Great value holiday car hire in Madrid - Spain.

Majestic and Cosmopolitan Madrid. The capital of Spain since 1561. Madrid has exquisite architecture, elegant squares and beautiful broad tree-lined boulevards all dominated by Renaissance, Neoclassical and Romantic architecture.

Places of interest: The city is best explored by foot, however there is an excellent metro underground system linking the city's major attractions. Visit the spectacular Royal Palace and the famous Museo del Prado which houses one of the worlds largest and impressive collections of paintings by many European masters. (Goya, El Greco, Murillo). Call in at the Thyssen-Bornemisza contemporary art gallery and the Reina Sofia (Picasso, Dali and Miro) museums, all located within the 'Art Triangle'. Visit one of the many parks, especially the tranquil Retiro Park which provides a great haven in the warm summer months and is ideal for a gentle pre-dinner stroll. Stroll along from the Plaza Mayor from the heart of old Madrid which lies below the Gran Via and stop at one of the many pavement cafes for a refreshing drink and relax while the city intensively drifts by. Car hire can be pre booked at discounted holiday prices for collection at Madrid Airport (MAD) or reserved for downtown pick up or from many central holiday resort locations. Book your car hire online for great value fully inclusive rates.

What to buy: The famous Rastro flea market near Latina metro station is worth a visit for it's colourful bustling atmosphere, traditional crafts and other bargains. The main shopping is to be found along the Gran Via and the Puerto del Sol. Best buys include leather, wines, ceramics and fashion.

Nightlife: Excellent traditional restaurants line the Costa del Sol and the more exclusive Salamanca district. You should dine late in Madrid (around 10pm) in order to experience the real Spain. Restaurants and tapas bars are open till late and provide a wide variety of local delicacies. Try the Plaza Oriente for traditional restaurants, the Plaza Santa Ana and Paseo de la Castellana districts are open till late and have many trendy bars and pavement cafes.

Events: National ballet season. Madrid Jazz festival. Music and Dance festival.