Madrid: Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: The heart and soul of Madrid's Sol district, Plaza Mayor is one of the city's most beautiful squares. Start the day here before making your way to Gran Via, Madrid's most famous street. In the afternoon take some time out to explore Museo del Prado, Spain's most important art gallery and Spain's answer to the Louvre. Casa Alberto on Calle del Huertas is one of the city's best-known tapas bars and still quite reasonable. It is also just seconds from Plaza de Santa Ana, the city's most vibrant square.

Day 2: Today you will see Palacio Real, one of Europe's most ornate palaces. It has over 2,800 rooms and, even though only 50 are open to the public, it is definitely worth the visit. If modern art is your thing, upon return to the city centre in the afternoon visit either Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum or Reina Sofia National Art Centre Museum. Both have fascinating collections and lovers of Dali will especially enjoy the Reina Sofia.

Around Alonso Martinez Metro stop on is where you will find some of Madrid's best bars. Finish the day off here.

Day 3: If you are lucky enough to be in Madrid during the months when the Spanish League La Liga is on (end of August until June annually), then don't miss the chance of seeing one of the world's most famous teams in action. Home to some of the most famous footballers in the world, known as the Galacticos, Real Madrid play their home games at Santiago Bernabeu, situated at Concha Espina. Madrid's other team, Athletico Madrid play their home games in Vicente Calderon at Paseo Virgen del Puerto. If you’re not into football and prefer tranquil parks, you will do a lot worse than Real Jardin Botanico, one of the nicest of the city centre parks. There are over 100 species of trees in the park and over 3,000 types of plant. A 'must do' for nature lovers.

Day 4: Time to love and leave Madrid.