Flag of Spain: Spain's Flag Flying In MadridLet's visit Madrid! Vibrant capital of colourful Spain ... known as the city that never sleeps ... and one of my favourite European cities. Although perhaps 20 years spent living in Spain makes me prejudiced!

Successfully combining the historic with the modern, Madrid means all things to all people, offering something to appeal to all tastes - be that art and culture, irresistible shops, or a pulsating night-life.

Traditional Spanish love of the young mean that children are not forgotten either. They'll adore the Zoo-Aquarium, Faunia Theme Park, Wax Museum, Amusement Park, Warner Bros-Madrid Theme Park ...

Or, take them along to watch Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu Football Stadium!

GREEN MADRID

One of the things I most appreciate in Madrid is that it's one of Europe's greenest capitals, with a liberal sprinkling of beautiful parks and gardens ... for example the delightful Retiro Park, where you can even go rowing on the lake should the mood take you!

Also, even right in the heart of Madrid, it's so easy to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and gently stroll along wide avenues.

SIGHTSEEING

Cibeles Fountain: Right in the heart of MadridFirst-time visitors will be keen to view Madrid's magnificent monuments - the 16th and 17th century Austrias and Bourbons districts with an elegant Plaza Mayor ... the splendid Royal Palace ... Puertas del Sol and de Alcalá ... Christopher Columbus' Statue ... Cibeles and Neptune Fountains ...

Prado Museum: Let's go on in!When you want a change from monuments, wander round a few of Madrid's 73 museums! Best known is the Prado Museum, although the Thyssen-Bornemisza Musuem is also well-worth a visit, whilst the Reina Sofia National Art Centre specializes in Spanish contemporary art - with works by such greats as Picasso, Joan Miró and Salvador Dalí.

To me, another delight of Madrid is that you've numerous nearby destinations packed to the rim with history - perfect for enjoyable days-out ...

NEARBY DESTINATIONS

Toledo: On the banks of the River TajoSan Lorenzo del Escorial with its monastery, palace, pantheon, basilica and library. The Valley of the Fallen with huge monumental Cross and Franco's tomb.

Alcalá de Henares - birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes who wrote "Don Quijote".

Picturesque Toledo - city of three cultures, with its superb Alcázar and Cathedral.

Avilá ... Segovia ... Salamanca ...

FURTHER AFIELD

Madrid's central location also makes it the perfect base if you wish to explore the rest of Spain.

Flamenco: Is Flamenco better in Madrid or Andalucia?Simply jump aboard a high-speed AVE train and you'll soon be in southerly Andalucia - in Seville or Córdoba - where you can experience another side of this varied country.

Just remember to save a little energy for enjoying the night-life!

Text and photos by Linda Plummer of http://www.top-tour-of-spain.com

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	Spain (Eyewitness Travel Guides) author: Nick Inman,Josephine Quintero ASIN or ISBN-10: 0756615518
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