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Madrid.....family trip report

Posted by (NH) on

Currently in Madrid. Will be doing two days at a time so I don't forget anything.

Left the US on Thursday 2/21. We were supposed to go Boston to Philly to Madrid. The storm the night before still had things messed up, so we went from Boston to JFK to Madrid. Business class for both flights. Unfortunately, the guy behind me had sleep apnea....oh well. We also bought a day pass for the Admirals Club with American since we had a five hour layover. Definitely worth it.

Customs in Madrid was the simplest we've ever been through. No line. No questions.

Found our way to the C1 train and took it to Atocha. Then a quick walk to our apartment on Calle de Gobernador. Happy with the area. Quiet at night. A fabulous bakery around the corner. Good dinner options.

After setting in, we grabbed groceries and headed for Retiro. What a nice park. We considered renting a boat, but the lines were long and the boys didn't want to wait. (We have 9&10 year olds with us)

Dinner was at Tintos and Tapas. Had a great melted provolone dish with sauce and carmalized onions. Also shared a few empanandas.

More to come....

Posted by
8660 posts

Might want to post your trip report in the trip report forum.

Enjoy your stay

Posted by
1943 posts

Bienvenidos a Madrid! Yes, Spain has the easiest customs for Americans of all of Europe. I was only asked if I was here for business or pleasure. After that, they just stamped my passport and I was outta there. It was a big departure from France and the UK, where I was asked about all my plans, perhaps because I was a 30 something single female?

I'd say take a look at the El Cortes Ingles department store, have a bite at the cafe on the top floor. Also since you have kids you might take a look at their toy section. When I was there, they had a display of R2D2 and Darth Vader made entirely of Legos. Also the best part of Madrid is just walking around and people watching, IMO. Visit one of the mercados to buy some groceries.

You might want to also go to El Rastro-the big flea market on Sunday. Don't take anything you can't lose as there are pickpockets but the kids might find it interesting.

Posted by
98 posts

I realized about ten minutes after posting that I out this in the wrong section. Sorry all.

Posted by
1428 posts

Thanks for the report.

I haven't been to downtown Madrid (only transit). Is this a very crowded city? Are people polite?

I will be there alone (female) twice later this year and thus want to know. Enjoy your trip!

Posted by
98 posts

Very polite and we've never felt unsafe. The area near Puerta del Sol is very crowded.

Posted by
13 posts

Hello,
We will be heading to Spain and Madrid at the end of the year. Traveling with 2 adults kids (19 & 21). Would you recommend the apartment you are staying for 4 adults? What is the name of the place? Thank you.
R-E

Posted by
98 posts

There are two bedrooms and two bathrooms. One bedroom is very small, with two twin beds separated by about 18 inches.

The street was quiet but the walls are a bit thin. If you stay up late, then it wouldn't be an issue. I'll look up the name and post back.

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