Madrid

The collection of works housed in this 18th-century palace represent the lifetime pastime of Swiss collector Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza and his Spanish wife Carmen. — goop

One of the world's greatest art museums. — Concierge

This famous square is in the heart of the city's historic district, built on the site of the old Plaza del Arrabal, which was home to the most popular market in the late 15th century. — Time Out

The vast majority of his collection consists of stiff 16th- to 18th-century religious portraits and scenes. — Let's Go

An easy stroll from Puerta del Sol, the Fine Arts Museum is located in the restored and remodeled 17th-century baroque palace of Juan de Goyeneche. — Frommer's

Originally a playground for the Spanish monarchs and their guests, this park extends over 140 hectares (350 acres). — Frommer's

The easiest and most fun way to get to this huge nature park is to take the cable car. The park is located beyond the Manzanares River, in an area reforested on the orders of Philip II in 1559. — Michelin Guide

This elegant opera house hosts numerous events, mostly opera and ballet. — Condé Nast Traveler

Spain's national museum of 20th century art. The jewel in the museum's crown is Picasso's "Guernica". — Condé Nast Traveler

This impressionist artist...was unequalled in knowing how to convey the dazzling light of the Mediterranean coast. — Michelin Guide

Its plain, brick-and-stone facade hides paintings by Francisco de Zurbarán, Titian, and Pieter Brueghel the Elder. — Fodor's

No longer occupied by royalty, but still used for state occasions, Madrid's Royal Palace stands on a ridge above the Manzanares River and Campo del Moro park. — Frommer's

This palatial building showcases 60,000 textiles, pieces of furniture—including some installed in reconstructed period rooms—jewelry, ceramics, glass, crystal, and metalwork items. — Fodor's

“We take all visiting American artists here, and they’re always amazed at the vitality of this cultural oasis.” — Condé Nast Traveler

This very personal museum close to the Debod temple was once owned by the 17th marquis of Cerralbo, Enrique de Aguilera y Gamboa. — Frommer's

You don't have to condone bullfighting to appreciate the architecture of this 1929 example of neo-Mudejar design in Madrid. — Afar Magazine

Three large floors filled with Spanish relics, artifacts, and treasures ranging from ancient history to the 19th century. — Fodor's

This attractively landscaped zoo is located slap bang in the heart of the Casa de Campo. — Time Out

Conversion of this early-20th-century power station has created a stunning arts complex fit to become the fourth point in Madrid's former triangle of great art institutions. — Fodor's

With the regional government situated on the southern end of the plaza, the Puerta del Sol has also been the site of major protests and political rallies. — Let's Go