Madrid is the capital of Spain. The largest Spanish city, Madrid is also the third most populated in Europe.

Known to exist from pre historic times, Madrid has been occupied and influenced by the Romans, Arabs, and Christians to the present day Spanish Monarchy.

Due to its elevation above the sea level Madrid is best visited between May and mid July, or September and October when the weather is warm and most pleasant.

The River Manzanares on which Madrid is was called al-majrit by the Arabs meaning a source of water. Later this site was named Majerit from which the present name Madrid has evolved.

• Main Sights.

With its site dating back to the 10^th century, The Palacio Real built during the 18^th and 19^th century is the official residence of the Spanish Royal family. Parts of the palace are open to the public.  The palace has great works of art, the Royal armory dating back to the 13^th century, and royal collections of tapestry, musical instruments and objects of historical importance.

Built in a Gothic revival style is the Almudena Cathedral near the Royal Palace. Its interiors are modern and very artistic.

The Prado museum has masterpieces from the 12^th to 19^th century. It is one of the most famous art museums and art collections.

With the works of Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali and Joan Miro on display the Reina Sofia Museum of art has an important collection of modern art.

Madrid hosts bull fights in season between March and October at the Las Ventas the largest bull ring in Spain.

Madrid is the heart of opera, classical and symphonic music with Auditorio Nacional de Música, Teatro Real and Teatro Monumental as the main venues for performances. Flamenco shows are held in Madrid center in venues called Tablaos.

Soccer is the main sport of Best Car Rental Madrid Airport being home to one of Europe’s top football clubs, Real Madrid. The city is also home to rival club Atletico Madrid. Madrid has two 5 star rated stadia to host UEFA matches.

The city has a circuit meant for motor sports earlier having hosted the Formula 1.

The city annually hosts the Madrid marathon and a 10km run which has participation in the tens of thousands.

Cycling and skiing are also sports of importance.

Madrid offers a vast and fast choice of night life, from cinema, theater and opera to discos and night clubs that are open till the early hours of the morning. The Tapas eat joints have a choice of food for every one sea food to vegetarian.

• Madrid-Barajas Airport.

This is the main international airport of Spain serving Madrid. The airport is located within the city limits.

The airport has four terminals, with terminal four handling One World alliance member airlines.

The airport has two banks, several money exchange counters, ATMs and a post office.

The VIP lounges and restaurants have wireless internet access.

With over 30 restaurants, cafes and bars passengers culinary requirements are adequately provided for.

The airport has over a hundred shops including duty free. First aid, Pharmacy, Chapel, nurseries and a playground are also available.

For the business traveler there are five meeting rooms, a conference and business center.

There are facilities for passengers with disabilities.

The car rental companies with desks at the airport are Avis, Europcar, Hertz and National Atesa.

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