Madrid - Medieval and Modern

Madrid is the capital city of Spain and is located in the middle of the country on the Iberian Peninsula. Madrid is a very large city with well over nine million people in its metropolitan area. Madrid has a wonderful arts and culture heritage and provides its tourists with many things to do and see. Madrid is known for having one of the liveliest club and bar scenes in the world.

The best time to visit Madrid is in the spring time. The climate is mild in the spring with occasional rain and yet it is not too hot or too cold. Madrid can be very cold in the winter and hot in the summer making them less than ideal times of year to visit.

Although Madrid is as modern of a European city as you will find, its rich history has left it with some amazing large monolithic cathedrals, churches and medieval architecture which leaves you feeling like you have gone back in time to another place.

The residents of Madrid, who call themselves Madrileños, live a life around their climates. It is common in most of Madrid to work in the mornings, siesta in the afternoons while it is very hot or cold, and then finish the work day later in the afternoon and early evening times. While some of the more modern chain stores are open throughout the day, more traditional and smaller businesses can be expected to be closed through siesta time. It's important to keep this in mind for sightseeing and shopping excursions.

There are a large number of bars and clubs in Madrid. The Madrileños are known for their love of partying and the good life. Staying up all night and drinking and dancing is not uncommon.

If you are traveling to Madrid it is important to learn at least basic Spanish. Most natives of the city do not speak much English and it is often hard to find someone who does. While the people of Madrid are welcoming of forigners, you will find it tough if you cannot converse with at least some basic Spanish.

Travel in Madrid is very modern with wonderful Metro train, bus systems in place which will take you just about wherever you want to go. Other locations can be reached by taxi.

Madrid is home to some of the world's greatest museums. These include: The Museo del Prado, The Reina Sofia National Museum and Art Centre, and The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum of Art. Some other museums of note are: The San Fernando Royal Academy of Fine Art, The Museum of the City, San Antonio de La Florida Hermitage, and The Real Madrid Museum.

If you prefer sight-seeing to going to museums some of the attractions you should not miss are: El Retiro. The large park in the center of Madrid which as a lake and a lively culture. · The Palacio Real, the Royal Palace of Spain and it's Royal Armoury.· Catedral de la Almudena, The majestic cathedral where the Princes of Asturias Felipe and Letizia were married in 2004. · Gran Vía, the theater district of Madrid. No matter where you go or what you decide to do in Madrid you can be assured that it is a very safe and clean city. The night life is like no other and you will never be bored. Enjoy the clubs at night and the amazing views by day.