Madrid Located on the geographic center of the Iberian Peninsula. Madrid has been the capital of Spain since 1562. One of the world’s most vibrant and seductive cities, Madrid, can make you fell apart of and enjoy the cultural treasures and architectural glories.
Visit: Plaza de Oriente with adjoining Palace Gardens, Plaza Mayor, Parque de Retiro, and three of the world’s leading art galleries.
The Plaza de Oriente and the adjoining Palace Gardens are a delight. The Palace itself is enormous, dominating the skyline over the western part of city. Inside are some 2800 rooms but fortunately in the tours you will only visit about 50.
The Plaza Mayor is perfectly preserved and extremely beautiful. Historically it was a venue for state ceremonies, bullfights, ritual condemnations of heretics and executions. Take a break in one of the numerous cafés that line the square, all of which serve up a range of tapas and wines.
Parque de Retiro is a lovely spot to unwind. It is home to Madrid's loveliest gardens. It is also a favorite weekend destination for families. There are performers and puppet shows to keep children and adults amused for hours.
The museums
The ‘Avenue of Art’ along the Paseo del Prado display three of the world’s leading art galleries. The Prado has been recognized as one of Spain’s greatest attractions because of its massive concentration of masterpieces. The Thyssen-Bornemisza museum houses the world’s most important private collection in Spain. It displays paintings dating from the 13th century through to the modern day. The Reina Sofía is one of the world’s largest modern art galleries.
Just so you know: Madrid offers the best of gastronomical traditions from all over Spain and eating out is fun. Mussels, oysters, tortilla, serrano ham are just some of the favorites, washed down with a vino tinto, a bowl of Galician Ribiero white wine or a glass of fino.
