Travel tips: Emily in Madrid
Sue's daughter Emily has been studying in Madrid since last year.
For SoSUE she wrote down a few recommendations for everyone who feels like a city trip to the Spanish capital. You can expect a colorful gastro scene, many sights, and great shopping opportunities. Read all the recommendations now!
By Emily Giers
When I read the article by my mother Sue about my new hometown Madrid here on the SoSUE blog, I felt the need to describe the Spanish capital from my perspective. Last September I arrived in Madrid to start my studies. The city welcomed me with open arms and summery temperatures. My worries beforehand were unfounded: whether the constant good weather would spoil me too much in the long run, whether the meal times were too late, and whether my clothing was not too wintry. My thoughts were unfounded. Now, eight months later, I feel very comfortable here as a Hamburg native.
Madrid is known for many things, but in Spain it ranks first for its diverse gastro culture. I could live here for five years and try a new restaurant every evening. A difference like day and night compared to Hamburg, where I always find myself at the same favorite Italian around the corner.
Los 33
I discovered my absolute favorite restaurant right at the beginning. Located in the Justicia district Los 33. Here you can enjoy great meat and small tapas in an atmosphere that I can hardly compare to any other place. Not for a second do I feel like a stranger; here everyone feels like a true "Madrileño" who meets friends for a drink after work. Tip: Reserve quickly before your trip, because it is usually booked two months in advance, but there is always a chance to spontaneously get a table in the front area of the restaurant. Definitely try it!
I like to meet friends at Sushita Le Club. With its stylish design, it also often serves as a photo backdrop. The sushi isn't quite at Henssler level, but it's considerably cheaper than at the celebrity chef in Hamburg. For sushi lovers who are willing to pay more for Asian food, I can recommend Sushi99, Hotaru, and the well-known chain Zuma.
The cuisine at Aüakt is a mix of Mexican and Lebanese food. If you like vegetables, you'll be surprised by many variations. There's something for everyone here, and although the restaurant is very luxurious and stylishly furnished, the prices are fair. The clientele is international, and the music contributes to the cool vibe. Additionally, there is a bar where guests can also just sit for a drink.
Aarde
When my mother visits, I also like to make reservations at restaurants that don't quite fit a student's budget. Then we go to Aarde, where you can dine very nicely both indoors and outdoors. The food is always good, and the kitchen has something for everyone. If you're in the mood for Italian dishes, I recommend Numa Pompilio. Surprisingly, there are few restaurants in Madrid where you can sit nicely outside, but Numa has a beautiful terrace in the back where I feel very comfortable—like in a small village in Italy. The service is great, and nothing stands in the way of a spontaneous visit.
Edition Hotel: Bar & Rooftop
For a drink before or after dinner, I recommend the bar at the Edition Hotel. In summer, the hotel's rooftop is the place to be. The design and atmosphere are so cool, the drinks are super tasty, and in the evening a DJ plays here. For me, it's the hippest spot in all of Madrid.
Roots Lamarca
As a student, I tried countless cafés because I was searching for the perfect coffee, and sometimes also for a good working atmosphere. I enjoyed the best coffee at Hanso Cafe, which also offers brunch and a long table where I can work. The café is located in the heart of Malasaña, and anyone who is a big coffee fan should definitely visit it. Of course, there are many other cafés I like to visit from time to time, such as East Crema Coffee, Golda Café, or Osom; the latter two are also great for brunch. Truly noteworthy is Naji Specialty Coffee, where the owner himself stands behind the coffee machine and sells his own creation, for which he has already been praised in the Financial Times. His pistachio latte rekindled my love for pistachios. The café is still a real insider tip, and the latte is truly the best I have ever had. Another favorite of mine is Roots Lamarca. Here, not only is there healthy food, but the café also transitions into a wellness concept store where I find everything that is new, hip, and sporty, including a "Wellbar."
Wow Concept Store
Another place to stroll is the WOW Concept Store. There is really something to see there because the decor is constantly changing. A visit is always worthwhile. The store carries many cool brands, for example Ganni, Rotate, or Nanushka. There is a skincare floor, a tech floor with everything that is supposed to be hip in the future, and an interior floor with a large Vitra area. On the rooftop or in the restaurant, many delicious snacks are served. If you like vintage shopping, Malasaña is the perfect place; you can find a different store offering vintage Levi’s on every corner. In Justicia and Salamanca, there are the usual shops and also smaller boutiques that I already know from my previous visits to Spain.
Besides shopping, Madrid offers countless other activities. A walk through Retiro Park is always beautiful, and the Botanical Garden is also stunning. The Royal Palace is worth a visit, and the Golden Triangle with the Prado Museum, Thyssen, and La Reina Sofia is a must.
You shouldn't miss a Real Madrid game at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium. It's definitely exciting. The club is a legend and almost sacred. Interesting: A tour through the Real Madrid museum is exciting not only for football fans.
Hipodromo
A new experience for me is horse racing. Almost every Sunday in summer, races take place in the “Hipodromo“ in the morning. Anyone interested can also place a small bet. There are food trucks everywhere, and you are in a beautiful facility just 20 minutes from the city center. An experience I would recommend to everyone. It's fun to go there with a group and spend the Sunday there.
I really hope you like Madrid as much as I do!
Yours, Ems