
Cibeles
The
capital of Spain, located in the heart of the peninsula and right in
the center of the Castillian plain 646 meters above sea level, has a
population of over three million. A cosmopolitan city, a business
center, headquarters for the Public Administration, Government, Spanish
Parliament and the home of the Spanish Royal Family, Madrid also plays a
major role in both the banking and industrial sectors. Most of its
industry is located in the Southern fringe of the city, where important
textile, food and metal working factories are clustered. Madrid is
characterized by intense cultural and artistic activity and a very
lively nightlife.The grand metropolis of Madrid can trace its origins to the times of Arab Emir Mohamed I (852-886), who ordered the construction of a fortress on the left bank of the Manzanares river. Later it became the subject of a dispute between the Christians and Arabs until it was conquered by Alonso VI in the 11th century. At the end of the 17th century, a defensive wall was built for the protection of the new outlying areas, tracing the roads of Segovia, Toledo and Valencia. During the 18th century, under the reign of Carlos III, were designed the great arteries of the city, such as the Paseo del Prado and Paseo las Acacias.

Palacio de Cristal

Retiro
However, if you're up to spend more money on exclusive services and accommodations, there are many options for you as well. Madrid as an cosmopolitan city with its famous hotels, high class stores, unique restaurants, it's also the perfect place for the luxury traveller. The "Goden Mile" is Serrano street, located in Barrio de Salamanca. But you also can find many fancy hotels in the city center, from traditional styles to the most modern and stylish design buildings. So, before travelling, think about what you expect to do in Madrid and then choose the lodging that best fits your needs.
Arriving in Madrid won't be a problem, because the city is well connected both by trin and roads. Moreover, Madrid's airport (Barajas) is one of the biggest and better organized in the world.





