Madrid in general

Advantages: Huge rapid urban growth
Disadvantages: Cant find any!

...from his favourite hunting grounds. Madrid met that requirement admirably, and the town also had good water, room for expansion and fertile farmland in the vicinity. Once the decision was made, Philip initiated a building program to make Madrid a suitable capital. Later Spanish kings also embellished the city, creating a unique connection between Madrid and the monarchy. By the 17th century, Madrid has become the largest city in Spain. Today it ...
...of the city is called Madrid of the Austrias, dating from the Austrian or Hasburg, dynasty of the 16th and 17th centuries. Subsequent additions became known as the Madrid of the Bourbons, the present dynasty that dates from 1700. Over the centuries, Spanish kings promoted or financed the construction of many of the capitals stately buildings. This priceless collection of paintings now forms the nucleus of Madrid national art gallery. And extensive ... Read review

Advantages: Lots to do, everything's cheaper
Disadvantages: None that I can think of

...Balearics. However I found that Madrid has plenty to do as well I visited La Reina Sofia Museum of Modern Art. This was my preferred museum There are some really cool exhibitions, even if you are not too keen on art. Also there is Del Prado is one of the most famous art museums in the world. There are mainly “old fashioned” renaissance style paintings in here, but it is interesting to walk around and see them. If it’s a nice day, ...
...visit. You can look over Madrid from the Courtyard or go on a tour of the Royal Rooms, some of which are incredible. You’ll need about 2 hours at least to do this. Afterwards walk down to Plaza de Isabel II to east at one of the many cafes there. Eating in Madrid s fairly easy, even if you hate Spanish food. Like in any city there is a MacDonald’s or a Burger King on each corner. If you do like Spanish food, find a small family restaurant. ... Read review

Advantages: Lots to do, food,drink, accom is cheap, metro is great
Disadvantages: Crime, few speak English/German/French,

...2001 My trip to Madrid coincided with seeing a v.important football match, but rather than stay in the pubs all day, we got out and about, so here goes. Flights to Madrid Offered by many companies. Main operators are Easyjet - flights from £35 rtn (from London Luton & Liverpool) Go - flights from £60 rtn Iberia £?????? and others, but you may find the above the cheapest. The airport is massive, it'll take approx 1.5-2hrs to fly there from ...
...off. Metro The Madrid metro is superb, quick, clean and v.v.cheap. You can buy a 1- ticket pass for 750 pts (about £3!) and the ticket is valid for one journet, however long. A single ticket costs 145pts so the 10 ticket option is more sensible. Car I wouldn't advise driving in Madrid. It's slow, busy and the drivers are v.aggressive. Still, if you're gonna travel, then all the usual rental firms are at the airport. Hotels A good range, loads ... Read review

Advantages: Great night life
Disadvantages: people with attitude

Madrid is great for a short city break, there is plenty to see and do and an absolutly fantastic nightlife. Madrid is home to the world famous Prado art gallery as well as many museums and Parks gardens and the Royal palace. Most of the tourist attractions including the flea market are central and within walking distance of each other. (But beware many tourist attractions are closed on a Monday). The night life in Madrid is excellent and I would ...
...cheap hostals and hotels. Madrid is full of budget Accomodation we stayed in hostals that ranged from £20 per night (B&B) to £4 per night (room only) I would recomend staying in this area as it is cheap and a great base for shopping, sight seeing and Nightlife. We used the 'TIME OUT' city guide to Madrid which had excelent information on things to see and do, but I would advise getting your own map as the one in the back is difficult to read. the ... Read review

Advantages: Hot, Beautiful
Disadvantages: Not a lot of public transport

Madrid is a beautiful city with interests for everyone. If you are interested in History or architector then you should visit the King's Palace. There are many parks and they are beautifully arranged. If you want to go out for a meal, then you could go to The Rock Cafe. Ok, so all the menus are in English and the waitresses and waiters try their best to talk to you but the food is really good. I warn you though, in Madrid, when it rains in really ... Read review