Europe meets Egypt

There’s no need to travel to Africa to get a glimpse of the ancient Egyptian world – Madrid has been hiding one of its greatest treasures in Parque del Oeste since 1968. Surrounded by a tranquil pool and an oasis of scarlet roses, the Temple of Debod (pictured) was adopted by Spain to save it from flooding after the construction of Egypt’s great Aswan Dam. Since its relocation, the 2nd-century site has seamlessly merged European and African culture and become an integral part of the city’s landscape. For added charm, visit at twilight as the landmark lights up and radiates golden beams over the water.

Market value

Popular with tourists and locals, the historic Mercado de San Miguel is one of the most atmospheric places to get a taste of the city. With 33 stalls selling local produce including cheese, chocolate, caviar and cured meats, and tapas bars churning out delicious small plates (think pintxos and garlic prawns), you can bag a Mediterranean feast in a few steps. Visit in the evening or early morning to avoid the crowds.

Park life

Built in the 17th century as a private recreational area for Spain’s Royal Family, Retiro Park is the epitome of majestic elegance. Today, you are more likely to bump into fellow members of the public than a prince or princess but its regal splendour remains. To the south of the park, a smaller lake surrounds the spellbinding Palacio de Cristal, a replica of the architectural genius of London’s Crystal Palace. Visit one of the temporary exhibitions at its heart, or admire its exotic exterior as black swans glide by.

Get high

Head up to the seventh-floor rooftop bar at Circulo de Bellas Artes to enjoy panoramic views of Madrid’s skyline, its bustling streets and the backdrop of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains that flank the city in the north. Work clockwise from the north end of the bar to spot the 300-year-old National Library, The Prado Museum, St Jerome Royal Church and Plaza de Santa Ana Square. Head up an hour before sunset and ensure you have a sangria in hand (and a seat) before the crowds set in. 

History on a plate

Madrid might be a hub of Michelin-starred restaurants championing molecular gastronomy, but for a real taste of the city’s heritage, make a reservation at Restaurante Sobrino de Botin on Calle Cuchilleros, which is noted in the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s oldest restaurant. First opened as an inn in 1725 by a French cook, it’s famed for its rustic Castilian cuisine. The most famous dishes are the cochinilli asado (roasted suckling pig) and cordero asado (roasted lamb), which are cooked to perfection in a 300-year-old, wood-fired oven.

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Words by Jessica Phillips