Madrid is the capital of Spain and the largest municipality in both the Community of Madrid and Spain. Firstly, Madrid has a particular importance in the global economic system. Secondly, it is a highly influential city in Europe in various fields, such as education, politics, entertainment, media, culture or science. Thirdly, you must know that is the third largest city in EU after London and Paris. The capital of Spain respects this status, offering a wide range of museums and architectural attractions. Moreover, you and other tourists can enjoy these during a city break or even a longer stay.

But other facts are important too. For example, Madrid has exciting markets, imposing buildings and museums that can compete with any caption of the world. Madrid is also a point of attraction for those who do not necessarily hunt for tourist attractions. During a visit here, enjoy flamenco shows at a good restaurant, watch a bullfight or a football match. In addition, here is the oldest restaurant in the world, recognised as such by the Book of Records. The multitude of museums and tourist attractions make Madrid one of the most visited cities in Spain. With all these around, certainly there is something for everyone. So what are you waiting for?

Historic and cultural attractions in Madrid

The Royal Palace or Palacio Real is the largest and certainly one of the most impressive palaces in Europe. The former residence of Spain’s Bourbon rulers boasts more rooms than any other palace in Europe. It has over 2000 rooms decorated in the most luxurious way, of which only 50 can be visited. With priceless tapestries, clocks, paintings, furniture, even Stradivarius violins, there is something for all.  The palace’s setting is equally breathtaking.

Almudena Cathedral was built in over 100 years. It was eventually sanctified by Pope John Paul II in 1993. Shortly after King Philip II made Madrid the capital of Spain in 1561, he wanted to build a cathedral for the new capital. The cathedral seems to have been built on the site of a medieval mosque that was destroyed in 1083 when Alfonso VI reconquered Madrid.

Museo del Prado shows you one of the world’s finest art collections and  is one of Madrid’s top tourist attractions. Most importantly, find here mainly 16^th and 17^th century paintings. The Prado’s strongest suit is Spanish painting, the pick of the artists including Goya with 140 paintings and Velazquez with 50. Visit the wing designed by the Spanish architect Rafael Moneo in the restored cloister of the Jeronimos church. It hosts temporary exhibitions and Renaissance sculpture from the permanent collection.

Plazas in Madrid

Plaza Mayor is Madrid’s most famous square. Capable of holding up to 50.000 people, it was intended to impress and still does. Nowadays come here to relax, have dinner and watch the world go by. During it’s history, Plaza Mayor has been a market, an open-air theatre, a bullring, a place of execution and a backdrop for tournaments. The most important building in Plaza Mayor is the Panaderia House, the bakery guild’s headquarters. This building was finished in 1590, just before the market was established. The current design dates back to the last fire in 1790.

Puerta del Sol Plaza is the perfect starting point to explore Madrid. Now it is the heart of the historic center of Madrid. The name of the market comes from the eastern gate of the city that existed here in the 15th century. The gate was probably named so after the sun drawn on it. The present semi-oval square was created in the 19th century. Puerta del Sol is the place where you find the symbol of Madrid: a 20-ton teddy bear statue eating fruit from a tree. The official name of the statue is ‘El Oso y El Madrono’. Madrono is a straw-related tree species.

Plaza de Espana is one of Madrid’s largest and most popular squares. On a sunny day it is filled with street vendors, tourists and sunbathing locals. It is located at the end of the magnificent Gran Via, one of the busiest streets in Madrid. A large fountain and a beautiful statue that honours the Spanish writer Cervantes adorn the square. Visitors flock to the monument of Cervantes to get their picture taken in front of the bronze statues of Don Quixote on his horse and Sancho Panza on his mule.

Other attractions in Madrid

Parque del Retiro is the city’s green lung and the madrilenos favourite weekend retreat. The aristocracy was first admitted to the former royal gardens in 1767, but it was another century before the gates were opened to the general public.  Enjoy not only the decorative features, which include statues and sculptural arrangements, follies, a former French garden, lakes and ponds. But the numerous amenities which make the Retiro such a prize attraction. The Retiro Park is located to the east of the city center, not far from the Prado Museum. The main entrance is close to the Alcala Gate, in the Plaza de la Independence.

The best months to visit Madrid are May and September, where’s plenty of sunshine but the heat isn’t too oppressive. Temperatures tend to be over 30 °C throughout July and August the air doesn’t cool down much until after midnight. November through March can be quite cold. Even then, usually the sun shines.

Madrid is a cosmopolitan destination and an important financial center that offers an interesting mélange of modern and cultural heritage. Those who choose to spend a city break in Madrid as a vacation destination will find a charming city full of museums, squares, spectacular buildings, shops, parks and last but not least a special tradition. Madrid is also a perfect destination for shopping vacations, being considered a shopping center itself, because every corner of the street is a small boutique. You will have plenty things to do and to learn, so don’t waste your time, do your luggage and be ready to explore this amazing city which has so many to offer and you won’t regret.

By bus: buses run from 6 am until 11.30 pm. Bus route map can be obtained from tourist offices. Night busses known as ‘buhos’ depart from Plaza de Cibeles every 20 minutes from midnight to 6 am.  It is cheap: single fares cost €1.50 but a 10-trip ticket or Metrobus is available for €10.20.

By metro:  Efficient and fast. It is cheap: single fares cost €1.50 but a 10-trip ticket or Metrobus is available for €10.20.

By taxis: Inexpensive and well regulated. Can be hailed in the street: Look for an illuminated “libre” sign or a green pilot on the roof.

Walking: This is the best way to get around in the center of Madrid.

By car: Think twice before renting a car. Parking is nightmare, traffic is heavy almost all the time, and the city’s drivers can be frightening.

There are special passes for visitors/tourists for 1, 3, 5 or 7 days. You can buy them from any tourist information center. Is cheap and you have free access or reduced price to many tourist attractions.