This week, we’re in Madrid, Spain’s vibrant capital—a city that blends imperial grandeur, world-class museums, walkable streets, and an unmatched food scene. Tim and David share expert insights, from where to stay, eat, and explore, plus personal travel experiences that bring Madrid to life.

Topics Covered:Where to Stay 🏨

Whether you’re looking for historic luxury, modern design, or boutique charm, these are our top picks:

• 🌟 The Westin Palace, Madrid – Built in 1912, commissioned by the King of Spain, and a past residence of Picasso and Hemingway. Located near the Prado Museum.
• 🌆 Four Seasons Hotel Madrid – A luxurious flatiron-style landmark, home to celebrity chef Dani García’s rooftop restaurant.
• 🎶 Hyatt Centric Gran Via Madrid – A music-themed hotel inspired by the city’s radio station heritage, with a fantastic rooftop terrace.

What to Do 🎨🏛

• 🏛 Museo Nacional del Prado – Spain’s iconic art museum, home to Goya, El Greco, Velázquez, and Bosch’s legendary triptychs.
• 💡 Museo De La Luz Madrid – A modern interactive art space with immersive light installations, great for Instagram-worthy moments.
• 🚂 Mercado de Motores – A weekend market inside a historic train museum, blending shopping, culture, and classic locomotives.
• 🌍 Plaza Mayor – Madrid’s grandest square, a historic meeting place filled with cafés, street performers, and architectural beauty.
• ⚽ Santiago Bernabéu Stadium – Experience the electric atmosphere of a Real Madrid match and explore the team’s legendary history.

Where to Eat 🍽

• 🍷 El miniBAR – A small but highly rated local spot with classic Spanish flavors like gazpacho with Serrano ham.
• 🥘 Bestial by Rosi La Loca – A fun, vibrant tapas and paella spot, known for its playful decor, theatrical cocktails, and late-night energy.
• 🥪 Mercado de San Antón – A more local alternative to Mercado de San Miguel, featuring artisan sandwiches at Gusto.
• 🍄 Mesón del Champiñón – Famous for its garlic-stuffed mushrooms, located just steps from Plaza Mayor.
• 🐖 Restaurante Botín – The oldest restaurant in the world (since 1725), specializing in roast suckling pig—reservations required.

Can’t-Miss Experiences 🌟

• 🍫 Chocolatería San Ginés – A Madrid institution since 1894, serving thick hot chocolate and crispy churros—open 24 hours.
• ⚽ Real Madrid Match at Santiago Bernabéu – Feel the intensity of Spain’s biggest football club, and explore the stadium’s rivalry with Barcelona.

Final Thoughts:

Tim and David wrap up by debating Barcelona vs. Madrid—which city is better? Tim leans toward Barcelona for its Mediterranean charm, while David prefers Madrid for its walkability and culture.

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Credits:

Hosted by Tim Johnson and David Brodie. Produced by Voyascape Media.

Copyright - Voyascape Media

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Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast