A Quick Orientation of Madrid
With a population of just over three million, Madrid is Europe's fourth largest city. Getting around can be confusing, but getting lost on foot in the narrow streets of the Old Town is a great way of discovering some of Madrid's hidden gems. In contrast, the city's excellent metro system is easy to navigate. Madrid's plazas each have their own character and the Plaza de España is home to an exciting array of architecture including one of Europe's highest skyscrapers, the Edificio España. It also boasts a huge number of department stores, restaurants, bars and hotels, making it a great starting point on any trip to Madrid.
The Puerta del Sol lies south of here and is a lively semi-oval square at the heart of the Spanish road network. A milestone on the pavement is the point from where the distance between Madrid and all other areas of Spain are measured. It's also a great meeting point and one of the most popular areas in the Old Town, containing some interesting statues including a depiction of Madrid's heraldic device - a bear eating fruit. At the heart of the Old Town is the Plaza Mayor, with its eclectic mix of architecture and surrounding streets that are packed with restaurants and tapas bars. In the areas around the Plaza Mayor you'll find markets, wine bars, clubs, hotels and tascas.
Spain Map
Madrid Map
Useful Madrid Links
Guide to Madrid - detailed travel guide to Madrid, Spain
Madrid Barajas International Airport (MAD) - Guide to Madrid (MAD) Airport