I am back in Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain. The last time I visited the city was in 2018, when I met up with a friend from Australia. This time, the temperatures were much cooler, and thankfully there was no summer heatwave. Nevertheless, Madrid was just as beautiful as I remembered. Driving into Madrid turned out to be much easier than I had expected. In fact, navigating the city by car was surprisingly manageable. Even better, the journey gave me the perfect excuse to stop in the beautiful historic and ancient city Toledo along the way. It was a wonderful detour and well worth the visit.
Read about my Madrid girls trip in 2028 here: Madrid was perfect for a girl’s getaway!
If you’re planning to visit Madrid, combining it with a stop in Toledo is a great way to experience two of Spain’s most impressive cities in one trip. Read more…
Ancient City Toledo
Toledo is a beautiful ancient city, perched on a hill above the plains of Castilla-La Mancha, just south of Madrid. In fact, Toledo was once the capital of Spain until King Philip II moved his court to Madrid in 1561.
The old town is wonderful to explore on foot, although I didn’t find it the most photogenic place. That said, from the stunning Toledo Cathedral to the many shops selling traditional swords, Toledo was once famous for sword making, and delicious mazapán (that’s mazapán, not “marzipan” in Spain!), the city is definitely worth a visit.
Given its hilltop position and the walls surrounding the old city, I think the best way to see the full beauty of Toledo is from the outside. There are several viewpoints along the tourist route. From there, you can admire the entire city and its dramatic surroundings.
You can also clearly see Toledo’s fascinating mix of cultures. Jewish, Muslim, and Christian influences have all shaped the city. As a result, its architecture is incredibly varied. What do you think?
I would love to return when the trees are green. Perhaps spring or early autumn would be the perfect time.
Let’s visit Madrid next!
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Driving into Madrid
Once I left Toledo, driving into Madrid turned out to be quite an adventure. Between the busy traffic and trying to find the car park near my hotel, I accidentally drove through a few restricted access areas. Let’s just hope there isn’t a ticket waiting for me in the post!
Fortunately, I had booked my parking online in advance. Three days of parking cost just €40, which was a great deal considering that most car parks charged around €32.50 per day.
Once the car was safely parked, I could finally relax and enjoy Madrid on foot.
Visit Madrid
I fell in love with Madrid the first time I visited. Although I am not usually a fan of big cities, Madrid is one of my favourite capital cities, alongside London and Paris.
If you plan to visit Madrid, you’ll find the perfect mix of modern architecture, historic neighbourhoods, and charming streets. It is a city made for walking, eating, and shopping.
If you’re looking for a little more culture, don’t miss the Royal Palace of Madrid. The rooms inside are unbelievably beautiful. What a way to live! Unfortunately, photography wasn’t allowed, so you’ll just have to see it for yourself. Definitely worth it!
I had time so I also went into the Art museum ‘Museo del Prado’. And although it has an impressive art collection, I think I am more of a ‘Michelangelo’ fan. Have you been to the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City?
I also had time to visit the Museo del Prado. Although it houses one of the world’s finest art collections, I discovered that I am probably more of a Michelangelo fan.
Have you ever visited the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City? For me, nothing quite compares to seeing Michelangelo’s masterpiece in person.
Walking in Madrid
I always do plenty of steps in big cities and hardly ever use public transport or take a taxi. Although, driving into Madrid was easy, I am always happy when I don’t have to drive in capital cities. So walking it is. A great way to visit Madrid and explore the unknown.
Because the days were still a little bit cold, especially in the morning, I tried to find and walk the streets where the sun came through the buildings. And warm up with a hot coffee along the way.
Until the final day, I struggled to find the perfect sunny spot. It only took some local friends to show me that all I had to do was head to the top of a building. Thanks, Pedro! In this case, it was the rooftop terrace of Círculo de Bellas Artes.
And so, my last afternoon was spent enjoying the sunshine, overlooking the city, and chatting with friends. It was the perfect way to end my trip and visit Madrid from a different perspective.
Until next time, Madrid. I know I’ll be back!
Make sure to visit Madrid as well… xx
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