Flights to Madrid (MAD)

Brimming with glorious historical architecture, world-class galleries and high-end restaurants, Madrid is a stylish city that oozes sophistication and culture.

Spain’s capital is a cosmopolitan hub with a perpetual energy – regardless of the season or time of day. From wide boulevards with boutique shops, to vast green spaces and picturesque plazas, Madrid has an endless list of neighbourhoods to explore.

The Prado Museum is one of the city’s unmissable attractions. Wander this magisterial building to discover one of the world’s most esteemed collections of art, including famous works by Velasquez, Goya and El Greco. The Prado forms part of the Golden Triangle of Art with the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and Reina Sofía Museum - making this artistic hotbed on the Paseo del Prado (Art Walk) an impressive starting point for a Madrid trip.

Close to this trio of museums is the delightful oasis of green that is El Retiro Park. Stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage Site to find a stunning tapestry of lush gardens, monuments, lakes and open-air cafés. Visit on a weekend to see the park come to life as locals dance, fence and cycle amongst the trees.

Madrid is also home to one of the world’s most successful and recognisable football clubs, Real Madrid. Catch a game to see world-class players take to the pitch in the team’s famous white strip, or simply tour the staggering Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, an 80,000-capacity arena that’s swelling with history.

When it comes to historical significance and grandiose design, the Royal Palace of Madrid is among the city’s most striking buildings. Tour this sprawling former home of the Spanish royal family to see exquisitely decorated rooms, ceilings and stairways, as well as lavish halls that host classy balls and concerts. Nearby, the Temple of Debod is a structure that contrasts sharply with Madrid’s more traditional architecture. This awe-inspiring Egyptian temple, more than 2,000 years old and embedded in mythology, was transported from the banks of the River Nile in Egypt as a gift.

Madrid has countless spots to sample the very best of Spanish cuisine, from Michelin-starred restaurants to charming markets like the Mercado de San Miguel. Opt for tapas to try an array of fantastic local dishes, from patatas bravas – deep-fried potatoes in a tangy sauce – to fried calamari. Callos a la Madrileña is more substantial, with chickpeas, vegetables and meat meticulously stewed to create a heartwarming meal.