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| Madrid Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Catedral dela Almudena & Snow cap Mountain Catedral dela Almudena & Snow cap Mountain Marlon Uson Madrid is a lively city, meaning that Madrid activities are plentiful and readily available just about any time of the day. And according to just about every Madrid travel guide, the city really heats up at night and the frenzy continues into the wee hours of the morning. No one really knows when the Madrileños sleep. It may be the afternoon siesta that gives them the endurance to keep things going well after sunrise or maybe it's the multitude of fuel filled foods and dishes prepared in one of the thousands of Madrid restaurants. It's ok to book a room in one of the top Madrid hotels--if only for the memorable experience, but don't count on spending much time in your room. Remember, Madrid truly is one of the best cities to explore in Spain. Plan several hours to enjoy Madrid activities such as visiting San Nicolas de los Servitas – the oldest church in Madrid. Visit the Victory Arch, the Palacio Real, and the Plaza de las Cibeles and Puerta del Sol- And no Madrid activities list is complete without a visit to a Madrid flea market. Plan on leaving your Madrid hotel early one Sunday morning to head to El Rastro Flea Market. Located in La Latina, this is where you will find the Madrileño's real essence! And don't worry about running out of fuel. La Latina has a wide variety of tasty Madrid restaurants to choose from suited to just about any budget. Skim through any Madrid travel guide and you will also come across dozens of museums that shouldn’t be missed. Including the Royal Palace, Madrid has 15 significant museums, dozens of galleries, and several private collections. The three most famous Madrid museums are: the Prado, the Thyssen-Bornemisza, and the Reina Sofia museum. You might end up spending more than just one day just exploring museums. In fact, you could spend days in the halls of the Prado alone. While this Mardrid activity is well deserving of a top spot on your to do list, it is, however, quite possible to grow tired of all the museums in the city. If this happens, take a break, sit down at a terraza (outdoor cafe), and watch the world go by. You can even visit one of the many beautiful parks and lakes in the city. One of the nicest parks in Madrid is Retiro Park near the Prado. For a panoramic view of Madrid take the elevator to the bar on the 26th floor of the Edificio de Espana, which faces the Plaza de Espana. Madrid is a city that never seems to close down. Madrid restaurants and bars are open very late and the city's Santa Ana district, in fact, never does close down. Dinner typically begins after 10 p.m., and with dinner out of the way, revelers usually head off to their favorite disco show, jazz club, or late-night cafe to party until dawn. Those who love traditional performing arts will want to go to the Teatro Real for Spanish light opera known as zarzuela. You can also find good flamenco shows in several nightclubs including Cafe Chinitas – a popular Madrid restaurant and flamenco club. If you're in Madrid during the second half of May be sure to book your Madrid hotel early so you can join Madrileños in celebrating the Feria de San Isidro. Feria de San Isidro features music, operas, concerts, bullfighting, dancing, and all-night entertainment. Also, in mid-August, Madrid celebrates the Verbena de la Paloma. Madrid hotels are stylish, plentiful, and downright cozy, but don’t be afraid to check out and leave the city for a night or two – especially if you’re planning to stay for two weeks or more. Outside of Madrid, day trips can be made to Avila, El Escorial, Guadalajara, Segovia, and Toledo. Top Ten Things to Do in Madrid Bullfighting Performances at Las Ventas – Not for the faint of heart, bullfighting is considered a form of art in Spain, not a sport. The bullfighting season runs from March-October and bullfighting performances are held every Sunday afternoon. Las Ventas is the largest bullring in Spain and it is located at Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas, c/Alcala, 237, Ph: 91 356 22 00, www.las-ventas.com . Art Walk: The art walk covers the three most famous Madrid museums the Prado, the Thyssen- Bornemisza, and the Reina Sofia Museum. The Prado is located at Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23, Ph: +34 91 330 2800, www.museodelprado.es . Thyssen-Bornemisza is located at Prado 8, +34 91 369 01 51, www.museothyssen.org , e-mail mtb@museothyssen.org . Reina Sofia Museum, Calle Santa Isabel, 52, Ph: +34-91-774-10-00, www.museoreinasofia.es. San Nicolas de los Servitas – San Nicolas de los Servitas is the oldest church in Madrid. The bell tower, built in the 12 th century, is one of the oldest structures in Madrid. Inside the church you will find sculptures by Nicolas Busi and paintings by Pedro de Mena as well as exhibits, which detail Islamic history. San Nicolas de los Servitas is located at Plaza San Nicolas, Ph: 91-559-40-64. Admission is free. El Rastro Flea Market - Located in La Latina, El Rastro Flea Market helps you get up close and personal with Madrileño's real essence! El Rastro takes place every Sunday from 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m., and it is located between Plaza Mayor, La Latina, and Puerta de Toledo. Tip: Prices are not set in stone so remember this phrase: cuanto cuesta? (kwan-to kwes-tah) – This means “How much is it?” Retiro Park – Located behind the Prado Museum (Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23), Retiro Park is one of the nicest and most popular parks in Madrid. Highlights include: a Victorian greenhouse, Crystal Palace, and a small swan filled man-made lake. Rent a rowboat to explore the surroundings or for a panoramic view of Madrid take the elevator to the bar on the 26th floor of the Edificio de Espana , which faces the Plaza de Espana. Teatro Real - Perfect for those who love traditional performing arts, Teatro Real features Spanish light opera performances known as zarzuela. If you feel like a late bite or a vodka drink just pop into 1917 Blinis & Vodkas, a few meters from the theatre. Teatro Real is located Plaza de Oriente, Ph: 91-516-06-96, www.teatro-real.es , e-mail: info@teatro-real.com. Palacio Real (The Royal Palace) – The Royal Palace features 2,800 magnificent rooms. Highlights include: Salon del Trono (throne room), the Royal Library (Biblioteca Real), the Banquet Hall, and Salon de Gasparini -- King Carlos III’s private apartments. The Royal Palace is located at Calle Balien, Ph: 91-454-8800. A two-hour, one-mile guided tour is available. __________Sights Edit This Viva Madrid Viva Madrid If you are under the impression that the heart of the city is the place to be when it comes down to unique Madrid activities and impressive cultural sights, you're right! It will take you at least several days to see all the historical landmarks, museums, art galleries, and parks Madrid has to offer. Let your feet and your curiousity be your Madrid travel guide as you wander through the city. As you stroll through the old centre, check out Calle and Plaza Mayor (medieval Madrid), which is lined with beautiful buildings and various old and impressively ornamented churches. Relax at one of the many terraces on the old plazas. The city has several green spots, so there will always be a park or garden where you can relax a bit and watch the world go by. The Retiro Park is worth checking out with its rose gardens and Crystal Palace -- one of many in Madrid. The Palacio Real, the Palace of the Royal Family, takes second place on the list of most visited sights in Madrid, but the undeniable number one attraction is still a visit to the three museums centred around Paseo del Prado. First, there is the Prado with its impressive and extensive collection, which features both Spanish and international art. Besides that, you can see the work of the famous Spanish masters, such as Picasso, Miro and Dali, in the Centro de Arte Reina Sofia. Last but certainly not least is the equally impressive Thyyssen-Bornemisza Museum, located in the Villahermosa Palace. These three museums are probably the most popular ones, but they are only a small sampling of what Madrid has to offer in museums. Contributors March 09, 2007 change by rfujitani (1 point) May 15, 2008 change by mcburton (1 point) Display all or display just: Churches and Cathedrals Hotspots Museums Palaces Parks & Gardens Parks, Gardens and Zoos Religious Buildings Show best rated on top | Show in alphabetical order [Add Sight] Park de Berlin Edit This This park is decorated with various sculptures made by stones from the former Berlin wall. It's a nice location to go for a little walk or relax if you live in the neighbourhood - but expecting a tourist attraction you might be disappointed. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] Gardens of Sabatini Edit This Part of the Royal Palace, the Gardens of Sabitini features wooded alleys, statues, fountains, a pool, and plenty of shaded areas where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Entrance to the gardens is free. type: Parks, Gardens and Zoos World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 91-588-87-90 Royal Gardens of Campo del Moro Edit This campo del moro and palacio real campo del moro and palacio real The royal gardens of the Campo del Moro in front of the Royal Palace are just beautiful. The name comes from the Moslem period, when Ali Ben Yusuf created in this place his camp back in the 12th century. type: Parks & Gardens World66 rating: [rate it] The Prado Museum Edit This museo del prado museo del prado photo by: dani One of the best museums in Spain, if not in the world. The Prado houses an impressive Spanish and International art collection. Paseo del Prado. Open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mondays closed. Most items are catholic art, if you're more into something modern try the "Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia". Entrance fee: 6€, 3€ reduced price. Some Sundays free, ask at tourist information. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo del Prado tel: 91 330 28 00 url: www.museoprado.mcu.es Palacio de Cristal Edit This palacio de cristal aereal view palacio de cristal aereal view photo by: dani Located in the heart of Retiro Park, the design for Palacio de Cristal was based on London's Crystal Palace. This spectacualr glass and wrought-iron structure features natural scenery with lakes, lush greenery, and birdlife on the outside and inside visitors will find exhibitions of modern art. type: Palaces World66 rating: [rate it] address: Parque del Retiro tel: 91-574-66-14 openingHours: Oct.-May Mon., Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., June-Sept. Mon., Wed.-Sat. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Catedral de La Almudena Edit This Painted roof Painted roof photo by: Håkan Svensson (Xauxa) The Cathedral of the Almudena lies besides the Palacio Real forming a unit. It was built by popular subscription and the works lasted more than 100 years. It is worth visiting both the cathedral and the crypt (by a door in the south wall). type: Churches and Cathedrals World66 rating: [rate it] address: Bailen tel: 91 542 22 00 Centro de Arte Reina Sofia Edit This reina sofia-detail of "guernika" reina sofia-detail of "guernika" Permanent exhibition of some of the Spanish masters, such as Dali, Miro and Picasso. Temporary exhibitions of modern art. Probably its most famous work is Picasso's 'Guernica', which was not exhibited in Spain until the restoration of democracy - as the painter had wished. Entrance fee: 3€, 1,50€ reduced price. Metro: Atocha. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] address: Santa Isabel 52 tel: 91 467 50 62 openings: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.(Sunday only until 2.30pm), Tuesday closed. Retiro Park Edit This garden of retiro detail garden of retiro detail Located behind the Prado Museum (Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23), Retiro Park is one of the nicest and most popular parks in Madrid. Highlights include: a Victorian greenhouse, Crystal Palace, and a small swan filled man-made lake. Rent a rowboat to explore the surroundings or for a panoramic view of Madrid take the elevator to the bar on the 26th floor of the Edificio de Espana , which faces the Plaza de Espana . type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] address: Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23 Plaza Santa Ana Edit This Viva Madrid Viva Madrid Cool area close to the Puerta del Sol. Many bars and restaurants in the neighborhood. Also a few cheap hotels. Don't miss to visit "Viva Madrid" around the corner of Plaza Santa Ana. It is a nice bar where people from their midtwenties to their fourties go for a drink and some nice music. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] The Debod Temple Edit This Paseo de Rosales is an Egyptian shrine from the IV century B.C. It was a present from the Egyptian authorities to express their gratitude for the help of the Spanish engineers and archaeologist to rescue the millenial Egyptian monuments from the rising waters of the Asswan dam. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] Plaza Mayor Edit This Plaza Mayor Plaza Mayor photo by: Elizabeth Padilla V The Plaza Mayor is located on the old Plaza del Arrabal, the main commercial nucleus of Medieval Madrid. Juan de Herrera, the architect of Felipe II, made the first plans for it. Plaza Mayor was finally constructed by Juan Gomez de Mora. Originally it was the site of all public ceremonies: public executions, the burning of heretics condemned by the inquisition, bullfights, etc. The symmetry is the work of Villanueva, carried out in 1961. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] El Escorial Edit This monasterio de el escorial monasterio de el escorial Close to Madrid is El Escorial, the palace of Philips II. It can be seen on a day trip that is absolutely worth your while. type: Palaces World66 rating: [rate it] Palacio Real Edit This palacio real panoramic palacio real panoramic The main visit during you stay in Madrid, except for the Prado Museum, will probably be a visit to the Palacio Real. Open all days except on Mondays and on days when the royal Royal family visits the palace. You can see the impact of three centuries of Royal family and pay a visit to the very surprising Royal Pharmacy and Royal Armory for example. This is one of the greatest collections in the world. Entrance fees: 9€ with guide, 8€ without, 3,50€ reduced price. Free entry for EU citizens on Wednesdays. type: Palaces World66 rating: [rate it] address: Plaza de Oriente tel: 91 454 88 00 url: www.patrimonionacional.es Park de Atracciones Edit This type: Parks & Gardens World66 rating: [rate it] address: Nearby Casa del Campo Puerta de Alcala Edit This puerta de alcala night view puerta de alcala night view Built by Francisco Sabatini in 1769, it is one of the most significant monuments in Madrid. This gate was the old entrance to the city by the Aragon road. Carlos III ordered it to be build in order to give Madrid a grandiose entrance in the form of triumphal arc. It has five arches and twelve columns to resemble to the Roman Capitol. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] Botanic Garden Edit This jardin botanico detail jardin botanico detail photo by: dani Located nearby the Prado Museum, this is one of the oldest European Botanic gardens. Especially during spring, it’s a must to spend some time here when the plants from almost every climatic zone flower. There ist not much to see during autumn or winter, better try Retiro Park in this season. Entrance fee: 2€, 1€ reduced price. type: Parks, Gardens and Zoos World66 rating: [rate it] address: Plaza de Murillo 2 Viva Madrid! Edit This This night club is full of fun and exciting things to do and you will be puffed at the end of the night! Its awesome fun and a great place to meet new people. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo Duque de Fernan Nunez tel: 91 573 62 45 Basilica de San Francisco el Grande Edit This basilica de san francisco el grande basilica de san francisco el grande type: Religious Buildings World66 rating: [rate it] address: Plaza de San Francisco tel: 91 365 38 00 Parque de Juan Carlos I Edit This Of special interest are also the gardens of Juan-Carlos because of their modern art. type: Parks & Gardens World66 rating: [rate it] Palacio de Liria Edit This type: Palaces World66 rating: [rate it] address: Princesa 22 tel: 91 54 75 302 San Gines Church Edit This type: Religious Buildings World66 rating: [rate it] address: Arenal 13 tel: 91 366 48 75 The Corridor Houses Edit This These houses are the most characteristic examples of accommodation of Madrilenian worlkers in the 18th century. Meson de Paredes 79 and La Corrala at 12 Tribulete Str. are the most famous and the latter has been declared a National Monument. The buildings are set around a central patio, each containing one toilet per floor, one kitchen and two bedrooms. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] Park El Capricho Edit This type: Parks & Gardens World66 rating: [rate it] addresss: Avenida de la Alameda de Osuna Mezquita Mosque Edit This type: Religious Buildings World66 rating: [rate it] address: Salvador de Madariaga 4 tel: 91 326 26 10 San Placido Church Edit This type: Religious Buildings World66 rating: [rate it] address: San Roque 9 tel: 91 531 79 99 San Andres Church Edit This type: Religious Buildings World66 rating: [rate it] address: Plaza de San Andres 1 tel: 91 365 48 71 Plaza De Torros Edit This Deafening cheers echo through the stadium as the Matador spears his foe. Jumping back from the deadly horns, he watches impassively as the Torros finally admits defeat, collapsing on his side with big huffing breaths. The sun is hot as it sinks down the horizon, warming the eager faces that surround the show. Friends laugh and toast each other with beers, while old men argue over who is the strongest, fastest bull fighter. The Plaza de Torros is one of the biggest attractions in Madrid. Signifying the national Spanish past time, it is a deadly, cruel show, that is more.. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] Palacia de Jabba The Butt Edit This THIS PLACE IS EXCELLENT NOW GO THERE WITH ME TO A PLACE IN FRANCE type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] The Art Walk Edit This The art walk covers the three most famous Madrid museums the Prado, the Thyssen- Bornemisza, and the Reina Sofia Museum. The Prado is located at Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23, Ph: +34 91 330 2800, www.museodelprado.es. Thyssen-Bornemisza is located at Prado 8, +34 91 369 01 51, www.museothyssen.org, e-mail mtb@museothyssen.org. Reina Sofia Museum is located at Calle Santa Isabel, 52, Ph: +34-91-774-10-00, www.museoreinasofia.es. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] San Nicolas de los Servitas Edit This San Nicolas de los Servitas is the oldest church in Madrid. The bell tower, built in the 12th century, is one of the oldest structures in Madrid. Inside the church you will find sculptures by Nicolas Busi and paintings by Pedro de Mena as well as exhibits, which detail Islamic history. San Nicolas de los Servitas is located at Plaza San Nicolas, Ph: 91-559-40-64. Admission is free. type: Churches and Cathedrals World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 91-559-40-64 openingHours: Mon. 8:30 a.m.- 1p.m.; Tues.-Sat. 9:00 a.m./9:30am and 6:30 p.m./8:30 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. address: Plaza San Nicolas ___________History Edit This felipe II by Sanchez Coello felipe II by Sanchez Coello The origins of the city dates back to the Paleolithic. Around 1000 B.C, Madrid was inhabited by Iberian tribes, mingling later with Celtics. In 218 B.C the Roman colonization began and the region of Madrid became a focal point of numerous Roman roads. After the decline of the Empire, in the fourth century Madrid became a Visigothic seat with capital in Toledo. In X-th century, the Arabs invaded Madrid. Since then, during the years of the Christian re-conquest Madrid changed hands on various occasions until it was finally liberated by King Alfonso VI in 1080. One of the most famous people from Spain is Mathew Joseph Vonderhaar. Many of the villagers around Madrid called him Vondi. Vondi was a very popular person until the summer of 1321. Mathew, or Vondi as everyone called him, turned into a notorious child molestor. Vondi would travel throughout Madrid luring small children into his car with candy. Vondi had a strange taste for mostly male children. He would constantly be accused of raping and killing innocent male children all over Madrid. Until one day he was caught, thrown in jail, and molested by a man named Jamaal. During the XV-th century, the city became the usual residence of the Royal family. In the XVI-th century, Madrid had about 17.000 inhabitants and it was then, that the King Felipe II moved the Royal Court and transformed Madrid into capital. During this period Madrid suffered a great architectural and cultural expansion, known as the Golden Age with writers as Cervantes, Lope de Vega, etc. In the XVII-th century Madrid became the most important city in Spain with the constructions of museums, gardens, etc. In the XIX-th century, the first uprising against Napoleon took place in the city and it was the origin of the War of Independence. In the twentieth century, excluding the years of the Civil War (1936-1939), Madrid became a large cosmopolitan city, having been named the European Cultural Capital in 1992. _____________Practical Information Edit This Practical advices Madrid is a safe place. However, as goes for most big cities, Madrid as well has areas that should be avoided late at night. The main problem for tourists are the pickpockets, most of them being active in the city centre near Puerta del Sol and Gran Via. The metro and the trains are guarded by private companies. When arriving at the airport look for the very helpful red tourist information. It is recommended to have a copy of your documents and tickets with you and to leave your documents in the hotel. Contributors January 07, 2006 change by tea-low [Add Practical address] Tourist Offices Edit This type: general World66 rating: [rate it] address: Plaza Mayor 3 tel: 91 588 16 36 ___________Getting Around Edit This When you land at Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD), you have two budget-friendly options for transport to your Madrid hotel: you can take the bus to the city centre (€2.50) or you can take the metro. The bus is very quick and you'll arrive to Plaza de Colón in 20 min. The fastest way to travel into town is by Metro, which is one of the oldest in Europe . At around 175 km. length, it's very comfortable, clean, and safe. It runs from 6.00 a.m. till 1.30 a.m. It can be taken from MAD to any point of interest. www.madrid-mad.com You can also travel by bus and aervice is around the clock. After midnight, the night buses called Buhos start leaving from Plaza de Cibeles in all directions. Bus and metro tickets are the same. The cheapest and easiest way to move around is by buying a Metrobus card with 10 tickets. It costs €5.80 and it can be used by more than 1 person. A single ticket costs €1.00. You can also travel by the local trains Cercanias (check out http://www.renfe.es/empresa/cercanias/index.html) which has 4 main stations in town: Chamartin, Nuevos Ministerios, Recoletos and Atocha. These trains are very useful for travel to historical cities and villages like El Escorial, Toledo, or to the mountains around Madrid (Sierra de Guadarrama). The crew is also very helpful with directions to places such as Cercedilla, Navacerrada, Cotos (the ski-centers), etc. The ticket from the center of Madrid to El Escorial is about €3.20 one way, it is about €6.40 one way to Toledo and it is about €3.20 to the mountain. You can also buy 10 travel cards, which will cost roughly 30% less. These tickets are valid for more than one person. Taxi: Taxi's should start with an initial charge of 1,65€, fare 1 is valid from 6h to 22h, only in the evenings, and on public holidays the fare is 2. There's an additional airport supplement charge of 4,20€. A Taxi from the airport to the city is around 20€, including the airport supplement. Contributors May 15, 2008 change by mcburton (1 point) October 21, 2005 change by elcaro January 07, 2006 change by tea-low [Add Local transport mode] Private Driver Chauffeur Car Services in Madrid Edit This Durign your stay in Madrid, you can have a private English-speaking chauffeur as your Madrid travel guide. The chaffeur will pick you up and drop you off at your Madrid Hotel, the airport or any location within city limits. Or you can customize your own chauffeur driven tour for a day. You can customize your tour to take you to Madrid activities and sights or from town to town around the Madrid area such as Toledo, Avila, Segovia, and El Escorial. This is a perfect choice for those seeking a stress free vacation while exploring Madrid. more.. World66 rating: [rate it] tel: +34 986 22 13 99 url: www.euroadventures.net address: Madrid email: tours@euroadventures.net ___________Getting There Edit This You can visit Madrid just about anytime of the year as Madrid activities are plentiful year round, but the very best times to visit Madrid are in May and October when the weather is at it's best. Because Spain is a top tourist destination for foreigners and the number one tourist destination for Europeans, flights are plentiful and frequent. Major carriers from North America to Madrid Barajas International Airport (MAD) include: Air Europa, American, Continental, Delta, Iberia, Spainair, and US Airways. For cheap flights between cities, Vueling (www.vueling.com) is a good bet as well as Air Europa and Spainair. Iberia may be a bit more expensive than most airlines within Spain as it is Spain's main domestic airline. From the UK, the top airlines to Madrid include: British Airways, Iberia, Monarch Airlines, Ryanair, and Spainair. _________Museums Edit This Here are a few, suggested museums in Madrid. Contributors March 11, 2005 change by giorgio [Add Museum] Museum of Ethnology Edit This The Museum of Ethnology houses the history of all the nations in the world. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Alfonso XII 68 The Prado Museum Edit This Probably one of the best museums with an incredible collection of paintings by Goya. The Museum houses the most important schools of painting from the 12th to the 19th century. The Spanish painting from 19th century can be seen at Cason del Buen Retiro. Open form 9.00 to 19.00, Sundays: 9-14. Mondays closed. http://museoprado.mcu.es (Paseo del Prado, Metro Banco de Espana) type: The Art Walk World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo del Prado tel: 91 420 36 63 Naval Museum Edit This type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo del Prado 5 Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza Edit This Don't think that the Prado is the only art museum in Madrid. The Thyssen is just as great, I think. They have a really great collection of paintings from the Middle Ages. The Museum houses the largest and best collection of pictures collected by Baron Hans Thyssen-Bornemisza from 13th century to the present days. Open from Tuesday to Sunday:10-19h. Mondays closed. http://www.museothyssen.org/indexi.htm type: The Art Walk World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo de Pradho 8,Villahermosa Palace tel: 91 420 39 44 Reina Sofia National Museum Edit This The Museum houses the most important collections of the 20th century Spanish and foreign art. Open 10-21, Sundays: 9-14.30, Tuesday closed. Although smaller than the Prado, the Reina Sofia's modern art collection is truly world-class and cannot be missed. Be sure to factor in extra time for Guernica, Picasso's masterful protest against fascist oppression. The painting can strike even the most art-jaded traveller like a smack in the face, leaving him mouth agape for 20 minutes or more, staring in wonder at man's beastly capabilities. type: The Art Walk World66 rating: [rate it] Archaeological Museum Edit This Famous with its historical and prehistoric collections. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Serrano 13, The Watch Museum Edit This type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Gran Via 1 Thyssen Bornemisza Museum Edit This Marvellous museum with an extensive collection of over 700 Spanish and international paintings. Paseo del Prado, 8. Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Mondays closed. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo de Pradho 8,Villahermosa Palace tel: 91 420 39 44 Wax Museum Edit This In front of the final bus station of the bus coming from the Airport (Plaza Colon) you will see the Museo de Cera (the wax museum) http://www.museoceramadrid.es with its more than 400 important persons and its terror hall. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] America's Museum Edit This One of my favorite museums is the America's Museum (Museo de America), (Reyes Catolicos 6), in the area of Moncloa (the student area) and close to the 90th meters tower, from where you can see almost all the city. This Museum is dedicated to the pre-Columbian history. You can find Indian letters written with a rope or the Inca's gold collection. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] Museum of Natural Sciences Edit This Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sundays and Holidays 10 a.m. to 2.30 p.m., Mondays closed. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo de la Castellan 84 Railway Museum Edit This type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo de las Delicias 61 The Museum of Madrid Edit This type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Principe de Vergara 140 ___________Tours and Excursions Edit This Madrid, Spain's capital, is a cosmopolitan city. Its position as a centre for economics, finance, administration and services combines the most modern infrastructure with an important cultural and artistic heritage, the legacy of centuries of fascinating history. ________Day Trips Edit This Valle de los Caidos Valle de los Caidos Haroula Spyropoulos One of the beauties of Madrid are its mountain resorts, located a mere 55 km away from the city. This is a lovely place for madrileños, looking to escape for the weekend or for a day to relax and detox from the noise of the big city. In the mountains, you will see the charm of the pine's forests, of the high-mountains lakes, of the beautiful paths and the cows grazing quietly without wondering about their crazy cousins. If you want to spend only one day in the mountains, recommended routes are: Camino Schmidt from Puerto de Navacerrada to Puerto de la Fuenfria; from Cercedilla to Puero de la Fuenfria, from Cotos to the big lake of Peñalara or to the lake Laguna de los Pajaros. In winter, the last route is not recommended, because there is a lot of ice. A mandatory day trip begins with visiting El Escorial, a pretty village which houses the official mausoleum of the Royal Family and the Palace of San Lorenzo. You should also visit the garden's palace: La Casita del Principe. Also near El Escorial is the majestic Valle de Los Caidos -- a monument to the victims of the Spanish Civil War and the spectacular grave of the former spanish dictator Francisco Franco. Contributors May 15, 2008 change by mcburton [Add Day Trip] Toledo Edit This Probably the best day trip around Madrid, worth expending at least a full day around this wonderful city, capital of Spain in the middle ages, with a huge legacy that you just cannot miss. World66 rating: [rate it] Aranjuez Edit This Aranjuez, this majestic village and Royal Site in the south of Madrid has one of the most beautiful palaces of Spain: El Palacio de Aranjuez, sorrounded by its numerous gardens like El Jardin del Principe and El Jardin del Palterre. It's a must! type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Valle de los Caidos Edit This Located roughly 50 miles from Madrid and only 8 miles from El Escorial, Valle de Los Caidos is a massive monument to Franco's victory in the Spanish civil war, built at his order by Republican prisoners of war. Highlights include a pine forest, a 500 foot cross (accesible by elevator), and a Basilica, which holds the tombs of Franco and Jose Antonio Primo de Rivera, and the bodies of 34,000 Spaniards who died during the civil war. Because Valle de Los Caidos is so close to El Escorial, combined guided tours are readily available. For more information about Valle de more.. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] address: Valle de los Caidos tel: 91-890-5611 Cercedilla Edit This Go to the small and beautiful village by taking the Cercanias from one of the stations in Madrid like type: general World66 rating: [rate it] El Escorial Edit This Valle de los Caidos Valle de los Caidos photo by: Haroula Spyropoulos This is a wonderful attraction that suits many people who have different interests, and it's sure grab your attention. This is a place where you can go back in time to look upon the Spainsh kings. The statues are breathtaking; you won't believe your eyes! World66 rating: [rate it] La Pedriza Edit This This is a wonderful spot where you can enjoy original grantie sculptures. The way to reach this part of the mountain is by renting a car of taking the bus No 724 (every 30 min.) from the bus station in Plaza de Castilla. If you take the bus, you must get out in Manzanares el Real, a beautiful village with a famous castle, and then you must follow up the Manzanares river for about 3-4 km. You can also have a lunch and sleep in Giner de los Rios or in the nice and small village of Manzanares el Real. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Puerto de Navacerrada Edit This The ski-centre type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Parque de la Pedriza Edit This Parque de la Pedriza is the perfect place to lose yourself in a scenic hike -- which doesn’t even start until you pass over bridges, residential houses, and an old chapel before reaching the park information center. Here you can learn about the best trails and about local plant and animal life. Parque de la Pedriza is best reserved for a day trip so plan your schedule accordingly. To get there, take the 724 bus from Plaza de Castilla. If you’re driving, take M607 to Colmenar, then take M609 toward Soto de Real. Continue driving for a few miles then take more.. World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 91-853-9978 address: Park Information Center - Camino de la Pedriza, s/n, Manzanares el Real Monasterio de El Paular & Lozoya Valley Edit This At roughly 62 miles north of Madrid, Monasterio de El Paular & Lozoya Valley makes a perfect day or overnight trip if you’re interested in spending time in a serene atmosphere and visiting unique sights. Most visitors recommend driving here, as the road trip is as scenic as the destination. The drive includes a climb towards a 6,100-foot mountain pass, views of snowcapped mountains, churches, monasteries, pine trees, brooks, and more. Lozoya Valley features lush landscapes, campgrounds, walking paths, and romantic picnic areas. If you prefer not to camp, a great hotel to more.. World66 rating: [rate it] tel: Educacion Ambiental Puente del Perdo: 91-869-1757. ____________Nightlife and Entertainment Edit This Weekend Weekend Especially around Puerta del Sol, you'll find a high concentration of everything relating to food, drinking, entertainment and staying away from your hotels as long as possible. The nightlife is bustling and dazzling and there are plenty of options to spend the evening and night. Sit at a nice terrace over some exquisite tapas and wine. Go to one of the bars that have local live music performances or dance the night away in one of the groovy clubs. Don't go without visiting Huertas, Latina, Alonso Martínez, Chueca, Tribunal, Bilbao, Malasaña... Display all or display just: Casinos Clubs and dancing Dancing Pubs & Bars Show best rated on top | Show in alphabetical order [Add Entertainment place] Arena Edit This Disco with trendy music and two dance floors. There are two session at this disco, the first for the very young, the second for the young. There are queues outside for both sessions, and we've never spotted anyone over 25 in any of the, Open: Friday and Saturday, first session: 19.00 23.00 / Second session: 24.00 - late. Nearest Metro station is Plaza de España. type: Casinos World66 rating: [rate it] address: Princesa 1 tel: 91 562 00 02 Velada Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Atocha 107 tel: 91 429 21 27 Week End Edit This Weekend Weekend Located in reach of the Metro station Sol you can check out this popular Gay disco with the latest music. type: Casinos World66 rating: [rate it] address: Pza. Callao 4 tel: 91 531 01 32 Cervecería Carlos Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: San Francisco de Sales 9 tel: 91 543 28 70 Fass Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Rodríguez Marín 84 tel: 91 563 60 83 Santa Bárbara Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Pza. Santa Bárbara 8 tel: 91 319 04 49 The Clan Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Bárbara de Braganza 8 tel: 91 310 48 21 Kapital Edit This Probably one of the best clubs in Madrid. There are 7 floors, each with different types of music. type: Clubs and dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Atocha 125 tel: 91 420 29 06 Palacio de Gaviria Edit This Well known place for its Thursday's Erasmus parties when you can be of the country of your choise... imposible to miss for any Erasmus or anyone willing to have fun (though there is a lot of competition in madrid centre! many places, many people and many options to enjoy and have fun!) type: Clubs and dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Arenal 9 tel: 91 526 60 69 Bash Edit This The latest music in an old venue. type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Pza. Callao 4 tel: 91 531 01 32 Fortuny Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Fortuny 34 tel: 91 319 05 88 Casa Revuelta Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Latoneros 3 tel: 91 366 33 32 Pachá Edit This One of the trendiest places in Madrid. Admission: 2000 ptas, Drinks: 1800 ptas. Beer & pop: 800 ptas Open: 24.30 - 6.00h type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Barceló 11 tel: 91 447 01 28 Las Bravas Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Alvarez Gato 3 tel: 91 532 26 20 Jose Luis Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Serrano 89 tel: 91 563 09 58 Mesón de la Cerveza Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Cuchilleros 2 tel: 91 366 46 27 La Cruz Blanca Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Goya, 70 (esq. Alcalá) tel: 91 575 00 52 Monet Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Padre Damián 23 tel: 91 448 19 19 Rastatoo Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Lagasca 120 tel: 91 355 24 52 The Quiet Man Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Valverde, 44 tel: 91 523 46 89 La Taberna de los cien vinos Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Nuncio 17 tel: 91 365 47 04 Taberna del Alabardero Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Filipe V tel: 91 547 25 77 Casa Labra Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Tetuan 12 tel: 91 532 14 05 marta Edit This Whatever style of music you’re looking for, it is played at this spot. type: Casinos World66 rating: [rate it] address: Jardines 3 tel: 91 532 64 90 ___________Things to do Edit This From dining at a top-notch restaurant in a Madrid hotel to exploring a world-class art museum or other Madrid activities, there are so many things to do in Madrid, you may want to stay an extra week or so to experience them all. Your Madrid travel guide is certainly a smart item to have on hand, but once you begin to stroll around the city, you will discover dozens of hidden gems and happening Madrid restaurants that the travel guides just don't have enough pages to cover! Continue reading to check out detailed listings of Madrid activities and things to do that will help you relax or burn off all of those cocido calories. Cocido is Madrid's most traditional dish. Contributors May 15, 2008 change by mcburton Display all or display just: Ballooning Cycling Golf Hiking Other Swimming general Show best rated on top | Show in alphabetical order [Add Activity] Perfect walking, tapas and wine Tour Edit This I recommend the Old Restaurants in Madrid Tour, fantastic!!! Look for them by searching on Google for "Old Madrid" type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Ballooning Edit This Believe it or not, hot air ballooning over Madrid and the Segovia regions is fast becoming one of the most popular tourist activities in the city. Most balloon trips last around an hour and they typically take place on weekends. A great way to book an exciting hot air balloon ride is through Globos y Dirigibles Boreal. This tour company will organize the ride for you and your group and they will arrange to have you picked up if you do not have transportation to the departure location, which is usually outside of the city. type: Ballooning World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 91-597-9453 url: www.globosboreal.com address: General Zabala, 21 Chamartin email: info@globosboreal.com Flamenco en Vivo Edit This Finally, I could recommend a spontaneous Flamenco en Vivo from Monday to Saturday from ten o’clock in the evening until the early morning. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] address: c/Caja Baja 34 tel: 91-365-5264. Golf Olivar de la Hinojosa Edit This Golf lovers will have no problems finding a suitable golf course near Madrid. The city offers easy access to roughly 11 courses for varying skill sets and levels. Golf Olivar de la Hinojosa ( www.golfolivar.com) is a popular 18-hole public course just outside of town in Campo de las Naciones and the 18-hole La Herreria Club is also open to the public and features views of the Monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial. For more information about La Herreria Club, visit the official website at www.golflaherreria.com. type: Golf World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 91-721-1889 url: www.golfolivar.com address: Avda de Dublin, s/n Campo de las naciones email: go@golfolivar.com Enocircuit Edit This Personalized and special Wine Tastings Sesions in a modern loft in Madrid city. Please email us to book in advance. type: Other World66 rating: [rate it] tel: +34 627 09 84 94 url: www.enocircuit.com address: Albadalejo 4 Loft 26 email: info@enocircuit.com Casa de Campo Edit This If you're the adventurous type, you might want to try taking a bike ride during your stay in Madrid. While this is not a popular activity in the city due to the congested streets and a good number of reckless drivers, you can rent a bike and head to a park/biking area such as Casa de Campo -- where it's safe. To get there on the subway -- yes you can take your bike on the subway (first car only) -- simply get off at the Casa de Campo subway stop and check out the map that will direct you to where the bike path begins. You can opt for a guided Bravo Bike tour or rent a more.. type: Cycling World66 rating: [rate it] Soccer Edit This Whether you call it Soccer or Futbol, this amped up activity is still Spain’s number one sport. You simply cannot leave Madrid without seeing at least one Futbol game. And lucky for you Madrid has a whopping three teams to choose from! For tickets to Atletico Madrid, Rayo Vallecano or Real Madrid games, you can purchase tickets in advance by calling the stadium or you can purchase them at the stadium – but be prepared to wait in line. Atletico Madrid plays at Estadio Vicente Calderon (91-366-4707, Rayo Vallecano plays at Estadio more.. type: Other World66 rating: [rate it] tel: +34 91-398-4300 address: Avenida Concha Espina 1 email: realmadrid@club.realmadrid.com Running in Retiro Park Edit This Retiro Park – Retiro Park is a good place for running. There is a path around the park and several others that will take you on a scenic run through gardens and under trees. Located behind the Prado Museum (Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23), Retiro Park also happens to be one of the nicest and most popular parks in Madrid. Highlights include: a Victorian greenhouse, Crystal Palace, and a small swan filled man-made lake. Rent a rowboat to explore the surroundings or for a panoramic view of Madrid take the elevator to the bar on the 26th floor of the Edificio de Espana, more.. type: Other World66 rating: [rate it] address: Prado Museum - Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23 Parque de la Pedriza Edit This Parque de la Pedriza is the perfect place to lose yourself in a lscenic hike -- which doesn’t even start until you pass over bridges, residential houses, and an old chapel before reaching the park information center. Here you can learn about the best trails and about local plant and animal life. Parque de la Pedriza is best reserved for a day trip so plan your schedule accordingly. To get there, take the 724 bus from Plaza de Castilla. If you’re driving, take M607 to Colmenar, then take M609 toward Soto de Real. Continue driving for a few miles then take the detour to more.. type: Hiking World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 91-853-9978 address: Camino de la Pedriza, s/n, Manzanares el Real Instalacion Deportiva Municipal Casa de Campo Edit This If you’re visiting Madrid during the scorching hot summer months when temperatures can reach up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, you might want to take a quick dip in a pool. Most public pools only cost a few dollars for unlimited access. One of the biggest and most popular Madrid swimming pools is the Instalacion Deportiva Municipal Casa de Campo. In addition to a comfortable swimming pool that will definitely cool you off, the facility also features a tasty restaurant—and yes, it’s in the shade! Instalacion Deportiva Municipal Casa de Campo is located at Avenida Angel s/n and more.. type: Swimming World66 rating: [rate it] tel: +34-91-459-9871 address: Avenida Angel s/n |
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Questo articolo è rilasciato sotto i termini della
GNU Free Documentation License Esso utilizza materiale tratto da http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madrid Cronologia/Autori: http://it.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Madrid&action=history MadridDa Wikipedia, l'enciclopedia libera.
La città di Madrid è la capitale della Spagna. Gli abitanti sono chiamati madrileni (madrileños in spagnolo). Situata nell'altipiano della Meseta, è una delle capitali più alte d'Europa, trovandosi a 667 metri di altitudine (Andorra la Vella, capitale d'Andorra è sita più in alto, a 1.070m d'altitudine).
[modifica] PosizioneCostruita sul luogo dove sorgeva una fortezza araba chiamata Magerit (al-Maǧrīṭ - المجريط), fu scelta come capitale, sostituendo Toledo nel 1561, da Filippo II. Dal 1601 al 1606, la capitale fu trasferita temporaneamente a Valladolid. Oltre ad essere capitale della Spagna, Madrid è anche capoluogo della provincia e della regione omonime.
[modifica] Popolazione
Popolazione di Madrid (1900-2005)
La popolazione di Madrid ha subito un brusco aumento da quando la città è diventata capitale della Spagna. Questo aumento è stato particolarmente significativo durante il XX secolo, a causa della grande quantità di immigrati, sia nazionali che esteri, che si sono riversati in città. A partire dagli anni settanta, la città di Madrid ha cominciato a perdere popolazione, tendenza che si è invertita all'inizio del XXI secolo grazie al forte aumento dell'immigrazione. Secondo l'Istituto di statistica spagnolo nel 2004 Madrid aveva 3.099.834 abitanti, con un aumento di 161.111 unità rispetto all'ultimo censimento nazionale tenutosi nel 2001.
[modifica] Divisione amministrativaMadrid è divisa amministrativamente in 21 distretti, che a loro volta sono divisi in barrios:
[modifica] Clima
Clima di Madrid (Retiro)
Clima di Madrid (Aeroporto di Barajas)
Il clima di Madrid è mediterraneo di tipo continentale ed è molto influenzato dalle condizione urbane. Gli inverni sono freschi, con temperature spesso inferiori agli 8°, e con gelate notturne e nevicate occasionali. Le estati sono molto calde con temperature medie che superano i 24° a luglio ed agosto, con massime che spesso arrivano fino a 35°.
[modifica] Economia
Piazza di Castilla.
La città ha conosciuto un grande sviluppo economico da quando fu scelta come capitale del regno, alla funzione amministrativa che svolse da quel periodo, accentuata dal carattere centralista del governo dei Borboni, si unì un grande sviluppo industriale a partire dalla metà del XX secolo, soprattutto nei settori chimico e metallurgico e altri settori connessi con i consumi urbani di tecnologie avanzate, come la meccanica di precisione, l'elettronica e la chimica farmaceutica. Negli ultimi anni alle tradizionali attività amministrative e finanziarie si sono unite altre attività legate al turismo, alla cultura ed al divertimento, il culmine di questo processo si è avuto nel 1992 con la nomina di Madrid come capitale europea della cultura.
[modifica] La regione di MadridPer quel che riguarda la regione, Madrid è una delle 17 regioni autonome della Spagna. È situata al centro della penisola iberica, altre località importanti sono Alcalá de Henares, San Lorenzo de El Escorial, e Aranjuez. La regione occupa un territorio di 8.028 km² ed ha 5.423.384 abitanti (censimento del 2001).
[modifica] Luoghi d'interesseTra i luoghi da visitare ricordiamo, il Museo del Prado, il museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, il Centro di arte della regina Sofía (dove si trova il famoso Guernica di Pablo Picasso), il Palacio Real, la Puerta del Sol in cui è situata la placca del chilometro zero (utilizzata per il calcolo delle distanze nello Stato spagnolo) ed in cui i madrileni si riuniscono ogni fine anno per aspettare il nuovo anno mangiando un chicco di uva per ognuno dei dodici rintocchi della mezzanotte, la vicina "Plaza Mayor" (in cui tutti i fine settimana si svolge il mercatino numismatico e, nel periodo natalizio, quello dei presepi), il Parco del Retiro, e nelle vicinanze il monastero e il palazzo del Escorial, Santa Cruz del Valle de los Caídos e le città di Toledo, Segovia, Ávila e Aranjuez. Da segnalare, soprattutto ai turisti italiani, la piccola chiesa dedicata a San Nicola di Bari, nei pressi di Plaza Mayor.
La facciata del
Museo del Prado.
Il nucleo urbano originario situato all'interno delle antiche mura non subì modificazioni significative fino alla metà dell'800, periodo nel quale si demolirono case e conventi per creare nuove strade e piazze. All'inizio del 1900 la città conservava comunque ancora buona parte dell'aspetto della vecchia città. Nei primi 30 anni del XX secolo la popolazione quasi raddoppiò sfiorando il milione di abitanti. L'espansione della città fece sì che fossero inglobati alcuni paesi situati lungo le vie di comunicazione principali, fino a quel momento separati dalla capitale: verso sud Carabanchel, verso nord Chamartin, verso Valencia Vallecas, verso Zaragoza Vicalvaro e Canillas, e verso Burgos Fuencarral. Nuovi sobborghi come Ventas, Tetuan o il Carmen
accolsero il ceto proletario proveniente dalla campagna, mentre nei
quartieri ottenuti nel centro con gli allargamenti e le demolizioni si
installava la borghesia. Nello stesso periodo si aprì la Gran Via
allo scopo di decongestionare il centro storico e nel
1919 si
inuagurò la metropolitana.
Il Palacio de Comunicaciones.
La guerra civile recò molti danni alla città, specialmente nella zona di nord-est, successivamente la città si ingrandì ulteriormente annettendo altri municipi, passando dai 66 km² ai 607 km² attuali. Nel 1963 il piano regolatore metropolitano diede inizio all'opera di decentramento, creando nuovi municipi metropolitani quali Alcorcón, Alcobendas, Coslada, Getafe, Leganés, San Sebastián de los Reyes e San Fernando de Henares. Un nuovo piano regolatore nel 1985 ha continuato nell'opera di decentramento proponendo anche il recupero del fiume che attraversa la città, il Manzanarre. Negli ultimi anni la popolazione è in diminuzione a causa soprattutto dell'aumento dei prezzi delle case. Madrid è servito dall'aeroporto internazionale di Barajas e, nonostante abbia una popolazione di circa 3 milioni di abitanti, ha una delle più sviluppate reti di metropolitana del mondo, con dodici linee.
[modifica] Turismo a Madrid
[modifica] Luoghi da vedere
[modifica] Edifici e monumenti
Palacio Real
Vi sono numerosi palazzi e grattacieli del XX secolo, specialmente nel distretto finanziario:
[modifica] Musei e gallerie
[modifica] Zone commercialiA causa dei numerosi luoghi di interesse storico, tutta la città offre infinite possibilità commerciali. Nonostante ciò esistono zone molto speciali, riservate a marchi facoltosi come le vie Preciados/Carmen e Serrano/Goya.
[modifica] Parchi e giardini
[modifica] Altri luoghi di interesseAltri luoghi di inetresse sono:
[modifica] Vita notturnaMadrid è particolarmente conosciuta per la sua vita notturna, o movida madrileña (per la quale si adoperò molto il defunto alcalde Galván), e per le sue discoteche, che sono fiorite ovunque dopo la morte di Francisco Franco. Fino in epoche recenti, non era cosa troppo strana per i madrileños ballare tutta la notte, fare colazione con chocolate y churros, tornare a casa, farsi una doccia ed andare al lavoro. Una delle zone più vitali della città notturna si incontra nel "Barrio de las Letras", in pieno centro, intorno alla piazza di Santa Ana e le vie Huertas e Echegaray. Altre zone di interesse sono il quartiere Malasaña, con un pubblico alternativo di giovani, il quartiere Lavapiés, una zona multietnica, dove si suona musica fino all'alba. Infine è da visitare il quartiere di Chueca con numerosi bar a tematica omosessuale.
[modifica] TrasportiLa città ha una delle metropolitane più grandi ed estese del mondo. Attualmente la Metropolitana di Madrid (Metro de Madrid) è la seconda rete metropolitana dell'Europa occidentale e la sesta al mondo. Esiste una rete di autobus urbani, gestita dall'Empresa Municipal de Transportes, con più di 1900 veicoli nel maggio 2005. Molti madrileni della periferia utilizzano i servizi ferroviari di superficie e gli autobus per giungere in città e poter poi utilizzare la metropolitana. La compagnia pubblica di trasporti ferroviari (Renfe) opera in quasi tutte le linee di treni spagnoli. Le stazioni più importanti di Madrid sono la Stazione di Atocha e la Stazione di Chamartín. È in progetto per questa decade (2001-2010) l'ampliamento delle linee dell'alta velocità (AVE, Alta Velocidad Española) con il fine di diminuire a massimo 4 ore il tempo necessario per raggiungere Madrid dalle altre più impotanti città della Spagna. Infine, l'Aeroporto internazionale di Madrid-Barajas vede passare nei suoi 3 terminal più di 40 milioni di passeggeri l'anno, con un incremento annuale di circa il 15%. Inoltre è prevista la costruzione di un quarto terminal.
[modifica] Educazione e culturaLa Comunità di Madrid è sede di sei università pubbliche. Di queste, quattro hanno facoltà nell'area metropolitana della città:
A Madrid vi sono anche numerosi musei ma i più famosi e conosciuti in tutto il mondo sono:
Altre luoghi importanti sono:
[modifica] SportLo sport più praticato e seguito a Madrid, così come nel resto della Spagna, è il calcio. Le due squadre più importanti della città sono il Real Madrid e l'Atlético de Madrid; meno conosciuto e modesto è il Rayo Vallecano. Nella stagione calcistica 2005-2006 il Real Madrid e l'Atlético de Madrid sono le due squadre madrilene della Prima Divisione del Campionato di calcio spagnolo (liga). In seconda divisione gioca invece il Real Madrid Castilla. Molto popolare è anche la pallacanestro. Le due squadre più rappresentative della città , entrambe nella liga ACB, sono il Real Madrid e l'Estudiantes. Il Giro di Spagna di ciclismo (Vuelta Ciclista a España) quasi sempre termina a Madrid, sia perché è la capitale, sia per tradizione. In atletica, la competizione più importante è chiamata denominata San Silvestre Vallecana, una maratona che si celebra ogni 31 di dicembre.
[modifica] Candidatura olimpicaMadrid è stata candidata per organizzare i giochi olimpici della XXX Olimpiade dell'Era Moderna nel 2012. Questa candidatura fu promossa dal sindaco José María Álvarez del Manzano e si è sviluppata grazie al suo successore, Alberto Ruiz Gallardón. Il Comitato Olimpico Internazionale, il 18 maggio 2004, ha selezionato nella città svizzera di Losanna le cinque città candidate ufficialmente all'organizzazione dei Giochi Olimpici del 2012 (oltre Madrid anche Mosca, Londra, Parigi e New York). Il 6 luglio del 2005, il Comitato Olimpico Internazionale ha scelto definitivamente la città organizzatrice, ed i giochi sono stati dati a Londra. Madrid si è classificata terza. Il comitato organizzatore olimpico di Madrid ha annunciato che sta pensando di candidare la città per le successive edizioni dei giochi, nel 2016 e nel 2020. Esiste un movimento minoritario di opposizione alla candidatura olimpica.
[modifica] Madrileni illustri
[modifica] Scienziati
[modifica] Scrittori
[modifica] Filosofi
[modifica] Politici
[modifica] Musicisti
[modifica] Sportivi
[modifica] GastronomiaI piatti più famosi della cucina madrilena sono:
[modifica] Feste locali
[modifica] GemellaggiMadrid è gemellata con:
[modifica] Voci correlate
[modifica] Altri progetti
[modifica] Collegamenti esterni
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http://www.world66.com *********************The content is published under a creative commons licence : http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/1.0/ ). ________Madrid Barajas International Airport Address Madrid Barajas Airport, 28042 Madrid, Spain localizzato a 13 chilometri dalla città, a Nord est da Madrid Codice del Paese 34 Airport code MAD Telephone 913 936 000 or 913 058 345/342 or 902 353 570 Fax 91 393 6204 Email clientesmad@aena.es Website www.aena.es _______________________Tourist Information Oficina Municipal de Turismo Plaza Mayor 3 Numero di Telefono: (91) 588 1636 or (91) 366 5477. Numero di Fax (91) 588 2930. Orario d'Apertura: Monday–Saturday 1000 hrs–2000 hrs, Sunday 1000 hrs–1500 hrs. :::::::::::::: Museo del Prado (Prado Museum) Paseo del Prado Telephone number: (91) 330 2800. Fax number: (91) 330 2856. Transport: Metro Atocha or Banco de España; bus 9, 10, 14, 27, 34, 37 or 45. Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday 0900 hrs–1900 hrs. Entrata: €3.01 Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza Palacio de Villahermosa, Paseo del Prado 8 Telephone number: (91) 369 0151. Fax number: (91) 420 2780. Trasporti: Metro Banco de España; bus 9, 10, 14, 27, 34, 37 or 45. Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday 1000 hrs–1900 hrs Entrata: €4.81 Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía Calle Santa Isabel 52 Telephone number: (91) 467 5062. Fax number: (91) 467 3163. Entrata: €3.01 Palacio Real/Palazzo Reale Plaza de Oriente and Calle Bailén Telephone number: (91) 542 0059. Transport: Metro Opera; bus 3, 25, 39 or 148. Entrata: €6 Plaza Mayor Plaza Mayor Trasporti: Metro Sol, any bus route to Sol.
Parque del Buen Retiro
Nightlife and Entertainment
Kapital
Fortuny
Bash
Arena
Pachá
Monet
Rastatoo
Joy Madrid
Palacio de Gaviria
Cybermad
Aqui Internet Bar El Tronco
Cybergame
El Escribidor
Gopher-Web
Net Cafe
Cibercarmen
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Madrid Travel Guide Madrid Travel Guide and Barcelona Travel Information - TravelPuppy.com According to the Arab chroniclers, it was in AD 852 that the Emir of Córdoba, Mohamed I (AD 852–886), ordered a fortress to be built on the left bank of the Manzanares River, the geographical centre of the Iberian Peninsula. He named the settlement ‘Mayrit’ and in it lay the seeds of the city now known as Madrid. Traces of this flourishing Moorish town survive to this day, in a section of town wall, muralla Arabe, near the Royal Palace, as well as in the mudéjar architectural style of Madrid’s oldest church, San Nicolás de las Servitas. Mayrit (or Magerit) was situated in a strategically important location and Christians and Arabs fought bitterly over the territory up until late in the 11th century, when Alfonso VI finally settled matters by capturing the Alcázar after a 3 year siege. However, it would be another 500 years before Philip II took the historic decision, in 1561, to move his capital from Valladolid to Madrid. Today, Madrid remains Spain’s financial and political core, home to the Cortes (Parliament), Senate and Royal Family, as well as the extraordinary cultural riches of the Golden Triangle, the Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza art museums. With a population of just under three million, Madrid is Europe’s fourth largest city, after London, Paris and Milan, and its highest capital, at 650m (2132ft) above sea level. The repression and torpor of the Franco era during 1939 until 1975 are now all but forgotten by Madrileños who, perhaps more than any other Spaniards, are determined to vivir a tope (live life to the full). The craving for conspicuous enjoyment, not to mention the 2800 hours of annual sunshine, turn the streets into bustling centres of public display. Madrid’s infectious and colourful fiestas punctuate the year, with each barrio (district) trying to outdo the other in its celebrations. The highlights include Reyes Magos (Feast of the Three Kings), Carnival, the religious processions of Holy Week, the San Isidro festival in May (the beginning of the bullfighting season) and Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve), when the Puerta del Sol becomes the focal point during several hours of uninhibited partying. Visitors should also look out for some of the major cultural festivals, notably the Veranos de la Villa in summer and the autumn Festival de Otoño, embracing film, theatre, dance and music of every description. Although Madrid’s climate is more extreme than other Spanish locations, the warm dry summers and cool winters still allow for many alfresco activities. Although anxious to appear ‘modern’ in clothes, outlook and lifestyle, Madrileños are fiercely traditional, clinging to their customs more noticeably than their cosmopolitan Barcelonese rivals do. Most choose to live at home until marriage, divorce remains controversial (particularly in high society) and the family surpasses everything. While the Comunidad de Madrid (Madrid Province) stretches over 8000sq km (3090sq miles), the city’s historic heart is easily explored on foot. The narrow, labyrinthine streets of the medieval quarter contrast with the grand boulevards, laid out in the 18th and 19th centuries, the period when Madrid began to take on the trappings of a modern capital. Each barrio (district) has its own distinctive atmosphere, Lavapiés, Malasaña and Chueca being the oldest and most interesting. Many visitors first get to know the central area, known as the Madrid of the Austrias (a reference to the Hapsburg era), situated roughly between the Palacio Real and the Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s ‘mile zero’. It is only a short walk from here to the city’s main street, the Gran Vía, lined with shops, banks, offices, cinemas and bars. Fashionable Madrid starts with the Salamanca district and the boutiques of Calle Serrano, while the modern business quarter extends along the north–south axis, known as the Paseo de la Castellana. Distinguished by its skyscrapers and impressive office blocks, this is where the multinationals have their headquarters. At the far northern end of the Paseo de la Castellana are the ‘leaning towers’ of the Puerta de Europa (Gateway of Europe), a daring display of architecture symbolising the city’s confidence in its future. Indeed, Madrid has already launched its bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games, which would not only win the city some desirable developments and revenue but also award Madrid the status of one of the world’s major players. ________Madrid Culture Guide Madrid Culture Guide - TravelPuppy.com Madrid has had its fair share of cultural icons. Surrealist genius Salvador Dalí lived in the city as a student, as did the filmmaker Luis Buñuel and poet and dramatist Federico García Lorca. American writer Ernest Hemingway was a war correspondent in Madrid during the Civil War and a regular visitor thereafter. Madrid has its own distinctive dancing style, caled the chotis, seen to best effect during the San Isidro festival and light opera the zarzuela. The city also boasts an international opera house, and numerous cinemas and theatres catering for all tastes. Ticket prices for cultural events vary from around €5 - €50. While most hotels are happy to book tickets for guests, they will charge for this service. It is cheaper for visitors to book directly at the box offices and not all of which accept credit cards. Keen theatregoers can also make advance bookings at savings banks including, Servicio de Entradas Punto Com (telephone number: (902) 488 488). Tickets for sold-out performances are available for purchase at Localidades Galicia, Plaza del Carmen 10 (telephone number: (91) 531 2732). Tickets for performances at the state-owned theatres, the Comedia, Teatro de la Zarzuela, Auditoria Nacional and Maria Guerrero, are available from the box offices at each of the four venues. The English-language monthly publication, In Madrid, and the Spanish weekly, Guía de Ocio print listings on cultural events in and around the city. Music Madrid’s opera house, the Teatro Real, Plaza de Oriente (telephone number: (91) 516 0660), is one of the most modern opera houses in Europe. The Teatro de la Zarzuela, Calle de Jovellanos 4 (telephone number: (91) 524 5400), is the major venue for zarzuela, a genre loosely comparable to Viennese operetta. The zarzuela season runs from June to September. During the summer, outdoor performances take place at La Corrala, Calle del Meson de Paredes 65. Classical concerts, including performances by the prestigious, Coro y Orquesta Sinfonica de Madrid, are held at the Auditorio Nacional de Música, Avenida Príncipe deVergara 146 (telephone number: (91) 337 0100). During the summer months, concerts are held at the bandstand in Retiro Park at Sunday lunchtime. Theatre Madrid’s dramatic tradition can be traced back to the classical playwrights of Spain’s Golden Age and include, Lope de Vega (1562–1635), Tirso de Molina (1584–1648) and Calderón de la Barca (1600–81). The season runs from September to June and in summer there are open-air performances, sponsored by the Veranos de la Villa festival (see Special Events). The Compañia Nacional de Teatro Clásico , is based in the Teatro de la Comedia, Calle Príncipe 14 (telephone number: (91) 521 4931), temporarily at Pavón Embajadores 9 (telephone number: (91) 528 2819). Twentieth-century drama, as well as Spanish classics are also performed at the impressive Teatro Español, Calle Príncipe 25 (telephone number: (91) 360 1480), which occupies the site of a theatre dating back to 1583. Since opening in 1995, the Teatro La Abadía, Calle Fernández de los Ríos 42 (telephone number: (91) 448 1181), has met with great acclaim for its superb performances of international classics. A good introduction to alternative drama is provided by the Triángulo, Calle Zurita 20 (telephone number: (91) 530 6891), which also hosts English productions by the ACT (American and Classical Theatre) and the Madrid Players . Most theatres are closed on Monday. Dance The Teatro Real, Plaza de Oriente (telephone numberl: (91) 516 0660), and Teatro de la Zarzuela, Calle de Jovellanos 4 (telephone number: (91) 524 5400), juggle Spanish and international dance, along with their commitment to music and opera. Other venues include the Centro Cultural de la Villa, Jardines del Descubrimiento, Plaza de Colón (telephone number: (91) 480 0300), which regularly hosts seasons by visiting companies, and the modern Teatro de Madrid, Avenida de la Illustración (telephone number: (91) 730 1750). Ballet Nacional de España performs Spanish dance to full houses at the Teatro Albéniz, Calle de la Paz 11 (telephone number: (91) 531 8311), during the Festival de Otoño, the Autumn Festival. Choreographer Nacho Duato has breathed new life into the Compañia Nacional de Danza, which tours widely and brief appearances in Madrid’s principal venue, the Teatro Real, are hotly anticipated. Classical ballet is performed at the Teatro de Madrid and Albéniz by Victor Ullate’s Ballet de la Comunidad de Madrid. Flamenco dance has developed in the last twenty years, from an outmoded genre to a living passion. Traditional flamenco vies with nuevo flamenco (new flamenco) in numerous venues throughout Madrid. Madrid’s talented flamenco dancers and musicians perform at Teatro Albéniz, during the Festival Flamenco Cajamadrid, during May. Film International stars including Antonio Banderas and Penelope Cruz made their reputations with Spain’s leading director, Pedro Almodóvar, who first claimed the world’s attention with Women on the edge of a nervous breakdown (1988). Although Almodóvar is not a son of the city, he moved to Madrid when he was 16 years old, where he studied cinematic art and made his now highly acclaimed films. His very first movie, Pepi, Luci, Bom and Other Girls on the Heap (1980) was set and filmed in Madrid. All About My Mother (1999) won Almodóvar the Best Director award at the 1999 Cannes Film Festival and Best Foreign Language Film at the 2000 Oscars. His latest movie, Hable con ella (Talk to her), released in 2002, has won numerous international awards, including a Golden Globe. Madrileños are great filmgoers, especially on Sunday nights. Prior booking is not the norm, so the queues are long. The most popular performances start at around 2200 hrs and earlier screenings are less busy. Reduced tickets are available on Wednesday (día del espectador). Cinemas cluster around the Gran Vía, notably the vast Gran Vía Cinesa, Calle Gran Via 66 (telephone number: (902) 333 231), with seating under sparkling chandeliers, for 1000 spectators. English-language screenings are marked ‘VO’ (versión original) in listings and local papers. The most popular venue is Ideal Yelmo Cineplex, Calle Doctor Cortezo 6 (telephone number: (91) 369 2518). Arthouse cinema is on show at Ciné Doré, Calle Santa Isabel 3 (telephone number: (91) 549 0011). Cultural Events Each season brings a wave of festivities and parades, where tradition, religion or just sheer energy provides the impetus. Perhaps the most intriguing festival is Carnaval (Carnival), accompanying the traditional masked ball, Entierro de la Sardina (Burial of the Sardine), the week before Lent (March/April). In May, San Isidore is held in commemoration of Madrid’s patron saint, with open-air dance performances, pop and rock concerts theatre productions, zarzuela and sports competitions. During July and August the Veranos de la Villa (Summer in the City), a season of theatre, dance, ballet, flamenco and concerts (pop and classical) featuring native and international performers takes place. Autumn (October to November) in Madrid is just as lively, with Festival de Ontoño (Autumn Festival), a host of cultural events (film, concerts and theatre), including a number of premiers in English and Spanish. Literary Notes Madrid has drawn its share of literary talent. The great novelist, Cervantes, author of the classic 17th-century novel, Don Quixote de la Mancha (1605), is buried in Calle de Lope de Vega and named in honour of the great lyric poet of Spain’s Golden Age of theatre. Madrid was also home to poet-dramatist Federico García Lorca. The literati would huddle together in the barrio literario in Old Madrid and drink together in the now famous Café Gijón (see Restaurants section). Hemingway was to join the literary crowd as a reporter in Madrid during the Civil War. His ode to bullfighting, Death in the Afternoon, was published in 1932 and For Whom the Bell Tolls was published in 1940. The late 20th century has brought its own talent, including the 1989 Nobel Prize winner, Camilo José Cela, who died in 2002, and feminist writers, Ana María Matute and Adelaida Garcia Morales. _____________ Madrid Nightlife Madrid Nightlife - TravelPuppy.com Madrileños tend to make not one plan for the evening but 3 or 4. The busiest nights are Friday and Saturday (with Thursday a close runner-up), the locals go out every night and miraculously manage to work or study during the day. Perhaps the secret lies in the tradition of consuming tapas, snacks of olives, chorizo (sausages), anchovies, gambas (deep-fried shrimp) and local specialities like callos (tripe), orejas (pig’s ears), mollejas (sweetbreads), snails in hot sauce and bull’s testicles. After a long night on the town, it is customary to breakfast on thick hot chocolate and sweet fried churros (dough). Nightlife centres on 3 major districts, Calle Huertas (traditional Spanish music, jazz clubs and bars), Chueca (Madrid’s gay village, which specialises in trendy restaurants) and Malasaña (mainly bars, and clubs frequented by a mainly young crowd). All bars and clubs are licensed but hours are very flexible. It can be hard to tell bars and clubs apart, since bars often have a dancefloor and not all clubs charge for entry. Where they do, €5–10 is the standard admission fee, which usually includes a first drink. The legal drinking age in Madrid is 18 and the price of tipple ranges from €1.50 for a small beer or glass of wine to €4.50 for spirits and cocktails. It is customary to pay on leaving and certainly worth noting that few bars accept credit cards. Tipping is discretionary. During the month of August many venues close. There are several listings magazines. The weekly Guía del Ocio, published in Spanish only and available from kiosks for €1 has information on concerts, film, theatre and other entertainment options. It also provides restaurant listings. The monthly What’s on, is published in English and Spanish and is less detailed but good on the opening times and contact details. In Madrid is a monthly English-language newspaper, available from tourist offices, Irish bars or Barajas airport. It is hot on the latest club news, DJs, bars and other aspects of night-time entertainment. And it is free. Bars Madrid’s bars range from dark, wood-panelled taverns to the fabulous Viva Madrid, Calle Manuel Fernández y Gonzáles 7, with its painted tiles of Madrid scenes from the early 1900s. The Garamond, Calle de Claudio Coello 10, has a castle-like interior and suits a smart older crowd. Chicote, Grand Vía 12, is Madrid’s most famous cocktail bar and has preserved its 1930s interior and it is easy to imagine American novelist Ernest Hemingway relaxing here during the Civil War. A former brothel run by gypsies, with a tiled interior depicting Velázquez’s The Drunkards, Los Gabrieles, Calle Echegaray 17, is now a respectable bar for a young chic clientele. Tapas bars cluster around Plaza de Santa Ana near Sol, Plaza de Santa Bárbara in Calasaña and Cava Baja and Calle de Cuchilleros, behind Plaza Mayor. One of the best is Taberna los Austrias, Calle Nuncio 17, situated near metro La Latina. As dawn breaks, revellers head for Chocolatería San Ginés, Pasadizo de San Ginés 11, a Mecca for those in search of hot chocolate and churros. Casinos Casino Gran Madrid, Autovía A6, Km 29 exit from Madrid, Carretera de la Coruna, is the only officially recognised casino in the area and is situated outside the city, near Torrelodones and a free bus service leaves from Plaza Espana 6. The dress code is formal and ties should be worn, the age limit is 21 and passports are required for entry. Clubs Many tourists head for the clubs around Sol and Gran Vía, although true hedonists might want to try out some of the locals’ haunts instead. A typical night might begin around 2300 hrs with the exotic elite at Serrano 41, Calle Serrano 41, Independencia, Puerta de Alcalá, or the tango-friendly Sportsman, Calle Alcalá 65, before moving on to Fortuny, Calle Fortuney 23, the laid-back Café del Foro, Calle San Andres 38, or super-trendy Mármara, Calle Padre Damián, next to Hotel Eurobuilding. There are no admission charges here, although chic dress is recommended. The energetic dance to techno at Pachá, Calle Barceló 11. Gabana 1800, Calle de Velázquez 6, is a popular venue for stylish 20 and 30 somethings, if the bouncer allows admission. Live music Madrid offers an eclectic choice of flamenco, jazz, salsa, rock, World music and cantautores, Spanish singer-songwriters. The Café de la Palma, Calle la Palma 62, is the venue of the moment for cantautores, as well as flamenco and Cuban music acts. For more Latino sounds, fans should head for La Negra Tomasa, Calle Cádiz 9, for live music nightly from 2100 hrs. Moby Dick, Avenida de Brasil 5, in the Castellana district, plays live pop and rock on weekdays and hosts DJs (reggae and rap) at weekends. The clientele is a charming mixture of foreigners and locals. At Café Populart, Calle Huertas 22, punters can experience everything from live jazz to swing, blues, salsa, gospel, African and reggae. There are 2 shows nightly, at 2300 hrs and 0030 hrs. The Irish Rover pub, Avenida de Brasil 7, imports Irish, folk and country music. International acts play regularly at the Café Central, Plaza del Angel 10, Madrid’s top jazz venue. Pop stars and the best salsa bands perform at La Riviera, Paseo Bajo de la Virgen del Puerto. ____________Madrid Festival - Events Madrid Festivals and Events Guide - TravelPuppy.com Reyes Magos (Epiphany) A procession of the ‘the kings’ with commercial floats, January, city centre. Carnaval (Carnival) Procession, masked ball and cultural events, culminating in the ritual Burial of the Sardine in the church of San Antonio de la Florida, February, Plaza Mayor. Semana Santa (Holy Week) Solemn religious processions and services, late March, throughout the city. Fiesta del 2 de Mayo (Festival of 2 May) Marks the day when Madrid rose up against the French in 1808, with films, poetry recitals, concerts and dance, May, various venues. Festival Flamenco Cajamadrid Flamenco dancing competition, May, Teatro Albéniz, Calle de la Paz 11. San Isidoro Commemoration of Madrid’s patron saint with procession to the church of San Isidoro, open-air dance performances, theatre productions, zarzuela, pop and rock concerts and sports competitions, May, Pradera de San Isidoro and various venues. Gay Pride Festival culminates in a parade through the Retiro, Sol and Casa de Campo, last week in June, other events in Chueca district. Veranos de la Villa (Summer in the City) Cultural events, July–August, various venues throughout the City. Festival de Otoño (Autumn Festival) Madrid’s most important annual arts festival, October–November various venues. Feria de Artesania (Advent Craft Fair) December, Paseo de Recoletos. Natividad (Christmas) Christmas and New Year celebrations, December, Plaza Mayor. Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) crowds gather to eat grapes and drink champagne, 31st December, Puerta del Sol. ----------------- Madrid Sightseeing Madrid Sightseeing Guide - TravelPuppy.com Sightseeing Overview Madrid is best known for its Golden Triangle of art museums, Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornomisza. The celebrated Art Walk, Paseo del Arte, links the three. The city’s focal point remains the Puerta del Sol, the eastern gate of the city during the 15th century. The monument of the bear and madroño, in the centre of the square, symbolises Madrid. The Calle Mayor leads west from Sol, to the Plaza Mayor, which evokes the splendour of Spain’s 17th-century Golden Age. The Calle de Alcalá, a grandiose thoroughfare constructed in the reign of Charles III, leads east of Sol, towards Plaza de Cibeles. The fountain, with its statue of a Greco-Roman fertility goddess astride a lion-drawn chariot, is a landmark instantly recognisable to all Spaniards. Visitors might be less impressed with the crazy merry-go-round of traffic encircling her. Overlooking Plaza de Cibeles is the imposing Palacio de Comunicaciones, the main post office, dating from 1904. The Madrid cityscape is softened by numerous green spaces, the lovely squares, such as the Plaza de Oriente, in front of the Royal Palace, and parks, most obviously the landscaped Parque del Buen Retiro and Jardín Botánico (Botanical Gardens) near the Prado. Further west is the wilder Casa de Campo, which also contains the Parque de Atraciones funfair and leisure grounds. More unusual is the greenhouse in the Atocha Station, the entrance at concourse, gate 14, popular with Madrileños and tourists alike. Tourist Information Oficina Municipal de Turismo Plaza Mayor 3 Telephone number: (91) 588 1636 or (91) 366 5477. Fax number: (91) 588 2930. E-mail: inforturismo@munimadrid.es Website: www.munimadrid.es Opening hours: Monday–Saturday 1000 hrs–2000 hrs, Sunday 1000 hrs–1500 hrs. The Comunidad de Madrid (regional tourist information office) has branches at Calle Duque de Medinaceli 2, Barajas airport, Chamartín Station, Atocha Station and Mercado Puerta de Toledo, Ronda de Toledo 1. Passes The Paseo del Arte (Art Walk) ticket allows entry to the Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofía museums, valid for one trip to each gallery within a year of the first visit. The pass costs €7.60 and is available for purchase at any of these 3 galleries. The Madrid Card, valid for 1, 2 or 3 days and, costing between €28 and €55, gives visitors to free admission to 40 major museums, use of public transport, Madrid Vision bus tour (see Tours of the City), a guided walking tour (Saturday), as well as discounts in selected shops, restaurants, theatres and more. They can be purchased from main tourist offices or online. The state museums, including the Prado and Reina Sofía, are free on Saturday 1430 hrs –1900 hrs and Sunday. Monuments managed by the Patrimonio Nacional, including the Palacio Real, Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales and Monasterio de la Encarnacion, are free (officially for EU nationals only) at least one day a week (usually Wednesday). Key Attractions Museo del Prado (Prado Museum) The Prado Museum, founded in 1819, is undergoing an extensive programme of renovation, to reclaim its position among Europe’s greatest galleries. Within its 4000-strong collection of 16th to early 19th century paintings, are masterpieces by Fra Angelico, Botticelli, Bosch (El Bosco), Titian, Rembrandt and Velázquez, as well as evidence of the astonishing development of Goya, from his sun-soaked early paintings of dances and festivities to the grim madness of his black period. Paseo del Prado Telephone number: (91) 330 2800. Fax number: (91) 330 2856. E-mail: museo.nacional@prado.mcu.es Website: http://museoprado.mcu.es Transport: Metro Atocha or Banco de España; bus 9, 10, 14, 27, 34, 37 or 45. Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday 0900 hrs–1900 hrs. Admission: €3.01 (concessions available); free Saturday 1430 hrs –1900 hrs and Sunday. Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza (Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum) Madrid purchased the private collection of Hans-Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza after a nine-and-a-half-year loan, instantly enriching the city’s fund of art treasures. The Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza collection contains over 800 paintings, sculptures, carvings and tapestries, ranging from primitive Flemish works to contemporary pieces. Highlights include works by Fra Angelico, Van Eyck, Dürer, Caravaggio, Rubens, Dürer and Caravaggio. Palacio de Villahermosa, Paseo del Prado 8 Telephone number: (91) 369 0151. Fax number: (91) 420 2780. E-mail: mtb@museothyssen.org Website: www.museothyssen.org Transport: Metro Banco de España; bus 9, 10, 14, 27, 34, 37 or 45. Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday 1000 hrs–1900 hrs. Admission: €4.81 (permanent exhibitions); €3.60 (temporary exhibitions); €6.60 (permanent and temporary exhibitions combined), concessions available. Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía (Reina Sofia National Art Centre Museum) Housed in a former hospital, built by Francesco Sabatini for Carlos III in the late 18th century but never completed, the museum was designed by the Spanish architect, Antonio Fernánez Alba, in 1977 and completed in 1990. Officially opened by the King and Queen in 1992, it is dedicated to Spanish 20th-century art, pride of place belonging to Picasso’s disturbing Civil War canvas, Guernica. Dalí, Juan Gris and Miró are among the other artists on show Calle Santa Isabel 52 Telephone number: (91) 467 5062. Fax number: (91) 467 3163. Transport: Metro Atocha; bus 9, 10 14, 27, 34, 37 or 45. Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday–Saturday 1000 hrs–2100 hrs, Sunday 1000 hrs–1430 hrs. Admission: €3.01; concessions available; free Saturday 1430 hrs –1900 hrs and Sunday. Palacio Real (Royal Palace) With the opulence of Versailles in mind, Philip V commissioned Italian architects Francesco Sabatini and Giambattista Sacchetti and to build the Royal Palace, following a fire that destroyed the medieval Alcázar in 1764. The present king, Juan Carlos I, resides in the more subdued Zarzuela Palace outside Madrid, so Philip’s 3000-room extravaganza is only used for state functions. The rest of the time, the startling white building in granite and Colmenar stone is open for tours and individual visits. Highlights include the Hall of Halberdiers and Hall of Columns with their splendid frescoes, the Throne Room with its 17th-century sculptures, and the lavish private apartments of Charles II. Just off the courtyard is the Royal Armoury and Pharmacy among one of Europe’s oldest. Visits take approximately 2 hours. There are spectacular views over Madrid from the surrounding gardens and park. Plaza de Oriente and Calle Bailén Telephone number: (91) 542 0059. Website: www.patrimonionacional.es Transport: Metro Opera; bus 3, 25, 39 or 148. Opening hours: Monday–Saturday 0900 hrs–1800 hrs, Sunday 0900 hrs–1500 hrs (April–September), Monday–Saturday 0930 hrs–1700 hrs, Sunday 0900 hrs–1400 hrs (October–Mar), closed during official ceremonies. Admission: €6 (concessions available). Plaza Mayor (Main Square) This beautifully proportioned cobbled square was started by Philip II and completed by Philip III during 1619 and his statue stands proudly at the centre. Plaza Mayor was both a marketplace and the setting for public spectacles, everything from the ritual condemnation of heretics to bull fights and pageants. Today, visitors and tourists outnumber the locals but Plaza Mayor is still as lively as it was in the past, with shops and cafés in the covered arcades. Plaza Mayor Transport: Metro Sol, any bus route to Sol. Further Distractions Parque del Buen Retiro (Retiro Park) This lush 118-hectare (292-acre) park in the centre of Madrid was originally the private garden of Philip IV. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the shady avenues and formal gardens and take a rowing boat out on the lake or picnic in the extensive wooded areas. Madrileños come here in their thousands on Sunday mornings, where entertainment is provided by fortune tellers, pavement artists and circus acts. There is a children’s puppet theatre and numerous refreshment places. Temporary art exhibitions are held in the Palacio de Velázquez, Palacio de Cristal and the Casa de Vacas. Puerta de Alcalá, Plaza de la Independencia Transport: Metro Retiro, Atocha or Ibiza, bus 2, 14, 19, 20, 26, 28, 51, 52, 68 or 69. Opening hours: Daily 0600 hrs–2200 hrs. Admission: Free. Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales (Convent of the Royal Barefoot Sisters) Founded by Juana de Austria, the daughter of Charles V, in 1559, as a retreat for noblewomen, the Convento de las Descalzas Reales is still a functioning convent. A superb example of 16th to 17th century Baroque architecture, it contains a magpie’s hoard of artistic treasures, including Flemish tapestries, Italian and Flemish sculptures, paintings and religious artefacts and more. The convent is open for guided tours only. Tours are in Spanish, although questions are taken in English. Plaza de las Descalzas Reales 3 Telephone number: (91) 454 8800. Website: www.patrimonionacional.es Transport: Metro Callao or Sol; bus to Puerta del Sol 3, 5, 15, 20, 51, 52 or 150. Opening hours: Tuesday–Thursday and Saturday 1030 hrs–1245 hrs and 1600 hrs –1745 hrs , Friday 1030 hrs –1245 hrs, Sunday 1100 hrs–1330 hrs. Admission: €4.01 (concessions available). Faunia Parque Biológico de Madrid (Environmental Park) The theme of this new, attractively landscaped theme park is bio-diversity. Each of the 10 pavilions has been specially designed to recreate a different natural environment, with the aim of demonstrating how life, animal life in particular, has learned to adapt to a variety of ecosystems. Thanks to the latest high-tech wizardry, visitors can ‘experience’ a tropical storm, take a stroll through the rain forest, visit the polar regions with temperatures of - 5ºC, or watch rivers of molten lava flowing 1000m (3281ft) beneath the earth’s surface. Avenida de las Comunidades 28 Telephone number: (91) 301 6210. Fax number: (91) 301 6229. Transport: Metro Valdebernardo or Cercanías Vicálvaro, bus 8, 71, 130 or E. Opening hours: Daily 1000 hrs–1800 hrs(March), daily 1000 hrs–2000 hrs(1 April–June), daily 1000 hrs–2200 hrs (July–16th September), daily 1000 hrs–1800 hrs (17th September–30th September), Wednesday–Sunday 1000 hrs–1800 hrs (October–February). Admission: €16.90 (concessions available). Faro de Moncloa (Light of Moncloa) The Faro de Moncloa observation tower, located in the university district, is open to the public, offering visitors panoramic views of Madrid from the flying-saucer-shaped viewing deck, 92m (302ft) high. The tower was designed by architect Salvador Arroyo, during 1992, to monitor traffic congestion. Avenida de los Reyes Católicos/Plaza del Arco de la Victoria Telephone number: (91) 544 8104. Transport: Metro Moncloa, bus 1, 16, 44, 46, 61, 82, 83, 132, 133 or C. Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday 1000 hrs–1400 hrs and 1700 hrs–2100 hrs (June–August), Tuesday–Friday 1000 hrs–1400 hrs and 1700 hrs–1900 hrs, Saturday–Sunday 1000 hrs–1800 hrs (September–May). Admission: €1 (concessions available). ______________Madrid Tours - Excursions Madrid Tours Guide - TravelPuppy.com Walking tours The Patronato Municipal de Turismo (telephone number: (91) 588 1636) organises a number of 90-minute walking tours in English, costing €3 each.. Two of the more popular tours are Hapsburg Madrid, and include the Royal Palace, major churches and monasteries and taking place on Saturday 1000 hrs, all year round, and Legends of Old Madrid, an informative and entertaining introduction to the city, during the summer only. Both depart from the Oficina Municipal de Turismo, Plaza Mayor. Bus Tours Madrid Vision (telephone number: (91) 779 1888 or 541 6321; fax number: (91) 383 0766) bus tours depart daily from Puerta del Sol, and run every ten to 25 minutes, depending on the season, 1000 hrs–2100 hrs during the summer and 1000 hrs–1900 hrs during the winter. Cassettes with English commentary are provided on the tour, which runs for approximately 75 minutes. There is a choice of 3 routes: Historic Madrid (including the main sights of the Hapsburg and Bourbon city) Modern Madrid (including the Paseo de la Castellana and Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Real Madrid’s football ground) Monumental Madrid (exploring the Gran Via). The hop-on-hop-off trip costs €10–12 (concessions are available) and tickets are valid for one or two consecutive days (depending on the option chosen). Excursions for half day Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial This monastery is situated just 50km (31 miles) northwest of Madrid, in the town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. The extraordinary rectangular edifice with four spired towers was built by Philip II, as a memorial to his father, Charles V, and is a combination of monastery, church and palace. It contains numerous artistic treasures, an austere 17th-century church and a beautifully decorated library with vaulted, painted ceiling. Trains depart from Charmartín Station to El Escorial, from where a two-minute bus trip leads to the monastery. Buses also leave from outside Madrid’s metro Moncloa, going directly to El Escorial monastery. The road route is along the NVI motorway, turning off on the A6 at 50km (31 miles). The monastery is open Tuesday to Sunday 1000 hrs–1700 hrs. Admission costs €3.01. Information is available from the Tourist Office, Calle Grimaldi 2 (telephone number: (91) 890 5313), and the Cultural Centre, Calle Floridablanca 10 (telephone number: (91) 542 0059). For a Whole Day Toledo Often described as the soul of Spain, Toledo lies 70km (43 miles) south of Madrid and is easily reached by bus (from Estación Sur de Autobuses), car (along the N401) or train (regular departures from Atocha Station). The capital of Visigoth Spain (AD 567–711), Toledo is closely associated with the Cretan-born painter, El Greco, who lived and worked here from 1577 until his death in 1614. Regarded as the first great genius of the Spanish School, some of his most famous paintings are on show here, including El Espolio (Christ Stripped of His Garments) in the Cathedral and The Burial of Count Orgaz in the medieval church of Santo Tomé. The hilltop city has changed little since medieval times and enjoys a magnificent setting atop the Tagus Gorge. Visitors should look out for the Moorish gate, Puerta de Bisagrai, the Sinagoga del Tránsito, built in the 1360s and now a museum to Sephardic culture and the Jewish Diaspora of the Spanish Jews, the cathedral and the magnificent Renaissance hospital of Santa Cruz, now a museum. The Tourist Office, Puerta de Bisagra (telephone number: (92) 522 0843) can provide further information. |
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| Madrid Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Bull fight arena "Plaza de Toros" Bull fight arena "Plaza de Toros" M. Delva Madrid is a lively city, meaning that Madrid activities are plentiful and readily available just about any time of the day. And according to just about every Madrid travel guide, the city really heats up at night and the frenzy continues into the wee hours of the morning. No one really knows when the Madrileños sleep. It may be the afternoon siesta that gives them the endurance to keep things going well after sunrise or maybe it's the multitude of fuel filled foods and dishes prepared in one of the thousands of Madrid restaurants. It's ok to book a room in one of the top Madrid hotels--if only for the memorable experience, but don't count on spending much time in your room. Remember, Madrid truly is one of the best cities to explore in Spain. Plan several hours to enjoy Madrid activities such as visiting San Nicolas de los Servitas – the oldest church in Madrid or shopping at Calle Serrano and the Gran Via. Visit the Victory Arch, the Palacio Real (the Royal Palace, with its own art treasures and crown jewels), and the Plaza de las Cibeles and Puerta del Sol (major intersections with fountains, monuments and shops). And no Madrid activities list is complete without a visit to a Madrid flea market. Plan on leaving your Madrid hotel early one Sunday morning to head to El Rastro Flea Market. Located in La Latina, this is where you will find the Madrileño's real essence! And don't worry about running out of fuel. La Latina has a wide variety of tasty Madrid restaurants to choose from suited to just about any budget. Skim through any Madrid travel guide and you will also come across dozens of museums that shouldn’t be missed. Yes, Madrid is definitely a museum lover’s paradise. Including the Royal Palace, Madrid has 15 significant museums, dozens of galleries, and several private collections. The three most famous Madrid museums are: the Prado, the Thyssen-Bornemisza, and the Reina Sofia museum. You might end up spending more than just one day just exploring museums. In fact, you could spend days in the halls of the Prado alone. While this Mardrid activity is well deserving of a top spot on your to do list, it is, however, quite possible to grow tired of all the museums in the city. If this happens, take a break, sit down at a terraza (outdoor cafe), and watch the world go by. You can even visit one of the many beautiful parks and lakes in the city. One of the nicest parks in Madrid is Retiro Park near the Prado. Note the Victorian greenhouse, Crystal Palace, and small man-made lake with swans lazily swimming about. You can rent a rowboat to get in the relaxed, festive mood that suffuses the park. For a panoramic view of Madrid take the elevator to the bar on the 26th floor of the Edificio de Espana, which faces the Plaza de Espana. Madrid is a city that never seems to close down. Madrid restaurants and bars are open very late and the city's Santa Ana district, in fact, never does close down. Dinner typically begins after 10 p.m., and with dinner out of the way, revelers usually head off to their favorite disco show, jazz club, or late-night cafe to party until dawn. For a concentrated area of late-night activity, head to Huertas Street after midnight and you're sure to find something to match your taste. Hemingway fans may want to check out the Museo Chicote bar, now a trendy spot he often described in many of his Spanish Civil War stories. Those who love traditional performing arts will want to go to the Teatro Real for Spanish light opera known as zarzuela. You can also find good flamenco shows in several nightclubs including Cafe Chinitas – a popular Madrid restaurant and flamenco club. If you're in Madrid during the second half of May be sure to book your Madrid hotel early so you can join Madrileños in celebrating the Feria de San Isidro. Feria de San Isidro features music, operas, concerts, bullfighting, dancing, and all-night entertainment. Also, in mid-August, Madrid celebrates the Verbena de la Paloma. Madrid hotels are stylish, plentiful, and downright cozy, but don’t be afraid to check out and leave the city for a night or two – especially if you’re planning to stay for two weeks or more. Outside of Madrid, day trips can be made to Avila, El Escorial, Guadalajara, Segovia, and Toledo. Top Ten Things to Do in Madrid Bullfighting Performances at Las Ventas – Not for the faint of heart, bullfighting is considered a form of art in Spain, not a sport. The bullfighting season runs from March-October and bullfighting performances are held every Sunday afternoon. Las Ventas is the largest bullring in Spain and it is located at Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas, c/Alcala, 237, Ph: 91 356 22 00, www.las-ventas.com . Art Walk: The art walk covers the three most famous Madrid museums the Prado, the Thyssen- Bornemisza, and the Reina Sofia Museum. The Prado is located at Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23, Ph: +34 91 330 2800, www.museodelprado.es . Thyssen-Bornemisza is located at Prado 8, +34 91 369 01 51, www.museothyssen.org , e-mail mtb@museothyssen.org . Reina Sofia Museum, Calle Santa Isabel, 52, Ph: +34-91-774-10-00, www.museoreinasofia.es. San Nicolas de los Servitas – San Nicolas de los Servitas is the oldest church in Madrid. The bell tower, built in the 12 th century, is one of the oldest structures in Madrid. Inside the church you will find sculptures by Nicolas Busi and paintings by Pedro de Mena as well as exhibits, which detail Islamic history. San Nicolas de los Servitas is located at Plaza San Nicolas, Ph: 91-559-40-64. Admission is free. El Rastro Flea Market - Located in La Latina, El Rastro Flea Market helps you get up close and personal with Madrileño's real essence! El Rastro takes place every Sunday from 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m., and it is located between Plaza Mayor, La Latina, and Puerta de Toledo. Tip: Prices are not set in stone so remember this phrase: cuanto cuesta? (kwan-to kwes-tah) – This means “How much is it?” Retiro Park – Located behind the Prado Museum (Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23), Retiro Park is one of the nicest and most popular parks in Madrid. Highlights include: a Victorian greenhouse, Crystal Palace, and a small swan filled man-made lake. Rent a rowboat to explore the surroundings or for a panoramic view of Madrid take the elevator to the bar on the 26th floor of the Edificio de Espana , which faces the Plaza de Espana. The Santa Ana District - The city's Santa Ana district is filled with exciting nightlife venues where visitors can enjoy disco shows or jazz club, and the area also has plenty of late-night cafes that are open until dawn. Head to Huertas Street for an abundance of late-night activity. Hemingway fans may want to check out the Museo Chicote Bar (Gran Via, 12, 91-532-6737), now a trendy spot he often described in many of his Spanish Civil War stories. Museo Chicote Bar was voted “Best European Bar 2004” by MTV-Campari. Cafe Chinitas - Cafe popular Madrid restaurant and flamenco club featuring some of the best Flamenco shows in all of Spain. C/Torija, 7, 91-559-51-35, www.chinitas.com, e-mail chintas@chintas.com. Teatro Real - Perfect for those who love traditional performing arts, Teatro Real features Spanish light opera performances known as zarzuela. If you feel like a late bite or a vodka drink just pop into 1917 Blinis & Vodkas, a few meters from the theatre. Teatro Real is located Plaza de Oriente, Ph: 91-516-06-96, www.teatro-real.es , e-mail: info@teatro-real.com. Café del Nuncio – Kick back, relax, and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee while listening to classical music at the popular, but calming Café del Nuncio. Café del Nuncio also has a nice selection of beers and it is located on Costanilla del Nuncio, on the corner of Calle Segovia. Palacio Real (The Royal Palace) – The Royal Palace features 2,800 magnificent rooms. Highlights include: Salon del Trono (throne room), the Royal Library (Biblioteca Real), the Banquet Hall, and Salon de Gasparini -- King Carlos III’s private apartments. The Royal Palace is located at Calle Balien, Ph: 91-454-8800. A two-hour, one-mile guided tour is available. ____________ Sights Edit This Painted roof Painted roof Håkan Svensson (Xauxa) If you are under the impression that the heart of the city is the place to be when it comes down to unique Madrid activities and impressive cultural sights, you're right! It will take you at least several days to see all the historical landmarks, museums, art galleries, and parks Madrid has to offer. Let your feet and your curiousity be your Madrid travel guide as you wander through the city. As you stroll through the old centre, check out Calle and Plaza Mayor (medieval Madrid), which is lined with beautiful buildings and various old and impressively ornamented churches. Relax at one of the many terraces on the old plazas. The city has several green spots, so there will always be a park or garden where you can relax a bit and watch the world go by. The Retiro Park is worth checking out with its rose gardens and Crystal Palace -- one of many in Madrid. The Palacio Real, the Palace of the Royal Family, takes second place on the list of most visited sights in Madrid, but the undeniable number one attraction is still a visit to the three museums centred around Paseo del Prado. First, there is the Prado with its impressive and extensive collection, which features both Spanish and international art. Besides that, you can see the work of the famous Spanish masters, such as Picasso, Miro and Dali, in the Centro de Arte Reina Sofia. Last but certainly not least is the equally impressive Thyyssen-Bornemisza Museum, located in the Villahermosa Palace. These three museums are probably the most popular ones, but they are only a small sampling of what Madrid has to offer in museums. Contributors May 15, 2008 change by mcburton (1 point) March 09, 2007 change by rfujitani (1 point) Display all or display just: Churches and Cathedrals Hotspots Museums Palaces Parks & Gardens Parks, Gardens and Zoos Religious Buildings Show best rated on top | Show in alphabetical order [Add Sight] Park de Berlin Edit This This park is decorated with various sculptures made by stones from the former Berlin wall. It's a nice location to go for a little walk or relax if you live in the neighbourhood - but expecting a tourist attraction you might be disappointed. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] Gardens of Sabatini Edit This Part of the Royal Palace, the Gardens of Sabitini features wooded alleys, statues, fountains, a pool, and plenty of shaded areas where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Entrance to the gardens is free. type: Parks, Gardens and Zoos World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 91-588-87-90 Royal Gardens of Campo del Moro Edit This campo del moro and palacio real campo del moro and palacio real The royal gardens of the Campo del Moro in front of the Royal Palace are just beautiful. The name comes from the Moslem period, when Ali Ben Yusuf created in this place his camp back in the 12th century. type: Parks & Gardens World66 rating: [rate it] The Prado Museum Edit This museo del prado museo del prado photo by: dani One of the best museums in Spain, if not in the world. The Prado houses an impressive Spanish and International art collection. Paseo del Prado. Open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mondays closed. Most items are catholic art, if you're more into something modern try the "Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia". Entrance fee: 6€, 3€ reduced price. Some Sundays free, ask at tourist information. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo del Prado tel: 91 330 28 00 url: www.museoprado.mcu.es Catedral de La Almudena Edit This Painted roof Painted roof photo by: Håkan Svensson (Xauxa) The Cathedral of the Almudena lies besides the Palacio Real forming a unit. It was built by popular subscription and the works lasted more than 100 years. It is worth visiting both the cathedral and the crypt (by a door in the south wall). type: Churches and Cathedrals World66 rating: [rate it] address: Bailen tel: 91 542 22 00 Centro de Arte Reina Sofia Edit This reina sofia-detail of "guernika" reina sofia-detail of "guernika" Permanent exhibition of some of the Spanish masters, such as Dali, Miro and Picasso. Temporary exhibitions of modern art. Probably its most famous work is Picasso's 'Guernica', which was not exhibited in Spain until the restoration of democracy - as the painter had wished. Entrance fee: 3€, 1,50€ reduced price. Metro: Atocha. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] address: Santa Isabel 52 tel: 91 467 50 62 openings: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.(Sunday only until 2.30pm), Tuesday closed. Palacio de Cristal Edit This palacio de cristal aereal view palacio de cristal aereal view photo by: dani Located in the heart of Retiro Park, the design for Palacio de Cristal was based on London's Crystal Palace. This spectacualr glass and wrought-iron structure features natural scenery with lakes, lush greenery, and birdlife on the outside and inside visitors will find exhibitions of modern art. type: Palaces World66 rating: [rate it] address: Parque del Retiro tel: 91-574-66-14 openingHours: Oct.-May Mon., Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., June-Sept. Mon., Wed.-Sat. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Retiro Park Edit This garden of retiro detail garden of retiro detail Located behind the Prado Museum (Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23), Retiro Park is one of the nicest and most popular parks in Madrid. Highlights include: a Victorian greenhouse, Crystal Palace, and a small swan filled man-made lake. Rent a rowboat to explore the surroundings or for a panoramic view of Madrid take the elevator to the bar on the 26th floor of the Edificio de Espana , which faces the Plaza de Espana . type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] address: Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23 Plaza Santa Ana Edit This Viva Madrid Viva Madrid Cool area close to the Puerta del Sol. Many bars and restaurants in the neighborhood. Also a few cheap hotels. Don't miss to visit "Viva Madrid" around the corner of Plaza Santa Ana. It is a nice bar where people from their midtwenties to their fourties go for a drink and some nice music. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] The Debod Temple Edit This Paseo de Rosales is an Egyptian shrine from the IV century B.C. It was a present from the Egyptian authorities to express their gratitude for the help of the Spanish engineers and archaeologist to rescue the millenial Egyptian monuments from the rising waters of the Asswan dam. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] Plaza Mayor Edit This Plaza Mayor Plaza Mayor photo by: Elizabeth Padilla V The Plaza Mayor is located on the old Plaza del Arrabal, the main commercial nucleus of Medieval Madrid. Juan de Herrera, the architect of Felipe II, made the first plans for it. Plaza Mayor was finally constructed by Juan Gomez de Mora. Originally it was the site of all public ceremonies: public executions, the burning of heretics condemned by the inquisition, bullfights, etc. The symmetry is the work of Villanueva, carried out in 1961. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] El Escorial Edit This monasterio de el escorial monasterio de el escorial Close to Madrid is El Escorial, the palace of Philips II. It can be seen on a day trip that is absolutely worth your while. type: Palaces World66 rating: [rate it] Palacio Real Edit This palacio real panoramic palacio real panoramic The main visit during you stay in Madrid, except for the Prado Museum, will probably be a visit to the Palacio Real. Open all days except on Mondays and on days when the royal Royal family visits the palace. You can see the impact of three centuries of Royal family and pay a visit to the very surprising Royal Pharmacy and Royal Armory for example. This is one of the greatest collections in the world. Entrance fees: 9€ with guide, 8€ without, 3,50€ reduced price. Free entry for EU citizens on Wednesdays. type: Palaces World66 rating: [rate it] address: Plaza de Oriente tel: 91 454 88 00 url: www.patrimonionacional.es Park de Atracciones Edit This type: Parks & Gardens World66 rating: [rate it] address: Nearby Casa del Campo Puerta de Alcala Edit This puerta de alcala night view puerta de alcala night view Built by Francisco Sabatini in 1769, it is one of the most significant monuments in Madrid. This gate was the old entrance to the city by the Aragon road. Carlos III ordered it to be build in order to give Madrid a grandiose entrance in the form of triumphal arc. It has five arches and twelve columns to resemble to the Roman Capitol. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] Botanic Garden Edit This jardin botanico detail jardin botanico detail photo by: dani Located nearby the Prado Museum, this is one of the oldest European Botanic gardens. Especially during spring, it’s a must to spend some time here when the plants from almost every climatic zone flower. There ist not much to see during autumn or winter, better try Retiro Park in this season. Entrance fee: 2€, 1€ reduced price. type: Parks, Gardens and Zoos World66 rating: [rate it] address: Plaza de Murillo 2 Viva Madrid! Edit This This night club is full of fun and exciting things to do and you will be puffed at the end of the night! Its awesome fun and a great place to meet new people. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo Duque de Fernan Nunez tel: 91 573 62 45 Basilica de San Francisco el Grande Edit This basilica de san francisco el grande basilica de san francisco el grande type: Religious Buildings World66 rating: [rate it] address: Plaza de San Francisco tel: 91 365 38 00 Parque de Juan Carlos I Edit This Of special interest are also the gardens of Juan-Carlos because of their modern art. type: Parks & Gardens World66 rating: [rate it] Palacio de Liria Edit This type: Palaces World66 rating: [rate it] address: Princesa 22 tel: 91 54 75 302 San Gines Church Edit This type: Religious Buildings World66 rating: [rate it] address: Arenal 13 tel: 91 366 48 75 The Corridor Houses Edit This These houses are the most characteristic examples of accommodation of Madrilenian worlkers in the 18th century. Meson de Paredes 79 and La Corrala at 12 Tribulete Str. are the most famous and the latter has been declared a National Monument. The buildings are set around a central patio, each containing one toilet per floor, one kitchen and two bedrooms. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] Park El Capricho Edit This type: Parks & Gardens World66 rating: [rate it] addresss: Avenida de la Alameda de Osuna Mezquita Mosque Edit This type: Religious Buildings World66 rating: [rate it] address: Salvador de Madariaga 4 tel: 91 326 26 10 San Placido Church Edit This type: Religious Buildings World66 rating: [rate it] address: San Roque 9 tel: 91 531 79 99 San Andres Church Edit This type: Religious Buildings World66 rating: [rate it] address: Plaza de San Andres 1 tel: 91 365 48 71 Plaza De Torros Edit This Deafening cheers echo through the stadium as the Matador spears his foe. Jumping back from the deadly horns, he watches impassively as the Torros finally admits defeat, collapsing on his side with big huffing breaths. The sun is hot as it sinks down the horizon, warming the eager faces that surround the show. Friends laugh and toast each other with beers, while old men argue over who is the strongest, fastest bull fighter. The Plaza de Torros is one of the biggest attractions in Madrid. Signifying the national Spanish past time, it is a deadly, cruel show, that is more.. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] Palacia de Jabba The Butt Edit This THIS PLACE IS EXCELLENT NOW GO THERE WITH ME TO A PLACE IN FRANCE type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] The Art Walk Edit This The art walk covers the three most famous Madrid museums the Prado, the Thyssen- Bornemisza, and the Reina Sofia Museum. The Prado is located at Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23, Ph: +34 91 330 2800, www.museodelprado.es. Thyssen-Bornemisza is located at Prado 8, +34 91 369 01 51, www.museothyssen.org, e-mail mtb@museothyssen.org. Reina Sofia Museum is located at Calle Santa Isabel, 52, Ph: +34-91-774-10-00, www.museoreinasofia.es. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] San Nicolas de los Servitas Edit This San Nicolas de los Servitas is the oldest church in Madrid. The bell tower, built in the 12th century, is one of the oldest structures in Madrid. Inside the church you will find sculptures by Nicolas Busi and paintings by Pedro de Mena as well as exhibits, which detail Islamic history. San Nicolas de los Servitas is located at Plaza San Nicolas, Ph: 91-559-40-64. Admission is free. type: Churches and Cathedrals World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 91-559-40-64 openingHours: Mon. 8:30 a.m.- 1p.m.; Tues.-Sat. 9:00 a.m./9:30am and 6:30 p.m./8:30 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. address: Plaza San Nicolas ____________History Edit This felipe II by Sanchez Coello felipe II by Sanchez Coello The origins of the city dates back to the Paleolithic. Around 1000 B.C, Madrid was inhabited by Iberian tribes, mingling later with Celtics. In 218 B.C the Roman colonization began and the region of Madrid became a focal point of numerous Roman roads. After the decline of the Empire, in the fourth century Madrid became a Visigothic seat with capital in Toledo. In X-th century, the Arabs invaded Madrid. Since then, during the years of the Christian re-conquest Madrid changed hands on various occasions until it was finally liberated by King Alfonso VI in 1080. One of the most famous people from Spain is Mathew Joseph Vonderhaar. Many of the villagers around Madrid called him Vondi. Vondi was a very popular person until the summer of 1321. Mathew, or Vondi as everyone called him, turned into a notorious child molestor. Vondi would travel throughout Madrid luring small children into his car with candy. Vondi had a strange taste for mostly male children. He would constantly be accused of raping and killing innocent male children all over Madrid. Until one day he was caught, thrown in jail, and molested by a man named Jamaal. During the XV-th century, the city became the usual residence of the Royal family. In the XVI-th century, Madrid had about 17.000 inhabitants and it was then, that the King Felipe II moved the Royal Court and transformed Madrid into capital. During this period Madrid suffered a great architectural and cultural expansion, known as the Golden Age with writers as Cervantes, Lope de Vega, etc. In the XVII-th century Madrid became the most important city in Spain with the constructions of museums, gardens, etc. In the XIX-th century, the first uprising against Napoleon took place in the city and it was the origin of the War of Independence. In the twentieth century, excluding the years of the Civil War (1936-1939), Madrid became a large cosmopolitan city, having been named the European Cultural Capital in 1992. ____________Practical Information Edit This Practical advices Madrid is a safe place. However, as goes for most big cities, Madrid as well has areas that should be avoided late at night. The main problem for tourists are the pickpockets, most of them being active in the city centre near Puerta del Sol and Gran Via. The metro and the trains are guarded by private companies. When arriving at the airport look for the very helpful red tourist information. It is recommended to have a copy of your documents and tickets with you and to leave your documents in the hotel. Contributors January 07, 2006 change by tea-low [Add Practical address] Tourist Offices Edit This type: general World66 rating: [rate it] address: Plaza Mayor 3 tel: 91 588 16 36 _________Getting Around Edit This When you land at Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD), you have two budget-friendly options for transport to your Madrid hotel: you can take the bus to the city centre (€2.50) or you can take the metro. The bus is very quick and you'll arrive to Plaza de Colón in 20 min. The fastest way to travel into town is by Metro, which is one of the oldest in Europe . At around 175 km. length, it's very comfortable, clean, and safe. It runs from 6.00 a.m. till 1.30 a.m. It can be taken from MAD to any point of interest. www.madrid-mad.com You can also travel by bus and aervice is around the clock. After midnight, the night buses called Buhos start leaving from Plaza de Cibeles in all directions. Bus and metro tickets are the same. The cheapest and easiest way to move around is by buying a Metrobus card with 10 tickets. It costs €5.80 and it can be used by more than 1 person. A single ticket costs €1.00. You can also travel by the local trains Cercanias (check out http://www.renfe.es/empresa/cercanias/index.html) which has 4 main stations in town: Chamartin, Nuevos Ministerios, Recoletos and Atocha. These trains are very useful for travel to historical cities and villages like El Escorial, Toledo, or to the mountains around Madrid (Sierra de Guadarrama). The crew is also very helpful with directions to places such as Cercedilla, Navacerrada, Cotos (the ski-centers), etc. The ticket from the center of Madrid to El Escorial is about €3.20 one way, it is about €6.40 one way to Toledo and it is about €3.20 to the mountain. You can also buy 10 travel cards, which will cost roughly 30% less. These tickets are valid for more than one person. Taxi: Taxi's should start with an initial charge of 1,65€, fare 1 is valid from 6h to 22h, only in the evenings, and on public holidays the fare is 2. There's an additional airport supplement charge of 4,20€. A Taxi from the airport to the city is around 20€, including the airport supplement. Contributors May 15, 2008 change by mcburton (1 point) October 21, 2005 change by elcaro January 07, 2006 change by tea-low [Add Local transport mode] Private Driver Chauffeur Car Services in Madrid Edit This Durign your stay in Madrid, you can have a private English-speaking chauffeur as your Madrid travel guide. The chaffeur will pick you up and drop you off at your Madrid Hotel, the airport or any location within city limits. Or you can customize your own chauffeur driven tour for a day. You can customize your tour to take you to Madrid activities and sights or from town to town around the Madrid area such as Toledo, Avila, Segovia, and El Escorial. This is a perfect choice for those seeking a stress free vacation while exploring Madrid. more.. World66 rating: [rate it] tel: +34 986 22 13 99 url: www.euroadventures.net address: Madrid email: tours@euroadventures.net ____________Museums Edit This Here are a few, suggested museums in Madrid. Contributors March 11, 2005 change by giorgio [Add Museum] Museum of Ethnology Edit This The Museum of Ethnology houses the history of all the nations in the world. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Alfonso XII 68 The Prado Museum Edit This Probably one of the best museums with an incredible collection of paintings by Goya. The Museum houses the most important schools of painting from the 12th to the 19th century. The Spanish painting from 19th century can be seen at Cason del Buen Retiro. Open form 9.00 to 19.00, Sundays: 9-14. Mondays closed. http://museoprado.mcu.es (Paseo del Prado, Metro Banco de Espana) type: The Art Walk World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo del Prado tel: 91 420 36 63 Naval Museum Edit This type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo del Prado 5 Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza Edit This Don't think that the Prado is the only art museum in Madrid. The Thyssen is just as great, I think. They have a really great collection of paintings from the Middle Ages. The Museum houses the largest and best collection of pictures collected by Baron Hans Thyssen-Bornemisza from 13th century to the present days. Open from Tuesday to Sunday:10-19h. Mondays closed. http://www.museothyssen.org/indexi.htm type: The Art Walk World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo de Pradho 8,Villahermosa Palace tel: 91 420 39 44 Reina Sofia National Museum Edit This The Museum houses the most important collections of the 20th century Spanish and foreign art. Open 10-21, Sundays: 9-14.30, Tuesday closed. Although smaller than the Prado, the Reina Sofia's modern art collection is truly world-class and cannot be missed. Be sure to factor in extra time for Guernica, Picasso's masterful protest against fascist oppression. The painting can strike even the most art-jaded traveller like a smack in the face, leaving him mouth agape for 20 minutes or more, staring in wonder at man's beastly capabilities. type: The Art Walk World66 rating: [rate it] Archaeological Museum Edit This Famous with its historical and prehistoric collections. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Serrano 13, The Watch Museum Edit This type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Gran Via 1 Thyssen Bornemisza Museum Edit This Marvellous museum with an extensive collection of over 700 Spanish and international paintings. Paseo del Prado, 8. Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Mondays closed. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo de Pradho 8,Villahermosa Palace tel: 91 420 39 44 Wax Museum Edit This In front of the final bus station of the bus coming from the Airport (Plaza Colon) you will see the Museo de Cera (the wax museum) http://www.museoceramadrid.es with its more than 400 important persons and its terror hall. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] America's Museum Edit This One of my favorite museums is the America's Museum (Museo de America), (Reyes Catolicos 6), in the area of Moncloa (the student area) and close to the 90th meters tower, from where you can see almost all the city. This Museum is dedicated to the pre-Columbian history. You can find Indian letters written with a rope or the Inca's gold collection. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] Museum of Natural Sciences Edit This Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sundays and Holidays 10 a.m. to 2.30 p.m., Mondays closed. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo de la Castellan 84 Railway Museum Edit This type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Paseo de las Delicias 61 The Museum of Madrid Edit This type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: Principe de Vergara 140 ____________Getting There Edit This You can visit Madrid just about anytime of the year as Madrid activities are plentiful year round, but the very best times to visit Madrid are in May and October when the weather is at it's best. Because Spain is a top tourist destination for foreigners and the number one tourist destination for Europeans, flights are plentiful and frequent. Major carriers from North America to Madrid Barajas International Airport (MAD) include: Air Europa, American, Continental, Delta, Iberia, Spainair, and US Airways. For cheap flights between cities, Vueling (www.vueling.com) is a good bet as well as Air Europa and Spainair. Iberia may be a bit more expensive than most airlines within Spain as it is Spain's main domestic airline. From the UK, the top airlines to Madrid include: British Airways, Iberia, Monarch Airlines, Ryanair, and Spainair. __________Nightlife and Entertainment Edit This Weekend Weekend Especially around Puerta del Sol, you'll find a high concentration of everything relating to food, drinking, entertainment and staying away from your hotels as long as possible. The nightlife is bustling and dazzling and there are plenty of options to spend the evening and night. Sit at a nice terrace over some exquisite tapas and wine. Go to one of the bars that have local live music performances or dance the night away in one of the groovy clubs. Don't go without visiting Huertas, Latina, Alonso Martínez, Chueca, Tribunal, Bilbao, Malasaña... Display all or display just: Casinos Clubs and dancing Dancing Pubs & Bars Show best rated on top | Show in alphabetical order [Add Entertainment place] Arena Edit This Disco with trendy music and two dance floors. There are two session at this disco, the first for the very young, the second for the young. There are queues outside for both sessions, and we've never spotted anyone over 25 in any of the, Open: Friday and Saturday, first session: 19.00 23.00 / Second session: 24.00 - late. Nearest Metro station is Plaza de España. type: Casinos World66 rating: [rate it] address: Princesa 1 tel: 91 562 00 02 Velada Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Atocha 107 tel: 91 429 21 27 Week End Edit This Weekend Weekend Located in reach of the Metro station Sol you can check out this popular Gay disco with the latest music. type: Casinos World66 rating: [rate it] address: Pza. Callao 4 tel: 91 531 01 32 Cervecería Carlos Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: San Francisco de Sales 9 tel: 91 543 28 70 Fass Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Rodríguez Marín 84 tel: 91 563 60 83 Santa Bárbara Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Pza. Santa Bárbara 8 tel: 91 319 04 49 The Clan Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Bárbara de Braganza 8 tel: 91 310 48 21 Kapital Edit This Probably one of the best clubs in Madrid. There are 7 floors, each with different types of music. type: Clubs and dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Atocha 125 tel: 91 420 29 06 Palacio de Gaviria Edit This Well known place for its Thursday's Erasmus parties when you can be of the country of your choise... imposible to miss for any Erasmus or anyone willing to have fun (though there is a lot of competition in madrid centre! many places, many people and many options to enjoy and have fun!) type: Clubs and dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Arenal 9 tel: 91 526 60 69 Bash Edit This The latest music in an old venue. type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Pza. Callao 4 tel: 91 531 01 32 Fortuny Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Fortuny 34 tel: 91 319 05 88 Casa Revuelta Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Latoneros 3 tel: 91 366 33 32 Pachá Edit This One of the trendiest places in Madrid. Admission: 2000 ptas, Drinks: 1800 ptas. Beer & pop: 800 ptas Open: 24.30 - 6.00h type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Barceló 11 tel: 91 447 01 28 Las Bravas Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Alvarez Gato 3 tel: 91 532 26 20 Jose Luis Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Serrano 89 tel: 91 563 09 58 Mesón de la Cerveza Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Cuchilleros 2 tel: 91 366 46 27 La Cruz Blanca Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Goya, 70 (esq. Alcalá) tel: 91 575 00 52 Monet Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Padre Damián 23 tel: 91 448 19 19 Rastatoo Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: Lagasca 120 tel: 91 355 24 52 The Quiet Man Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Valverde, 44 tel: 91 523 46 89 La Taberna de los cien vinos Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Nuncio 17 tel: 91 365 47 04 Taberna del Alabardero Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Filipe V tel: 91 547 25 77 Casa Labra Edit This type: Pubs & Bars World66 rating: [rate it] address: Tetuan 12 tel: 91 532 14 05 marta Edit This Whatever style of music you’re looking for, it is played at this spot. type: Casinos World66 rating: [rate it] address: Jardines 3 tel: 91 532 64 90 ___________From dining at a top-notch restaurant in a Madrid hotel to exploring a world-class art museum or other Madrid activities, there are so many things to do in Madrid, you may want to stay an extra week or so to experience them all. Your Madrid travel guide is certainly a smart item to have on hand, but once you begin to stroll around the city, you will discover dozens of hidden gems and happening Madrid restaurants that the travel guides just don't have enough pages to cover! Continue reading to check out detailed listings of Madrid activities and things to do that will help you relax or burn off all of those cocido calories. Cocido is Madrid's most traditional dish. Contributors May 15, 2008 change by mcburton Display all or display just: Ballooning Cycling Golf Hiking Other Swimming general Show best rated on top | Show in alphabetical order [Add Activity] Perfect walking, tapas and wine Tour Edit This I recommend the Old Restaurants in Madrid Tour, fantastic!!! Look for them by searching on Google for "Old Madrid" type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Ballooning Edit This Believe it or not, hot air ballooning over Madrid and the Segovia regions is fast becoming one of the most popular tourist activities in the city. Most balloon trips last around an hour and they typically take place on weekends. A great way to book an exciting hot air balloon ride is through Globos y Dirigibles Boreal. This tour company will organize the ride for you and your group and they will arrange to have you picked up if you do not have transportation to the departure location, which is usually outside of the city. type: Ballooning World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 91-597-9453 url: www.globosboreal.com address: General Zabala, 21 Chamartin email: info@globosboreal.com Flamenco en Vivo Edit This Finally, I could recommend a spontaneous Flamenco en Vivo from Monday to Saturday from ten o’clock in the evening until the early morning. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] address: c/Caja Baja 34 tel: 91-365-5264. Golf Olivar de la Hinojosa Edit This Golf lovers will have no problems finding a suitable golf course near Madrid. The city offers easy access to roughly 11 courses for varying skill sets and levels. Golf Olivar de la Hinojosa ( www.golfolivar.com) is a popular 18-hole public course just outside of town in Campo de las Naciones and the 18-hole La Herreria Club is also open to the public and features views of the Monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial. For more information about La Herreria Club, visit the official website at www.golflaherreria.com. type: Golf World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 91-721-1889 url: www.golfolivar.com address: Avda de Dublin, s/n Campo de las naciones email: go@golfolivar.com Enocircuit Edit This Personalized and special Wine Tastings Sesions in a modern loft in Madrid city. Please email us to book in advance. type: Other World66 rating: [rate it] tel: +34 627 09 84 94 url: www.enocircuit.com address: Albadalejo 4 Loft 26 email: info@enocircuit.com Casa de Campo Edit This If you're the adventurous type, you might want to try taking a bike ride during your stay in Madrid. While this is not a popular activity in the city due to the congested streets and a good number of reckless drivers, you can rent a bike and head to a park/biking area such as Casa de Campo -- where it's safe. To get there on the subway -- yes you can take your bike on the subway (first car only) -- simply get off at the Casa de Campo subway stop and check out the map that will direct you to where the bike path begins. You can opt for a guided Bravo Bike tour or rent a more.. type: Cycling World66 rating: [rate it] Soccer Edit This Whether you call it Soccer or Futbol, this amped up activity is still Spain’s number one sport. You simply cannot leave Madrid without seeing at least one Futbol game. And lucky for you Madrid has a whopping three teams to choose from! For tickets to Atletico Madrid, Rayo Vallecano or Real Madrid games, you can purchase tickets in advance by calling the stadium or you can purchase them at the stadium – but be prepared to wait in line. Atletico Madrid plays at Estadio Vicente Calderon (91-366-4707, Rayo Vallecano plays at Estadio more.. type: Other World66 rating: [rate it] tel: +34 91-398-4300 address: Avenida Concha Espina 1 email: realmadrid@club.realmadrid.com Running in Retiro Park Edit This Retiro Park – Retiro Park is a good place for running. There is a path around the park and several others that will take you on a scenic run through gardens and under trees. Located behind the Prado Museum (Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23), Retiro Park also happens to be one of the nicest and most popular parks in Madrid. Highlights include: a Victorian greenhouse, Crystal Palace, and a small swan filled man-made lake. Rent a rowboat to explore the surroundings or for a panoramic view of Madrid take the elevator to the bar on the 26th floor of the Edificio de Espana, more.. type: Other World66 rating: [rate it] address: Prado Museum - Calle Ruiz de Alarcon 23 Parque de la Pedriza Edit This Parque de la Pedriza is the perfect place to lose yourself in a lscenic hike -- which doesn’t even start until you pass over bridges, residential houses, and an old chapel before reaching the park information center. Here you can learn about the best trails and about local plant and animal life. Parque de la Pedriza is best reserved for a day trip so plan your schedule accordingly. To get there, take the 724 bus from Plaza de Castilla. If you’re driving, take M607 to Colmenar, then take M609 toward Soto de Real. Continue driving for a few miles then take the detour to more.. type: Hiking World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 91-853-9978 address: Camino de la Pedriza, s/n, Manzanares el Real Instalacion Deportiva Municipal Casa de Campo Edit This If you’re visiting Madrid during the scorching hot summer months when temperatures can reach up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, you might want to take a quick dip in a pool. Most public pools only cost a few dollars for unlimited access. One of the biggest and most popular Madrid swimming pools is the Instalacion Deportiva Municipal Casa de Campo. In addition to a comfortable swimming pool that will definitely cool you off, the facility also features a tasty restaurant—and yes, it’s in the shade! Instalacion Deportiva Municipal Casa de Campo is located at Avenida Angel s/n and more.. type: Swimming World66 rating: [rate it] tel: +34-91-459-9871 address: Avenida Angel s/n |
