episode #4 Madrid - One Summer in Europe, the backpacking Europe podcast | One Summer in Europe

episode #4 – Madrid

Posted on 19. Apr, 2009 by Ryan in Previous Episodes

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Our simulated backpacking Europe itinerary continues – after leaving Paris on a night train, we arrive 11 hours later far to the south in the capital of Spain, Madrid.

Cosmopolitan and alive with life and energy, Madrid has a lot of appeal for any European traveler. This is the center of Spain in a number of different ways, and is thus a wise place to start exploring this vibrant and popular country.

We recommend three days and two nights to get a good feeling for Madrid.

In this episode, Melissa and I talk about:

arriving in Madrid and Melissa’s foggy memories of the city
basic cultural and historic perspective on Madrid, from Spanish Empire up to present-day economic problems
the most interesting things to see and do in Madrid
our not-so-enthusiastic experience with bullfights
the tasty and diverse food of Spain, a true movable feast
dealing with the daily siesta in Madrid

We also discuss our top 5 festivals in Europe, including Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain. I share my unforgettable story when I first ran with the bulls a few years back and how I was able to entertain 5000 people in the bullring, to my embarrassment and sore right buttocks.

Here are some recommended websites for Madrid based on our discussion (in rough order as we talked):

TRANSPORT IN
Elipsos TrenHotel (Paris-to-Madrid overnight train)

ACCOMMODATION
One Summer in Europe (Madrid hostel and budget hotel (“hostal”) search page)

SIGHTSEEING
Prado (famous art museum, one of best in world)
Reina Sofia (excellent art museum, featuring Guernica by Picasso)
Thyssen Museum (another recommend art museum)
Puerto del Sol (literal center of Spain and heart of Madrid)
Plaza Mayor (pretty square, lots of history here)
Palacio Real (Royal Palace)
Gran Via (famous and busy street in heart of city)
El Retiro (large and relaxing city park)
El Rastro (famous flea market, bargain city)
One Summer in Europe (other miscellaneous sightseeing activities)

TRANSPORT OUT
RENFE (Spanish rail system)
AVE (high-speed train Madrid to Seville)

Now that we’ve warmed up to Spain, it’s time to leave Madrid and take a small detour to our next destination, amazing Andalucia, before we head to Barcelona….come along!

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