Metropolitano
With only the La Liga match (Atleti v Getafe) on the agenda, coupled with the fact it didn’t start till 10pm we were left with a wide open day. Throw in the fact that neither of us is much for the “big” touristy spots, we were at a little bit of a loss as to what to do with our day.
First things first, we needed breakfast, so we walked a couple blocks to check out Federal Cafe. This has been the most breakfast-y we’ve gotten on this trip. Eli chose pancakes, while I enjoyed the french toast.
Meal complete, we headed back to the apartment to try to decide what to do. Not much was jumping out at us, but eventually we decided on walking down to the big central park, El Retiro.
During our 30 minute walk to the park, we collectively decided that Madrid is kind of just a big city. While its been great being here, and I’m glad we came, not much about the city grabs you. Its all just a bit … ehh.
Upon reaching the park, we were both happy with the choice. Its not nearly as big as New York’s Central Park, but its pretty big. Some beautiful, large promenades, a couple small lakes, and the requisite sculptures. We found a nice, quiet spot in the shade and just sort of chilled out.
Eventually we decided to find a cafe or bar to grab a drink and watch the city go by. I found this to be equally nice. I love people watching, and we got plenty of it.
At this point, Eli wanted to head back to the apartment to catch the Chelsea match, so we made the trek back. At halftime, we walked up the street to Arepa Mia and grabbed a few delicious arepas to bring back for the second half.
With the match complete, it was time to head to the metro and head out to the new Estadio Wanda Metropolitano to catch the first match of the 2019/20 La Liga season, Atletico Madrid v Getafe. This is actually a local derby, so we were hoping it would be a bit spicy.
This place is massive! Seating approximately 66,000 people it towers above when you arrive. We purchased tickets for right around 40€ which we thought was pretty crazy (as in cheap), and headed in.
The first half was indeed a bit spicy with each team having a man sent off (within minutes of each other no less), and a halftime score of 1-0 Atleti on a header by Alvaro Morata.
The second half had trouble keeping up the drama, but we were dazzled by a spectacular run by new signing Joao Felix. All in all, it was an amazing experience that neither of us will forget.
After making the 45 minute metro ride back to the barrio, and arriving well after 1am, we grabbed a late night snack at La Dona, walked back to the apartment, and called it a good night.