What to do & see in Madrid?

[Woland]

Dear Loungers.

The Missus and myself reserved tickets and hotel last night.
5 days of pre-xmas relaxation in Madrid.
Leaving on Friday.

Anyone got any advice as to "musts"?
Be greatly appreciated.

 

[BellyTank]

...three world-class art museums and two royal palaces.
That's 5 days worth.

I haven't actually been to Madrid...

http://www.dit.upm.es/figures/photos/madrid/madsights.html


B
T

 

[Woland]

...three world-class art museums and two royal palaces.
That's 5 days worth.

I beg your pardon Mr. BellyTank...
I should have made myself clearer.
(Kinda suspected that Madrid had a cultural aspect or two... )

"The Prado" is already on our list, as is a more than thorough sampling of local brews.
Missus has sniffed out a famous market for Sunday Spending Galore!

Was specifically thinking about Spanish culture in the aspect of "The Golden Era".
I know next to nothing about the cultural consequences (good & bad) during the "Franco-years".
Seeking enlightenment so to speak.

 

[Twitch]

Friends of ours liked Spain so much after one trip they returned the next year.

 

[Woland]

Came back yesterday evening.
Madrid was a very nice city.
Found a nice hat-shop as well...
Showed admirable self control and restricted my self to a tan tweed sixpence with matching scarf.
Went berserk and bought a kinda pricey, but very nice winter coat at "El Corto Ingles".

I can really recommend this city.
Nightlife is strong with jazz & blues.
Drinks are measured by eye and generously.
Friendly people, good food.
A sign in a restaurant window: "Hemingway never ate here!"

Will go back for sure.