Madrid de Tapas

The best thing to do while you are in Plaza Nayor area, especially if it is X-mas, go and have a look at the "nacimiento" they always set up there - long line but worthy. Then have a look at the stands to buy X-mas decorations, "nacimientos", jokes, etc.

Quick Tips:

Go by the middle of December, and try not to go on a Saturday evening - too crowded. Then go to one of the "tapas" bars in the "plaza" - really worthy. Also have a "bocadillo de calamares" (squid sub) - it's wonderful, but be aware of pickpockets!

Best Way To Get Around:

Go there by "metro" up to "Puerta del Sol", and ask for "Plaza Mayor". It's very close by, near Mayor Street. Never take a taxi in that area in X-mas, as there's too much traffic.

It is a monastery of "clausura", where you never get to see the nuns, but the building is worthwhile with old paintings by Goya - some of them are unknown to people - and some Grecos as well. The walls have been decorated with carpets made by hand, and the ceiling is wooden with wonderful carvings.

Very nice place to go in X-mas time, nice X-mas decorations, some home-made, "nacimientos", jokes for "Dìa de Los Santos Inocentes" (28th Dec), similar to "April Fool's Day."

There are very nice bars around to have a typical "bocadillo de calamares" (squid).

Be aware of pickpockets!!