A trip to Madrid will engage you in one of the architectural capitals of Europe. As the capital of Spain, Madrid is also home to some of Europe’s finest museums, restaurants, and night-life.
Museums
The “Museo Nacional del Prado” more simply known as the Prado hold’s Madrid’s finest collection of art. Notable works include numerous pieces by Goya, El Greco, and Velazquez. Currently, the Prado is hosting an exhibit from Russia’s Hermitage Museum which will be on display until March 2012.
Tapas
The typical Madrid evening starts with tapas and drinks at one of the numerous bodegas throughout the downtown core. Partaking in this pre-dinner ritual is a great way to get a taste of the culture. Tostas, various meats and/or cheeses on toasted bread, are a popular choice to accompany a cerveza or vino tinto (red wine). ‘Vinoteca’ and ‘Lateral’ are two great restaurants in Plaza St. Ana that offer a wide variety of delicious tapas and cocktails. Also, the side streets near Puerta del Sol are jammed with great places to sample.