Madrid is one of Europe’s most intoxicating cities: a capital with an astoundingly colourful array of art, restaurants, parks and shops. The city is surprisingly walkable, too, making it easy to take in the sights on foot. Wondering what to do in Madrid on your trip? Start at a museum, taking in the some of the world’s most famous paintings, then feast on seafood and Spanish wine at a lively market or food hall. Spend some time soaking up the sun with the locals in one of the city’s many green spaces; then do a little shopping at an eclectic boutique or two. And don’t forget an evening cocktail in one of Madrid’s myriad quirky bars.

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Unmissable Art

Three of the top things to see in Madrid are to be found in the city’s “Art Triangle” on the Paseo del Prado. Here, three museums hold some of world’s most jaw-dropping art, and they’re close enough that you can stroll from one to the other. Start in the north with the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum’s collection of works by Titian, Dürer and Degas, all, housed in a neo-classical palace that’s a piece of art in itself. Continue on to the Museo del Prado, which boasts an unparalleled collection of work by the Spanish masters (Goya, El Greco and Velázquez) but don’t miss the temporary exhibits, which are often just as compelling. Finally, continue on to the Reina Sofía (housed in an 18th century hospital), which draws crowds for Picasso’s Guernica but has plenty of other modern masterpieces, including work by his fellow Spaniards Dalí and Miró.

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