Madrid

Madrid’s three major art galleries are all within a short walk of each other, and together they make up a magnificent display illuminating the history of Western art. Each one of the galleries is so large, that the Paseo del Arte triple ticket may seem like an invitation to exhaustion. However, once you have visited one, you have the rest of the year to visit the other two.

The Prado is deservedly one of the most famous museums in the world. Since the gallery first opened almost two hundred years ago, its collections have grown to include over 7000 paintings (although only around 1500 are currently on display). The collection includes Spanish art from Velázquez and some dark works of Goya, as well as some works by a number of Flemish masters: Peter Paul Rubens, Pieter Bruegel and Anton Van Dyck.

The eclectic Thyssen-Bornemisza complements the Prado and the Reina Sofia with works representing 17th-century Dutch paintings, impressionism, Russian constructivism, and pop art, amongst other styles.

The third gallery in the trio is housed in an enormous former hospital. The building dates from the mid-18th century, and has since added striking glass and steel external lifts. The collection consists mainly of Spanish works from the 20th century—the most famous of which is without doubt Picasso’s ’Guernica.’

The biggest royal palace in Europe, the Palacio Real de Madrid, has a whopping surface of 135,000 m2 and 3418 rooms. Not only is the building itself a beautiful attraction, but it also offers glorious gardens outside and beautiful frescoes, furniture and paintings inside. This magnificent creation dating from 1764 was built to replace the Alcázar castle that had burned down thirty years before. Visitors are given access to almost the entire palace, including the Armoury and Pharmacy.

Puerta del Sol means Gate of the Sun and is the most famous square in Madrid. It is a common place to meet up with friends, and after dark, it fills up with loads of people. It is also a good reference point when choosing accommodation.

Faro de Moncloa with its futuristic look allows you to see Madrid from a 92-metre high observation deck. After being closed for a couple of years, the platform opened again in 2015. Enjoy the view of the city and its most famous sights—if you are lucky, you can see up to a few hundred kilometres far. Note that the transmission tower can be closed during bad weather conditions.

The Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is located about 50 kilometres northwest of Madrid. It was founded by Felipe II and built to commemorate the victory at the Battle of San Quintín. The work began in 1563 and was finished by 1584. Its location is said to be decided on the advice of astrologers, doctors, philosophers, quarrymen, theologians and architects. El Escorial was built on the idea of maintaining symmetry and austerity, while also showing the power of the crown of Spain. It has many noteworthy sights, such as the servants' quarters, the Queen’s quarters, the Infante’s (or Upper) house, and the Prince’s (or Lower) house. If you have enough time in Madrid, consider El Escorial as a day trip.

The Teleférico—Madrid's cable car— is a comfortable way of seeing most of the major the sights while sitting down, provided you're not afraid of heights. This cable car was first built as part of an amusement park and at places, it reaches a height of about 40 metres above the ground. The ride takes ten minutes and once you've reached the destination Casa de Campo Park you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city, as well as grab some food at the restaurant.

Toledo is a World Heritage city located 70 kilometres south of Madrid. It sits in the centre of the Iberian Peninsula, 529 metres above sea level, surrounded by the Tagus River. The city has a fascinating history, formerly hosting Christian, Islamic and Hebrew culture, which shows in the city's varied architecture.

Salamanca is one of Madrid's wealthiest and most exclusive neighbourhoods, where you can find lovely and unique restaurants, boutiques and bars. It is a perfect area to go for a stroll and take in Madrid's alluring atmosphere.