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The Prado
The Prado in Madrid is one of the world's finest museums and to fully appreciate its sheer scale and artistic riches to view even a whole day is not sufficient enough. There are notable collections by luminaries such as Goya and El Greco and extensive displays of Dutch and Flemish old masters.
Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor is a central square that has always been at the heart of Spanish life, be it bullfighting or royal coronations. Nowadays is just as vibrant with a vast pedestrianised area of pavement cafes and tapas bars ideal for simply relaxing and watching the world pass by.
The Royal Palace
The sumptuous former royal residence is open for public viewing and offers a vivid glimpse into the privileged lifestyle of Spain's kings and queens. Explore opulent state apartments and a breathtakingly beautiful throne room littered with priceless art and antiques. There are fabulous gardens to explore that are filled with charming fountains and regal sculptures.
Retiro Park
Escape the heat with a stroll in picturesque Retiro Park, the most popular green space in the city. It features a collection of fountains and sculptures and beautifully colourful rose gardens. Weekends see the park come alive with an assortment of street performers, fortune tellers and generally eccentric characters offering an altogether unique atmosphere.
National Museum Of Archaeology
After the Prado, this is the most significant museum in Madrid and most definitely worth a visit. Its coverage is wide ranging with everything from prehistoric art to rare Victorian artefacts. It is especially noted for its wonderful Islamic art and colourful displays of ancient ceramics and several hours are needed to fully appreciate its variety of exhibits.
Enjoy A Day Trip To Toledo
If you are taking a long weekend city break in Madrid visit the historic medievel city of Toledo, just a short journey from Madrid city centre. It offers a magical cityscape of a commanding fortress, an extraordinary cathedral and characterful winding streets with a sleepy pace of life. It makes for a rewarding day out in a relaxing and inspiring environment.
Watch Real Madrid In Action
Football fans will want to taste the heady atmosphere of a game at the hallowed Bernabeau stadium - home to Real Madrid, the most famous name in European football. Low season weekends in Madrid are the ideal time to take in a game and will provide a richly colourful experience that is difficult to match elsewhere.
Parque de Atracciones
Located in the Casa de Campo, this enormous theme park has several thrilling rollercoaster rides and playful attractions that kids will fall in love with. There is also plenty of charming traditional fun at the Parque de Atracciones in the form of pony rides and fun fair stalls that are perfect for the youngest of kids and more than enough eateries to satisfy every taste during a Madrid short break.
The Tapas Tour of Madrid
Take a culinery tour of central Madrid and follow your nose into the wonderful world of tapas during a city break in Madrid. The atmospheric tapas bars around Plaza Santa Ana and Huertas offer food lovers a whirlwind tour of the regions of Spain. Sample spicy Andalucian paellas or delicious seafood from the Basque country along with locally produced cured meats, sautéed chicken and stews all in bite sized portions perfect for sharing.
Shopping In Madrid
Short breaks to Madrid are literally about the shopping opportunities for many visitors and eager bargain hunters will not be disappointed. Calle Serrano offers glitzy fashion houses and trendy boutiques with prices to match. Nearby Calle Fuencarral is filled with independent designers offering new designs at very attractive prices. Plaza Mayor is the place to go for everyday fashions and household goods and its plethora of vast department stores are a fertile hunting ground for souvenirs.
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