One of my favourite European capital cities, Madrid is a must for art aficionados, foodies and museum lovers. This is my mini guide to the Spanish capital.
Madrid travel guide
Madrid: El Escorial
Severe, austere and imposing, the 16th century El Escorial is part-monastery, part-palace, built to house the remains of the Spanish royal family.
Madrid: Museo Cerralbo
Jaw-dropping, spectacular and unforgettable, this delightful 19th century treasure-filled mansion-turned-museum has to be seen to be believed.
Madrid: Museo de Historia de Madrid and Museo Arqueológico Nacional
Learn more about the city's history at the Museum of the History of Madrid and delve into the country's past at the National Archaeology Museum.
Madrid: Museo Lázaro Galdiano and the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
A visit to two excellent art museums – the wonderfully intimate Museo Lázaro Galdiano in Madrid's Salamanca district and the world-class Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza.
Aranjuez: Royal Palace and Gardens
Some 45 minutes south of Madrid, you'll find the city of Aranjuez, home to the spectacular royal summer palace and its extensive gardens.
Madrid: Parque del Retiro, Real Jardín Botánico and the Prado museum
Madrid's central Jerónimos district is home to a trio of top sights – the elegant Parque del Retiro, the tranquil Real Jardín Botánico and the world-class Prado museum.
Madrid: Palacio Real and Catedral de la Almudena
Lavish, ornate and sumptuous, Madrid's royal palace is the largest palace in Western Europe. The adjacent Almudena Cathedral is a simpler, more modest affair.
Madrid
Sophisticated, elegant and walkable, the Spanish capital may lack a big, showstopping attraction. But it more than makes up for it with world-class museums, breathtaking palaces and outstanding food.
Bilbao: Art and the Guggenheim
Bilbao may be best known for its iconic Guggenheim Museum, but if you're looking for exceptional art, don't miss the city's wonderful Fine Arts Museum.
Bilbao: The old town
Brimming with culture, history, art and exceptionally good food, there's so much more to this Basque city than its most iconic building, the Guggenheim.
Little Old World 