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CLASSIC CAPITAL OF MODERN LIFE
Madrid, capital of Spain, with a privileged location in the centre of the peninsula, is the cultural and institutional centre of the country. |
IDEAL LOCATION
The city's location in the country's central plateau allows you to travel quickly to any part of the country, with numerous transport options to all parts of the peninsula. |
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MADRID - COSMOPOLITAN CITYIt used to be said that Madrid was populated by people from all four corners of Spain. Today we can say that it is populated by people from all four corners of the world, representatives of all its cultures and points of view. However, one thing that has not changed is respect for others. Nobody minds where you come from and this contributes to the city's friendly atmosphere and lively pace. The streets are always busy and it is never too late to go out. Madrid means life.
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ART IN MADRIDMadrid is synonymous with art. Spectacular works by Picasso, Velázquez and Goya welcome those visiting the city from all parts of the world. The city's museums, which include the Prado, the Thyssen and the Reina Sofía, and the city's artists, are fundamental to understanding the history of art in this country. Today we must also take into account its modern architecture, its independent cinema, musicals, flamenco, theatre, jazz and opera. There is always something of interest to do, whatever the day or time.
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THE RETIRO PARKThis green oasis in the centre of Madrid has125 hectares and is home to over 15,000 trees. The Park is not only the lungs of Madrid, but also offers cultural, leisure, and sport activities to all people, those from Madrid and visitors. The park is open every day of the year. Each season has its own distinctive charm; in spring it bursts into bloom; in summer it offers a respite from the heat; in autumn it brings a flourish of colours and in winter enjoys freshly baked chestnuts.
Among its architectural, historical and popular elements are the lake for rowing, and the Velázquez and Glass Palace, both used today as exhibition halls. |
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MADRID DE LOS AUSTRIASThe most historic neighborhood in Madrid keeps the secrets of the great monarchs who once lived in it among its monuments, churches and palaces since the 16th century. Los Austrias got its name from the time when the Habsburg dynasty reigned in Spain, ruled by Charles I, who decided to build squares and monuments in the city. From the Almudena Cathedral to Plaza Mayor, the architectural beauty of the area attracts large numbers of tourists. Many tourist routes pass through daily on the cobblestone streets of this area, which also boasts beautiful gardens, the Sabatini Gardens welcome weary travelers to take a break in the beautiful surroundings. Restaurants in the area serve traditional Madrid stew.
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LAS LETRAS NEIGHBOURHOODThe area known as the Barrio de Las Letras (Literary Quarter) is a neighborhood in the center of Madrid where some of Spain’s greatest authors have lived and written over the years. The neighbourhood is formed by pedestrian streets and pleasant squares such as Plaza de Santa Ana. Today it is an area which combines literature, a bohemian atmosphere with antique shops and art galleries, entertainment, shopping, and good restaurants to enjoy of kind of food.
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PUERTA DE SOL & GRAN VÍAThe area between Puerta del Sol and Gran Vía, and their adjoining streets, is undoubtedly the center of Madrid’s tourist, cultural and entertainment life.
Puerta del Sol, this square is one of the most popular meeting points in town, with visitors and locals gathering at the Kilometre Zero mark. Here is where Calle de Alcalá begings, a symbol of the splendor of a bygone area. Gran Vía, Madrid´s busiest street, is a symbol with its cinemas, theatres, department and fashion stores, as well as some emblematic buildings and the first skyscrapers built in the city – the Metrópoli, Telefónica and the Madrid Tower – stand along this street. |
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LAS VENTAS BULLRINGThe "Las Ventas" Bullfighting (Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas) is the most famous bullring of Spain. It is located in the East of Madrid, in Alcalá street.
The bullfighting season starts in March and ends in December; but the most important bullfights are held at the San Isidro Fair, between May and June. Today the ring is also used for special events: concert music, political meetings.. |
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SANTIAGO BERNABÉU STADIUMThe Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is the home stadium of Real Madrid football team since its completion in 1947, with a current seating capacity of 81,044.
Santiago Bernabéu is one of the world's most famous and prestigious football venues. It has hosted the European Cup /Champions League Final on four occasions: in 1957, 1969, 1980 and 2010. The final matches for the 1964 European Nations´s Cup and the 1982 FIFA World Cup, were also held at the Bernabéu, making it the first stadium in Europe to host both events. |
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FASHION CAPITALThe most notable aspect of fashion in Madrid is its variety. All kinds of clothes are available, from the luxurious styles of the Salamanca district to alternative fashions in Malasaña. But Madrid transcends simple definitions of fashion: defining its style is complicated, as it combines all the trends to be found there.
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INTENSE NIGHTLIFENon-stop. Week after week thousands of people of all ages enjoy the city's unique nightlife. Hundreds of venues are open for everyone to go out and meet people. In Madrid going out is practically part of the city's culture.
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