A day in Madrid

Madrid, Spain

Morning - Main square

Cool morning light lies across the open cobbles under the tall buildings. I cross the grand square at an easy pace. Plaza Mayor, built in the seventeenth century, forms the heart of old Madrid, and its porticoed arcades hold traditional shops, outdoor cafes, and stamp markets.

Morning - Square facade

Painted frescoes catch the morning sun on the uniform four-storey fronts. I look back in a red dress and take in the symmetry. These residential buildings enclose the square, which regularly hosts civic celebrations, holiday markets, and outdoor public gatherings.

Morning - Cafe terrace

Coffee scent rises from the shaded terrace tables where people settle in. I pass the outdoor seats and stay on my feet. Porticoed arcades around Plaza Mayor house these outdoor cafes, and April and May bring sunny days with comfortable temperatures.

Morning - Stone archway

Cold stone meets my fingers beside the heavy wooden door. I go through the arch and onto the cobbled street beyond. October is the wettest month, winter is crisp and cold, and June to September brings intense heat to the city.

Afternoon - Park path

Shade from the large trees holds the warm air close to the path. I stroll beneath them and keep an easy pace. El Retiro Park began as a private royal retreat, and residents still gather for afternoon walks and weekend leisure.

Afternoon - Garden walk

Clipped hedge leaves brush my arm on the neat garden walk. I follow the line toward the monument in the distance. El Retiro holds formal gardens and peaceful rose gardens, and the monument to King Alfonso XII overlooks the central boating lake.

Golden Hour - Pond side

Pink light lies on the water and shines back from the surface. I watch the colour change from the side of the pond. El Retiro's large central boating lake sits in the old royal park, where summer brass band concerts draw local residents.

Golden Hour - Glass palace

Sunlight hits the glass and warms the face of the building. I pause in front of it and look up at the bright roof. The iron-and-glass Crystal Palace stands among El Retiro's highlights, near the formal gardens and peaceful rose gardens.

Golden Hour - Waterfront

The air feels calm and the water holds the last warm light along the bank. I follow the edge of the pond without hurrying. Local residents gather in El Retiro for afternoon walks, weekend leisure, and summer brass band concerts.

Golden Hour - Park avenue

Long shadows cool the path as I look back one last time. I turn on the avenue and let the day settle around me. Shaded marble avenues run through El Retiro, the former private royal retreat now open for afternoon walks.