I live in Madrid – here’s where I take my friends when they visit

Escape the tourist traps and do Madrid like a local (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto) Marina Herraiz is a Spanish travel expert, who is born and raised in Madrid. She tells our Lifestyle Editor, Kristina Beanland, about the best underrated spots in her city. Madrid has all the charm and aesthetics of a European capital without the hustle and bustle (or unfriendliness) other cities are known for. There’s a strong sense of family and community, which is why I feel so lucky to be from here. When friends and family visit, I want them to have an authentic experience. And, as a Madrid native, and the founder of travel agency, Jade Peak, I like to think I know my stuff. While every first-timer will head to El Retiro Park, it’s Casa de Campo, Madrid’s largest, yet much less visited park, that’s my favourite green space in the city. Marina is a proud Madrileños (Picture: Marina Herraiz) Historically, the area was connected to the Royal Palace and was used as a royal hunting ground by Felipe II. Today, it’s where Madrileños go cycling, running, walking or simply to have a picnic and spend time outdoors. If you’ve already done the Prado and admired Picasso’s Guernica at Reina Sofia, Palacio de Longoria is one of Madrid’s great Art Nouveau buildings on the edge of the Chueca neighbourhood. It’s usually closed to tourists, but they occasionally open for unique exhibitions and tours so make sure you check in advance. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. The Cathedral Church of the Armed Forces is another building to admire, just off Calle Mayor between Palacio and Sol. The lesser-known Casa de Campo park is one of Marina’s faves (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto) There are beautiful frescoes inside with unique military and religious symbolism, and because of its history, you have a good chance of catching high profile and colorful military weddings in the spring and summer in the little plaza in front. Next up, I love to tell people about the delicious food offerings in Madrid. Mercado de Motores is a monthly artisan and flea market, housed inside a 19th century railway museum. While you can pick up some vintage finds and crafts from local artists, its the food trucks that I come for. Grab a vermouth at Mercado de Motores market (Picture: Getty Images) Sample the vermouth from La Vermutería while listening to the live musicians — when Madrilenos get together you’ll often find a few us with vermouth in hand! Be sure to try the cheesecake from Álex Cordobés or the gildas from Santa Gilda. I’d double-check the website ahead of time as they sometimes have breaks, especially in the summer time. Of course, you’ll want to eat tapas, and Barmitón in La Latina is my pick for tapas and casual drinks. My friends and I frequent that spot and it’s rare to see tourists there. The croquetas are very tasty (and very Madrid), and I’d definitely recommend the rabo de toro. For anyone who has never tried this type of meat before, think of something similar to very tender pulled or slow-cooked beef in a rich stew. It’s absolutely delicious. Marina wants visitors to have an authentic experience in her city (Picture: Marina Herraiz) Another spot is Pez Tortilla, an iconic restaurant for a casual breakfast or afternoon snack. It became famous for constantly changing the varieties of tortilla on offer, while still keeping a strong Spanish identity, incorporating different regional cheeses or meats such as chorizo. I really like their location in Malasaña. Tortilla isn’t reserved for a special occasion in Spain; it’s an everyday food that you can eat at almost any time of day. And, for cheese lovers, Quesería Cultivo in Malasaña has private tastings to learn about Spanish cheeses. Finally, while most tourists head straight to the Royal Palace for sunset, locals tend to come to Mirador de Bailén and enjoy the view. The terrace outside Restaurante El Ventorrillo is my favourite spot. It has the feeling of a traditional, lifelong Spanish neighbourhood bar that isn’t trying to become trendy. There’s natural wines and a fun vibe — the perfect end to a day exploring Madrid. As told to Kristina Beanland. Do you have a story you’d like to share? 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