The Spanish capital is a vibrant, atmospheric city, short on famous monuments but rich in cultural sights.
The Prado has one of the most remarkable art collections in the world, works by major Spanish and European masters from the Renaissance onwards. The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia is devoted to 20th-century Spanish art with representative works by Miró, Dalí, Juan Gris, and above all by the Cubists, including Picasso.
The Royal Palace dates from the mid-18th century. More than 20 rooms open to the public, exhibiting priceless tapestries, paintings, carpets, clocks, furniture, silverware and porcelain.
Madrid's most historic square, the Plaza Mayor, is enclosed by arcades sheltering a variety of craft shops, restaurants and tapas bars. The Puerta del Sol is the main shopping district and hub of the city's nightlife.
On the edge of Caso de Campo is the Parque de Atracciones, a large amusement park. Southeast of the city is the Parque Biológico, a new theme park on bio-diversity with pavilions recreating a variety of ecosystems. There is a 250-hectare Warner Brothers Theme Park in San Martín de la Vega.
Many visitors to the city take the opportunity to see Real Madrid, one of the world's most successful football clubs, at the Bernabéu Stadium.
