Madrid being Europe's fourth largest city, with a population of just under three million, is a major tourist attraction. It has plenty of sunshine, 2800 hours annually to be exact, in turn this creates a lot of things to do in the centres. Although Madrid has warm and dry summers and cool winters the city allows for many activities in any weather condition. They hold many fiestas during the year and in turn is a major competition between the districts to outdo each other. Some of the common fiestas are Reyes Magos (Feast of the Three Kings), Carnival, the religious processions of Holy Week, the San Isidro festival in May (the beginning of the bullfighting season) and Nochevieja (New Year's Eve). Madrid as well has a lot of cultural festivals in the summer and fall. These festivals let visitors enjoy films, dance, theatre and music of all kinds. You may be surprised when entering Madrid, the clothing appears to be traditional, as they are attached to their customs more so than any other city in Europe. The cultural diversity of Madrid will be sure to give one a long lasting experience and a once in a lifetime chance to live in another culture.
The plaza is located in the heart of Madrid, but was once the area in which bullfights, festivals, ceremonies, plays and the crowning of kings were held. This one spot has created a lot of history in the Spanish community. The present day the plaza is decorated with coloured murals and architecture. There is plenty to do in the area with their many shops, cafes and tapas bars.
Teatro Real is a place where many concerts are held and is home of the Spanish Opera. A wonderful place to go to see theatre in a fashionable atmosphere. This theatre makes for Madrid's most prestigious theatre yet, however, the building itself is still a work in progress.
This is Madrid's most ancient city wall, where the remains of the old wall can be seen as well. There are also Islamic remains that can be viewed. For a little taste of history and understanding about how Madrid came to be, a tour of the wall is a great adventure.
Featured Madrid Hotel - Carlton Hotel
The Carlton is a deluxe hotel located in the centre of Madrid, convenient to many of the area attractions. The Madrid Carlton has taken special care with those details, which define comfort and elegance, providing pleasant décor and furnishings. You will enjoy a careful selection of paintings and sculptures by well-known and new artists, who have chosen this excellent setting to exhibit their works throughout the year. Whether your stay is for business or pleasure, you are sure to enjoy your stay here.
Each of the 112 tastefully appointed guest rooms feature standard amenities that are sure to please even the most discerning traveller. All rooms come equipped with air conditioning, desk, direct dial telephone, individual climate control, mini bar, modem data ports, pay-per-view movies, cable TV and voice mail. Comfortable facilities and convenience are qualities that you will come to expect as a guest of the Carlton. A cordial and attentive staff is available to assist you with any needs that you might have. The hotel is minutes away from fine dining, shopping and entertainment venues.