Destination: Madrid (Encore)
Hola, Madrid!
Last summer, Madrid captured our hearts with its vibrant culture and rich history. The city left a lasting impression on us, so much so that we knew we had to return.
And so, this summer, we found ourselves back in the heart of Spain, ready to experience more of what makes this city special.
In Madrid, always look up.
Our second visit was just as fulfilling and captivating, and we even ventured beyond Madrid, taking day trips to Toledo (again!) and Segovia. Once again, Spain welcomed us with its lively spirit, where every meal and every moment infused us with a renewed zest for living.
Reunited with pan con tomate
We revisited the places that had stolen our hearts last year while also discovering new favorites. The masterpieces at Museo Nacional del Prado still fascinated us, and Casa Dani's silky and gooey tortilla de patata continued to haunt our taste buds in the best way possible.
Stay
Last year, Atocha was our home base, but this time, we chose to stay between Gran Via and Puerto del Sol as we were eager to explore these bustling neighborhoods more intimately. Petit Palace Cliper Gran Via, though modest, met our needs perfectly. Its central location made it easy to explore, and the staff added thoughtful touches to our stay with surprises like sparkling cava and jamón Ibérico in our room.
Eat
Segovia's Cochinillo
In Segovia, we couldn’t pass up the chance to try the city’s famous cochinillo - Segovia being its birthplace, after all. The cochinillo’s skin, thin and crackling, gave way to succulent, flavorful meat beneath and I enjoyed sopping up the juices with crusty bread afterward.
Tapas at La Casa Del Bacalao
We also tried La Casa Del Bacalao in Mercado San Miguel, where we enjoyed a variety of seafood tapas on delicate toasts. Each one offered something different—from the smoky salmon to the tender Galician-style octopus. My personal favorite was the divine combination of anchovy on rich, creamy butter.
Do
Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid and Almudena Cathedral
This grand structure reflects Spain’s regal history with its opulent rooms and stunning architecture. Just across from the palace is the Almudena Cathedral, an equally impressive site. Together, they reveal yet another portal into Madrid's rich cultural and historical heritage.
Take a Day Trip to Segovia
Like Toledo, Segovia is a short train ride from Madrid and offers a charming escape with its medieval architecture and serene atmosphere. The town’s famous aqueduct is a must-see and is a remarkable feat of engineering. The Catedral de Segovia is visually arresting in its architecture while the Alcázar de Segovia - purported to have inspired Walt Disney and served as a model for Snow White’s castle - is perfect for exploring history while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
Beautiful ceramic graters
Explore El Rastro Market
If you’re in Madrid on a Sunday, El Rastro is the place to be. This bustling open-air market in the La Latina neighborhood is filled with a wide variety of stalls selling everything from antiques to clothes to souvenirs. My husband and I love thrifting and we love markets and El Rastro’s lively atmosphere makes it a fun and spirited experience.
Book a Jose Rizal Tour
As Filipinos, we knew we wanted to see the Rizal shrine this time around but we also knew we wanted more than just a mere photograph in front of the shrine. For a unique cultural experience, we booked a Jose Rizal Tour, which traces the steps of Filipino national hero, José Rizal, during his time in Madrid. This tour takes you through key locations connected to Rizal’s life, offering a historical perspective that links Spain and the Philippines. It’s a meaningful way to explore Madrid through the life of a significant figure in Philippine history. We booked the tour by sending @quinodejesus a message on Instagram. Aside from the engaging and insightful Rizal tour, he also conducts food, church, and city-cultural tours. I can’t recommend him enough!
Returning to Madrid felt like reuniting with an old friend—familiar, yet full of new surprises. The second time around has deepened my appreciation for the city’s captivating culture and timeless charm. Whether it’s the art, the food, or simply the joy of wandering its streets, Madrid always offers something to make each visit feel like a fresh adventure.