Madrid
Madrid is the capital city of Spain and is also the largest city in the country, with a population of over three million within the city alone. It is best known for its artistic and cultural heritage as well as its bustling nightlife.
The city of Madrid is found east of the Iberian Peninsula on top of a plateau that reaches an altitude of 650m. Most of the famous sightseeing locations are found in the centre of Madrid in what is known as the historical centre.
Throughout the year the climate of Madrid changes quite frequently with dry and extremely hot summers and cold windy rainy winters. For this reason spring is the best time to visit when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are more bearable.
Most of the culture of Madrid is defined by its Royal and religious history, which makes its many churches and cathedrals some of the best historical sites to visit during a holiday. Among these are the Golden Art Museum Triangle buildings, the Palacio Real, and the Catedral de la Almudena.
As mentioned, Madrid is known for its bustling nightlife given the fact that it has the most bars of any city in Europe. It is quite normal in Madrid to stay out at the bars and nightclubs until five am the next day, so for those who like to party there is no better place to holiday. Most of the prominent bars and nightclubs are located along the Gran Via.
Transportation in Madrid is reliable and clean, unlike many other public transportation systems in Europe. Most people choose to use either the bus or Metro service to get around the town.
Those who want to visit the alternative artsy areas of Madrid will enjoy the district of Masalana where the music clubs and cafes are located, along with a sprinkling of pubs and bars.
If you want to get plenty of shopping in, the district of Chueca is a nice choice because although it is known as the gay district, it has plenty of cafes and trendy high street shops. For cheaper but fantastic shopping, the flea market in La Latina is also a great place to go. During the night this area also turns into a very stylish nightclub scene.
The most expensive shopping area in Madrid however, is the district of Salamanca which has many high end shops where window shopping takes on a whole new meaning, unless you happen to be Victoria Beckham.
In order to enjoy the full flavour of Madrid a stop by the Plaza Mayor is a prerequisite due to the fact that it is not only the best known square, but also home to many bullfights, tournaments, and markets on a regular basis.
Another plaza that is worth a visit is the Puerta del Sol which is found in the centre of Madrid and has several statues that are attractive.
