Agustina Gómez, a 27-year-old Spanish native, has been living in Madrid for more than six years. Over the years, she has discovered some hidden gems in the city that are not as well-known to tourists but are frequented by locals. These places have become Agustina’s go-to spots for a true and authentic Madrid experience. In this article, she shares her top undiscovered gems that every visitor should add to their list.
1. El Retiro Park
While El Retiro Park is not exactly a hidden gem, it is often overlooked by tourists in favor of more popular attractions. However, for Agustina, this park holds a special place in her heart. Located in the heart of Madrid, El Retiro Park is a peaceful oasis in the bustling city. It is the perfect place to escape the noise and chaos and enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by nature. Agustina recommends renting a rowboat and exploring the park’s lake, visiting the Crystal Palace, and having a picnic on the grass.
2. La Latina Neighborhood
La Latina is a neighborhood that is often overshadowed by the more famous areas of Madrid, such as Sol or Gran Vía. However, for Agustina, this is the place to be for a true local experience. The streets of La Latina are filled with traditional bars, restaurants, and shops, making it the perfect spot for a tapas crawl. Agustina’s favorite spot is La Taberna de Antonio Sánchez, a small and cozy bar where you can try some of the best traditional Spanish dishes.
3. Mercado de San Miguel
Mercado de San Miguel is a must-visit for food lovers. This bustling market is filled with stalls selling a variety of Spanish delicacies, from fresh seafood to cured meats and cheeses. Agustina recommends trying the oysters from La Huitre, the croquetas from Casa Lhardy, and the churros from Churrería San Ginés. The market also has a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city, making it the perfect spot for a drink and some people-watching.
4. El Rastro Flea Market
Every Sunday, the streets of Madrid’s La Latina neighborhood come alive with El Rastro flea market. This market is a treasure trove of unique and vintage items, from clothing and accessories to furniture and antiques. Agustina recommends arriving early to beat the crowds and bargaining for the best deals. After shopping, she suggests stopping at one of the nearby cafes for a coffee and some people-watching.
5. Tabacalera Promoción del Arte
Located in the Lavapiés neighborhood, Tabacalera Promoción del Arte is a former tobacco factory that has been transformed into a cultural center. The space is used to showcase the work of emerging artists and hosts exhibitions, concerts, and workshops. Agustina loves the vibrant and creative atmosphere of this place and recommends checking their website for upcoming events.
6. Círculo de Bellas Artes
Círculo de Bellas Artes is a cultural institution in Madrid that often gets overlooked by tourists. This beautiful building is home to a theater, art galleries, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant. Agustina suggests taking the elevator to the top floor to enjoy a drink on the terrace while taking in the stunning views of the city.
7. Templo de Debod
Located in the heart of Madrid, Templo de Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple that was gifted to Spain in 1968. This unique attraction is not as well-known as other landmarks, making it the perfect spot to escape the crowds. Agustina recommends visiting at sunset to see the temple’s reflection in the water and enjoy a peaceful walk around the surrounding park.
8. Parque de las Siete Tetas
Parque de las Siete Tetas, or “Park of the Seven Breasts,” is a lesser-known park in Madrid that offers breathtaking views of the city. The park’s seven hills are the perfect spot to watch the sunset and take in the panoramic views of Madrid. Agustina suggests bringing a picnic and enjoying a romantic evening with your loved one.
9. Mercado de Motores
Mercado de Motores is a monthly market held at the Railway Museum of Madrid. It is a unique and vibrant market where you can find everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts and delicious
