AU Photo Contest Winner

It is a pleasure to announce that Elizabeth Hudson has won first prize in our Photo Contest with this kaleidoscopic picture:

  

Here you can check out the other amazing participating photos!!!!

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A lovely Day Trip... or a Free Marathon of Live Concerts!

 For those of you who stay in Madrid these days, two tips:

A lovely Day Trip very close to Madrid

(Original text and further information about tickets and prices here).

In spring and autumn, you can enjoy a unique experience that combines culture, leisure and rail travel. The Strawberry Train does the same Madrid—Aranjuez route that it has been doing since 1984. Departing from Madrid's Railway Museum, and after a short journey on the train, you'll arrive in Aranjuez, a UNESCO heritage site famous for its mouth-watering strawberries (...) Since 1984, the Strawberry Train (so called because during the trip hostesses wearing period dresses would conduct a strawberry tasting session) has paid tribute to this revolutionary invention, which symbolises the arrival of industrialisation in our country. 

Dates in 2026: 

• March: 22, 28 and 29
• April: 3, 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26
• May: 1, 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 and 31
• June: 6 and 7

Times 2026:

• Departure from the Railway Museum: 10am / Arrival in Aranjuez at 11am
• Return: 6.54pm from Aranjuez train station / Arrival at the Railway Museum in Madrid at 7.45pm.
• Entrance doors to the museum open at 9.15am / Entrance control closes 10 minutes prior to the departure of the train.

Then you can spend the day in Aranjuez, which has an amazing palace and gardens (one of our little Versailles: tickets here): "Royal Site, which is part of the Aranjuez Cultural Landscape, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Surrounded by a total of 111.23 hectares of visitable gardens and located on a fertile plain where the Tajo and Jarama rivers converge, the Royal Palace of Aranjuez has been the country residence par excellence of the Spanish Kings and Queens".

A FREE Marathon of Live Concerts:

(Translated from Time Out): La Casa Encendida is once again hosting La Radio Encendida, one of Madrid’s earliest spring music events, featuring a marathon of more than 10 hours of free concerts. This new edition will bring together over 20 artists, including well‑established names and emerging talents such as El Kanka, Veintiuno, Ginebras, Maria Rodés, Los Vinagres and Repion, with performances taking place in both the Patio and the Auditorium of the cultural center.

The 22nd edition will run on Sunday March 22 from 12:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Admission is free, though it requires advance online ticket reservations in time slots, which can be requested on two different dates through the event’s website (https://www.lacasaencendida.es/conciertos/el-diablo-de-shanghai-repion-ginebras?eventId=9926). In addition to the main concerts, there will also be DJ sessions and small surprise performances. You need a ticket to access the concerts in the Patio and the Auditorium, but admission is free until full capacity is reached in the other areas of La Casa Encendida.

Location:

"La Casa Encendida" (this cultural and social space is very interesting for many other reasons, take a look!: https://www.lacasaencendida.es/en

Ronda de Valencia, 2

Metro Embajadores (L3) 

Fashion Week in Madrid... and St. Patrick's Festivities!!!!

Madrid’s fashion scene for March 2026 is highlighted by Fashion Week, taking place from March 12th to 22nd.

OMODA "Madrid es Moda"

OMODA Madrid es Moda, the city‑wide fashion program backed by the Madrid City Council, runs from March 12 to 17, bringing together 18 urban runway shows, eight presentations, and six creative activities across iconic locations. It opened on March 12 with a large public runway show in Plaza de España, followed on March 13 by an intense schedule featuring designers like Roberto Torretta, Oteyza, Mirto, Peñalver Brand, and Evade House—events that, as of today (March 14), readers have already missed.  The current weekend (March 14–15) includes shows and presentations by brands such as Adlib Ibiza, Paloma Suárez, Félix Ramiro, Javier Delafuente, and several open‑day exhibitions, while the final days (March 16–17) will feature creators including Devota & Lomba, Candelas y Felipa, Roberto Verino, Dominnico, Pilar Dalbat, and Duyos, who will close the 2026 edition . 

Exhibitions: “Echoes of Romantic Fashion” at the Museum of Romanticism, showcasing pieces from the Antoni de Montpalau Foundation (designs by Balenciaga, Pertegaz, Bibian Blue, and others).

      

Time and prices: https://www.esmadrid.com/en/tourist-information/museum-romanticism

Location: Alonso Martínez (L4, L5, L10), Chueca (L5), Tribunal (L1, L10)

AU Madrid encourages you to explore other areas of the museum . Works by Goya, Esquivel, Madrazo, Alenza and the Bécquer brothers, ceramics from Sargadelos and Sèvres, jewellery from ebonite, lava and human hair, a collection of porcelain dolls, 15 pianos, imperial and Isabelline furniture, and even the pistol Larra used to commit suicide immerse us in the Romantic period, a cultural movement which touched the hearts of young artists, intellectuals and politicians during the first half of the 19th century.

And finally enjoy a snack in its lovely café (affordable, don't worry!):

      

Shopping Areas: Barquillo and Fernando VI streets for designer brands, plus the Salamanca district (www.timeout.es).

Sustainable Fashion: And we could not forget The Circular Project, known for its focus on ethical and circular production: csfwmadrid.com

Mercedes‑Benz Fashion Week Madrid (MBFWMadrid) 

You can buy tickets for the professional runway shows organized by IFEMA, which take place from March 17th to 22nd (they are expensive, but take a look here).

Location: Avenida del Partenón, 5, 28042 Madrid (Pabellón 14.1).

Metro:

Feria de Madrid (L8 from Nuevos Ministerios).

Buses:

Línea 73: Diego de León - IFEMA MADRID

Línea 112: Mar de Cristal - Barrio del Aeropuerto

Línea 122: Avenida de América - IFEMA MADRID

Ireland Week in Madrid

(Text from the Official Tourism Website): In recent years, around St. Patrick’s Day (17 March), Tourism Ireland has presented a full programme to celebrate the Irish culture in style and its connection to Celtic roots in Spain. The popular St. Patrick’s Parade through the city centre, an initiative by the musician Bras Rodrigo, stands out among the activities, which included more than 600 pipers from all over Spain in last year’s edition. In 2026, the events are held from 10 to 17 March.

All the events (concerts, dance, literature, films, parades...) in: https://www.esmadrid.com/en/whats-on/ireland-week-madrid 

 

Gatronomic and Art suggestions

After several difficulties flying to Madrid from Nairobi, the students from the Kenya–Spain program arrived last Thursday! WELCOME! 💞Since they have just arrived, we are going to give them some advice about Madrid’s neighborhoods: https://www.esmadrid.com/en/madrid-neighbourhoods

On that web site, you can find the most famous areas in Madrid, which most people know, we are adding one more: The Chinese New Year celebrations have just wrapped up (this year marked the Year of the Snake), but it’s still a great moment to explore Madrid’s Chinatown. Usera is home to the largest Chinese community in Spain. Every year, it becomes the epicentre of Chinese New Year festivities, with a vibrant cultural programme organised by Madrid City Council, the Chinese Embassy, Casa Asia and local associations. Although the official celebrations are over, you can (and should!) still head there to enjoy some of the most authentic Chinese food in the city. The regional variety is impressive — from Cantonese to Sichuan, Yunnan and Shanghai cuisine:

• Royal Cantonés – Calle del Olvido, 92
  Often considered one of the best Chinese restaurants in Madrid. Specialised in Cantonese cuisine since 2009. Expect dim sum, roast duck, lotus root, jellyfish and more.
• Hong Kong 70 – Calle de Nicolás Sánchez, 11
  Traditional Cantonese cuisine with expert chefs. Daily handmade dim sum and Hong Kong-style roasts.
• Lao Tou – Calle de Nicolás Sánchez, 35
  100% traditional Sichuan and Cantonese dishes. Perfect for discovering new textures and flavours.
• Picante de Sichuán – Calle de Dolores Barranco, 10
  Ideal for spice lovers — try their shaokao or double-cooked pork.

Additionally, if you want to try traditional Madrid food, since the weather isn’t fully spring-like yet, this is the perfect moment for this grastronomic event (once the heat arrives, it’s not as appealing): the 16th edition of the Ruta del Cocido Madrileño (15 February-31 March 2026). Cocido madrileño is Madrid’s most traditional winter dish, a hearty chickpea stew served in stages, usually with soup, vegetables, and different meats (chorizo, morcilla, pork, beef, and more). Comfort food at its best. The Ruta del Cocido Madrileño is an event where many restaurants in Madrid offer their own version of this dish. During these weeks, diners can try it at different restaurants, compare recipes, and even vote for prizes for the best versions. You can find a list of the restaurants participating here with its prices (scroll until you find it: https://www.eldiario.es/madrid/somos/agenda/ruta-cocido-madrileno-2026-30-restaurantes-capital-listado-completo-participantes-precios_1_12984165.html  ) If you don’t eat pork or meat in general you can also try a vegetarian version here: Verbena Bar at Calle de Velarde, 24 (Metro Tribunal, L1 y L10).

And since “people do not live by bread alone” :-), important cultural events for these days:

• ARCOmadrid – Spain’s major contemporary art fair is currently taking place at IFEMA. A must if you’re into modern and contemporary art.
• Ellas Crean – A city-wide festival celebrating female creators, with concerts, exhibitions, theatre and talks across different venues in Madrid.

The Literary Quarter or "El Barrio de las Letras"

The students in the Literature and Film class had the opportunity to join a guided tour through the Literary Quarter, and we think many of you would enjoy visiting this neighborhood as well (take advantage of this good weather!). If you are interested in any of these places and you need further information, contact Eva.

The Barrio de las Letras in Madrid is a charming historic quarter where some of Spain’s greatest writers once lived and worked. As you stroll through its pedestrian streets, you can find literary quotes engraved on the pavement, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Plaza de Santa Ana with its theaters and cafés. The neighborhood is also just steps away from the Prado Museum and is filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and traditional tapas bars that showcase the vibrant cultural soul of Madrid.

We’ve mentioned this area before in the blog thanks to the “Mercado de las Ranas” (an open‑air market where local shops take their products out, offering crafts, fashion, art, gastronomy and more in a lively, family‑friendly atmosphere). By the way, it is held mainly on the first and third Saturday of each month, so it’s taking place this Saturday, February 21st, from 12:00 to 19:00. You can read more about it here: https://exploringwithauspain.blogspot.com/2026/01/welcome-to-madrid.html.

Lope de Vega, a hugely successful playwright and poet—and a fierce rival of Cervantes—lived in this neighborhood. His house is a beautifully preserved 17th‑century residence that offers an intimate glimpse into the domestic world of Spain’s Golden Age. Tucked away on a quiet street in the Literary Quarter, the house maintains its original layout, with a peaceful courtyard, a modest oratory, and warm, wood‑beamed rooms that evoke the playwright’s daily life. Its interiors are filled with period furniture, manuscripts, and personal belongings that reflect Lope de Vega’s dual identity as a prolific writer and a priest, making the home a remarkably atmospheric time capsule of Madrid’s cultural past. Access to the museum is through guided group tours (maximum 15 people). You can also call individually and they will add you to an existing group—no need to bring your own group if you prefer not to. Tours begin every 30 minutes, last 45 minutes, and can be conducted in English, French, or Spanish. Visiting hours run from Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Monday!), 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (last tour at 5:00 pm).

Booking: casamuseolopedevega@madrid.org / +34 914 29 92 16

As you walk through the Literary Quarter, you’ll also find the Convent of the Trinitarias, where Cervantes is buried… Do you know why he’s there? He felt deep gratitude toward this religious order. You can learn more by watching El cautivo, a film about the young Cervantes—look for it on any streaming platform; it’s very interesting.

       

Nearby, you can also visit the printing house where Don Quixote was first published, located at what is now the Sociedad Cervantina (Calle Atocha 87). You can join a guided visit by contacting them through their website: https://sociedadcervantina.es/eventos/visita-guiada-a-la-imprenta-del-quijote/

Another noteworthy stop in the area is the Ateneo Artístico, Científico y Literario (Calle del Prado 21), a cultural institution that played a key role in Spain’s intellectual life during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its library is stunning, though accessible only to members—but you can enter the building and enjoy its exhibitions: https://ateneodemadrid.com/eventos/

And although it’s not in Madrid, remember that it’s extremely easy to reach the city where Cervantes was born: Alcalá de Henares—we wrote about it in a previous post. It’s just a 30‑minute train ride from Atocha station. Trains leave every 15 minutes, and with your transport card, the ticket is free!!! Alcalá de Henares is a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its beautifully preserved historic quarter and its distinction as the world’s first purpose‑designed university city, founded in the early 16th century by Cardinal Cisneros. Its blend of Roman roots, medieval streets, and remarkable Renaissance architecture makes it a uniquely rich cultural and historical destination. Good and free tapas as well :-)

Carnivals in Madrid

We know that many of you are traveling this weekend (don’t forget to take awesome pictures for the AU Madrid Photo Contest!). But if you’re staying in Madrid, this information may be useful:

Every year, Madrid celebrates Carnivals with a full program of free, themed activities for all ages. In recent years, the main hub for the festivities has been Matadero Madrid and Madrid Río Park. Take note: the 2026 celebrations will take place from 14 to 18 February! 

Carnivals do not have a fixed date of celebration. As with Holy Week, Carnival is celebrated according to the lunar calendar, which means that the days change from one year to the next. Specifically, Carnival is set 40 days before Holy Thursday, which this year is Thursday April 2.

Madrid Carnivals may not be as spectacular as the Carnivals in Venice, Rio de Janeiro or even Cádiz in Andalucía and Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands, but there are still plenty of interesting things to do during these days.

 

         

You can find the full program here https://www.carnavalmadrid.com/#programa, but here's a brief summary:

• Grand Parade (Feb 14): A large parade with floats and bands from 1 pm to 3 pm, running from Puente de Toledo to the Explanada Negra.
• Events at Matadero Madrid: Expect the official opening speech, concerts, DJ sessions and children’s workshops.
• Traditional Events: Manteo del Pelele (Tossing a dummy) and the Entierro de la Sardina (Burial of the Sardine) on Ash Wednesday, which marks the end of the festivities.

• Activities: The celebration includes murgas and chirigotas (satirical musical groups) and, in recent years, a festive, themed and inclusive atmosphere.
• Atmosphere: While less intense than in other Spanish cities, Madrid’s Carnival is known for its costumes, street parties and, of course, the traditional Burial of the Sardine. What is that? It’s a tradition depicted by Goya in one of his paintings. Costumes are put away, the fanfares fall silent, and the sardine is buried with honors to mark the end of the celebrations and the beginning of Lent. The satirical funeral procession usually starts at Plaza de San Antonio de la Florida. Later, the sardine is traditionally buried at the Pajarito Fountain in Plaza de las Moreras in Casa de Campo Park. An impressive bonfire closes the ceremony, symbolically driving away evil and negative thoughts, with the ashes representing happiness, peace and harmony.

And something outside the official program, and less traditional but also very popular from 1981, is the Ball at the Círculo de Bellas Artes (Marqués de Casa Riera 4). It will take place on 14 February from 10:30 pm to 6:00 am. More information here and tickets here: https://www.circulobellasartes.com/fiestas/un-carnaval-legendario-2026/

        

Staying in Madrid This Weekend?

Madrid is wonderfully connected to many charming towns and villages perfect for quick excursions. Whether you are into history, nature, or leisurely strolls, here are five great ideas, each easily accessible by public transport. You will see that the tickets are very cheap… but everything we are going to suggest you is free with your transportation card!

Alcalá de Henares

A UNESCO-listed city and birthplace of Cervantes, Alcalá is ideal for wandering its historic streets and university quarter.

How to get there: Take Cercanías (Renfe, the train system) C2 or C7 from Atocha or Chamartín. Trains run every ~15 minutes  (get off at Alcalá de Henares stop, not Alcalá de Henares Universidad, which is the modern campus, not the historic one) and the journey takes about 40 minutes. Tickets cost around €3.40.

Aranjuez 

Famous for its Royal Palace and lush gardens, Aranjuez now offers an extra treat: the Museum of Royal Barges, which has just reopened after nine months of restoration. 

How to get there: Cercanías C3 from Atocha, Puerta del Sol, or Nuevos Ministerios. The trip takes about 50 minutes and costs a little over €4. 

San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Home to one of Spain’s most impressive monuments (the Monastery of El Escorial) this mountain town is perfect for culture lovers.

How to get there: Take Cercanías C3 or C8 from Atocha, Sol, or Chamartín. Trains take just over 1 hour and cost about €4. 

Alternatively, buses 661 or 664 from Moncloa reach El Escorial in about 50 minutes. Without your transportation card it would cost around 3 euros.

El Pardo

A peaceful natural escape just north of Madrid, known for its forested landscapes (there are nice and eay trials around!) and royal heritage.

How to get there: Bus N31 from Moncloa goes directly to El Pardo in about 24 minutes. You can also go to Pitis metro station and walk to El Pardo (very nice easy trails!)

Cercedilla

A gateway to the Sierra de Guadarrama, perfect for hiking, fresh air, and mountain views.

How to get there: Cercanías C8 from Madrid Chamartín to Cercedilla. The journey takes about 1 hour to 1h05. Tickets start around €5–6.