The city of Madrid is located in the center of Spain. Thus, it is easy for visitors to explore the city’s museums, parks, and many cultural attractions.
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Art
There are three famous art museums worth your time in Madrid. The Prado Museum, the Reina Sofia Museum and the Thyssen Bornemisza Museum form the Golden Triangle of Museums, all located in the city center.
A short walk away is the Círculo de Bellas Artes. It is a cultural center dedicated to the fine arts. Many temporary exhibitions are organized at this center. There is a rooftop terrace that has views towards the city center. There’S also a café located on one of the top floors that is known for its views.
History in the city center
Most of the city’s attractions and markets are located in the city center. The Puerta de Sol and the Plaza Mayor are the city’s main squares. Both are a short walk away from the city’s Royal Palace. The Royal Palace is located next to the Almudena Cathedral. Visitors will be able to enjoy a guided tour around forty of the palace’s rooms.That including the Throne Hall and part of the armoury.
Nearby towns
There are many historical towns located a short train ride away. South of the city, in the province of Toledo, is the historical city of Toledo. Visitors will be able to walk around the cobbled streets and explore the ancient cathedral and synagogue. The town of Aranjuez is located in the southeast of the province of Madrid. There are several camping grounds near this town. An ancient Royal Palace is located here, and visitors will be able to walk around the palace grounds, filled with fountains. In the northern sierra is San Lorenzo de El Escorial. The town’s palace turned monastery is one of its main attractions. The city of Segovia is located farther north and its main attraction is the Roman aqueduct. Segovia is known for its food, and traditional local delicacy is the cochinillo, suckling pig.
Markets and tapas
Madrid is a city that is known for its cafés, nightlife and restaurants. Tapas are appetizers that are served with each drink ordered in most of the city’s bars. Each bar has its own version of tapas. For a fee visitors will be able to order raciones, which are larger and more filling versions of tapas. Typical tapas range from aceitunas olives served with pickles to croquetas croquettes. Typical raciones are huevos rotos con jamón eggs served with fries and ham, platters of cured ham and local cheese and tortilla de patata potato omelette.
Some of the city’s most famous bars are located in the La Latina district. This is where visitors will be able to party until dawn after visiting several tapas bars. The other popular areas for grabbing a drink are the hip Malasaña district and the Barrio de las Letras.
It is worth visiting the city’s indoor markets regardless of vacationing on a budget or splurging. The main markets are located in the city center. The Antón Martín market is steps away from the centric Atocha train station, the San Antón Market is in the party district of Chueca and the San Miguel market is known for its exotic stalls and tapas bars.
