The Spanish capital city Madrid is one of the biggest cities in Europe. The cosmopolitan flair of the city, running through its streets and alleys, comes about from its being located at the heart of the country.
Like many other European capital cities, Madrid is a crossroad between old and new with its historical and grand buildings lying alongside the modern architecture of this important economic hub. This city has a rich variety of things to see and do, and with its different flavours it will definitely have something to suit all tastes and likings.
1. The Art Museums
Art from Madrid Museums
One of the key attractions that will draw visitors to the city of Madrid is that it is one of the most important centres for art in the continent. Madrid is not just the geographical capital but the artistic one too.
Among the eminent attractions in the city is the Reina Sofia Museum, which is home to the famous painting ‘Guernica’, by Pablo Picasso. Another important site in the city is the Museo del Prado, which has one of the largest collections of art and historic documents and because of which became one of the most visited museums in the world.
Those who are looking to explore the highlights of Spanish fine art over the last few centuries will also want to visit the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando. This academy counts Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali among its graduates, and the art gallery here boasts masterpieces from Bellini, Goya and Correggio.
2. Bullfighting
Bullfighting in Madrid
This is a form of entertainment that has popularity in Spain not to be found anywhere else. Large crowds flock to see the matadors tempt fate and take on the bulls.
This isn’t an activity that will be to everyone’s taste, but the thrill and buzz of the crowd when the best matadors take on the bull do make for a captivating spectacle.
3. Madrid Nightlife
The Nightlife in Madrid
Although the city is a hive of activity during the day, the main fun in Madrid happens when the sun goes down. Entertainment ranges from performances of classical music to jazz and flamenco dance shows. There are venues that will host evening events to whichever genre of music you fancy.
Tapas are an important part of Spanish life, and these small dishes can vary from meat and fish down to vegetables and other foods. There are many different tapas bars that will serve patrons throughout the city during the evening, and they are well worth visiting.
4. Sports In Madrid
Football in Madrid
Sport plays a very important part in the life of the city, and many visitors will love the chance to enjoy some of the sport that can be enjoyed live. With two major football teams in the city, many people will want to see the derby between Atletico and Real Madrid, but there are games taking place in the city throughout the regular season. Tennis fans will enjoy the great action on offer at the Madrid Open, and basketball team in the city is also hugely popular.
-Subscribe to get free updates via RSS or email, follow us on Twitter or find us on Facebook.
Madrid is the perfect place to go after Barcelona or if Barcelona is too expensive.
I’m going to Europe for six days from 17 August 09 to 28 Sept 09 (6 days) and Im searching in the following itinerary.
Fly into Madrid (3-4 days)
Barcelona (3-4 days)
I must hit morroco (either tangier or possibly reach Fes (2-three days)
Then to BCN after which to Paris
Paris (4 days)
Excursion to Normandy beach
Amsterdam (three days)
Berlin (three days)
Prauge (3-4 days)
Vienna (three days)
Venice (a couple of days)
Rome (three days)
Athens (3-4 days)
Total: 33 days, which leaves me about ten days for trains and side outings.
I discovered a flight ticket from washington electricity to madrid, then from athens to electricity. for approximately $650.
This really is my first visit to europe….any suggestions could be great. thanks!