Cheap flights to Madrid
Europe's third largest city may not have a beach like Barcelona, but if you come on a city break to Madrid sunbathing is the last thing that'll be on your mind. Spain's capital is one bursting with culture and activities for tourists at every turn, with museums, art galleries and night after night of sexy flamenco.
Madrid's tourism board will proudly inform you that the city has more bars per square metre than anywhere else in Europe. When it comes to appearances Madrid is hard to beat too, having retained much of its historic and regal flair seen in its wide boulevards, elegant fountains and royal parks. And for those of you who are bad with your bearings, don't worry, despite the size of this metropolis, Madrid's centre is surprisingly small. It has one of Europe's best metros too.
April 2013
In Las Rozas Village, just 40 minutes by bus from the city centre, you'll find over 100 top labels from outlet stores offering clothes at unbeatable prices (lasrozasvillage.com).
April 2013
Masterpieces by big names in hyperrealism, including Chuck Close and Don Eddy, make "Hyperrealism", a special exhibition at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, a must. Until 9 June (Palacio de Villahermosa, 8 Paseo del Prado, tel: 902 760 511, museothyssen.org).
April 2013
During April don't miss the chance to experience the vibrant colours of the spring flowers, particularly the thousands of dahlias in the Madrid botanical gardens next to the Prado Museum. End your visit with a walk through the large greenhouse (2 Plaza de Murillo, tel: 914 203 017, rjb.csic.es).
March 2013
Jump on the high-speed AVE train at Atocha station and 30 minutes later you can be strolling the medieval streets of Toledo. Take time to visit the cathedral and castle, before enjoying lunch and spectacular views at the Parador restaurant (1 Plaza Palacio).