Madrid

Take the opportunity to enjoy a guided tour of  some of the famous museums of the city, the Reina Sofia art museum, El Prado or the Thyssen Bornemisza.  Among the monuments not to be missed in Madrid are the central square "Plaza Mayor" of Renaissance style, the Royal Palace built in the 18^th century, and the adjacent Sabatini Gardens, and the "Puerta del Sol" (gate of the sun), dating from the 15th century, which was once the main entrance to the city.  You can't leave Madrid without having tasted the famous "cocido madrileño" (a kind of soup with chickpeas and meats) which is the traditional madrilean dish of excellence.

When to visit

Spring (especially April and May) and autumn are the best times to visit Madrid. Summer can be really hot, although it's a dry heat, while winter can be quite cold and snow is possible though rare.