Madrid Holiday Guide

Spain's capital is just a two-and-a-half-hour flight away from the UK. Most of the UK's major airports regularly put on flights to Barajas International Airport, which is about 20 minutes away from Madrid city centre. Those who have the time to spare, or perhaps are not keen on flying, can travel to the city by train, perhaps stopping off in Paris for a day or two before catching a direct train all the way to Madrid's Chamartín train station.

Once you're there, Madrid is best explored on foot, though the city's Metro service is an inexpensive and reliable alternative.  There are saver and day tickets available for those intending to make numerous journeys. Taxis are fairly good value, though they can often be hard to find, especially in the evening.

As it is home  to many renowned structures, picturesque parks and fascinating museums and art galleries, there is always plenty to do in Madrid. No visit to the Spanish capital would be complete without taking in some of its outstanding buildings, in particular the stunning Palacio Real (Royal Palace), or the imposing Catedral de la Almudena. The city's pretty parks are ideal locations to stop off for lunch or indeed to spend the afternoon – hire a boat in El Retiro or marvel at the beautiful Casa de Campo, which is situated behind the palace.

The city also contains several venues housing significant historical artefacts and works of art, such as the Museo del Prado, where exhibits by such Spanish luminaries as Velázquez and Goya are on display, and the Museo Reina Sofía, where much of Picasso's work can be seen. Fans of football will also love a trip to the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid's home ground, which contains a museum showcasing the club's glorious past.

Considering Spain's impressive and distinctive cuisine has touched most parts of the world at one point or another, it should come as no surprise to hear that Madrid is home to many impressive restaurants. Renowned for its meat- and seafood-based dishes, Spanish cuisine has much to sate most people's palates, in particular its appetising paella, tapas and spicy soup dishes.

The city's Latina district is a great place to start. La Musa Latina and El Viajero are both excellent choices, as is Casa Lucio, which is often frequented by the rich and famous. The Salamanca area also contains several notable eateries serving traditional Spanish fare, such as Centro Riojano and Estay. Those wishing to eat out should be aware; however, of Spain's tendency to settle down for dinner quite late in the day; indeed, many restaurants do not open for the evening till about 9pm.

Following their usual late dinner, the Spanish don't tend to hit the bars till past midnight, while clubs often don't fill up until about 3am; indeed, Madrid has gained a reputation in recent times as a place where revellers can often be seen heading to work in the morning straight from a club.

The bars in and around the Plaza de Santa Ana, several of which have a distinctly British feel to them, are popular with tourists. Those who would prefer an evening out with more of a local feel will enjoy a trip to Madrid's rather bohemian Latina district: dine on tapas at bars such as La Concha or try a mojito or tequila at Delic Cafe. The city is also home to a number of venues putting on traditional Spanish entertainment: check out some impressive flamenco dancing at bars such as Taberna Casa Patas, La Solea and Cafe de Chinitas.

From parks to theme parks and zoos housing all manner of exotic wildlife, A holiday in Madrid is blessed with numerous venues suitable for the whole family. The Parque de Atracciones, which is located within the Casa de Campo, has numerous rollercoaster rides the younger ones will love, and a large zone which caters for the even younger ones. They'll also love the thrilling rides on offer at Parque Warner Madrid, a theme park about 25 kilometres outside the city.

Also to be found in the Casa de Campo is Madrid Zoo and Aquarium, where creatures from all over the world are on view, including the Iberian lynx, a feline native to Spain and Portugal. The Casa de Campo can be reached by the Teleférico cable car, which affords some wonderful views of the city during its 15-minute journey.

Several places within fairly easy reach of Madrid are well worth visiting. A trip to the World Heritage Site of Toledo, 70 kilometres south of the capital, is particularly recommended. Located on a mountaintop, this stunning city of quaint cobbled streets is dominated by its imposing cathedral. Heading north of Madrid, the walled city of Segovia enjoys similar World Heritage status, and it's not difficult to see why: the 12th-century castle, Gothic cathedral and amazing Roman aqueduct are but three of its many beautiful attractions.

About 45 kilometres north-west of Madrid, El Escorial is another place with much aesthetic value. Of particular note is the immense monastery, yet another Spanish location that has been awarded World Heritage Site status. Connoisseurs of wine will appreciate a trip to any of several wine-making regions within striking distance of Madrid, such as La Mancha or Ribera del Duero. Such excursions usually involve a spot of wine-tasting, so it often pays to leave the hire car behind and take an organised excursion to these vineyards.

Whether you're after the latest trends or would just like to pick up some charming souvenirs or gifts, Madrid has something for everyone. The city is home to numerous department stores, including several branches of El Corte Inglés, the country's largest and most popular department store  outlet. Fans of such shops will love a trip to the huge La Vaguada shopping centre in the north of the city. Aficionados of designer clothing should head for the Salamanca district, where Spanish designers such as Adolfo Domínguez and Antonio Miró compete with more internationally renowned names such as Cerruti and Versace.

Madrid is also a wonderful place to pick up some bargains or interesting curios, not least in the city's fashionable Latina district. If you're fortunate enough to be around on a Sunday or a public holiday, the huge flea market at El Rastro  is worth a visit: look out for items here and in the neighbouring streets as diverse as stylish clothing, paintings and antiques.