 Where: Madrid, Spain Who: Mr & Mrs Wanderlust When: Apr 2023 What: Explorin the big city of Spain Embarking on a shared adventure, Mr. and Mrs. Wanderlust, alongside their dear neighbors, embraced the vibrant energy of Madrid as they ventured into the heart of Spain for a few unforgettable days. This dynamic quartet, bound by a shared love for exploration and cultural immersion, set out to discover the essence of this lively metropolis How To Get There:  Opting for comfort and convenience, we embarked on a smooth and scenic journey from Valencia to Madrid via Spain's high-speed train service. Boarding the high speed train at Valencia Joaquín Sorolla station, we settled into our seats, ready to enjoy a swift and comfortable ride. Within just under two hours, we arrived at Madrid's Puerta de Atocha station, impressed by the ease and efficiency of the train, which offered spacious seating, excellent amenities, and a seamless travel experience between these two bustling Spanish cities. Where To Stay:  What To Do: 1. Visit the palace in the center of Madrid In the heart of Madrid lies a grandeur that mesmerizes—the Palacio Real, the Royal Palace. Steeped in opulence and history, this architectural marvel is an absolute must-visit. Walking through its majestic halls adorned with intricate details, elegant rooms, and priceless treasures, one can't help but feel the weight of royal legacy. The Palace stands as a tangible testament to Spain's rich cultural heritage, offering visitors an awe-inspiring glimpse into the country's regal past. 2. Visit the city's churches and viewpoint In Madrid, we immersed ourselves in the city's historical and spiritual tapestry by visiting some of its most exquisite churches and viewpoints. The Almudena Cathedral left us in awe with its architectural grandeur, while San Francisco el Grande's baroque beauty offered a serene retreat. Our ascent to the Templo de Debod provided a breathtaking panoramic view of Madrid, allowing us to witness a stunning sunset over the city's skyline, a truly unforgettable moment. These visits not only showcased the rich history but also offered remarkable perspectives of this vibrant Spanish capital 3. Enjoying the city 4. Embracing splendid sunset in the heart of the city  As we strolled through the heart of Madrid, the radiant sunset captured our attention, casting a warm, golden glow over the city's grid-styled streets. To our delight, we soon realized that we weren't the only ones bewitched by this fiery display. Locals and fellow tourists alike had halted in the middle of the road, cameras in hand, all capturing the glorious sunset perfectly aligned along the city's streets. It was a captivating moment, one where the city's bustling energy paused to celebrate nature's breathtaking artistry. 5. Watch the lenten procession We were fortunate to witness and join the vibrant procession in Madrid on the Saturday before Palm Sunday (Domingo de Ramos). It was an extraordinary sight as priests adorned in purple masks led the procession, creating an intriguing and unique yet reverent experience, allowing us to be a part of this traditional and culturally rich event 6. Visit Ateneo de Madrid During our leisurely stroll through Madrid's streets, one of us recognized the Ateneo de Madrid as their alma mater. Curious, we decided to peek inside, and to our delight, we were warmly welcomed, allowing us to explore the rich history and intellectual ambiance of this esteemed institution. 7. Enjoy night stroll As night draped Madrid's streets with enchanting lights, we wandered through the empty thoroughfares, admiring the illuminated buildings. However, amidst the serene beauty, we encountered a few pockets of lively activity, observing youths chatting at a corner bar. The cool weather was perfect for a leisurely walk, but our feet, weary from a day of exploration and travel, implored us to call it a night despite the desire to wander further Barcelona, Valencia, and Madrid have been absolutely incredible, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. As we prepare for the next leg of our journey, our excitement bubbles over at the thought of visiting Toledo, a charming small town brimming with history and culture, adding yet another delightful chapter to our Spanish adventure.
Next Leg: Toledo
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