Spain's passionate capital dazzles with world-class art museums, lively plazas, flamenco dancing, and the country's most exciting football culture.

Madrid became Spain's capital in 1561 when King Philip II moved the royal court from Toledo. The city grew from a medieval fortress into one of Europe's grandest capitals during Spain's Golden Age when the Spanish Empire ruled much of the known world. Madrid's Royal Palace, Prado Museum, and grand boulevards date from this prosperous period. The city remained Spain's cultural and political heart through centuries of change. Today's Madrid is a vibrant, energetic metropolis that knows how to live well - with late dinners, passionate football matches, and the famous Spanish siesta! Families love Madrid's wide boulevards perfect for strolling, beautiful parks with puppet shows and boat rides, world-famous art museums (the Prado has masterpieces by Velázquez and Goya), and the infectious Spanish zest for life. Plus, churros with chocolate for breakfast!

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