The bustling capital of Spain, Madrid is an absolute must-see on any Spanish travel itinerary. Though the city is large in size, the historic center is easily walkable, which makes it easy to explore! Madrid has something interesting to offer all visitors, from elegant palaces and lush parks, to renowned museums, as well as unique and special neighborhoods that are full of designer stores, boutique shops, quaint street cafes, and vibrant food markets.
This wonderful city is built up of elegant, stylish boulevards and spacious, well-manicured parks, as well as plenty of rich repositories of European art, including the famous Prado Museum, home to works by Goya, Velázquez, and other Spanish masters. The baroque Royal Palace is hands down one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe, joining the ranks of Versailles in Paris and Schonbrunn in Vienna.
The true heart of old Hapsburg Madrid can be discovered in the portico-lined Plaza Mayor, the colorful and sophisticated main square where you can sit down to have a break in one of the many cafes, and can also be seen in the Puerta del Sol, which is yet another beautiful and vital hub of social life in Madrid. Soak in the energy that emanates from the streets as you explore different parts of the city, all with their very own distinct and unique personality, and all are equally fascinating!