Begin your discovery of Madrid with a choice of an orientation walk or an orientation motorcoach tour, offering an engaging introduction to the city's grand boulevards, historic plazas, and daily rhythms. Continue on to the Museo del Prado, one of the world's premier art museums, home to more than 4,000 masterpieces, including iconic works by Spanish greats Goya and Velazquez-many acquired by kings through the centuries. Enjoy free time to explore on your own and have lunch at leisure, perhaps sampling Madrid's famed tapas or lingering over a cafe con leche in a neighborhood plaza. Later, visit Madrid's 18th-century Royal Palace, either by a short walk or drive, once home to a succession of Spanish kings from Charles III to Alfonso XIII, and today the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family in name only. Your guided visit to this 2,000+ room, jewel-like palace-by square footage, the largest in Europe-unfolds as a journey through history and time-honored splendor. Rooms and salons overflow with art treasures and antiques, gilded floor to ceiling with fine fabrics, magnificent mosaics, and crystal chandeliers. Highlights may include the Reception Room, State Apartments, Armory, Throne Room, Banquet Room, and Royal Pharmacy. Please note that the order and timing of the Prado Museum and Royal Palace visits may vary. ...
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