Madrid is the capital and main gateway to Spain. Whilst the city has modern infrastructure it has preserved the look and feel of its rich history and is packed with grand architecture, parks, bars, cafes and world class shopping. The city has an excellent metro system and public transport is cheap making it easy to get around.  

See:

• El Prado, Reina Sofia, Thyssen-Bornemisza museums - Offering some of the world’s best treasures, portraits and art from the likes of Spain’s Velazquez, Goya, El Greco., Picasso and Dali.
• Retiro Park – Dating back to 1632 in the heart of bustling Madrid, this park is a place to unwind or go boating on the lake.  The park is dominated by an imposing monument to Alfonoso XII and Bosco’s Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace). You can also buy drinks, food; get your picture painted or your fortune told by one of the many vendors.
• Royal Palace –  dating back to the 9th century, when a defensive fort was built during the Islamic Kingdom of Toledo and later used by the Kings of Castile.  Later the Old Alcázar was constructed on the fort during the 16th century.  Today it is the official residence of the king, but only used for official ceremonies.
• Plaza Mayor – 17th century square at the heart of every (Madrileño) Madrid citizen.  A magnificent architectural gem right in the city’s heart and host to many outdoor functions, concerts and TV events and surrounded by life, eateries and cafes.

Experience:

• Flamenco – Take in a traditional flamenco show at the popular tablao Torre Bermejas whose interior is a reproduction of the Alhambra style in Granada. Internationally-known artists and a Flamenco group promise a night to remember.
• Tapas – Little tasters of olives, anchovies, chorizo, squid, jamón and cheeses etc.  Sample tapas and a small beer (caña) in one of the many tapa bars in the famous Latina area close to the Plaza Mayor.
• El Rastro Flea Market – Every Sunday. Be ready to haggle for those hidden gems.  Located along Plaza de Cascorro and Ribera de Curtidores, between Calle Embajadores and the Ronda de Toledo (just south of La Latina metro station).

Secrets of the City:

• Spain’s Egyptian Temple - The Temple of Debod was donated to Spain by Egypt in thanks for saving its rich heritage, when in 1960 the Great Dam of Aswan was built and certain monuments were under threat. The monument is located in one of the city’s beautiful parks near Campo de Moro and Parque del Oeste.