Having visited the majority of Spain's other major cities, Madrid was still
outstanding - that was until July 2007!
It's an interesting city with a real mix of architectural styles - everything from art deco to modernist to stunted skyscrapers. Culturally dominated by some of Spain's greatest museums - the Reina Sofia and the Prado both have free admission during the weekends (check their websites for details).
There are plenty of places to stay - I chose to stay at the Westin Palace,
directly across the street from the Prado. It was built in the grand style in
the 1920s when hotels had very extravagant public areas. The bedrooms though
were not disappointing and were beautifully furnished. The hotel maintains its
charm and elegance after 90 years in
business.
Madrid is compact enough to explore on foot - it is really by walking around a city that you really get to know it.
Round so many corners were small squares with cafes, or more grander squares like the Plaza Santa Ana. All of the museums proved worth visiting - the extension to the Reina Sofia is stunning with a very good restaurant in its courtyard (Arola). The Royal Palace was also very interesting.And after all that sightseeing and culture, what better place to relax and watch the world go by than in the Retiro Park.
I rarely travel without the relevant Wallpaper guide to hand. Highly recommended by the Wallpaper Guide to Madrid was Olsen, a Scandinavian restaurant in Calle de la Prado. It turned out to be only five minutes at most from the hotel, and recommended for very good reason. Not only did they mix a good Cosmopolitan, but the food was superb. It does get busy so reservations are recommended - Wallpaper has described it as one of the most stylish restaurants in Madrid.