Madrid

The capital of Spain, located in the heart of the peninsula and right in the center of the Castillian plain 646 meters above sea level, has a population of over three million. A cosmopolitan city, a business center, headquarters for the Public Administration, Government, Spanish Parliament and the home of the Spanish Royal Family, Madrid also plays a major role in both the banking and industrial sectors. Most of its industry is located in the Southern fringe of the city, where important textile, food and metal working factories are clustered. Madrid is characterized by intense cultural and artistic activity and a very lively nightlife.

The grand metropolis of Madrid can trace its origins to the times of Arab Emir Mohamed I (852-886), who ordered the construction of a fortress on the left bank of the Manzanares river. Later it became the subject of a dispute between the Christians and Arabs until it was conquered by Alonso VI in the 11th century. At the end of the 17th century, a defensive wall was built for the protection of the new outlying areas, tracing the roads of Segovia, Toledo and Valencia. During the 18th century, under the reign of Carlos III, were designed the great arteries of the city, such as the Paseo del Prado and Paseo las Acacias.

Palacio de Cristal

At the beginning of the 19th century, Joseph Bonaparte undertook the reform of the Puerta del Sol and vicinity. The commercial street known as the Gran Vía was built as an east-west avenue at the start of the century. In the 1950's the north-south boulevard called Paseo de la Castellana was extended and modern buildings were erected, housing the major financial institutions. Remainings of the distant past are mainly the Baroque and neoclassical strcutures of the 17th and 18th centuries, such as the Plaza Mayor (Main Square), the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) and others which will be described later during our guide of the city.

Retiro

En route to Spain's capital of Madrid it's a great idea to see the other side of Spain: Catalunya. The best way to soak up the distinct atmosphere of Catalunya is in its vibrant capital Barcelona. In the center of the city, on the famous boulevard Ramblas Abba Rambla Hotel Barcelona is situated. Besides hotel accommodations, they offer information on what to do and what to see while you are there. Many of the hotels in Madridoffer great discounts. This means you can stay at low rates and save money to visit even more of the great sightings Madrid has to offer.

However, if you're up to spend more money on exclusive services and accommodations, there are many options for you as well. Madrid as an cosmopolitan city with its famous hotels, high class stores, unique restaurants, it's also the perfect place for the luxury traveller. The "Goden Mile" is Serrano street, located in Barrio de Salamanca. But you also can find many fancy hotels in the city center, from traditional styles to the most modern and stylish design buildings. So, before travelling, think about what you expect to do in Madrid and then choose the lodging that best fits your needs.

Arriving in Madrid won't be a problem, because the city is well connected both by trin and roads. Moreover, Madrid's airport (Barajas) is one of the biggest and better organized in the world

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