¡Bienvenidos a Madrid! If you’re a tourist eager to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the Spanish capital, Puerta del Sol is a must-visit destination that should be at the top of your list. This bustling square is not only the geographical center of Spain but also a hub of culture, history, and gastronomy.
Curiosities and Traditions
The Bear and the Strawberry Tree (El Oso y el Madroño): Start your journey at the iconic symbol of Madrid. Located in the center of the square, the statue of a bear nuzzling a strawberry tree is a popular meeting point and a great spot for memorable photos.
Kilometer Zero (Kilómetro Cero): Don’t forget to locate the small bronze plaque on the pavement marking Kilometer Zero. It’s not just a geographical reference; it’s the point from which all radial roads in Spain are measured.
Puerta del Sol Post Office (Real Casa de Correos): Visit the historical building that dominates the square. The Puerta del Sol Post Office, with its iconic clock, has played a role in various historical events and is a must-see for its architectural charm.
Tapas and bars
Cervecería Cervantes (Calle de Cervantes, 30): A cozy and traditional tapas bar, Cervecería Cervantes is known for its friendly atmosphere and a wide selection of tapas. Try the patatas bravas and enjoy a cold beer.
Taberna El Sur (Calle de la Bolsa, 12): This classic taberna offers an authentic Madrid experience. Sample a variety of tapas, from Spanish omelets to chorizo, in a setting that feels like a step back in time.
Txirimiri (Calle del Humilladero, 6): If you’re a fan of Basque cuisine, Txirimiri is a must-visit. This pintxos bar offers a delightful selection of small bites, each a burst of flavor and creativity.
Bodegas Ricla (Calle de la Cava Baja, 10): Nestled in the lively La Latina neighborhood, Bodegas Ricla is a historic wine bar with a rustic ambiance. Enjoy a glass of wine paired with their delicious assortment of tapas.
Typical spanish Restaurants
Botín (Calle de Cuchilleros, 17): As mentioned earlier, Botín is the world’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, dating back to 1725. Renowned for its succulent roasted meats, especially the cochinillo (roast suckling pig), dining at Botín is like stepping into a living piece of Madrid’s history.
Lhardy (Carrera de San Jerónimo, 8): Established in 1839, Lhardy is a historic restaurant known for its elegant atmosphere and traditional Spanish cuisine. Indulge in their cocido madrileño, a hearty Madrid-style stew, for a taste of the city’s culinary heritage.
Los Galayos (Plaza Mayor, 1): Located just a short walk from Puerta del Sol, Los Galayos is a family-run restaurant with a warm and welcoming ambiance. Their menu showcases a variety of Spanish dishes, and their terrace overlooks the iconic Plaza Mayor.
Casa Salvador (Calle de Barbieri, 12): A beloved spot among locals, Casa Salvador is a no-frills restaurant offering authentic Madrilenian cuisine. Try the callos a la madrileña (tripe Madrid-style) for a true taste of the region.
Chocolatería San Ginés: Treat yourself to a Spanish delight at Chocolatería San Ginés. This charming spot near Puerta del Sol has been serving decadent chocolate con churros since 1894.
Shopping, small Typical Shops
Casa Hernanz (Calles de Toledo, 18): Established in 1845, Casa Hernanz is a historic espadrille shop. Choose from a variety of handmade espadrilles, a traditional Spanish shoe, and experience a piece of Madrid’s craftsmanship.
Casa Diego (Puerta del Sol, 12): Casa Diego is a renowned shop specializing in traditional Spanish fans and accessories. Established in 1823, it offers a wide range of handcrafted fans, shawls, and other elegant accessories, making it a great spot to explore Madrid’s historical craftsmanship.
La Mallorquina (Calle Mayor, 2): Although not directly in Puerta del Sol, La Mallorquina is an iconic pastry shop located on the edge of the square. Founded in 1894, it’s famous for its delicious pastries and is a great place to enjoy a coffee and a sweet treat.
Guitarras Ramírez (Calle de la Paz, 8): For those interested in Spanish guitars, Guitarras Ramírez is a historic shop founded in 1882. It has a reputation for crafting high-quality guitars and is a testament to Spain’s rich musical heritage.
Madrid is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern flair, and Puerta del Sol is the heart of it all. Enjoy your time in this vibrant capital! ¡Buena visita!
If you are willing to discover Madrid by bycicle here is what you need to know about Madrid public bycicle offer.
How I get there, here you have the google maps link
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