I was invited to discover my “perfect day” in Madrid by British Airways and using their Facebook app.
It was the perfect choice as Madrid is one of my favourite European cities, so much so I even spent my 30th birthday there. Although this travel was guaranteed to be much more cultural and civilized.
British Airways Perfect Day App
For my trip I was asked to use the BA Perfect Days app to plot my visit for other users thinking of visiting the city to get some inspiration and ideas. The app allows the user to plot and upload their perfect day in cities around the world, not only that but you can browse other users recommendations. It’s a pretty useful place to start if, like me you’re not a big planner or you’ve just landed in a city and aren’t quite sure where to begin.
There’s a Facebook app and also an iPhone app that you can download.
Here’s my itinerary from my day in Madrid on the Facebook app.
British Airways app
As I was flying with British Airways I thought I’d take the opportunity to use their standard flight app. The main feature for me of the app was that it allows you to check in for you flight and show your boarding pass via your smart phone. I also noticed that the app updated me with the correct gate for my flight way before the airport departure boards which was quite handy.
With your boarding pass held on the app you have to make sure your smart phones battery has enough charge or you could find yourself without a boarding pass. One thing that could have been improved upon would be the integration of my hotel booking, also via British Airways. It seems strange that I could go paperless with my flights but not with my hotel booking.
My Perfect Day in Madrid
I’m not really the type of person who enjoys simply admiring buildings and monuments when traveling, for me it’s all about experiencing. That’s why I headed straight to some of the more interesting markets in Madrid and in-between did a little bit of sight seeing.
El Rastro
First stop on a Sunday morning has to be El Rastro market, the perfect place to pick up gifts and souvenirs. The market is an eclectic mix of bric-a-brac, paintings and unusual objects. It can be quiet busy here so keep an eye on your valuables.
Plaza Mayor
For beautiful architecture or even a place to rest your legs, have lunch or a drink head to Plaza Mayor.It’s worth wandering around on Sunday to browse the many market stall lining the edge of the square.
Mercado San Miguel
Bustling with tourists for a reason, Mercado San Miguel is a perfect stop off to sample a glass of wine and some tapas. From sea food to cheese counters there is a wide selection and is a good spot to relax, chat and wile away the hours.
Royal Palace
Once you’ve managed to drag yourself away from Mercado San Miguel wander down the road beyond Alumenda Cathedral to the Royal Palace. It’s a stunning sight in the late afternoon sun.
Puerta del Sol & Gran Via
If you still have the energy you can head to the streets between Puerta del Sol and Gran Via for some retail therapy. You’ll find a host of well-known branded shops in this area as well as some more expensive and exclusive stores towards Gran Via.
Mercado de San Anton
Finish your day wandering around the San Anton market. More modern in its look than Mercado San Miguel but traditional with its produce, the market has plenty of options. San Anton markets is frequented by locals and savvy visitors who are drawn by the delicious fresh food and great wines. The market also has a wonderful roof terrace.
Madrid is one of my favourite European destinations and there are so many different great tapas bars, restaurants and markets to explore. Do you have a tip for Madrid? Let us know in the comments.
