Madrid

Madrid is one of Europe’s great cultural capitals, with world-class museums and historic landmarks. Highlights include:

• The Prado Museum, one of the world’s most important art museums with masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya and El Greco
• The Reina Sofía Museum, home to Pablo Picasso’s famous painting Guernica
• The Royal Palace (Palacio Real), one of the largest royal palaces in Europe
• Retiro Park, a beautiful green oasis with a lake, sculptures and the Crystal Palace
• Plaza Mayor, a historic square surrounded by arcaded buildings and traditional Spanish architecture

Madrid is known for its classic Spanish cuisine, lively tapas culture and food markets.

• Tapas, such as patatas bravas, jamón ibérico and croquetas
• Cocido madrileño, a traditional chickpea and meat stew typical of the city
• Churros with hot chocolate, a popular sweet treat
• Mercado de San Miguel, a famous food market where you can taste many Spanish specialties
• Spanish wines and vermouth, often enjoyed together with tapas

Madrid offers a wide variety of shopping areas, from luxury boutiques to local design shops.

• Gran Vía, the city’s main shopping street with international brands and fashion stores
• The Salamanca district, known for luxury shopping and designer boutiques
• El Rastro, a large and popular flea market held on Sundays
• Malasaña and Chueca, neighborhoods known for vintage shops, independent designers and trendy boutiques
• Spanish specialties, such as leather goods, handmade shoes and gourmet products like olive oil and jamón