Southern Suburbs Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Southern Suburbs, Madrid, Spain. Find out the best time to visit, how to get around, and stay safe while exploring the area.


Madrid is a beautiful city, but those who want to dive deeper into the city’s culture and history must take a trip to Southern Suburbs. Located in the Community of Madrid, Southern Suburbs is loaded with historical and cultural landmarks, natural beauty and outdoor adventures, and a rich food and drink scene that reflects the city’s proud culture and heritage. In this comprehensive guide, we will share everything you need to know about Southern Suburbs, including the best places to visit, where to stay, and how to get around.

Introduction to Southern Suburbs

Southern Suburbs are located in Madrid, one of the most populous cities in Spain. It is a culturally and historically rich area that is popular among tourists who want to explore the city’s heritage beyond Madrid’s main city center. Southern Suburbs are home to a wide array of attractions, including several museums, historical landmarks, outdoor adventures, and excellent restaurants.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Suburbs

If you are planning to explore Southern Suburbs, make sure to visit the following places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Madrid has a rich history, and Southern Suburbs are home to many of its iconic buildings and places. Some of the must-visit places in Southern Suburbs include:

  1. The Royal Palace of Aranjuez - A UNESCO World Heritage Site that was the residence of Spanish kings for centuries.

  2. Getafe Castle - A stunning fortress that dates back to the Roman period.

  3. Fuente de la Fama - A beautiful fountain that features sculptures of mythological figures.

  4. Iglesia de San Pedro Apóstol - A 16th-century church that is a beautiful example of Spanish baroque architecture.

Natural Attractions of Southern Suburbs: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Southern Suburbs are also famous for their natural beauty. From exciting outdoor adventures to perfect picnic spots, the area offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Some of the best natural attractions in Southern Suburbs include:

  1. Warner Park Madrid - A theme park that is packed with fun rides and attractions perfect for families and thrill-seekers.

  2. Casa de Campo - The largest park in Madrid that features a lake, zoo, and amusement park.

  3. Jardín del Príncipe - A beautiful garden that dates back to the 18th century.

  4. Cuenca Alta del Manzanares Regional Park - A vast nature reserve that is perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Suburbs

If you are a hiking enthusiast, then Southern Suburbs have plenty of routes for you to explore. Madrid’s countryside features beautiful landscapes, stunning vistas, and a vast network of hiking and biking trails that cater to nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts. Some of the most popular routes in Southern Suburbs include:

  1. Navacerrada-Puerto de Cotos - A beautiful hiking route that is perfect for experienced hikers.

  2. Casa de Campo - A popular hiking and biking trail that is perfect for beginners.

  3. Sierra de Guadarrama - A challenging hiking trail that leads to the highest peak in Madrid.

Best Things to Do in Southern Suburbs: Activities and Tours

Southern Suburbs offer a wide variety of activities and tours that can cater to different interests. You can join a guided tour to explore the region’s landmarks, try a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Spanish dishes, or go kayaking in the lake at Casa de Campo. Some of the best things to do in Southern Suburbs include:

  1. Visit the Royal Palace of Aranjuez - Take a guided tour of the Palace’s stunning halls.

  2. Explore Getafe Castle - Learn about the fascinating history of this complex fortress.

  3. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride - Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the beautiful landscapes around Southern Suburbs.

  4. Attend a Flamenco Show - Experience the soulful, passionate art at one of Madrid’s various flamenco shows.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Suburbs

If you want to make sure that you can see everything that Southern Suburbs has to offer during your visit, a week-long itinerary may be the way to go. Here is a suggested itinerary that can help you plan your visit:

Day 1-3: Spend time exploring the natural beauty of Madrid by visiting Casa de Campo, Jardín del Príncipe, and Cuenca Alta del Manzanares Regional Park.

Day 4-5: Take a walking tour of the city’s numerous museums and landmarks, like the Royal Palace of Aranjuez and Getafe Castle.

Day 6-7: Experience Madrid’s rich culture by partaking in some of its many food and drink options or participate in a tour.

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Suburbs

When it comes to traditional Spanish cuisine and drinks, Southern Suburbs have plenty to offer. From local wines to delicious dishes, the area has a little something for everyone. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks in Southern Suburbs:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Cocido Madrileño - A hearty stew made with chickpeas, meats, and vegetables.

  2. Huevos Rotos - Fried eggs served with potatoes and ham.

  3. Callos a la Madrileña - Stewed tripe with chorizo and morcilla.

  4. Churros con Chocolate - Fried dough pastry served with thick hot chocolate.

Local Beverages

  1. Vermouth - A fortified white wine that is often enjoyed with olives or sardines.

  2. Sangria - A refreshing drink made with red wine, fruits, and brandy.

  3. Tinto de Verano - A refreshing mix of red wine, soda, and lemon juice.

Where to Stay in Southern Suburbs: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

In Southern Suburbs, you will find a wide variety of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are a few options that you can consider:

  1. Hotel Condes de Toledo - A luxury hotel that offers stunning views and top-notch service.

  2. Hostal El Alba - A budget-friendly guesthouse that offers comfortable and affordable rooms in a central location.

  3. Hotel Florida - Located near many city attractions, this hotel boasts of modern rooms that are perfect for families.

What to Buy in Southern Suburbs: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For those who want to take a bit of Southern Suburbs with them, there are several local products and souvenirs that you can buy. Some of the most popular souvenirs include:

  1. Traditional Spanish fan, or Abanico

  2. Marzipan sweets

  3. Ceramic Talavera, or Majolica pottery, from the nearby historic town of Talavera de la Reina

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Suburbs

Southern Suburbs boast of a unique and vibrant culture, and it’s essential to understand its customs before you visit. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  1. As is common throughout Spain, punctuality is not one of the area’s strengths. You should try to be patient and do not expect the same amount of urgency in Spain as other cultures may have.

  2. Spanish people tend to be very formal and polite. Make sure you respect that when interacting with locals, even if there is a language barrier.

  3. Don’t rush eating, meals time is important and treated with almost reverence.

Best Time to Visit Southern Suburbs

The best time to visit Southern Suburbs is during the spring and fall months (late March to May, and September to October). The temperatures are mild and perfect for outdoor activities and exploring. During the summer months, the temperatures can soar to the high 30s and make it uncomfortable to explore or participate in outdoor activities. Many of the museums and attractions are closed on Mondays, so it is essential to plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Suburbs

Here are some essential Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Southern Suburbs:

Do:

  1. Try the local cuisine and sample regional wines.

  2. Respect the area’s customs and culture.

  3. Learn some basic Spanish before you go.

Don’t:

  1. Expect late-night partying in Southern Suburbs; it is a quieter area of Madrid.

  2. Disrespect Spanish culture by constantly complaining or making remarks on certain cultural norms.

Safety and Health

Safety is generally not a significant concern in Southern Suburbs. Still, it is essential to take standard precautions and stay aware of your surroundings, especially when you are traveling alone.

Safety in Southern Suburbs

  1. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

  2. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.

Health in Southern Suburbs

  1. Tap water in Madrid is safe to drink.

  2. Make sure to bring sunscreen and wear it when outside to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.

Getting to Southern Suburbs: Transportation Options and Logistics

Madrid has a well-developed transportation system that can take you around the city and surrounding areas. Here are some of the best ways to get to Southern Suburbs:

Airports Near Southern Suburbs

Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas airport is located just a few miles from Southern Suburbs and is the most convenient airport to fly into.

Bus Stations Near Southern Suburbs

There are several bus stations where you can get a bus to Southern Suburbs.

Other Options

Aside from the four most popular transportation modes in Madrid (bus, train, metro, and taxi), you can get a car or do a shared car service.

How to Get Around in Southern Suburbs

The best way to explore Southern Suburbs is by renting a bike or car or hiring a taxi. The area is full of green spaces, so riding a bike is highly recommended, or if you prefer to stay off the roads, there are a few gondola rides available.

Where to Go Next from Southern Suburbs: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore more of Madrid, there are several other areas close to Southern Suburbs that are worth visiting, like the historic city of Toledo or Alcalá de Henares. Consider visiting other parts of Madrid such as the popular Gran Via shopping district or enjoying the city’s nightlife in north Madrid.

Conclusion

Southern Suburbs, Madrid, has a lot to offer visitors wanting to experience the city’s culture and history beyond its main center. Whether you are looking to explore the region’s natural beauty, historic landmarks, or indulge in Spain’s delicious cuisine, Southern Suburbs has it all. When planning your trip, be sure to use this comprehensive guide to Southern Suburbs and make the most of your time in Madrid.