Three Google Maps to Help You Explore Madrid and Málaga, Spain, Like a Local
During the summer of 2022, I spent ten days in Spain visiting my best friend, Vianessa. I had not been back to Spain since studying abroad in Valencia in college. Though I was lucky enough to spend a week in Barcelona way back when (and visit a few seaside towns), I’d yet to see the country’s metropolitan core.
Vianessa has lived in Madrid since just before the pandemic and has spent the last several years transversing Spain by air, train, and foot (she’s about to do her second Camino, props!)
Before arriving in Madrid, I did minimal research and let Vianessa be my guide. Together, we visited some of her favorite shops and restaurants, and must-see tourist spots and explored new places together.
I created three Google Maps to mark the occasion.
We only spent 2-3 days in Málaga, so that list isn’t as robust, but it was Vianessa’s second time going, so she knew her way around.
Top recommendations:
Tripea - a must. Affordable, fantastic Michellin-starred food.
Restaurante Etíope Gonder - Delicious Ethiopian. Spain is an international city with outstanding international cuisine, so take a visit as an opportunity to eat globally.
Retiro Park - I love green spaces and enjoyed having a leisurely stroll and evening run through the park. Think of it as Spain’s Central Park (its also home to the stunning Palacio de Cristal.)
El Rastro de Madrid - a busy, weekly Sunday flea market.
In Málaga, dozens of beachside eateries offer the region’s signature grilled sardines. Pick one, order a beer, and enjoy.
A few notes about the spots on the maps and Spain in general.
The sun went down around 9:30 PM while I was visiting in May. Keep that in mind if you’re trying to catch a sunset.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. I brought heels for one event at an upscale private club, but I could have done without them. Madrid is a walking city, and you will rarely see someone on the street in heels.
Do not ask for paella in Madrid. Paella is a regional cuisine. Asking for paella is like asking for Mephis-style BBQ ribs in Maine.