Madrid is located in the very geographical center of Spain. Madrid is a unique melting pot of traditions and the modern life of a dynamic capital city. Madrid's motto: "live and let live" can be experienced anywhere day and night.
It’s mixture of tradition, culture, culinary specialties and wild nightlife is not only worth a visit but the perfect place to get to know and experience Spanish lifestyle.
Madrid is continuously changing, having transformed itself in many ways into a major international community.
A large number of museums show the cultural legacy of Madrid.
Absolutely recommendable is a visit of the famous "triangle of art" most importantly the Prado Museum which is, together with the Louvre in Paris, one of the world’s most famous. Exhibitions include works from artists such as Bosch, Goya, Dürer, Tiziano, Tintoretto, El Greco, Velázquez and Rubens.
Madrid
The Plaza Mayor, built in the 17th Century, still is the historical and social centre of the city.
Every second Sunday morning Madrid’s flea market "El Rastro" extends from the Plaza Mayor into the town center. The range of goods varies from second hand clothes to jewelry and small presents; here you will surely find the perfect souvenir or gift for your friends and family.
Another must-see is the excellent shopping district of "Preciados" with its department stores, clothing, book, music and shoe shops, perfumeries and jewelers.
If you are looking for something more 'chic' it is the Barrio de Salamanca where you'll find the hip designer stores. And for the most radical and alternative shopper, the Fuencarral with its market is the place to visit.
Besides the famous Tapas you should also taste the wide variety of the Spanish cuisine, including the famous Paella, the Tortilla, smoked ham and the large variety of national and regional wines.
Madrid by day and Madrid by night - a two faced city. In Madrid, there is always something to do and see, from spectacular flamenco shows to Plaza de Santa Ana and Huertas with its many bars and disco-pubs.
In Madrid you will surely find the perfect place to fit your personal taste.
Another important place to visit is the Museo de Arte Reina Sofía, which houses contemporary works from artists including Dalí, Miró and Picasso. Next to it, you’ll find the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the largest collection of private art in the world with works from the 17th to the 20th century from such great artists as Van Gogh, Monet, and Kandinsky. Some other places not to be missed are:
- The Palacio Real, the historical residence of the King of Spain.
- Madrid’s central park "El Parque del Retiro", a green oasis of peace in the middle of the city.
- The Atocha rail and underground station close to the Botanical Gardens..
- Madrid’s bullfighting arena the "Plaza de Toros de las Ventas" is the most important bullfighting ring in the world.
