How to Spend a Day in Madrid Like a Local

You’d be hard-pressed to find a local with a plate of scrambled eggs and bacon for breakfast. Instead, start with a cafe con leche (coffee with milk) and some toast with tomato spread. Or if you’ve got a sweet tooth, try dipping some fresh, crispy churros in a mug of thick chocolate. Coffee and breakfast are typically available at most little bars and cafeterias you see lining the streets, so just pop in and order. Oh, and don’t worry about getting up early – locals take their breakfast as late as 11:30 am sometimes!

This area is hip, young and great for shopping when you’re searching for a unique find. Try Calle Velarde for vintage shops like Magpie or Williamsburg. If you have the patience to sift through the endless rails of clothing, you may end up with some cool vintage tee-shirts or some funky 1980s apparel. For something contemporary, Herself has hip items for reasonable prices, and for whimsical stationery and decorations, visit The Nest Boutique.

The Spanish love a good bargain, and getting a daily lunch menu deal is the way to go. A ‘Menu del Día’ will typically include a drink (beer, wine, soft drink or water), a starter, a main course and a dessert or coffee for a fixed price. Usually, this price is around 10-13 euros, but in some cases it can be even cheaper. Lunch menus can be found at almost all restaurants Monday to Friday, and sometimes on weekends (usually at a slightly higher price). If you’ve been shopping in Malasaña, stop at Maricastaña or Dray Martina to try their fixed-price menu lunches. Oh, and don’t forget, lunch time is from 2-4 pm, any earlier and you’re eating on ‘tourist time’.

If you want to be a true Spaniard, napping is key. Naps are always taken after a big lunch and usually for about an hour or two, especially when it’s hot outside. The Spanish aren’t fussy where you nap – a sofa, bed or armchair will due. So get some zzz in, ready for an evening out.