The magic of mighty madrid

If you have never been to Spain, you may well imagine it as passionate, sophisticated and vibrant, but be prepared to be delighted by these generous helpings of Latin flair and a lot more besides in a place far more diverse than you could have imagined.

If you spend even just a week or so in Spain you are likely to enjoy a truly enriching holiday that can take in myriad landscapes, colors and activities. You will find almost everything, from lush meadows, green valleys, hills and snowy mountains in the northern regions to desert zones in the south, which attract millions of tourists each year.

One of the best ways of taking the pulse of the nation in just a few days is to delve into the heart of Madrid, the country's capital and the largest city as well. It offers plenty of budget-friendly attractions, including many cultural ones, and is replete with many historic neighborhoods and streets.