From the delicious tapas bars and lush greenery of El Retiro to the vibrant atmosphere of Plaza Mayor and the world-famous museums, Madrid is a city that should not be overlooked. In fact, The Telegraph has just named the Spanish capital as the best city to visit this spring, and it’s not hard to see why. Spring is one of the very best times to visit, with daily maximum temperatures reaching 22C in May, according to Weather2Travel.

This makes for sunny, pleasant weather warm enough to enjoy exploring the city, but without the heat that comes to Madrid during the summer months. The city has a variety of parks, rooftop terraces, and cafes to discover. 

Madrid has over 14,826 acres of green areas, including parks, and gardens to choose from. 

At this time of year, these parks and gardens are filled with colours and flowers. Some of the most popular and stunning parks in Madrid are El Retiro Park, Casa de Campo, and Quinta de los Molinos.

El Retiro has recently been named as a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its 15,000 trees, including the Montezuma cypress, believed to be over 390 years old, and a 627-year-old olive tree.

The park also has a large lake where you can hire a rowing boat and canoes, which features the beautiful and majestic monument to Alfonso XII.  

You'll also be able to explore world-renowned museums like the Museo del Prado or the Reina Sofía, which are less crowded in spring than in the peak summer months.

On May 15th, the San Isidro Festival will take place. There will be many colourful parades in the city centre, traditional dances, music, and an incredible fireworks display over the lake at El Retiro Park. 

During spring, the heart of old Madrid shines.

Wander through Plaza Mayor, surrounded by red-brick buildings, elegant archways, and traditional wrought-iron lamp posts. It is the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere.

The La Latina and Lavapiés neighbourhoods are also great places to wander, with their plazas, colourful façades, bold street art, and vibrant mix of buildings with Moorish, Castilian, and modern influences.