Madrid SPAIN A modern and thriving city, Madrid has grown steadily over the last couple of centuries and is today an artistic and vibrant metropolis with glimpses of its medieval and romantic past. The city’s endless list of boutiques, cafes and gastro-bars will leave you spoilt for choice with many places to eat, drink and experience Spanish culture. When you think of Madrid, greenery is probably not the first thing that comes to mind but the city is home to stunning parks that will blow you away, including the 8-hectare Botanical Garden and the Retiro Park, which is the largest park in the city. All the main streets meet in the Puerta del Sol from which you can easily walk north passing Gran Via to the lively and vibrant areas of Malasana and Chueca. Here you will find narrow streets lined with vintage boutiques, restaurants and bars where the sound of live music and the scent of great food fill the air. Stroll through the Paseo de la Castellana, Madrid’s most stylish avenue, which has designer shops and luxurious hotels to marvel at. For culture, don’t miss the museums such as the famous Prado, the modern Reina Sofia and the fascinating Thyssen-Bornemisza.
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