The main two appeals for visitors to Spain’s fascinating capital are art and la marcha. The former can be found in any of Madrid’s incredible museums. El Prado houses masterpieces by Spanish and international artists such as Velázquez’s Las Meninas and Goya’s La Maja Desnuda. The Reina Sofia Art Centre specialises in contemporary art, with works by Picasso, Dalì, Mirò and many others. And the unmissable art collection at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum ranges from ancient to modern masters of painting. 

To understand the meaning of marcha, just allow yourself to be taken over by Madrid’s energy: a unique atmosphere, imbued with joy in living, which you can feel in every square, neighbourhood, and bar (of which there are apparently more here than in any other city in the world!)

In addition enjoying the lively urban environment and admiring some of the most famous works of art in history, in Madrid you can also take a relaxing boat ride in the lake of the charming Retiro Park, stroll amid splendid buildings, and shop in its renowned shopping areas. Don’t forget to sample the amazing local gastronomy, which ranges from the most innovative tapas to traditional recipes, such as the famous deep-fried calamari sandwich in Plaza Mayor. And when night falls, enjoy the legendary Madrid nightlife in the trendy Chueca, Malasaña, and Lavapiés districts.

Madrid’s vibrancy, its open and welcoming nature, and the concentration of art and culture will make you fall madly in love with this destination.