MADRID

I would describe Madrid as the New York of Spain.  The city was upbeat and vibrant and had elements that reminded us of Paris and Rome.  We visited several art museums in Madrid and saw some very famous works of art.  One of the highlights of our entire trip was seeing Picasso's epic masterpiece Guernica at the Centro de Arte Reina Sofia Museum.  It was absolutely amazing!!!  Unfortunately none of the art museums allowed photography.  Some of the other highlights included touring the Royal Palace, shopping, relaxing in Retiro park, and of course seeing a Real Madrid soccer match.

Out hotel which was right on Puerta del Sol...the center of Madrid

The first billboard in Madrid...at Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol Metro Station...we took the metro from the train station to the hotel

View from out hotel room balcony

More Churros!!!

Plaza Mayor...another Plaza not far from Puerta del Sol

Real Madrid Futbol Game at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

Our daily breakfast of Napolitanas came from this cafe on Puerta del Sol

Madrid's Cathedral

Standing in front of Madrid's Royal Palace before touring it

Gardens on the backside of the Royal Palace

We played Staggers in the Gardens

We sat and watched these guys play Bocce Ball

Shopping in Madrid

In front of another square

The Prado Museum...the famous painting Las Meninas is inside with many others

Tree lined streets outside the Prado

Madrid's amazing Retiro Park...we took a break here after a full day of art

Playing Staggers in the park

Paddle boats at the park

Dan resting while I took pictures

Paella

Night shot from our hotel room