Madrid is a Fascinating City

Madrid is a relative newcomer to the city break scene which is surprising as it is a fascinating city famous for its zest for life. Architecturally it does't have the same quantity of essential sights as Barcelona but is a fascinating city to explore and take in the atmosphere, especially around the Old Madrid of the Habsburgs including Puerta Del Sol and Plaza Mayor.

Culturally, the art scene is right up there with the Prado remaining the cities major cultural attraction and Picassos Guernica in the Reina Sofia being the number one exhibit. Madrid is also a great place to see the traditional Spanish arts with the largest bullring in Spain at Las Ventas and a flamenco scene on a par with the traditional flamenco cities of the south.

Real Madrid football club are another major attraction with thousands of visitors in the city every other weekend to see a match at the Bernabeu stadium. Time permitting, if you want to escape the bustle of the city there are a whole range of superb day excursions available to the likes of Toledo, Segovia, El Escorial and beyond.

A fantastic amusement park with More than 40 rides, such as roller coaster, house of terror, water rides, and an open air auditorium in the summer, which frequently has interesting concerts.

A 3 dimensional visual and sound experience not to be missed. Various films shown, Contact the cinema for descriptions of the current offerings.

A cable car ride over from over one of Madrids largest parks. The starting point is in the Parque Del Oeste. Beautiful views.

The aquarium of the Zoo of Madrid is one of the most modern in the world, in fauna. With more than 200 species of fishes. One of the latest attractions is the tank of sharks.

Madrid is a melting pot for the cuisines from all over the peninsula. Gourmets sometimes argue whether Madrid cuisine exists or not, but the truth is that the capital of Spain has enriched its gastronomy with the contributions of the Andalusians, Galicians, Austrians and other immigrants who have settled here.

In Madrid, as well as in the rest of Spain, the tapa, savoury titbits of a variety of dishes served as appetisers is an old gastronomic tradition. You can find numerous establishments specialised in serving these tapas. Going out for tapas is a tradition hundreds of bars scattered throughout the streets of Madrid serve a tapa accompanied by a small glass of wine or beer.

Night owls will find Madrid a paradise every night of the week. Visitors must keep in mind the late dining hours, restaurants do not even open until eight or nine o clock. Many night establishments are open until the early morning hours.