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 seeing everything in one day seems an impossible task. Luckily, your ticket is valid for a year and you are free to dip in and out of each museum as much as you please.

Tapas enthusiasts need look no further - Madrid's most popular market, San Miguel is within walking distance of Plaza Major. This market focuses on tapas of all kinds, but also serves beer, wine and champagne.

A sweeping collection of artwork and historic artefacts ranging from the prehistoric period to the nineteenth century. Lovers of the renaissance will particularly enjoy this museum, while medieval and Iberian Celtic cultures are also well represented. Famous works by Goya also feature here.

The Prado is deservedly one of the most famous museums in the world. Since the gallery first opened 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.

Real Madrid is a professional football club based at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium in Madrid. They are considered one of the best football clubs in the world and have won an impressive number of titles, both in Spain and abroad. Santiago Bernabéu stadium was inaugurated in 1947 and has a capacity of more than 85,000 spectators.

Plaza Mayor is the main square of Madrid, measuring approximately 130 by 95 meters. There are no less than nine entrances to this majestic plaza and it is a great place to sit down, have a coffee and people watch.

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 is a lively spot. It is also a good reference point when choosing accommodation.

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.

Madrid is a city renowned all over the world for its excellent Flamenco performances, and the popular dance can be seen in several taverns and bars around the city. Enjoy a three-course meal and after dinner, take in a magical show. Flamenco is not only a dance but also the music to which the dance is performed. It originated in Andalusia and is known mostly for songs accompanied by guitar and complex techniques of foot-stomping, hand-clapping and the use of castanets. The best place to go for a breathtaking exhibit of Flamenco is "Corral de la Moreria".

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.