Madrid ha molto da offrire!

Milica, a participant in the cultural exchange program in Spain, shares her reflections from her time spent exploring the vibrant capital. If you’re considering a similar adventure, this just might be the push you need.

Madrid—and Spain in general—has così much to offer: a rich and colorful culture, sprawling plazas, stunning architecture, an exciting nightlife, incredibly warm locals, and breathtaking natural scenery. But what made the biggest impression on me? The food. My time here has been a full-on hedonistic experience, and I loved it.

Let’s start with the crown jewel of Spanish cuisine—paella! It’s a dish that’s as iconic as it gets here. The classic version is made with rice, chicken, and rabbit (though there are lots of regional takes). It’s simple—just nine ingredients—but full of flavor.

Then there’s fideuà. Similar to paella, but instead of rice, it’s made with short, noodle-like pasta, seafood, and a rich fish broth. It’s comforting, savory, and uniquely Spanish.

And of course—tapas! These are more than just appetizers—they’re a cultural experience. Small bites, a bit bigger than your typical canapé, served with every drink. You can find the best tapas at dedicated tapas bars or food markets, and the best of them all? Mercado de San Miguel, right by Plaza Mayor. It’s a sensory overload in the best possible way: crispy battered octopus served in cones like chips, oysters on ice, fresh sangria, churros, and more.

Speaking of churros, these golden, crunchy sticks are Spain’s most famous sweet treat. They’re best when dipped in thick, warm chocolate—absolute bliss. Another dessert I fell in love with is Ponche Segoviano, a sponge cake filled with cream and covered in toasted marzipan. You have to try it if you take a day trip to Segovia (which you totally should).

While we’re on day trips, Toledo e El Escorial are musts. And if you want something a little off the beaten path, visit Valle de los Caídos. It’s an enormous church built inside a mountain, and it holds a complex and controversial history, being the resting place of former dictator Francisco Franco. The monument itself is massive and eerie, and it tells a very different story about Spain’s past.

My month here has flown by, but every single bite and moment has stayed with me. If you’re a foodie, a culture lover, or just someone in search of unforgettable experiences, Madrid will not disappoint.