Located in the centre of the country, the capital city of Madrid is the beating heart of Spain and is home to some of its most memorable buildings, culture and nightlife.

Well served by cheap flights from across the continent, with the airport just a simple Metro ride into very core of the city, Madrid is one of the easiest of Europe's capitals to navigate, with its wide boulevards as well as its narrow shady streets all heading to the stunning Puerta del Sol.

Madrid Culture and Traditions

As the home of the Spanish royal family, Madrid is arguably the cultural capital of Spain.

Certainly, some of the country's finest artistic treasures are housed in one of the three museums making up its 'Golden Triangle', including Goya's 'The Third of May' and Picasso's Guernica, both of which portray tragic and violent episodes from Spanish history.

Today, the arts scene is thriving, with modern works presented in the Reina Sofia, though Madrid is perhaps best known for its beer and tapas nightlife, with visitors usually unable to keep up with the nocturnal habits of the locals.

Alongside fine food and wine, Madrid is a city of Flamenco, boasting dozens of clubs of varying qualities which really get going over the long and hot summer nights.

Recommended in Madrid

The golden triangle of museums is a must-see for any visitors to Madrid as the city competes with France for the title of the finest artistic city in Europe. Not only are the Prado, the Reina Sofia and the Thyssen-Bornemisza museums all in easy walking distance of each other but a special all-inclusive ticket makes them all affordable highlights, while their late opening hours mean that the large crowds can be avoided.

Other highlights, all within easy walking distance of one another are the relatively understated Royal Palace and the majestic Plaza Major, the very centre of imperial Spain, while the Retiro park is the perfect place to catch some sun or enjoy a snack while watching the skilled and varied buskers.

For those looking to get off the tourist trail, the old quarter of La Latina gives an insight into the city of today and of yesterday, boasting dozens of independent shop and quaint taverns, many of which transform into rowdy flamenco bars after dark.

Climate in Madrid

Madrid benefits from long, dry summers and relatively short and fresh winters.

Though it can fall below freezing, cold temperatures are always offset by a still-bright sun, though in the summer it can be unbearably hot, with temperatures above 32 degrees C all too common.

During July and August, many natives flee the city and head to the mountains or the coast to cool off.

Madrid Destination Checklist

Madrid, which has a population of some 3.2 million people, takes the Euro and the official language is Spanish.

The country is just one hour ahead of GMT, while the dialling code is +34.