Madrid is a splendid city, famous for style, art and grace. The capital of Spain is an increasingly popular destination, full of charm and sophistication. Full of museums, historical sites, art galleries and hip pubs and cafes, you'll have a fabulous time in this wonderful city.
The main sights include the Royal Palace, the Casino de Madrid, the spectacular Gran Via, and some fantastic museums and art galleries. Walking and Segway tours around the city are very popular, and you'll gain an insight from the expert commentary provided by your guide and will be able to answer questions about this vibrant and engaging city.
If you would like to sightsee in Madrid at your own pace, then the "Hop on, Hop off" bus tour is invaluable. Tickets include a range of discounts for attractions, restaurants and cafes. It might be worth taking the tour soon after you arrive, to help with your city orientation. Alternatively, buying a Madrid Card will gain you entry to a range of attractions at no further cost, and unlimited use of the swift and efficient public transport system.
If you'd like to have some authentic Spanish cultural experiences, then you won't have to look too far. Fiery and passionate flamenco shows can be combined with a typical Spanish dinner, where the Rioja and Cava will flow along with the music. Guided tapas tours are an extremely popular, and the information you get about where does the best food and drinks will be invaluable for the rest of your holiday.
Madrid also has some excellent opportunities to buy stylish Spanish clothes, and shopping tours are extremely popular and showcase the best of what Madrid has to offer. You can also take an evening tour to experience the city illuminations, which is an excellent precursor to visiting a few of the cutting edge pubs that the city seems to specialise in.
There are also several excursion options available that will take you outside the city. Barcelona is Spain's most visited city, and can be visited by rail on a long day trip - although a day trip to Barcelona will barely scratch the surface of what this fantastic city has to offer, and you may well find yourself planning to return.
You can also travel to sultry Seville and the Costa del Sol. If you are short on time, consider a day trip to Aranjuez, the former royal city, or to Avila and Segrovia. Overnight and day excursions to Toledo, one of the most spectacular of all Spanish cities, are also available. Or, you can visit the beautiful El Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen.
Whether you love style, eating, art, history or Spanish culture, you'll have a superb time in Madrid.
