Destination: Madrid

What a mix of royal European magnificence and non-stop street life ... this is Madrid, administrative and royal capital of Spain since the late medieval period, it became a city of imperial elegance in the 1600s, when Spain's New World empire was producing unbelievable wealth, and making Spain one of Europe's top powers. Successive kings turned Madrid into a capital rich in Baroque architecture, and patronized great artists.

Madrid endured the political and economic upheavals Spain experienced off and on for well over a century. But her physical beauty survived, and now provides a magnificent setting for the vivacity of the 21st century city. We'll arrive there from Barcelona via high speed rail, and enjoy a motor tour of the city's highlights, including free exploration time at the Plaza Mayor and climaxing with a tour of the awe-inspiring Royal Palace. Our elegant hotel, the Westin Palace Madrid, is an ideal base for two days of being temporary Madrillenos (citizens of the city), eating wonderful food, touring the Prado Museum, enjoying the vigorous nightlife and the amiable, laid-back hospitality of the residents. One famous saying in this international town is, "If you're in Madrid, then you're from Madrid".  You're sure to feel welcome here, and look forward to coming back.