Earlier this month, Miro and I escaped to Madrid — a spontaneous 72-hour trip that reminded us why some cities never lose their magic. The last time I visited Madrid was almost fourteen years ago. It left a quiet but lasting impression on me then, but I’ve always believed that certain places deserve to be revisited — not just to see more of them, but to meet them again as a different version of yourself.

So last year, Miro and I decided to experience Madrid together for the first time. It was the kind of trip that lingers long after you return home, and we knew we had to go back. This time, the city felt even warmer, more intimate, more like somewhere you could build a life.

What I adore most about Madrid is its effortless balance: it’s elegant yet grounded, historic yet alive. The architecture is quietly grand, the people well-dressed, the art scene world-class, and the way locals live — slow, family-centred, deeply communal — is something I find increasingly rare in big cities.

If you’re planning a visit, here’s how to experience Madrid — from where to stay and eat to how to feel like a local, even if it’s just for a weekend.

Stay Here!
Canopy By Hilton Madrid Castellana
Effortlessly stylish with Hoxton-inspired charm — sleek interiors, warm service, and a rooftop that rivals the city’s best. Book a higher-floor room for sunset views over Madrid’s skyline. The gym overlooks the city, the pool is tranquil, and the rooftop bar is a must-visit for golden-hour drinks. Situated in the financial district, but unlike most, it’s lively with cafés, restaurants, and authentic Madrid energy.

Eat Here!
Breakfast — Caferama
Trendy, relaxed, and effortlessly stylish. Excellent coffee, straightforward dishes, and a welcoming, local atmosphere that makes mornings in Madrid feel dreamy.

Alt Breakfast — Nómade Café or Brunchit Las Letras
Both serve excellent coffee and vibrant brunch menus in creative, design-led spaces — ideal for slow, sunlit mornings.

Lunch — Kitchen 154, Mercado de Vallehermoso
Vietnamese-inspired street food bursting with flavour. Lively market setting, bold dishes, and great people-watching. Explore neighbouring stalls like Graciana (empanadas) or Tripea (fusion).

Dinner — Mawey Taco Bar Olid
Modern, buzzing, and delicious. Order the slow-cooked beef rib taco with morita chilli BBQ sauce — a must.

Alt Dinner — Pink’s!!
Casual but seriously good burgers. Think juicy patties, toasted buns, and that post-city-stroll satisfaction.

Don’t Eat Here!
Craft 19, Mercado de Vallehermoso
Easily the worst burger I’ve ever had — dry bun, overcooked meat, and a strange cheese–pickle–mayo mix that should be illegal. Miro powered through and was sick later. Enough said.

Eat My Trip, Malasaña
Do not believe the hype. The “French toast” was a single slice of white bread with granola sprinkled on top, and the orange juice wasn’t even fresh. A hard pass!

Araldo, Calle de los Madrazo
Overpriced, joyless, and utterly forgettable. Mediocre pizza, dreadful tiramisu, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you wish you’d stayed in.

Bakery & Coffee Here!
Must Try  — Bucolico Bakery
A complete gem! Delicious cakes and pastries, rich coffee, and prices that make you do a double take. I loved it so much I stopped by again on my way to the airport. Warm service, perfect aesthetic — a Madrid must.

Alt. Try — Alma Nomad Bakery
Come for the croissant only— truly divine. The rest doesn’t quite live up to Come only for the croissant—truly divine. The rest doesn’t quite live up to the hype. Prepare to queue, though it’s a very popular spot. 

Must Try  — Bianchi Kiosko Caffè
The best coffee I had in Madrid — strong, smooth, and deeply satisfying. No notes.

Alt. Try  — Cafelito Lavapiés
A close second for caffeine perfection, served in one of Madrid’s trendiest neighbourhoods. Perfect for people-watching and refuelling between shops and steep hilly walks.

Tourist Here!
Centro Cultural Flamenco
An intimate, soul-stirring experience. I booked VIP seats for Miro and me, and the improvised flamenco performance was pure magic — raw, emotional, unforgettable. A must in Madrid.

Teatros del Canal
For a grander take on flamenco, this theatre delivers. We watched Suma Flamenco here last year, and it remains one of our most memorable nights in the city.

Paseo del Prado · El Retiro Park · Lavapiés
Wander these areas to enjoy some of Madrid’s most beautiful architecture, lush green escapes, and vibrant neighbourhood energy. Perfect for slow afternoons walks.

Other Curated Picks (Yet to Try)
Angelita Madrid · Salmon Guru · Adorado Café · Casa Benigna · Doppelgänger · The Fix Coffee · Ruda Café · Toma Café 1 · Sala Equis · Anton Martin Market · El Rastro Flea Market · Mercado de San Miguel · El Capricho Park