The Plaza Mayor, started in1620 during Felipe III's reign, is an exceptionally grandiose 17th-century arcaded square in the heart of Madrid. Plaza Mayor has performed a fundamental role in Spanish history, and has seen great ceremonies and festivals, bullfights, plays, the crowning of kings, and even public burnings of heretics. Today the delightful Madrid square, which is really a rectangle, is adorned with eye-catching, kaleidoscopic-coloured murals and is surrounded by baroque architecture with Felipe III's statue sits in the very centre. There are many plaza shops and cafes in the square and some of the most jovial tapas bars in Madrid.

Before you pack your bags to feast your eyes on the Plaza Mayor and various other Madrid draw cards, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with Madrid city, arrange suitable accommodation by looking at some of the fine Madrid hotels, and whet your appetite getting to know some of the great Madrid restaurants.