Sunday, July 11, 2010 is a date that will be remembered forever in the hearts and minds of all Spanish people out there. It was the first time in history that the Spanish national team won the World Cup championship. From the moment the tournament has ended, people from all over the globe hustle to reach the capital: Madrid.
It is not difficult then to understand why Madrid is the hottest place to visit this summer—where else would you will be able to find such an atmosphere of pure joy and enjoyment? For those of you who got lucky enough to score some days off, here are the latest Madrid hotspots for strolling, dinning, drinking, and partying!
1. “Casa Lucio” (Restaurant): Cava Baja 35, Madrid
Start your vacation in the one of the most well-known places in town! Located in La Latina neighborhood, this hot spot is often visited by famous celebrities from all over the world. The decoration of the place is traditional and cozy- when entering the restaurant you will feel as if you jumped in time to the nineteenth century! However, it is not the scenery that draws all the new and old customers there—it is the simple, but yet so delicious menu! Try some of their specialties, (“Madrid-style callos” or the “huevos rotos”) and you can be sure you will be blown away!
2. “Buddha del Mar” (bar, lounge, restaurant, and a club): Ctra de la Coru, Madrid, 28040:
This is without a doubt the most fashionable and glamorous places in Madrid at the moment. Breathtaking Asian décor, green surrounding, brilliant sound system and the general feeling of pure freedom—will all make your evening truly magical.
3.”The Avenue of Art” (galleries, museums): El Paseo Del Prado, Madrid: The avenue of art is located in a fine-looking, green boulevard right in the centre of the city. You will be able to find there some of the nicest art work from the world’s greatest artists—Goya, Velázquez, El Greco and many more. Visit the Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums—both display a respectful amount of masterpieces. If you plan your time wisely, you can even make it to the Reina Sofía National Museum where one of the most extraordinary art exhibitions is proudly presented: The work of Picasso’s Guernica.
4. “The Penthouse” (Tapas and cocktail bar): Plaza Santa Ana 14, Madrid 28012:
There is no better place to sit with a cold beer or a good glass of red wine and watch the stunning sunset. The extravagance roof terrace overlooks the entire city. It is very easy to understand why this spot is so incredibly popular among so many people- the place’s décor is luxury and well-thought-out leather couches all over the deck, lavish white exterior and startling illumination. Reserve a table for an early drink and some snacks, mingle with the beautiful people of Madrid and live the moment!
5. “Marula Café” (bar, club) Caños Viejos, 3 (corner with Bailén, 17), Madrid:
The Marula café is a funky nightclub that offers wide variety of music—soul, jazz, Latin, house and much more. Whenever you get too tired from all the dancing, take a rest on the perfectly situated terrace—just beneath the Puente de Segovia—the awe-inspiring bridge on Calle Bailen—offering striking panoramic views of the bridge’s sweeping arches.
