Madrid Trip
By Year 11 student Nuhr
Our school trip to Madrid was an exciting adventure! We flew from Heathrow on February 3rd and arrived at our hotel, Hotel Marlasca, around 12:30 PM. The hotel was comfortable and conveniently located, making it easy for us to explore the city.
After checking in, we headed to Puerta del Sol for lunch. This bustling square in the heart of Madrid, is known for its lively atmosphere and iconic landmarks. After refuelling, we returned to the hotel to rest after our long journey. Later in the day, we ventured out to Plaza Mayor, a magnificent square filled with stunning architecture and surrounded by restaurants and shops and a delightful end to our first day in Madrid.
Day two began with an exciting visit to Palacio Real, the Royal Palace of Madrid. This stunning building, with its grand architecture and opulent interiors, offered a glimpse into Spain’s royal history. The nearby Campo del Moro gardens were a serene escape, featuring beautiful greenery, fountains, and picturesque views of the palace.
After seeing the palace, we took a scenic stroll along the Manzanares, heading toward the Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida. This small chapel is famous for its incredible Goya frescoes that adorn the dome and walls. The intricate artistry showcases Goya’s distinct style, with lively colours and dramatic scenes that brought the space to life. The combination of the chapel’s neoclassical architecture and the vibrant frescoes made it a memorable stop on our journey.
Lunch was at the bustling Mercado de San Miguel. The market was filled with vibrant stalls offering a delightful array of tapas, fresh produce, and delicious pastries. Following lunch, we had a Spanish lesson that enriched our understanding of the culture and language, connecting us to the vibrant backdrop of Madrid. After our meal, we embarked on a night walk to view the Gran Via. The city’s lights illuminated the streets, showcasing stunning buildings as we wandered, capturing the essence of Madrid at night.
Overall, day two was packed with cultural richness, delicious food, and captivating sights, making it another unforgettable part of our school trip!
On our third day in Madrid, we set out for Parque de El Retiro, a sprawling green oasis in the heart of the city. This beautiful park features lush gardens, tranquil lakes, and iconic structures like the Crystal Palace. As we strolled through the paths, we took in the vibrant atmosphere, where locals and visitors alike enjoyed picnics, boat rides, and leisure activities.
Our day ended on an exciting note as we attended a flamenco show for dinner. This spectacular performance brought to life the rich culture of southern Spain, showcasing passionate dancing and emotive music that resonated deep within us. As we enjoyed tapas and seafood paella, we were able to experience not just the exquisite flavours of Spanish cuisine but also the spirit and artistry that define it.
On our final day, we checked out of Hotel Marlasca around 10:00am and headed to the famous ChocolaterÃa San Ginés, known for its delicious churros dipped in chocolate. We then had some free time at Puerta del Sol, where we soaked in the vibrant atmosphere one last time before visiting the stunning Catedral de Santa MarÃa la Real de la Almudena. The cathedral’s impressive architecture and beautiful interiors provided a moment of admiration as we admired the artistry and history.
Finally, we returned to the hostel to collect our luggage and made our way to Madrid airport. We arrived back at Heathrow around 7:30pm, filled with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation for Madrid’s culture and beauty. This trip was truly an unforgettable experience, enriching our understanding of Spain in ways that will stay with us for a long time!
Written by Year 11 student Nuhr
