While the otherwise stately capital of the Kingdom of Spain lacks an iconic landmark like Paris Eiffel or trails in the history chart behind Roman Rome, the Spanish metropolis however is firmly right along the race to claim the prize of Europe’s greatest. Perhaps when it really matters, it comes down simply to how the city and its residents practise open-mindedness towards anyone and everyone, celebrate the nights with revelry till dawn and grab life by the horns with a seemingly unlimited supply of sheer enthusiasm. Meet Madrid’s might and majesty with a customised Madrid tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours and realise why the capital’s no-holds-barred and action-packed approach could be the best formula for living life to the absolute max.

Madrid has always shown the world how it embraces culinary revolutions and new flavours, but old is surely gold for one of the city’s best meals. Restaurante Botin is hailed as the world’s oldest restaurant welcoming diners since 1725, so go expecting the most charming of ambience with cave-like dining rooms and wood-panelled walls. But the food obviously is the real secret to its staying power – “cochinillo” or suckling pig, tender roasted young lambs and fresh clams in garlic broth.  Salivating yet? Book in advance now for a true bite of history.

A Madrid day out
You can’t miss the obvious Madrid delights of strolling down Gran Via people watching, having a frolic at Retiro Park and cultivating yourself at the city’s golden triangle of art – Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen, but when you have done all of the above, a surprising day out awaits within short distances from the capital. Alcala de Henares, reputed as the world’s first planned university city, is a temple of refinement and birthplace of Don Quixote. El Escorial, Spain’s most important palace, is a royal testament to the all-conquering Spanish empire, and Valley of the Fallen, located just a stone throw away, presents a sombre reminder of the grim dictatorial years of Franco who ruled over the Spanish people with an iron fist not too long ago.