Spain's capital city Madrid sits at the country's heart in the state Community of Madrid. The city is home to the Spanish monarchy and also to two of the world's best-known football teams, Real and Atlético, who have a fierce rivalry in La Liga. Hire a car from Madrid's Plaza de Espana, and you'll be able to conveniently tour the historic nearby neighbourhood of Los Austrias. Visit Madrid's most prominent landmarks, including the home of the Spanish monarchy; the Royal Palace, the neo-gothic Catedral de la Almudena, and the city's main square; Plaza Mayor, which holds a selection of traditional restaurants, shops and hotels.
Experience Madrid's culture and visit the Barrio de las Letras area of the city. This part of town was a creative capital to some of the city's most notable authors during the 16th and 17th centuries including Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote. Today it is home to the city's art triangle of the Reina Sofia, Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museums, each of which will surely satisfy your thirst for culture. Madrid is a market haven, rent a car from Plaza de Espana and visit the city's many stalls. El Rastro is the largest flea market in Europe; while for a taste of the city's history, pay a trip to the city's only market hall, the elegant Mercado de San Miguel.
