Plaza Mayor, the main square of Madrid, boasts a fascinating history that dates back to the late 16th century when it was named Plaza del Arrabal, hosting the city’s most popular market. Today, it is a top tourist attraction with a lot to offer. One of the highlights of the plaza is the equestrian statue of King Philip III, located in the centre. Sculpted by Giambologna and finished by Pietro Tacca in 1616, it originally stood at the entrance to Casa de Campo Park before Queen Isabella II had it moved to the Plaza Mayor in 1848. The plaza's most striking building is the Casa de la Panadería, the first to be established in 1590, which was initially the most important bakery in Madrid. Today, it houses the Plaza Mayor Tourist Information Centre and the Tienda Casa de la Panadería, a shop selling souvenirs of Madrid made by local artisans. Another popular spot is El Arco de Cuchilleros, the most famous of the nine entrances to Plaza Mayor. Plaza Mayor is also an excellent place to enjoy a coffee or grab a bite, people-watch, and soak up the city’s rich history. Throughout the year, there are various events, including the drum parade at Easter, outdoor concerts, and the Christmas market in December, so be sure to check the calendar when you're visiting.

Fort National, built in the late 17th century to protect St Malo, is a landmark of the city. If you decide to visit the museum do not forget to take the long spiral staircase to the top of the building, from an astonishing view of the city and the coastline unfolds.

The Grand Aquarium is an attraction enjoyable to the whole family. Here you can see 600 different species of marine animals and watch them up close - there is even a contact basin where visitors can touch the fish directly. Do not miss the underwater ride in the submarine at the end.

The Prado Museum, officially known as Museo Nacional del Prado, is an internationally renowned museum that boasts an impressive collection of over 7,000 paintings (although only approximately 1,500 are currently on display). Established two hundred years ago, the museum's collections have expanded to include artworks by Spanish masters such as Velázquez and Goya, as well as pieces by renowned Flemish artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Pieter Bruegel, and Anton Van Dyck.