Post-Conference Tour

This is Spain’s leading art gallery and some regard it as the best in the world. The Museo del Prado, which is home to some 8,000 works by the greatest artists in the history of art, occupies two magnificent buildings. The Juan de Villanueva building and the Casón del Buen Retiro. Don’t miss the rooms dedicated to Velázquez and Goya.

This is one of the great lungs of the city and one of the most beautiful natural spaces in Madrid. On Sundays, the avenues of Retiro Park are filled with street musicians, families on bicycle rides, and puppet theatres, among other things. Its pond, presided over by the monument to Alfonso XII, is ideal for a peaceful outing in a rowing boat. Next to the pond are the Palacio de Velázquez and the Palacio de Cristal, dedicated to art exhibitions.

It’s the geographical and sentimental heart of Madrid, the starting point from which all national roads are measured. The semi-circular Puerta del Sol is probably the liveliest and most vibrant place in the city. Its most iconic building, the old Casa de Correos, has the famous clock that chimes on New Year’s Eve.

Located a stone’s throw from the Plaza de Cibeles and next to Retiro Park, the Puerta de Alcalá is one of the five royal gates that provided access to the city and is one of the biggest icons of Madrid. It was built by Sabatini between 1769 and 1778, with granite and white stone, commissioned by Carlos III. It has served as inspiration for the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin.

Opened in 1620 to be used for official events, popular festivals, and bullfights, as well as for properties, the Plaza Mayor is one of the liveliest places in the heart of Madrid. In its centre is the equestrian statue of Felipe III. Its two most outstanding buildings are the Casa de la Panadería, with its Salón Real, and the Casa de la Carnicería.

Built with granite and white stone, the Royal Palace of Madrid is the most important building linked to the Spanish monarchy. Its spectacular marble main staircase is the work of Sabatini, the ceilings of the Salón de Guardias and the Salón del Trono were painted by Tiepolo and the vaults of the gala dining room feature paintings by Mengs, González Velázquez, and Bayeu. Be sure to visit the Royal Armoury, the Royal Carriage Museum, and the 2.66-hectare Sabatini Gardens.