Madrid travel guide

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Madrid, the capital city of Spain is situated in the peninsular region and is surrounded by the river Manzanares. Being a largest city of Spain, Madrid is the home of various cultural activities, artistic excellence and a very lively nightlife. Madrid is also known as a cosmopolitan metropolis, centre of Spanish Government, a business centre, public administration headquarter, home of the Spanish royal family and so on. The city dwells rich artistic heritage and great culture, which attracts tourists from every corner of the world. Apart from that, there are numerous places to explore and enjoy. You will definitely collect pleasant memories that will make your trip a lifetime experience.

Fast Facts

Madrid boasts of great cultural and historical background that makes it a favorable tourist destination. The origin of this grand metropolis is traced back from the times of Arab Emir Mohamed I (852-886). Since then, Madrid has witnessed the rule of various empires and even dictatorship, which is outlined in different ages namely :

• Muslim Madrid (9th - 11th centuries).
• Early Christians (11th - 16th centuries).
• The Spanish Golden Age (late 16th - 17th centuries).
• Bourbon Expansion (18th - early 19th centuries).
• Instability, Civil War & Dictatorship (19th century - 1975).
• Modern Madrid (1975-till now).

The diversity in the Culture of Madrid is largely influenced by its history. The domination of its royal history makes Madrid an excellent example of Medieval Architecture. There are plenty of monolithic cathedrals and churches symbolizing its rich cultural heritage. The impact of modernization has changed the lifestyle of the people and has added a great significance to the Madrid culture. Prado Museum, Reina Sofia Museum, cultural centers, other museums, movies, theatre, music, flamenco etc. are the foremost parts of Madrid culture.

Madrid is very well connected with other parts of the world through different modes of transport. One can easily reach Madrid by air, the nearest airport i.e. Barajas International Airport is around 15 to 20 min away from Madrid.

The other best way of reaching Madrid is train; undoubtedly, Madrid has a vast rail network, connecting the city from major European cities like Portugal, Switzerland, France and Italy.

Those who like to explore the true life of the city also prefer bus and car. Keeping a route map handy will help in locating the destination you wish to reach.

The best way to explore the beauty of this vibrant city is to travel through Metro de Madrid, one of the widest Metro networks in Spain. It covers almost every part of the Madrid and the remaining ones can be reached through local bus service. Special night buses, covering every part of the city are loved by the tourists because they make your journey exciting. Taxi, although expensive but a good medium for discovering the beauty of Madrid. Hired cars and bicycles are also on the list if you are an adventurous traveler.

√ Golden (art) Museum Triangle : - Museo del Prado, Reina Sofía National Museum and Art Center, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum of Art the best place if you are a classic art lover.

√ National Archeology Museum : - Gives you an insight of the civilization in Spain.

√ Museo de Lazaro Galdiano : - Best destination for discovering private collections or renowned artists.

√ Palacio Real : - Enormous palace with concrete plains around it.

√ Plaza Mayor : - Best known plaza of Madrid.

√ Puerta del Sol : - The most famous and busiest plaza in Madrid.

√ Templo de Debod : - An Egyptian temple.

√ Real Madrid : - Those who love soccer, real Madrid is like pilgrimage.

If you wish to explore the Spanish fashion, then Madrid is your place. The streets of Almirante and Conde de Xiquena, are flooded with the shops selling fashion garments, jewelry, gifts, leather products etc. Looking for some traditional stuff, then head for Plaza Mayor and if you are searching for pocket friendly departmental stores, then nothing can beat the vicinity of the Puerta del Sol and also the streets of Goya, Princesa and Castellana. Rastro the open-air market is an excellent hot spot shopping destination.

Once you plan your Trip to Madrid, the next thing you want to know would be the major excursion points in the city. Madrid as a tourist destination has many excursion joints like Alcalá de Henares, Aranjuez, Manzanares el Real, El Escorial, Ávila, Segovia and Toledo. All these places are not only magnificent and have numerous places to visit but are also easy to reach through local transport. You can have your best time at Madrid trip if you go for these destinations.

Madrid is known for its vibrant and thriving nightlife and leaves a huge impact on the first time visitors. A paradise for night owls, the city boasts of pubs, clubs, bars, discos, late night eating joints, movies, flamencos and the never-ending list of night out options. Streets like Plaza de Santa Ba¡rbara, the Glorieta de Bilbao, Alonso Marta­nez, Arguelles, Moncloa etc. are flooded with famous eateries and night destinations. The Calle Huertas and the Plaza de Santa Ana offer a lively nightlife with amazing live music.

Madrid is the heaven for those who love to experiment with foods. The city is known for serving the tourists with the widest variety of appetizing Spanish cuisine. There are many restaurants and eateries in Madrid, offering mouthwatering inter-continental cuisine at affordable prices.

Hotels in Madrid also offer special discounts during off seasons and finding an accommodation is not that difficult task. The mesmerizing natural beauty, medieval and modern architecture, royal buildings, metropolis districts and many more attractions makes Madrid a must watch destination.