Spain's capital, Madrid, is far less toxic than many guide books would have you believe. Traffic is no worse than many European capitals, air pollution is low - our researchers walked 12km a day in the city centre without noticable effects - and litter is being exterminated throughout by an army of cleaner conquistadores.
Magnificent, ornate buildings cram the compact, walkable centre, the natives are mostly friendly, the museums superb, and the night life is late and lively - and not just for the young ones.
This is not, however, a particularly good city for kids since it's primarily about buildings, museums and late night partying.

Real means Royal, not real!

These Madrid pictures have been organised into one general photos gallery and two pleasant walks. The walk time required [1hour - all day] will depend on the visitor's energy and interest in attractions en route. Pictures do not show all sights/attractions en route, merely some of the best.

Old City [east/west] Walk: Starting at the old city gateway, Puerta de Alcala, this walk passes various wildly overdecorated buildings and stumbles through the city's heart [Puerta del Sol], soul [Plaza Mayor], wallet [Royal Palace] and brain [Plaza de España, Quixote monument].

Museum [north/south] Walk: Starting at the Columbus monument, this walk takes in most of the city's great museums, including the del Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza and Centro de Arte Reina Sofia. The route uses leafy boulevards and includes a huge park and two of the city's most unusual offerings...The most spectacular Post Office known to mankind, and the world's greatest train station waiting room!

General Madrid Pictures: This gallery displays some of Madrid's less obvious sights, such as colourful wall decorations, prostitutes, bars, and the city's popular tourist market, el Rastro.

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Madrid Pictures © bugbog.com