Madrid is the capital of Spain and is located on the geographic centre of the Iberian Peninsula. Madrid is one of the most breathtaking cities in Europe. Probably one of the world's liveliest cities. With its intense cultural activities and artistic vitality, it is a favourite among tourists and loved by its own community.  

Madrid is a city of great monuments: combines the most modern infrastructure with an important cultural and artistic heritage. But Madrid is not just a cultural destination it is also a lively metropolis with many pubs, cafes, discotheques and nightclubs. If you wish to take a break from the Spanish art or the night life, the city has plenty of parks and leisure attractions where you could relax.

The landscape of Madrid

The region of Madrid has an abundance of open spaces with varied landscape, from the Madrid Sierra, a gorgeous mountain range filled with beauty spots, to the fertile plains of Aranjuez and La Mancha landscape.

Large cities in Madrid

Should you feel the need to escape Madrid’s busy streets, you may find several cities where you could spend half a day or the whole day: Toledo, Ávila, Cuenca, Segovia or Chinchón. The famous Monastery of El Escorial which Philip II had built 50 kilometres out of Madrid is of course a must see for any visitor to Spain's capital.

Tourist attractions in Madrid

Madrid is an energetic city, which always offers something to do or see. Some of its main historic places are the huge Royal Palace of Madrid; the Royal theatre; the National Library building; the Plaza Mayor; Plaza de Oriente; the Archaeological Museum and three superb Art Museums: Prado Museum, one of the great museums of art in the world with special rooms for masters like Goya, Velazquez, El Greco, Zurbarán, Murillo and Tiziano. The Museo Nacional de Arte Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum.

The Retiro Park is certainly the most beautiful park of Madrid. Here you may have relaxing walks or do some boating on its central lake.

Sports activities in Madrid

In Madrid you can go swimming, horseback riding, play tennis and golf. Hunting or fishing is offered all through and around the city.

Gastronomic characteristics of Madrid

There are many dishes of lamb and veal in Madrid as well as hotpots, as the well-known Cocido Madrileño. Considering its geographic location - Madrid is a real paradise for the lovers of any kind of fish. It has the second biggest fish market in the world behind Tokyo. Among the regional specialities are the delicious asparagus from Aranjuez and the very typical Sopa de Ajo. Ideally fitting to such a meal are the young and aromatic wines from the region, Vinos de Madrid.

The climate of Madrid

Due to its central location and high altitude, the climate of Madrid is characterized by very warm and dry summers and cool winters – always with blue skies.