Introduction
A trip from Barcelona to Madrid is a great investment of your time and it is the home to a unrivaled sense of energy, radiating from its cultural traditions which influence the capital up until the present day. The only way you can be stuck for what to do here is only due to the sheer variety of activities on offer.

Art
For those with a keen interest or perhaps just a general curiosity should begin with heading over to Museo Thyssen Bornemisza, with a fine collection of early Italian exhibits and work from English German and Dutch schools. It is part of the Golden triangle of Art alongside the Reina Sofia and Prado, you shouldn't miss out on the opportunity of capturing part of artistic history. Want to get a taste of the Royal lifestyle without getting a telling off for staring through the keyhole, its ok we've all been there. Head on down to Palacio Real the home of the former royal family and is now a tourist attraction. Although not all of the rooms are open (perhaps a fair few are tempted for a nap) it is made up to you with the beautiful gardens: Jardines del maro and Sabattini gardens.

Love the Game
Calling all football fans, apparently football is a bit of a big thing in Madrid (who'd of known) yes and Real Madrid FC have quite the reputation of being on of the most successful teams in the world. Now that your attention is focused lets explain what its all about. The two main teams are Real Madrid and Atletico playing at Santiago Bernabeu and Vicente Calderon. With La liga and champions league games available at a reasonable price be sure to get down there to ensure getting a ticket to the all important games. If you haven't arrived in Madrid on a game day then you can take an extensive tour around the stadium which will satisfy all football fans!

If you want a change of pace from football or just a general sports fan get courtside for the 3 pointers flying in all night long. it is most certainly good! With two main teams in the league Real Madrid and Estudiantes you have the fun of choosing a team both starting at 20 euro for a ticket. With Spain quickly moving up the league tables of being one of the best countries for basketball make sure you get involved!

Taking a stroll
One park that should always be on your hitlist when in Madrid is Parque del Retiro, calling it huge still underestimates it, it will take you a good couple of trips to get around its vast range of activities but with the golden triangle of museums nearby you will have an excuse to head down more than once. Looking for somewhere that combines the relaxation for adult and excitement/entertainment for kids? Rosates and the Parque del Oeste is the right place to go.