Top Three Lesser-Known Places to Visit in Madrid, Spain

Everybody who goes to Madrid, Spain as a tourist goes to the same places: El Parque del Buen Retiro, The Prado Museum, and the area known simply as Sol. These places are indeed beautiful and worth seeing, but, in case you want to branch out from the huge crowd of tourists on your visit to Madrid, Spain (and save some money in the process; Retiro, Prado, and Sol have among the most expensive cafes in town), here are some suggestions for substitutions.

Madrid, Spain lesser known destination 1: Parque del Buen Retiro → Casa del Campo

This park is every bit as beautiful as Madrid's famous Retiro park, but you're more likely to see locals than tourists there. As such, there are many things there geared towards locals, like rows of inexpensive outdoor cafes overlooking the lake in the center. In addition, Madrid's Casa del Campo has an amusement park for the kids, boat rentals, and seeming thousands of picnic places. It may not be quite as famous as Retiro, but Casa del Campo can provide you with a wonderful day in the sun for a lot less hassle and money.

Madrid, Spain lesser known destination 2: The Prado → La Reina Sofia

The Prado houses some of the most incredible pieces of art in the world. So does the Madrid's Reina Sofia, with more of a focus on modern art, as well as gorgeous surroundings and a fun neighborhood. Think of it like the Musee D'Orsay to The Prado's Louvre, if you will, or the New York MoMA to the Met. It's not quite as daunting a line, not as packed to the gills with tourists, and more Metro-accessible. In addition, Madrid's La Reina Sofia boasts cafes outside with inexpensive bocadillos de calamares (calamari sandwiches), which are a little-known staple in Madrid that everyone should try at least once in their lives.

Madrid, Spain lesser known destination 3: Sol → La Latina

Madrid's neighborhood of Sol is rightfully known as one of the most beautiful and historic in Madrid. However, it is also packed with tourists day and night, and you're as likely to hear English as you are Spanish. If you really want to immerse yourself in local culture of Madrid, Spain while getting lost in a historic and gorgeous neighborhood, try La Latina. It's only a few Metro stops away from Sol, and the ambiance is much more old-world, with tiny cobblestone streets, cafes, and boutiques. Madrid's La Latina is an ideal place to grab a glass of wine and watch the world go by on a sunny day.