Unleash Your Inner Soccer Star at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
When in Rome, do as the Romans do; when in Madrid, cheer for Real Madrid! Whether you and your teenager have delved into the depths of soccer fandom or you think Ronaldo is just a really expensive bag, a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a must. You can opt for a guided tour, where you’ll get to see the iconic trophies, step into the players’ changing rooms, and even strut down the players’ tunnel like you own the place. Your teenager might forgive you for being overly enthusiastic and trying to reenact their FIFA skills on the pitch.
Experience Art Like Never Before at Museum Triangle
Now, teenagers and museums might seem as compatible as oil and water, but Madrid is here to change that stereotype. Dive into the world of arts with Madrid’s Museum Triangle, where the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums join forces like the Avengers of fine art. Not only will you encounter works by artistic heavyweights such as Velázquez, Picasso, and Dalí, but you’ll also enjoy subtly introducing your teen to culture without them suspecting a thing. And, if all else fails, challenge your teenager to a game of “Spot the Weirdest Portrait.”
Get Futuristic at Madrid’s Escape Rooms
What do you get when you mix Sherlock Holmes with a bit of Saw (minus the gruesome bits)? An escape room experience in Madrid! Teens love a good mystery, and these captivating puzzles will have you guessing, deduction-ing, and, most importantly, keeping your teen off their phone for a full hour. Madrid offers a plethora of themes, from haunted mansions to intergalactic adventures. So, dust off your detective hat and prepare to escape reality—at least, until the timer runs out.
Take a Leisurely Walk in Park Madrid Rio
With an undeniably impressive selection of walks in madrid, there’s no better place than Madrid Rio when you’re looking to slow down and bask in some nature. This revitalized area runs along the Manzanares River and offers scenic views, sprawling green spaces, and enough skate parks to entertain even the most skeptical teen. Rent bikes, have a picnic, or merely enjoy a leisurely stroll and some downtime. Plus, there’s Wi-Fi in some areas if Google Maps is your teenager’s preferred method of navigation.
Indulge in Spanish Goodies at Mercado de San Miguel
Not even the fussiest of teenagers can resist the tempting treats at Madrid’s most popular food market, Mercado de San Miguel. Located conveniently in the heart of the city, this gastronomic wonderland is filled with morsels that may just give your teen newfound appreciation for tapas. Bite-sized offerings range from Iberian ham to patatas bravas, and the churros con chocolate will have even the grumpiest of teens grinning from ear to ear amid their chocolate-induced bliss.
Embark on a Day Trip to Toledo
If you and your teen fancy venturing further afield, a day trip to Toledo offers a rich taste of Spain’s history and culture. A mere 30-minute train ride from Madrid, this ancient city is like stepping into a living history book. Explore the magnificent Toledo Cathedral, admire the city’s breathtaking panorama from Mirador del Valle, and engage your teen in recounting tales of knights of yore. Plus, medieval swords are all the rage here, so your teenager may even decide to forego Instagram for once.