Car Hire Madrid - Mini guide to Madrid

Madrid is the Spain’s grand capital, distinguished by impressive monuments and museums, grand boulevards and buildings. "Madrileños" passion for going out at night also makes the city a great place to eat out with a variety of national and international cuisine to choose from.

The oldest area of the city is called Madrid of the Habsburgs since the monarchs of this dynasty helped to stimulate its development in the 16th century. Sights to see here include Puerta del Sol and Casa de Correos, the head quarters of the Community of Madrid's Autonomous Government.

Directly opposite this building is El Oso y El Madroño (the Bear and the Strawberry Tree) a very famous statue and the official symbol of the city.

Stroll through Plaza Mayor, a majestic square originally planned by Felipe II for public executions, crowning ceremonies, bullfights, inquisition trials and countless fiestas.

Not too far away, Cuchilleros opens out into the Plaza de Puerta Cerrada. Set back slightly on the right is the San Miguel church, designed according to Italian baroque styles in the 18th century.

In the Plaza de la Villa there are several buildings with varied historic interest, such as the Casa de Cisneros. Originally a plateresque palace constructed in 1537 for the Cardinal Cisneros, this marvellous building was recently restored and today houses various town hall departments.