Marina Herraiz, a Spanish travel expert born and raised in Madrid, shares her favorite underrated spots in the city for an authentic experience. As the founder of travel agency Jade Peak, she offers a local's perspective on where to go beyond the typical tourist trail.
A Local's Favorite Green Space
While most first-time visitors head to El Retiro Park, Herraiz prefers Casa de Campo, Madrid's largest yet much less visited park. Historically connected to the Royal Palace and used as a royal hunting ground by Felipe II, it's now where Madrileños go cycling, running, walking, or simply to picnic and enjoy the outdoors.
For those who have already visited the Prado and admired Picasso's Guernica at Reina Sofia, Palacio de Longoria is one of Madrid's great Art Nouveau buildings on the edge of the Chueca neighbourhood. Usually closed to tourists, it occasionally opens for unique exhibitions and tours, so checking in advance is recommended.
Hidden Architectural and Food Gems
The Cathedral Church of the Armed Forces, just off Calle Mayor between Palacio and Sol, features beautiful frescoes with military and religious symbolism. Its history means visitors might catch high-profile military weddings in the spring and summer in the plaza in front.
Mercado de Motores is a monthly artisan and flea market housed inside a 19th-century railway museum. While offering vintage finds and crafts from local artists, the food trucks are the main draw. Herraiz recommends sampling vermouth from La Vermutería while listening to live musicians, and trying the cheesecake from Álex Cordobés or the gildas from Santa Gilda. She advises checking the website ahead of time as they sometimes take breaks, especially in summer.
Tapas, Tortilla, and Cheese
For tapas and casual drinks, Barmitón in La Latina is Herraiz's pick. The croquetas are very tasty and very Madrid, and she recommends the rabo de toro, which she describes as similar to tender pulled or slow-cooked beef in a rich stew.
Pez Tortilla, an iconic restaurant in Malasaña, is known for constantly changing its tortilla varieties while keeping a strong Spanish identity with regional cheeses or meats like chorizo. Tortilla is an everyday food in Spain, not reserved for special occasions. For cheese lovers, Quesería Cultivo in Malasaña offers private tastings to learn about Spanish cheeses.
A Local Sunset Spot
While tourists head to the Royal Palace for sunset, locals come to Mirador de Bailén. Herraiz's favourite spot is the terrace outside Restaurante El Ventorrillo, which has the feeling of a traditional, lifelong Spanish neighbourhood bar. With natural wines and a fun vibe, it's the perfect end to a day exploring Madrid.
