What to do in Madrid this Spring

Fresh blooms, the smell of cut grass, longer days... looks like spring is finally here and I couldn't feel happier. Those sights and smells wake me up, give me energy and put me on a better mood every year. It's like part of me has been hibernating and now I'm 100% awake. When the weekend comes and the weather is good I don't want to be home "wasting" it, I need to be outside enjoying the sun. It's time to eat outdoors and take long walks through beautiful parks so on today's post I'm going to give you a few reasons to visit Madrid this season and make the most of blissful spring days.

THE MAGIC OF THE ALMOND BLOSSOM

See our equivalent to the Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival at La Quinta de los Molinos. Hues of pink and white flood this beautiful park every year around March/April. Hundreds of almond trees are in full bloom right now and they won't last long so if you go, go soon. 

PICNIC AT EL RETIRO

It's the most famous park in Madrid, I've been there many times but I like it as much as the first day. Walking around it and lying on the grass is a breath of fresh air much needed when you live in a big city. There are many more beautiful parks in Madrid like La Quinta de los Molinos or El Capricho. 

MUSEUMS ARE FOR RAINY DAYS
Since April showers bring May flowers, we probably have a few gloomy days ahead of us. The best option is to visit one of the many wonderful museums that Madrid has to offer like the Cerralbo Museum below.

HAVE SUNDAY BRUNCH LIKE THE LOCALS
Going out for brunch is huge in Madrid right now. Most restaurants offer these delicious mini-feasts on weekends. I love Frida and El Jardin Secreto but I have a list of new places that I can't wait to go through this season..

SHOPPING SPREE
In Madrid you can find everything, all the brands you like for all types of budgets. Here's an extensive shopping guide I published last year that I keep up to date.

DINE AL FRESCO

There are countless outdoor dining areas all over Spain and it's one of my favorite things to do as soon as the weather allows it. It's one of those guilty pleasures much needed after a long week of work. You must try El Pabellon del Espejo, an Art Nouveau bar with Parisian 1900s decor. Its terrace bar occupies a glass pavilion that will remind you of a giant Tiffany lamp. Visit during the day for meals or afternoon snacks and at night for drinks.

TAKE A DAY TRIP

There are many places near Madrid that are worth seeing: Toledo, Avila or Segovia are great examples. In the region of Madrid, Aranjuez or Alcala de Henares are a must. Alcala (last three pics) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's famous for being the birthplace of Cervantes and for its university.

What are your favorite things to do in spring?

xo Cristina

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