Templo de Debod

As summer approaches, you will start to find more and more young people gathering in the streets to enjoy a drink or two, before heading into the centre to the bars and clubs. This is known as a botellón “an open-air drinking session”, and although strictly speaking it’s not allowed, the police will normally turn a blind eye and move you along, providing you aren’t causing a disturbance to other members of the public. 

Retiro

Retiro Park is a great place to visit all year round, but is especially pretty in Spring and Summer. Retiro Park is a hotspot for both tourists and Madrileños and could even be described as a symbol of Madrid. Once a private recreational ground for the royal family, today it is open to the public to enjoy the beautiful walks and views.

Malasaña

Apologies if I’m preaching to the converted, but if you’re not well-acquainted with Madrid’s party district, Malasaña, here’s some info that will change your weekends! 

I want to ride my bicycle, I want to ride my bike.

What’s stopping you? Here in Madrid there are dozens of ways to get hold of a bike (excluding stealing one, obviously). From free bike hire, to guided city bike tours, you’ll definitely be able to find what you’re looking for.

Madrid: the scenic route

Now that the weather’s starting to cheer up a bit there’s no better time to get out of the house and start exploring Madrid, especially if you’ve just arrived. Not sure where to head first? Let me give you a few ideas.

Silence! I'm working

Fed up of studying in your room? Fancy a new, interesting environment where you can get your head down and learn those stem-changing verbs? The Cervantes Institute could be just what you’re looking for! 

Calling all online film junkies

Watching films online always leaves you with a slight feeling of “What is it I’m doing with my life again?” But, you’ll be pleased to hear I may have discovered a way to banish that thought. Cuevana.com.

Free Cinema

Yes, that’s right. A whole week of free cinema is taking place this week at various venues, so don’t miss out!