you explore carefully, you can only see a small part of the city each day, and it would take at least three to five days to fully explore Madrid. So, I first selected a few highly-rated attractions, planning to come back next time to see the rest of Madrid. If you want to visit most of the city's attractions and fully experience the local customs, I recommend staying for more than five days. During my stay, I tasted Spanish ham, visited the bullring, toured many museums, and felt the warmth of the locals. This journey allowed me to experience the multifaceted charm of the city—it has a long history and the vitality of a modern metropolis. Whether in the luxury of the Royal Palace or the art galleries of the Prado Museum, I could feel the deep cultural heritage of the city. The grandeur of Las Ventas bullring and the bustling night scene of Madrid's main square also let me experience the ease and enthusiasm of Madrid's residents. This trip not only allowed me to see Madrid's classic attractions but also gave me a deep understanding of the city's soul. If I have the chance, I will definitely come back to continue exploring this city that is always full of surprises.

It was a trip to Madrid, Spain 🇪🇸 We started our day early at Templo de Debod, and it was one of the best decisions we made. This ancient Egyptian temple, gifted to Spain, is stunning at sunrise ✨ when the soft golden light reflects on the water surrounding it. The peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views of Madrid made this spot one of our favorite places for photos 📸 If you visit early, you’ll have the place almost to yourself, making it even more special 🙌 📍Calle de Ferraz, 1, 28008 Madrid, Spain We also made our way to Plaza Mayor, the heart of Madrid’s historic center. We arrived mid-morning ⛅️ just as the sunlight illuminated the red façades of the surrounding buildings. This is the perfect time to take photos 📸 before the crowds fill the square. The grand architecture, intricate balconies, and the iconic statue of King Philip III made for some fantastic shots 😍 📍Plaza Mayor, 28012 Madrid, Spain We also explored the Royal Palace of Madrid, a true architectural masterpiece. The best time to visit is mid-to-late afternoon when the lighting highlights the intricate details of the palace’s façade. Inside, the grand staircases, opulent chandeliers, and frescoed ceilings provided endless photography opportunities 📸 The Plaza de la Armería, just in front of the palace, also offers a stunning backdrop 💯 📍Calle de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid, Spain For golden hour 🕰️ we made our way to Parque del Retiro, one of Madrid’s most beautiful green spaces. The sunlight ✨ filtering through the trees created a dreamy atmosphere, perfect for photos 📸 The highlight of our visit was the Crystal Palace, a stunning glass structure that looked magical as the sun set behind it. We highly recommend visiting just before sunset for the best reflections on the water 🙌 📍Paseo de Cuba, 4, 28009 Madrid, Spain We also headed to Gran Vía, Madrid’s most famous street. The best viewpoint is from a rooftop terrace, where you can capture the city skyline bathed in golden light ✨ Watching the lights of the theaters and buildings come to life as night fell was an unforgettable experience. If you love cityscape photography, this is the place to be 📸 📍Gran Vía, 28013 Madrid, Spain This itinerary gave us some of the best photo opportunities in Madrid. We explored the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere, and we highly recommend these spots for anyone visiting 🙌🙌🙌 #europetrip #Vacation #travel

In winter, there is a place in Europe kissed by God, and that is Spain! The Mediterranean climate here means that even in winter, it is not bone-chillingly cold. The coastal geography gives southern Spain the characteristics of a warm winter, so just mentioning Madrid in Spain makes people yearn for it. Remember the lyrics: "Madrid is incredible"! How many young people have come to Madrid singing this song? As Christmas approaches, the beautiful Christmas tree in Plaza Mayor has long stood in the square, and the famous Cervantes street corner is a place to experience the "fun of gossip." It is said that Spaniards are full of idle fun and happiness, and I think it is probably thanks to this street corner. In fact, Plaza Mayor literally translates to "the largest square," and it was built in the 16th century. At that time, merchants built such a square next to the city wall, and as trade developed, it eventually became the city center. At this time, the Christmas atmosphere is strong, and the huge Christmas tree is particularly dazzling. In the sunshine, street performers here sing, play the piano, and attract tourists from all over the world. I seem to feel King Felipe III having fun with the people here, which is very interesting. The old town of Madrid is always full of fun and interesting stories. Climbing to the top floor to see the scenery is a great experience, with endless views. You can take a sightseeing convertible car around the city and feel the sunshine and bustling crowds in the old town square. In the afternoon, you can also find a nearby small theater to watch a classic Spanish dance drama and feel the charm of tap dancing. Of course, since you are here, you must try the so-called "Hermes" of ham. 5J ham is a legendary Spanish delicacy, 100% Iberian breed, fed on acorns, focusing on taste and nutrition, and the rich meat layers are really mouth-watering.