rick steves day trips from madrid

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Day trips from Madrid

I'm planning my 4th trip to Spain for September. I'm looking for recommendations for day trips from Madrid. I have already visited Aranjuez, Toledo, Segovia, Avila, El Escorial, El Valle de los Caidos and Salamanca. I was considering including Cuenca and El Pardo for my next trip. Are these worth seeing? Any other recommendations for locations to visit in a day trip via public transportation? Thanks in advance, Peter

Hello Peter -

I did a day trip to Valencia last October by train. It left from Atocha and took about 1:45 to get there, arriving in late morning.. I hit the high spots only and returned to Madrid in time for a 9:30 pm dinner. I agree there is probably much more to see in Valencia on a longer stay, but that was all I could afford on that trip as I was heading north for the remainder of my trip. Another unusual, but possibly enjoyable day trip could be to Zaragoza. It is a bit shorter than Valencia by train (1:30) and well worth the effort. In my opinion, El Pilar is worth the train ride by itself!

I hear that Cuenca is very nice for a day trip but have not been there yet. How about Aranda del Duero for wines? Also, there is a train that goes to Santiago de Compostela--long trip but well worth it to see the cathedral, pilgrims mass and enjoy the town. Maybe someone in this forum can suggest someplace in Zamorra or Extremadura for a day trip. Gladys.

You've been to most of what I would have suggested. Besides Cuenca, consider Alcalá de Henares .

Jack, Gladys & Archimedes, Thanks for your suggestions. I will be adding El Pilar, Cuenca, El Pardo and Alcala de Henares to this year's Spain trip. It seems like all these locations are an easy day trip from Madrid. Of course I will also go back to Toledo and Segovia, since these are two of my favorite cities to visit in Spain. Regards, Peter

Peter, check out La Granja de San Ildefonso about 80 kilometers north of Madrid.

I will recommend El Pardo....the royal Palace of Charles and of Franco....the opulence of it contrasted with the dwellings of the commoners during Franco's reign will amaze you. Even with that, it is well worth the visit...A couple of hours for the palace and then some for the grounds as well. It was one of several palaces of Charles...And there is an excellent restaurant in the small village...outdoors under the tent...Can not remember the name, but it is easy to see and enjoy.

Pat and HJ, Thanks for the recommendations. I sure enjoyed visiting the royal palaces in Madrid and Anranjuez in prior visits to Spain. Therefore, I am sure that I will enjoy your recommendations as well. I did a quick search on both and they look spectacular. La Granja de San Ildefonso and El Pardo are now part of my itinerary. Peter

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Disobeying Rick Steves: Alternative Itinerary for Three Days in Madrid

How can you get the most out of your trip if you’ve only got 3 days in Madrid? Well, you can start by consulting the Rick Steves Madrid travel guide. But if you only follow his advice for top sites, you will miss out on an opportunity to engage deeper with the city. So feel free to disobey Rick Steves and have a great time doing it.

Don’t get me wrong, I like Rick Steves. I occasionally listen to his podcast for travel inspiration and I find his Spain guide books to be practical, budget friendly and easy to follow. But that doesn’t mean that he and I always agree. I’m a well-traveled woman who knows what I like and after having visited thirty nine countries on five continents, I’ve learned the hard way that sometimes a city’s “must see sights” are not for me.

This itinerary will give you suggestions for what to do in Madrid for three days.  It incorporates some of Rick’s top suggestions, but it also includes some quirkier sites, cool neighborhoods and walking tours that will get you deeper into the city.

Rick Steves on Madrid

The Rick Steves’ Madrid guidebook  includes suggested itineraries, walking tours, easy to read maps and other useful suggestions. They also rank the tourist sites according to a prioritized system: three triangles represent a must do, two are kinda-do, one is a maybe and then there are the untriangled also-rans. You can find information in the “At a Glance” section of the Rick Steves Madrid site. But in short:

▲▲▲ suggestions: the Royal Palace, Prado Museum, Reina Sophia museum and the Paseo (evening strolling)

▲▲ suggestions: Puerta del Sol square, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, National Archaeological Museum, Bullfighting, Flamenco, Plaza Mayor

No Thanks Rick, I’ll Pass on That

There are a few things on Rick’s list that I would suggest giving a pass. Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor are off-putting because of the tourist hordes and the incongruous photo opps with unlicensed Disney characters. It is oddly reminiscent of what I don’t like about Times Square in NYC. Do they still do bullfights anymore? And do you really want to see one? I have and it’s not for the faint of heart…pass. And while Flamenco was once a national art form, if that means going to one of those overpriced tourist shows with a rubber chicken dinner then give it a pass (unless you do the show at Teatro Alfil , which has a very modern, urban vibe.)

All that said, go ahead and buy the Rick Steves’  guide to Madrid , the maps and walking tour information is very useful.

Your Three Days in Madrid

The following itinerary for three days in Madrid keeps some of the suggestions from the Rick Steves Madrid guide but it also adds some additional suggestions. It has been organized around a particular neighborhood and set of sites. But, central Madrid is very easy to navigate so feel free to mix and match as you wish.

If you have 4-5 days to spend in Madrid, consider taking one of these day trips by train . Some are as close as :30 minutes and none are further than two hours and all have cool Spanish culture and history.

Cool Hotel Options in Madrid

For a large European city, Madrid hotels are surprisingly affordable.

• Affordable Large Room : We stayed at the Lusso Infantas and loved the large room and modest price. Check reviews or book at Booking.com .
• Luxury with Views and a Pool: The Iberostar Las Letras is located right on the Gran Via. They have nice, spacious rooms, a rooftop bar, a pool and fantastic breakfast. Check reviews or book at Booking.com .
• Centrally Located and Historic : The Only You Boutique hotel is located hear the La Justicia neighborhood in a 19th century restored mansion. “…the location is perfect for Plaza Major, good restaurants and the galleries”. Check reviews or book at Booking.com .
• Contemporary Boutique : The Airtrip hotel is a small boutique hotel located an easy walk to the Atocha train station. “Great breakfast which is included, contemporary, clean, brilliantly renovated small boutique hotel.” Check reviews or book at Booking.com .

 Day 1 in Madrid

Morning: royal palace & museo cerralbo.

Day one is centered around the western part of the city. Start with Rick’s recommendation to visit the Royal Palace. The Palace is the historical home for the royal family and it is still their official residence. You can spend several hours on a self-guided tour of the palace’s ornately furnished 3,000 rooms. Get there right at 10am to avoid the worst of the crowds.

After the palace, walk north two blocks to the Museo Cerralbo. Carrie from Two Small Potatoes recommends the Cerralbo Museum. She says that “even non-museum fans will be entertained at the Cerralbo Museum, with its eclectic mix of dainty Murano glass and barbaric medieval weapons”. It’s definitely one of the more offbeat museums in Madrid.

Afternoon: Lunch, Parque del Oeste, Shopping on Gran Via

Grab some lunch near Calle Princesa and then head into the nearby Parque del Oeste. There, you can find the Temple of Debod (which Marta from Learning Escapes also recommends as  great for kids ) and the Rosaleda rose garden. After the park, you can work your way east back to your hotel along the Gran Via shopping district.

Evening: La Latina & Cava Baja

In the evening, head into the La Latina neighborhood for tapas. The Cava Baja street is just a few blocks south and east of the palace. The three block stretch is stuffed with tapas bars and restaurants. You can make an evening of wandering the street, stuffing yourself with various wines and nibbles. Alternatively, if you have a free midday sometime during your three days in Madrid, you can also take a daytime walking tour of La Latina .

Day 2 in Madrid

Morning: prado.

Spend the morning at Rick Steve’s top triangle and visit the Prado. It’s Madrid’s premier museum and is loaded with masterpieces by Diego Velázquez, Francisco de Goya, El Greco, Hieronymus Bosch, Albrecht Dürer, and others. To avoid lines, get to the museum just before the 10am opening time. Many people just focus on seeing the top 10, but the museum holds thousands of works so go past the top 10 and spend time exploring the rest of the collection.

Afternoon: Retiro Park

Grab lunch to-go and head into Retiro Park. Retiro is a large, well tended city park just east of museum row. The park has a very peaceful ambiance and you can easily find a shady bench to rest from your tromp around the museum. After you eat, head over to the Crystal Palace. The palace gets no triangles from Rick Steves, but I think it’s enchanting. It’s a Victorian glass wonder in the midst of the park. They have created a peaceful atmosphere and offer bentwood rockers and reading material to encourage quiet contemplation. After the Crystal Palace you can also rent a rowboat and go out on the little Retiro lake or visit the nearby Botanical Garden.

Evening: Ciculo de Bellas Artes, tapas in Justicia

The  Circulo  is located just a block from the Plaza Cibeles. It offers photography, art and cinema exhibitions. They have a rooftop deck that is the perfect place to grab a drink and watch the sun setting over the city. The building isn’t very tall, but then Madrid isn’t a tall city, so you could easily see the whole southwestern part of the city spread before you as the sun goes down. It is a great way to start off an evening of strolling and tapas eating.

Tapas are not just an alternative to dinner, it’s an art form which you can perfect through repetition. So even if you eat tapas on night 1 in La Latina, you should do it again on night 2 in the La Justicia/Chueca neighborhood. I recommend starting at the Vinoteca Vides, which has an extensive wine menu and 300(!) kinds of cheese. Then just roam from there.

(Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that if you chose to purchase, I’ll get a small commission.)  

Day 3 in Madrid

Morning: reina sophia.

Rick and I agree that your Madrid itinerary should include the Reina Sophia. It’s a fabulous modern art museum, famous for housing the Guernica by Picasso. I saw the painting while visiting Madrid in the ’80s and it had a profound affect on my appreciation of all modern art. The painting still impresses and the broader exhibition in the Reina Sophia includes pre and post studies of the subject, artifacts related to the Guernica’s traveling exhibitions and other paintings from the Paris World Fair during which the painting was unveiled. The rest of the museum is well organized and well worth a long visit. If you have a free evening on Monday or Wednesday-Saturday, you can re-arrange the itinerary and go for free between 7-9pm.

After the museum, wander north toward Calle de Principe and find a place for lunch among the alleyways and cobbled streets.

Afternoon: Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

The Thyssen is a well curated, medium-sized private museum that houses an impressive collection of impressionism and post-impressionism. Rick only gave it two triangles but I give it three for the thoughtful collection and easy layout of the museum.

After the Thyssen, wade back into the neighborhood and find a coffeeshop for pastries or churros and chocolate. All of Spain has a very active cafe culture and Madrid is no exception. Walk for two blocks and you’ll happen upon a cafe serving strong coffee and excellent pastry. There are a lot of cafes serving churros and chocolate on the Plaza Santa Ana and tons more along the nearby Calle de la Huerta.

But if four museums is too much for you, then swap out some of the time and take a street art tour in the Lavapies neighborhood. It’s a working class neighborhood with a very multi-culti ethic and lots of local businesses. Cool Tours Spain runs several different street art tours run by people who are very familiar with Madrid’s street art scene.

Evening: Tapas and Wine Walking Tour

Who says you can’t eat tapas for three night running? There are a number of 3-4 hour evening tours which will introduce you to the tapas scene in a specific neighborhood. Doing it as a tour allows you to explore places that you might not have otherwise found on your own.

• This tour covers four bars in and around Santa Ana plaza. Check out the itinerary or book here .
• This tour meets at the Plaza de la Independencia and takes you to several wine bars and then ends at a gastropub for dinner. Check out the itinerary or book here .
• This one includes 4-5 stops in the Opera area. Check out the itinerary or book here .

If you have an extra day, consider this day trip to Sevovia

There is no shortage of great things to do in Madrid. So take my advice, and Ricks’s and create your own itinerary of triangles. Buen Viaje!

Explore More of Spain

• Here are 7 reasons why you should put Cádiz on your itinerary , you can even do it as a day trip from Seville .
• Top things to do in Burgos .
• If you are thinking about doing the Camino de Santiago, here is our first timer’s guide .

Micheal Plocek

Monday 10th of September 2018

Hi! Awesome post! Thanks for this information, it will surely help me.

Monday 20th of August 2018

Interesting, it never occurred to me to disobey Rick! What a rebel you are. We're going to Spain next month and I heard the museo cerralbo is more of a must see than the palace. Any opinions?

Carol Guttery

Tuesday 21st of August 2018

I AM a rebel.

Dee O'Connor

Wednesday 19th of April 2017

My favorite museum in Madrid is Museo Sorolla. It is in the home of the artist, Joaquin Sorolla. On Paseo del General Martinez Campos 37. Can't wait to return!

Monday 11th of February 2019

The Sorolla Museum is amazing. I first visited in 1975 when I was studying in Spain, and returned in 2017. The house itself (and the gardens) is a glimpse into the artist’s life, and is like an oasis in the city. My husband was blown away. Off the beaten path, but well worth the time and effort.

Two Small Potatoes

Tuesday 11th of October 2016

I could definitely go for some churros and chocolate right about now!

Sunday 28th of September 2014

We arrive in Madrid manana so appreciate the Rick Steves update. Cafes sound great! And will definitely go to Reina Sophia. S Already started our course in Tapas in Barcelona. Yum. Gracias for all.

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Destination: Madrid

Franco exhumed from the valley of the fallen.

Sometimes I love it when an episode of Rick Steves’ Europe goes out of date. And that just happened with my Majesty of Madrid episode. Francisco Franco, the fascist dictator of Spain, was long buried in the vast, underground Valley of the Fallen memorial, along with thousands of his victims. And now, his remains have finally been removed from that site, so sacred to Spaniards.

Federico García Barroso , one of our tour program’s wonderful Spanish guides, sent me this note:

Dear Rick, November 25th 1975: Generalisimo Franco is buried at the Valley of the Fallen. October 24th 2019: The dictator is finally expelled out. People from Madrid, we were the last ones to surrender in the Spanish Civil War. Today, people from Madrid, we are the first ones to tell the world that Spanish democracy is now healthier. Hugs from Madrid, Federico.

Below, you can watch the part of my Madrid episode that is, thankfully, now out of date. ( This clip is also available in Rick Steves Classroom Europe , my free — and ad-free — searchable database of short video clips about European art, history, and culture.)

Viva España! Viva Freedom! Viva Democracy.

The Story of Fascism: “Never Again”

Memorials across Europe remind us of the unthinkable horrors of 20th-century fascism — and compel us to never let it happen again.

The Story of Fascism: "Never Again" Memorials across Europe remind us of the unthinkable horrors of 20th-century fascism — and compel us to never let it happen again.(This clip is excerpted from my new one-hour special “Rick Steves’ The Story of Fascism in Europe.” Check your local listings for air times — and if you don’t see it, please ask your public television station to add it to their schedule.) Posted by Rick Steves on Wednesday, September 12, 2018

This clip is excerpted from my new one-hour special “ Rick Steves’ The Story of Fascism in Europe .” Check your local listings for air times — and if you don’t see it, please ask your public television station to add it to their schedule.

30 European Festivals – Travelers’ Favorites

A couple of weeks ago, I asked my Facebook community to help me round out my upcoming book about European festivals with some of their own favorite festivals. Many of them used vivid writing and photos to share an enticing array of parties .

Here are the best 30, listed in calendar order. Each listing includes a festival website and/or a YouTube search tip so you can get a better sense of the fun. (We’ll include the best of the photos in the print edition.) I hope that this collection will translate into more festive travels on your next European trip.

Thanks to all our guest travel writers. Each of you will get an autographed copy of the “Rick Steves European Festivals” book hot off the press this fall, when the companion public television special airs across the USA. Now, enjoy this opportunity to imagine joining in on all this Euro-festival fun.

Background photo: Jennifer Martin

February. Battle of the Oranges. Ivrea, Italy.

Every February, the northern Italian town of Ivrea hosts the Battle of the Oranges (Battaglia delle Arance), drawing thousands of visitors to its old-town center—some to observe behind safety nets, others in the fray dodging flying oranges amid horse-drawn carriages and piles of horse manure. Just a short drive from Milan, Ivrea makes an easy day-trip to see this fun, chaotic festival. Watch as “soldiers” in horse-drawn carriages and “peasants” on the ground pelt each other with oranges–nearly 500 tons over a three-day period. For around €5, you can purchase a red-stocking cap to mark yourself as a non-combatant, which means that while you may still get hit with a stray fruit here and there, no one (at least in theory) should be aiming directly at you. Note that if you want to participate in the battle, you must be part of a registered team. (storicocarnevaleivrea.it, YouTube search: Oranges Ivrea. Thanks to Hyla Melloy Stuttgart of Germany.)

March 15-19. Las Fallas Festival. Valencia, Spain.

Celebrated annually in March, Las Fallas in Valencia honors the coming of Spring and sparks a unique attack on the senses. Spectacular displays of fireworks occur daily, with a Valencian twist: You will FEEL the rumble reverberating through your body. Parades with brass bands, traditional costumes, and firecrackers fill the city, culminating in street parties for everyone to enjoy. Aside from the incredible cuisine, from perfect paellas to mouthwatering churros, a highlight is the pilgrimage where more than 50,000 people offer flowers to the Virgin Mary. The festival’s name comes from the hundreds of giant statues–sometimes satirical and always astonishing–that are erected across the city as a competition between neighborhoods. It’s a beautiful irony to watch them burn brightly in an epic finale, to which you’re so close you can feel the flames. (http://fallespatrimonicomu.info/en/, YouTube search: Fallas Valencia. Thanks to Kerrie Simpson of Manchester, UK.)

March. St. Patrick’s Festival. Dublin, Ireland.

Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities are highlighted by a giant parade. All along the two-mile parade route, revelers sport an assortment of goofy hats and festive face paint. Delicate little sprigs of live shamrock clover are pinned to lapels and hats everywhere.

The parade features a quirky conveyor belt of visual and audio stimuli, including school marching bands, giant puppets spidering along the street on long poles, crosier-staff-bearing St. Patricks in flowing green robes anointing the crowds with mock blessings, and colorful floats blowing Lawrence Welk bubbles and swirls of cloudlike foam into the air.

The revelry continues long after the parade ends. Bands on outdoor stages churn out lively rhythms laced with fiddle, banjo, and flute. Irish dance troupes featuring lasses in short skirts perform a precision swirl of set dancing as locals break into their own ragged impromptu dance steps, locking elbows and kicking up their heels. (stpatricksfestival.ie, YouTube search: St. Patrick’s Festival Dublin. Thanks to Pat O’Connor, co-author of the Rick Steves Ireland guidebook, of Edmonds, WA.)

April 27. Koningsdag. Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Every April 27, the Dutch celebrate their bright orange holiday of Koningsdag, or King’s Day, in celebration of the birthday of their monarch, Willem-Alexander.

The Dutch have a tradition of Oranjegeket (going orange crazy), because orange is their proud and loud national color. Never is this more apparent than in the clothes, wigs, big hats, and bright feather boas prominent throughout the partying, wandering masses on Koningsdag.

While Koningsdag is a nationwide holiday, it’s estimated that a million Dutch converge on the capital city of Amsterdam for parties, bands, flea markets, and most significantly, the parade of brightly-colored boats cruising up and down the city’s famed canals, playing loud music and showing off before the jolly masses on the quaysides.

So grab a beer or two, dip your fries in mayo, and join the orange crowd in Amsterdam this April. (YouTube search: Koningsdag Amsterdam. Thanks to Steven McIntire of Alameda, CA.)

April 30. Beltane Fire Festival. Edinburgh, Scotland.

Wind your way up Edinburgh’s iconic Calton Hill, guided by the flickering light of torches and the sounds of revelry. What greets you at the top is the Beltane Fire Festival, and a night you’ll never forget. Taking place each year on April 30, this ancient-Celtic-inspired festival has run since the 1980s, and tells the story of the awakening of the May Queen and the rebirth of the Green Man. Expect to see half-naked, painted bodies dance and perform in a procession across the top of the hill. As they cheer and shout, watch out for the twirling of flames and torches all around you. The culmination of the festivities ends with a roaring bonfire, whose warmth will leave you yearning for the approaching summer that the festival beckons. (https://beltane.org, YouTube search: Beltane Festival. Thanks to Emily Gwiazda of Caledon, Ontario.)

April/May. Baumblütenfest. Werder, Germany.

When I heard about the Fruit Wine Festival outside of Berlin, I couldn’t wait to hear more. Then I heard more. Rowdy trains full of drunk teens–all in pursuit of locally produced fruit wines. But Baumblütenfest is worth the one-hour trip. That chaotic train ride transports you from the capital city to the countryside. Walking with hordes from the station, you’re struck by the tranquility, with greenery stretching to the Havel River. The stillness is broken by the vendors’ stands. Plastic cups soon litter the streets. Goofy hats and charmless knick-knacks are for sale. Ignore that. You’re here for the wine.

Stachelbeere (gooseberry) and Johannisbeere (currant) are transformed by crazy homemade contraptions into wine. Continue past the crowds and rides, bringing your bottle to the edge of the island. Sit in the grass. Gaze at the water. Drink up.

Baumblütenfest is a mouthful, but it gets easier to say as the fruit wine flows. (werder-havel.de, YouTube search: Baumblütenfest. Thanks to Erin “ebe” Porter of Berlin, Germany.)

Late Spring. Vogalonga. Venice, Italy.

In 1973, in protest against the mechanized boats harming the lagoon habitat and the historic buildings of Venice and the Veneto, a group of friends took up arms–in the form of oars–and created a non-competitive race, using traditional Venetian forward-rowing boats. The protest festival continues 40 years on. These days, time-honored, flat-bottom, small boats like the sandolo , macareta , and s’ciopon are joined by modern-day kayaks as well as larger vessels like the peata , which holds about 16 rowers. At the sound of a shotgun, local and worldwide rowing enthusiasts alike make their way through a 30 km- (19 mile-) course through the shallow canals of the lagoon. As they oar their way along the Venetian waterways, wide-eyed onlookers perched on banks and bridges spiritedly cheer for the colorful aquatic parade of thousands of human-powered watercraft. (vogalonga.com, YouTube search: Vogalonga Venice. Thanks to Trish Feaster of Edmonds, WA.)

May-June. Infiorata Festivals. Italy

Leave it to the Italians to take something Mother Nature has perfected and make it even more breathtaking. That’s exactly what happens every May and June at the Infiorata Festival–the Festival of Flowers. Vibrant blooms are harvested and used in fresh, dried, natural, and dyed forms to create mosaic masterpieces all over Italy. The sweet fragrance of the pillowy petals carpet the path for religious processions all the way to the altar.

Each of the hundreds of Infiorata Festivals has a unique identity, giving travelers a window into what matters most in each region. The one thing they all have in common is that the religious scenes are literally swept away within hours of completion, leaving every witness with the knowledge that beauty comes from the creative act, not the completed product. Because it is fleeting, this festival leaves a lasting impression on those who experience its glory. (YouTube search: Infiorata. Thanks to Colleen Mariotti of Bainbridge Island, WA.)

June. Vienna Pride. Vienna, Austria.

Of all of its magnificent balls, Vienna’s most fabulous by far is Europe’s largest AIDS benefit event: the annual Life Ball, held on Rathausplatz. Since 1992, this enthralling celebration has drawn dozens of celebrities to the Austrian capital to raise funding and awareness for AIDS/HIV research, treatment, and prevention programs. But what makes this event particularly spectacular year after year is its unbridled celebration of life, thrillingly evident in the competition of glittering, feathered, sequined costumes and its determinedly inclusive atmosphere.

The glad rags come off at the end of Pride Week as Vienna’s annual Regenbogenparade (Rainbow Parade) closes out the festivities with a joyous, colorful—and scantily clad—march around the capital’s downtown Ringstrasse. This is an opportunity to both acknowledge the hard-won victories of a centuries-long struggle for LGBTQ rights and to reconvene under the banner of the ongoing fight for equality. In years past, Pride Village has even hosted a ‘Katerfrühstück’ (hangover breakfast) the following morning, including the crowning of this year’s Dirndl Königin (Dirndl Queen) and Lederhosen König (Lederhosen King). (http://viennapride.at, YouTube search: Vienna Pride. Thanks to Gretl Satorius of Vienna, Austria.)

June. Der Meistertrunk. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany.

Georg Nusch, mayor of 17th-century Rothenburg, purportedly drained over three liters of wine in one incredible gulp, after an invading general promised to spare the town if the mayor could down the drink. Nusch not only saved Rothenburg from destruction, he gave birth to the legend known as Der Meistertrunk (The Master Draught), celebrated each year in early June. The four-day festival takes tiny Rothenburg, already one of Germany’s most well-preserved medieval towns, back to 1631. Hundreds of locals don dramatic period costumes as soldiers, merchants, and townsfolk to recreate the events leading up to Nusch’s dizzying feat. The celebration takes place in and outside of Rothenburg’s medieval walls with an open-air play; military parades featuring pounding drums, battle songs, and intimidating weaponry; military camps with crackling fires, horse-drawn carts; and food, drink, and live modern music at night. (http://en.meistertrunk.de, YouTube search: Der Meistertrunk. Thanks to Nick Medina of Chicago, IL.)

June. DecorAcción. Madrid, Spain.

Filled with color, texture and creativity–from the beautiful to the funky–Madrid’s DecorAcción celebrates art, design, and decoration.

Each June, this street festival lights up the Barrio de las Letras neighborhood with amazing art installations on the facades of building after building, while pop-up shops selling antiques and vintage fare line the streets. Whimsically decorated residential balconies and colorful pennants hang over the streets, creating a canopy that expands the festival to the sky.

Locals and visitors can take workshops on topics such as creating a personal tablescape, Japanese writing, and trends in floral arranging. Wander into neighborhood restaurants to check out the decorated patios for a total dining experience.

The festival is a full-on, five-sense feast for the creative mind, vintage shopper, and the traveler looking for a unique, easy to access, local experience. (http://decoraccion.nuevo-estilo.es, YouTube search: DecorAcción. Thanks to Shawn Elizabeth Personke of Chelsea, MI.)

June 16. Bloomsday Festival. Dublin, Ireland.

Even those unfamiliar with James Joyce will delight in the “wacky” sports, eccentric costumes, and tasty treats of Dublin’s Bloomsday Festival. The festival honors author James Joyce and Leopold Bloom, the lead character in Joyce’s novel, Ulysses.

Throughout the streets of Dublin, actors recite dramatic and silly readings from Ulysses, often prompting cheers and shouts from the crowd. You can also partake in the Joycean pub crawl if that strikes your fancy. Or you can crawl into bed! “Molly’s” bed (named for Molly Bloom, Leopold’s wife) is a full-size bed in the middle of the street where festival-goers can take a photo, or perhaps a nap.

While any attire is just fine, try to find a local charity shop (thrift shop) and support an Irish charity while picking up a feathered hat, fancy pearls, or other Edwardian garb to immerse yourself in the festivities. (bloomsdayfestival.ie, YouTube search: Bloomsday Dublin. Thanks to Claire Pfarr of Pittsburgh, PA.)

June 21. Fête de la Musique. Paris, France.

My favorite European festival happens in Paris every year on the evening of the summer solstice, June 21. It’s called “Fête de la Musique” or Festival of Music. It started in Paris in 1982 and is now celebrated in many cities in Europe as Worldwide Music Day. All over Paris, streets are closed to traffic and pedestrians wander around freely, listening to live music and enjoying street food sold from carts. Some indoor venues are open for special concerts. Most, if not all, are free to the public. Many bars and restaurants have special menus. Even the public transport system gets into the act: RATP sells a special discounted ticket that is good all night, and the Métro, bus, and RER lines continue service until the wee hours. It’s a lot of fun if you happen to be in Paris that day! (fetedelamusique.de/en, YouTube search: Fête de la Musique Paris. Thanks to John M of Milwaukee, WI.)

June 23. Festa de São João do Porto. Porto, Portugal.

Not well known beyond Portugal, Oporto stages an annual festival which is second to none! The celebration on June 23 honors their most revered saint, St. John the Baptist. Dating back six centuries, the festival blends Christianity with old pagan rites: grilled sardines, lots of port and wine, balloon lanterns, midnight fireworks, and jumping over bonfires. Street musicians fill the streets on the Douro riverfront. Don’t be surprised if a stalk of leeks or a clove of garlic suddenly thwacks you on the head. It’s just the locals’ way of wishing you good luck. Better yet, they bonk people on their heads with soft plastic hammers that beep — that’s the coolest! No one is immune from the bonking, from babies in strollers to the elderly with walkers. If you dare…go for the beeping hammer lines. It is great “beeping” fun! (YouTube search: Festa de São João Porto. Thanks to Randy Ratzlaff of Terrell, TX.)

June 23. Noche de San Juan. A Coruña, Spain.

San Juan (Saint John) is a festival celebrated on June 23 throughout different parts of Spain, but it’s best in the autonomous community of Galicia. At night, residents light hundreds of bonfires on the beaches to ward off evil and witches. You can walk through the old city of A Coruña to see streets lined with large grills fuming smoke and releasing the savory scent of grilled sardines. Families and friends enjoy cañas (beers) and endless amounts of sardines from plastic plates. When the sun sets, the lighting of the fires begins and the entire city is overrun with a thick fog of smoke and ashes. Before the night is over, for good luck, you must jump over the bonfire seven times and scream “Meigas fora!” (Witches off!) (hoguerassanjuan.com, YouTube search: San Juan A Coruña. Thanks to Angelo Ramos of A Coruña, Spain.)

Late June-late September. Lumières à Beaune. Beaune, France.

While Beaune might be best known for the taste of its Burgundian cuisine and delectable wines from nearby vineyards, summer visitors know that a late-evening walk through the town excites another sense: sight. Dotted throughout the walled French city are historic buildings whose facades become nightly canvases for dazzling digital light shows. With state-of-the-art animations and projections, each venue tells a different visual story from Beaune’s and France’s past, highlighting famous citizens, the humble lives of ordinary people, and intricate landscapes and architecture. Residents and visitors of all ages share in this communal experience as they go from one location to the next, delighting in this rich, kaleidoscopic spectacle. (YouTube search: Lumières Beaune. Thanks to Trish Feaster of Edmonds, WA.)

July. Disfida degli Arcieri di Terra e di Corte. Fivizzano, Italy.

Every July, nestled in the lush hills of northern Tuscany, the sleepy walled town of Fivizzano travels back in time. A medieval archery competition, “Disfida degli Arcieri di Terra e di Corte” (Challenge of the Archers between the Countryside and Court), has taken place on the same square, Piazza Medicea, for 500 years. Attracting thousands of witnesses to this fun, fierce rivalry between neighborhoods and nearby villages, the festival is an elaborate and boisterous affair as locals show off their proud tradition. The weekend begins by setting the scene with a medieval food market, games, music, and animals. Sunday’s sunset introduces each rival group–the costumed marchers with drums and impressive banners parade beautifully through the streets. As the warm cobblestones cool, the archery competition starts, fervent and engaging; a hush falls over the audience at every mark taken. Stunning performances such as flag throwing and fire dancing are interspersed throughout. If you’re lucky, you’ll join a great party by following the victors to their favorite bar. (YouTube search: Disfida Fivizzano. Thanks to Ella Weehuizen of Russell, New Zealand.)

July. Festa del Redentore. Venice, Italy.

Just follow the crowds and you’ll be in a perfect spot for the Redentore Festival’s fireworks in Venice, held on the third Saturday in July to give thanks for the end of the plague in 1576. The highlight is a spectacular show of fireworks that lights up the sky over the Grand Canal and the Il Redentore church on the island of Giudecca. Go out early to find a place to sit. The locals will show you where, and stop when they stop. Snack on pizza and a bottled bellini while waiting for the fireworks that happen about 9 p.m. On the days before and after the fireworks, you can literally walk on water on a temporary pontoon bridge that connects the area near St. Mark’s Square to the island of Giudecca. (YouTube search: Redentore Venice. Thanks to Tiffani Sherman of Dunedin, Florida.)

July. Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic.

Berlin, London, Cannes…Karlovy Vary? Film festivals in Europe are fun and exciting–and they increase your awareness of the world! My favorite is held in July in the beautiful, historic city of Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic. Over the course of nine days, more than 150 international movies are presented, including dozens of world premieres! Often, the actors and directors attend the screenings and speak to the audience at the conclusion, adding to people’s enjoyment and understanding of the films. In addition to the films, all of which are in English or subtitled, there are celebrations along the river, on the red carpet, and throughout the city. The Czechs really love their cinema and the KVIFF is wonderful, especially the cheap ticket prices (about $4), lodging, and tasty food! (kviff.com/en/homepage, YouTube search: Karlovy Vary Film Festival. Thanks to Melanie Sims Leon of Hohenfels, Germany.)

July. Gărâna Jazz Festival. Gărâna, Romania.

The Gărâna Jazz Festival in Romania has all the ingredients of a hidden gem. Held high up in the Carpathian Mountains outside the town of Gărâna, this four-day festival in the woods brings together a genre-bending mix of jazz musicians from around the world. You’ll hear everything from traditional trumpet and sax acts, to symphonic ensembles pushing the envelope of their tradition, to DJs giving it the electronic spin. From unknowns to Oscar winners, all the acts are impressive, and the audience, clued into the privilege of being there, are definitely into them. Up to 10,000 people attend each year, but it doesn’t feel crowded–there’s plenty of space to sit on the cozy wooden benches, carved from the trees the local timber industry sustainably produces. And for those brisk mountains nights, the delicious soups and delicacies the chefs are serving morning to night are simply divine. (garana-jazz.ro, YouTube search: Gărâna Jazz Festival. Thanks to Matthew Paffhouse of McBain, MI.)

July. Ludwigsburg Festival Classic Open Air & Fireworks. Ludwigsburg, Germany.

Imagine watching shimmers of fireworks bounce off a lakeside palace while a live orchestra plays in the background. That’s exactly what you’ll find every July at the Ludwigsburg Festival, held at Seeschloss Monrepos, 45 minutes from Stuttgart, Germany. The best seating is on the hillside of the lawn–if you’re quick enough to claim a spot for yourself. Some sit on blankets; some turn this into the celebration of the year and bring folding tables, linens, flowers, champagne, and candelabras. Families can bring outdoor toys, and many people bring wine, fresh bread, and cheese; German sausage, beer, and wine is available for purchase. The orchestra often plays popular movie theme songs to add humor, making the evening light and fun. A hotel on the property allows you to turn this affair into a weekend getaway. Fair warning: This may certainly become the event you plan your future vacations around. (YouTube search: Ludwigsburg fireworks. Thanks to Jennifer Martin of Port Townsend, WA.)

Last week of July. Cosmo Jazz Festival. Chamonix, France.

If you want to combine your love of music with the thrill of the great outdoors, make your way to Chamonix during the last week of July. Musicians from all corners of the globe share their talents en plein air at venues in the chic valley town of Chamonix and at altitudes with dizzying French alpine and glacial panoramas. And impromptu performances can happen when and where you least expect it–along a hiking trail, atop a boulder, or even in a cable car thousands of feet above the valley floor. From midday until late into the night, you’ll hear and feel this unforgettable mixture of melody and Mother Nature, where the hills really are alive with the sound of music. (cosmojazzfestival.com/en, YouTube search: Jazz Festival Chamonix. Thanks to Trish Feaster of Edmonds, WA.)

Last weekend of July. Sighişoara Medieval Festival. Sighişoara, Romania.

Romania’s Sighişoara Medieval Festival is a must-see destination for anyone harboring a penchant for medieval parties in historically spooky towns. Great for kids and adults of all ages, the festivities include costumed parades through winding cobblestone streets, live theater performances, dancing, concerts, and hands-on activities. After lunch at one of the food carts or restaurants, try your hand at archery or visit the blacksmith’s tower. Follow the sounds of the lute player to imprisoned witches and jailed law-breakers serving their sentences. If you feel left out in plain street clothes, don’t worry; simply rent a costume and join in the festivities. Cap off your experience with a tour of the house where Dracula was born, conveniently located in the middle of the festival. Sighisoara is easily accessible by train, and the festival is held in the center of the old town. (YouTube search: Sighişoara Festival. Thanks to Jennifer Martin of Port Townsend, WA.)

August. Festa Major de Gràcia. Barcelona, Spain.

If you find yourself in Barcelona during mid-August, check out one of the world’s most colorful and energetic week-long block parties. For nearly 200 years, the Festa Major de Gràcia has attracted those interested in seeing which neighborhood street will win the annual prize as “best decorated.” The elaborate, immense, and colorful scenes constructed by the locals must be seen to be believed. Some can even be experienced, as is the case with this walk-through underwater artistic explosion from 2013 (pictured below). Modestly priced food and drink, free live music, and large, enthusiastic crowds round out this unforgettable local experience. (www.festamajordegracia.cat, YouTube search: Festa Major de Gràcia. Thanks to John Meglino of Brooklyn, NY.)

August. Villacher Kirchtag. Villach, Austria.

Villach’s Kirchtag festival is a mix between Munich’s Oktoberfest and traditional May Day celebrations in the US. The town of Villach has an idyllic setting on the River Drau, with a hilltop castle, Burg Landskron, overlooking the picturesque valley. A nice walk up to the castle, which has a view restaurant at the top, allows for a pleasant respite from the activity of the festival.

During the week-long festival, Villach welcomes an estimated 400,000 visitors, many wearing traditional lederhosen and dirndl. It’s a celebration for all ages, with amusement park rides intermixed with beer, food, and souvenir tents. Each restaurant sets up their own tent with an accompanying oompah band, and night-time brings DJs to the Kaiser-Josef-Platz for the Kirchtag Disco, where the young gather each night.

The Kirchtag festival, smaller than Munich’s big bash, welcomes tourists who want an Oktoberfest experience, but maybe have a tighter budget. (villacherkirchtag.at, YouTube search: Kirchtag Villach. Thanks to Bob Grant of Bellmawr, NJ)

Autumn. Prague International Jazz Festival. Prague, Czech Republic

Jazz lovers, it’s time to plan a trip to Prague! The Old Town Square boasts free open-air concerts one weekend every year in July. Whether you enjoy classic jazz, swing, or blues–or a hybrid of the three–it’s absolutely one of the best laid-back jazz parties Europe can offer. Food and drink vendors line the stage, so grab a beer, a hot pastry lovingly spun over flame and sprinkled with sugar, grilled chicken or sausage, and enjoy the numerous performers–a great mix of both instrumentalists and vocalists. If you get up to dance, chances are you’ll find many willing to join you. Located near the historical astronomical clock and St. Nicholas Church, it’s easy to find and a great way to mix sightseeing and entertainment. (http://jazzfestivalpraha.com/en, YouTube search: Prague Jazz Festival. Thanks to Jennifer Martin of Port Townsend, WA.)

October. Almabtrieb Festival. Mayrhofen, Austria.

For Austrians, this event is a normal part of alpine life, but for others, it’s a beautiful, other-worldly celebration that many flock to see from around the world. It’s known as the Almabtrieb, or Cows Come Home, and the largest festival is held in Mayrhofen, Austria, located in the Tirol region of the Alps. Some 180,000 steer, horses, sheep, and goats make their way down from the alps where they’ve spent the summer grazing the lush fields. In this region, many animals are decorated with stunning flower crowns and colorful garlands and wear hand-painted bells. You can hear the bells as the shepherds herd the animals down to their stables. This free event is absolutely one celebration not to be missed! (YouTube search: Almabtrieb Mayrhofen. Thanks to Megan Haigood of Stuttgart, Germany.)

October. Eurochocolate Festival. Perugia, Italy.

Imagine the quaint streets of a pristine medieval Italian town lined with hundreds of vendors selling chocolate. Every October, Perugia–the home of Baci Chocolates–turns into a sweet tooth’s paradise during the largest chocolate festival in Europe. From chocolate made by old Italian men, to the world’s largest chocolate bar at the end of a GIANT selfie stick, Eurochocolate gives you a unique view on modern Italian culture. A festival that turns only 24 this year, Eurochocolate is a spectacular way to gorge on a gift from the heavens. Tickets for a “Chocopass” are relatively inexpensive (some are around €6), and come with a heaping of free chocolate, chocolate-inspired things, and other goodies. Don’t trip on the cobblestones as you make your way to the city’s spectacular panoramic viewpoint, munching on all the chocolate goodies—both domestic and international–the festival has to offer. (YouTube search: Eurochocolate Perugia. Thanks to Sydney Zaruba of Saint Augustine, FL.)

December. Fête de l’Escalade. Geneva, Switzerland.

The Fête de l’Escalade is a weekend-long celebration, held in mid-December in Geneva, to commemorate the night in 1602 when the scrappy townsfolk defeated the army of the Duke of Savoy, who wanted to capture the then-independent and wealthy city-state. On Saturday, to re-create parts of the middle-of-the-night battle, there are tours of secret passageways in the Old Town, mock sword fights, and cannon-firing demonstrations. The festival culminates with a big parade on Sunday night, with scores of men dressed as soldiers of the Savoy, wearing helmets and some riding on horseback. The way is lit by torches of real fire. The parade ends in the square in front of the cathedral, where an enormous bonfire is lit. And what Swiss festival is complete without chocolate? The symbol is a chocolate soup pot, a weapon of the battle’s heroine. Every family buys one to smash and eat at home. (www.1602.ch, YouTube search: Fête de l’Escalade. Thanks to Stephen H. Padre of Washington, D.C.)

Why Spanish Potheads Are Called “Kangaroos”

I was in a cannabis club sharing marijuana jokes with a table of friends in Madrid. One girl referred to her boyfriend as a “kangaroo.” I asked why and she told me.

Spaniards call potheads “kangaroos” because when the police come, they stow their joints – not in pockets which can be legally searched – but inside their underpants where the police can’t go without a warrant – hence the nickname “kangaroo.” (In Spain you actually need a warrant to search someone’s underwear.) This quick stash is done so routinely by so many people here that, over time and with evolution, Spaniards may develop a kangaroo-like pouch just below their bellies.

This is Day 43 of my 100 Days in Europe series. As I research my guidebooks and make new TV shows, I’m reporting on my experiences and lessons learned in Portugal, Spain, Italy, France, Bulgaria, Romania, and beyond. Find more at blog.ricksteves.com .

Traveling in Spain’s Fast Lane

We hear so much about Europe’s problems. Traveling here, I see its successes. Spain , with one of the most miserable economies in Europe, is now laced together by bullet trains so good that you hardly need to fly. Here’s a quick peek at the ride from Madrid to Barcelona — nonstop with speeds ranging from 250 to 300 kilometers per hour (around 180 mph). It’s so nice to zip from downtown to downtown without having to deal with airports in 2.5 hours. And my train ticket included subway rides on either end, which made it even better. On the plain in Spain, the AVE train puts you in the fast lane. (You may want to turn up the volume for this video — I’m whispering so I don’t disturb slumbering passengers.)

This is Day 11 of my 100 Days in Europe series. As I research my guidebooks and make new TV shows, I’m reporting on my experiences and lessons learned in Portugal, Spain, Italy, France, Bulgaria, Romania, and beyond. Find more at blog.ricksteves.com .

The Majesty of Madrid

• Mar 31 2022
• Length: 51 mins

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In this episode, we chat about the 2004 episode of Rick Steves' Europe, "The Majesty of Madrid." We'll chat about Madrid's Spanish Civil War history, how many Madrid art museums is too many, and how tourism in Spain has changed over the past twenty years.

Guest: Kate Storm from Our Escape Clause 

• Join our Facebook Group: Rick Steves Over Brunch Podcast Listeners.
• Get exclusive mini-episodes on  Our Patreon Account
• See a full list of episodes and resources on the RSOB page of History Fangirl.

Madrid Travel Resources

• How to spend one day or two days in Madrid (Itinerary + tips)
• How to spend three days in Madrid
• The best quotes about Madrid, Spain
• How to see Madrid on a budget
• How to take a  day trip from Madrid to Toledo

Spain Travel Resources

• The best souvenirs from Spain
• The best things to do in one day in Gijon, Spain
• Funny puns and jokes about Spain for your trip
• Barcelona's Groundbreaking Monument to Trans history
• Beautiful quotes about Barcelona
• Funny puns and jokes about Barcelona
• The best things to do in Mallorca in winter

More from Stephanie Craig

Find her at History Fangirl, Sofia Adventures, & Oklahoma Wonders.

Her opinion on the best places to visit in Europe.

In this episode, I mentioned my trip to El Salvador. You can see my photo essay full of pictures of the Ruta de la Flores.

Episode Topics: things to do in Madrid Spain | Madrid travel tips | Madrid things to do | Madrid vacation ideas | family vacation in Madrid | where to go in Madrid | Madrid itinerary ideas | Madrid travel tips | Madrid tips | what to do in Madrid in one day | Madrid in two days | Madrid in three days | Madrid Spain trip ideas | day trips from Madrid | what to eat in Madrid | what to eat for breakfast in Madrid | Rick Steves Madrid | Madrid city break | weekend in Madrid | Madrid itinerary tips | itinerary for Madrid | one week in Madrid | Madrid travel guide 

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Travel Expert Rick Steves' Genius Tip For Planning A Successful Vacation

Travel guru Rick Steves has spent the better part of his career helping travelers worldwide travel smarter (and cheaper) through his bestselling guidebooks. He knows the value of thoroughly  researching a new destination , so an unprepared traveler is often inconvenienced in his eyes. Steves cannot overstate how crucial proper preparation is for a hassle-free vacation, especially if you want to sidestep common bothers like adhering to tight schedules and perhaps the number one enemy of travelers everywhere: long queues.

"I always like to say that there are two IQs of European travelers: those who wait in lines and those who don't wait in line," Steves told WABE . To save yourself the frustration of queueing, the "Rick Steves' Europe" host advises extensive research to discover which destinations require prior reservations and which do not. "What the smart traveler these days knows is, if you're going to any big city you should do your reading in advance and figure out which sites need to be booked," he shared with The Seattle Times . "If you're going to Florence, you really gotta book the Accademia to see Michelangelo's David and the Uffizi Gallery in advance. You've gotta book the Duomo [di Milano] cathedral in advance."

However, Steves also insists that the goal of research extends beyond merely avoiding lines. He firmly believes it's also key to feeling more fulfilled in your adventures. "Remember that the more understanding and context you bring to a place, the more you'll enjoy it," he told The Seattle Times.

Read more: Unsettling Reasons You May Want To Avoid Taking A Cruise

Avoid Being Too Caught Up In Shrinking Your Budget

While  Rick Steves is a huge proponent of thrift, offering a wealth of tips for staying within budget , he's also the first to tell you not to worry too much about cost-cutting, as it will only take away the joy of travel. His advice? Keep in mind that time is money, too. For Steves, splurging a bit for convenience is always worth it.

"People sometimes focus on saving money while forgetting that their time is equally valuable, and limited," Steves advised  Business Insider . "If it will save you a half hour, hop in a taxi. Considering the value of your time, even if taking a taxi costs you and your travel partner $5 more than bus tickets, it's a good investment."

If you want the best bang for your buck, consider using a travel agent, too. Travel agents sometimes get a bad rap for unnecessary upselling, but if you find a reputable one, they can help you secure the best deals. "For international trips, I pay the extra fee to have a professional travel agent find me the best value (which isn't necessarily the cheapest) ticket," Steves told Forbes . He also noted on his  website that travel agents can assist you with securing "consolidator" or "discount" air tickets. While these tickets have certain limitations, like excluding frequent flyer miles accrual, they offer considerable savings.

Squeeze In 'A Vacation From Your Vacation'

Whenever you go to new places, Rick Steves advises against cramming as many sights and activities as possible into your visit. "You can't see it all, especially in one trip, and that's a blessing," he told Business Insider. "Enjoy seeing what you can and be thankful you have important experiences left over to enjoy on your next adventure." In other words, pacing is crucial because overloading your itinerary leads to unnecessary stress. You don't want to look back on your trip and only remember a blur of flights and train rides. And besides, it's not like you can't plan another trip in the future anyway.

Instead of forcing a tightly packed schedule, give yourself some leeway to rest easy and slow down mid-trip, especially during extended travels. Steves calls this a "vacation from your vacation," according to  Rick Steves' Europe , and with this strategy, you allow room for unplanned activities and spur-of-the-moment decisions. Sure, a successful vacation involves a ton of planning, but embracing spontaneity can enhance your overall experience.

"Consider building in a few slack days ... two days on the beach midway through the trip; that'll be very nice ... Travel is freedom. It's rich with choices and exciting decisions. That's part of the appeal," he said in one of his YouTube videos . "I like to keep some flexibility in my itinerary — perhaps I'll fall in love with Siena and stay an extra day."

Read the original article on Islands .