18/03/2022
Madrid, Spain
Barcelona's big sister sheds her winter skin in March. When the clocks go forward, as if by magic a wave of warmth sweeps the city and loosens up its reserved exterior. Madrid's expansive parks burst into bloom and locals tumble out onto the streets to sip caipirinhas and dance till dawn. Temperatures stay around 20ºC (far more gentle than the capital's sizzling summers), meaning you can explore its world-class galleries, belle-époque mansions and designer boutiques without breaking a sweat. There's great traditional tapas to be had, but leave time to try the city's newer breed of stylish gastrobars. Just don't plan anything more than a siesta afterwards.