In just a few days, Taylor Swift will be performing at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Would you like to take this opportunity to explore Madrid from a "Swiftie" perspective? Discover all the places that we're sure she would love. Read on!
1. Zoo-Aquarium
We know that Taylor likes to visit zoos while on tour. So why not do the same and visit our zoo? You can even meet its two newest inhabitants: Siberian tigers Altai and Dunai. You'll also enjoy Faunia, a park which recreates different ecosystems including an Antarctica biome with over 100 penguins!
2. Chueca
For an LGBTQ+ rights defender like Taylor, this popular neighbourhood is a must! A European icon of diversity, this bustling area is jam-packed with tonnes of restaurants, bars and cafés.
The pop star can always be seen visiting restaurants all around the world while on tour. If you want to follow in her footsteps, we suggest you take a look at the rooftop establishments along Gran Vía avenue and other nearby streets. There are plenty to choose from: El Jardín de Diana, El Cielo de Chicote, Azotea del Círculo, Ginkgo Restaurant & Sky Bar, Picalagartos Sky Bar & Restaurant, Vincci The Mint Terraza, Azotea Cibeles…the list is endless!
Looking for a hotel that's all about music? Check out UMusic Hotel, its décor is inspired by the history of music and its facilities even include an iconic Madrid theatre. Similarly, the rooms at the Hard Rock Hotel just ooze rock ’n’ roll. They also offer a "Guitar for Two" brunch, served in a Fender guitar case.
5. Musicals
Seeing as Taylor participated in the cinematic version of Cats, she's sure to love exploring the capital of musicals in Spanish. If you're also a big fan of musicals, there's plenty to choose from, including El Rey León (The Lion King), which is in its 13th season, as well as Aladdin and Mamma Mia!.
Stop by Medias Puri or Uñas Chung Lee to enjoy a wild and fun night out. Their unique vibe will make you feel right at home in a very Swiftie setting.
7. Fashion
The diva herself loves vintage and retro pieces, and there's no better place than the Malasaña neighbourhood to find amazing shops for these looks. Plus, you'll definitely want to take home a beautiful pair of espadrilles from one of the traditional, central shoe shops which have already won the hearts of many celebrities.
8. Sweets
We all know that our queen loves to make cakes and post them on social media. Maybe you've got a sweet tooth too? If so, you can try the city’s typical treats at centuries-old pastisseries such as La Mallorquina, La Duquesita or El Riojano.
9. Poetry
Taylor snagged a national poetry contest win as a kid, and now her latest album is called The Tortured Poets Department—talk about embracing the genre! If you're up for it, dive into Madrid’s cool bookshops to track down works by some of the great poets.
And speaking of tortured poets, you can't not pay a visit to the Museum of Romanticism! Here, you'll get to experience what it felt like to live during a time when feelings and emotions ruled all.
11. Records
We’re sure that, as a music lover, you’ll be keen to immerse yourself in the world of vinyls while in Madrid. You might even come across one of Taylor’s releases that you don’t yet have… Just off the central Plaza del Callao, you’ll find a selection of new and second-hand vinyls stocked at record stores including Escridiscos, La Metralleta and La Gramola. Be sure to also check out Molar Discos & Libros in La Latina and La Integral in Barrio de Las Letras (Literary Quarter).
Finally, our girl Taylor absolutely adores cats. Did you know that "cats" in Spanish ("gatos") is actually the nickname for Madrid natives? So, we know we're all going to get along just fine! Dearest Swifties, have a fantatsic stay in our city!