Surrounded by parkland, Madrid’s Prado Museum displays famous works by Velázquez, Goya and El Greco. Also on the grand boulevard are historic churches, plazas and restaurants. Photo by Don Falcone | Pixabay.com

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Madrid is famous for its grand boulevards, world-class museums and cozy cafés. Photo by Falco | Pixabay.com

Madrid’s many traffic roundabouts, anchored with towering statues softened by colorful gardens, resemble pinwheels for throngs of vehicles circling its many spokes. I love a destination with high energy — it gives me hope for a visit filled with lots of possibilities.

Madrid, with its hip, youthful vibe, is just that type of city. Its restaurants, plazas and meandering streets are filled with a continuous, lively hustle. Delicious tapas, fascinating architecture and beautiful art come together in Spain’s capital.

I visited the city in the fall, after the summer crowds ebbed. I started my tour at the Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Spain. The 3,418-room palace is open to the public and welcomes nearly two million visitors a year.

Even more popular, the beautiful Prado Museum is home to important works by Spanish and global artists, displayed with an eye for artistic flow as you move from exhibit to exhibit. Classic masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez and El Greco anchor the collection. The museum is free two hours before closing and can be very crowded at that time. The entry fee is worth the price to view the art earlier, without the crowds.

Bullfighting and flamenco

Among the many other museums in the city, the Las Ventas Bullring and Museum offers visitors an iconic Spanish experience.

If watching an actual bullfight is not in the cards (too violent for some), guests can try virtual bullfighting. Face off against a massive, virtual bull as you wheel around the Las Ventas area. Of course, a more sedate, classic tour is available for less adventurous guests.

A flamenco show is a must-see in Spain. At the Tablao de la Villa, authentic flamenco is served up with a traditional dinner. The music and dance swept me away; it was an emotional experience.

Madrid is a very walkable city with lots of sprawling plazas, winding streets and grand boulevards. Plaza Mayor is the heart of Madrid’s social life. Originally built outside the medieval city walls, it was home to bustling markets. Today the plaza is filled with performing artists, vendors, cafés, college students and tourists.

The vibrant Puerta del Sol is at the center of the city. The “kilometer zero” point is marked with a plaque in front of the Royal House of the Post Office. A central meeting point for locals and tourists, the square is a lively spot with exuberant energy.

Spanish fare

A fun gathering spot for tapas or beer is the Mercado de San Miguel. Enjoy yummy culinary delights from wine and cheese to pastries and coffee and everything in between.

Mesón del Champiñón is worth seeking out for its sangria, which is among the most amazing in the city. The house specialty, and my favorite, is champiñones rellenos con jamón (mushrooms stuffed with ham).

To make sure we found the city’s best restaurants, we booked a four-hour food tour with World Experiences (worldexperience.com/madrid). The Madrid Tapas & Wine Tour with rooftop views is a wonderful way to enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine while learning a little history. The tour visits delicious tapas bars, food markets and Iberian ham purveyors and culminates at a rooftop bar with a panoramic city view.

The iconic bocadillo de calamares, Madrid’s calamari sandwich, is a must-try. Find the breaded and deep-fried squid rings sandwiched in a crispy baguette at small neighborhood cafés.

Day trips to Toledo, Salamanca

Centrally located, Madrid is an ideal base to explore more of Spain. Day trips are a wonderful way to round out your visit.

Just over an hour away, the former capital and historic city of Toledo is worth a trip. The capital was moved to Madrid in 1561, allowing Toledo to retain its medieval charm. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Toledo displays its stunning architectural beauty as it rises above the Tagus River.

Wander through Toledo’s Jewish Quarter, an enclave for the country’s Sephardic heritage. Explore the Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo, home to an interesting array of artistic treasures. Stroll the back streets and alleys surrounding Zocodover Square to find charming little shops and quaint cafés.

Two hours away, Salamanca is a Renaissance city that dates to 220 B.C. Its ancient sandstone buildings have a distinctive golden glow, giving credence to its nickname, “La Ciudad Dorada,” the Golden City.

For a full day of exploring, visit the 800-year-old University of Salamanca, the Cathedral (two buildings dating from 1513 and 1733), the House of Shells and Plaza Mayor, the largest plaza in Spain.

If you go

Round-trip flights to Madrid start at $473 on United Airlines.

Whether you make a quick stop or an extended visit, you will love Spain’s hospitality. The Hotel NH Collection Madrid Paseo del Prado is an excellent home base. Outside the front door is the grand avenue Paseo del Prado, and it’s across the street from the Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum.

The five-star Four Seasons Hotel Madrid is situated above the iconic Galería Canalejas, home to the most influential global retailers, including Hermès, Chanel and more.