Car Hire Barajas (Madrid) Airport
One of the most popular cities in Europe, Madrid is a dynamic modern metropolis draped in history, art, culture, and entertainment. Situated in the heart of Spain, the nation’s capital is packed with a treasure trove of hidden gems, underpinning one of the finest European collections of Latin American and Spanish art. Boasting a wide variety of historical monuments, quirky neighbourhoods, unique statues, and vibrant nightspots, Madrid is a city rich in pleasure and recreation, doubling as the perfect place for some much needed RnR.
As the sunniest city in Europe and one of the richest in the continent, you can guarantee plenty is going on no matter what time of year you visit. Come for the weather, stay for the leisure, as Madrid is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and one place you can’t miss on your next trip through Europe’s Southeast.
Drive to some of Spain’s Oldest and Boldest City Attractions
As the third largest city in Europe, Madrid is seen as a gold mine for historical architecture, with the city itself not established until the closing stages of the 9th century. For any history buffs or fervent travellers, a great place to start any Spanish escapade is the Puerta del Sol, one of Madrid’s most famous central squares. Situated in the heart of the city, Puerta del Sol, meaning ‘the gate of the sun’, is a vibrant city square and the cornerstone of three of Madrid’s main symbols: El Oso y el Madroño, statue of the Bear and Strawberry Tree, representing Madrid’s coat of arms, Real Casa de Correos; house of the post office, home to Madrid’s famous city clock and Spanish new year traditions, and Kilometre Zero; marking the city centre for which distances are measured in Spain. With all roads leading to the Puerta del Sol, it is a great place to start any Spanish adventure in your rental car.
Next on the list is the otherworldly Spanish Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Spain. This striking 18th-century citadel, a melange of neoclassical and baroque architecture, is a true Spanish masterpiece. Visitors will be amazed by the incredible detail crafted into this extravagant palace with highlights including the Royal Armoury, King Charles III’s apartments, the Crown Room, Royal Library and Jardines del Campo del Moro (historic palace gardens).
After finishing up at the palace, only a short trip in your rental car across town is the Museo Nacional del Prado – a world-class art museum and home to some of the world’s most celebrated artwork. Primarily housing artworks from the 12th to 19th centuries, guests are privy to the works of famous artists including Velázquez, Goya, Rubens, El Greco, and El Bosco. Other breathtaking attractions to explore include Retiro Park, a lush 17th-century city park perfect for a picnic, rowing on the lake and escaping the hustle and bustle of the city centre, the Temple of Debod; a well-preserved 2nd-century BC Egyptian temple gifted to Spain in 1968, or the Plaza Mayor; a colourful city square hosting many festivals and events, featuring 9 entrances and a bronze statue of King Phillip III on horseback.