Museo Nacional del Prado (Prado National Museum), Madrid (must see)

The Prado National Museum stands as Madrid's top tourist attraction, renowned for its rich art collection that spans centuries and was predominantly acquired by the Spanish royal family over the past 200 years. The institution is organized by national schools and received a significant rejuvenation with the controversial €152 million extension designed by Rafael Moneo. Upon entering, follow the suggested route by bearing right into the central hallway, known as the Hall of the Muses ("Sala de las Musas"). From there, you will be guided through the collections on the ground floor before proceeding upstairs.

The collection of Spanish paintings is truly remarkable, starting with stunning 12th-century Romanesque frescoes and encompassing works by nearly every influential Spanish painter: from the renowned El Greco, who hailed from Crete but worked in Toledo during the 1570s, to the outstanding Francisco de Goya, known for his masterpieces depicting 18th-century Bourbon Spain. Don't miss the collection of works by Diego Velázquez, including his renowned masterpiece, "Las Meninas", either.

Meanwhile, the Italian painting collection boasts the most comprehensive assembly of painters from the Venice School within a single museum, including Titian's magnificent equestrian portrait, "Emperor Carlos V at Mühlberg". Notable works by Raphael, Tintoretto, Veronese, and Caravaggio can also be found. The early Flemish works are equally impressive, featuring Hieronymus Bosch's renowned triptych, the mesmerizing "Garden of Earthly Delights". Keep an eye out for Pieter Bruegel the Elder's "Triumph of Death", one of the most chilling canvases ever painted, as well as Rogier van der Weyden's "Descent from the Cross" and the extensive Rubens collection.

While German and French paintings have a lesser representation, they are still worth exploring, especially the works by Dürer, Cranach, and Poussin. Downstairs in the basement, you'll encounter a dazzling display of jewels that once belonged to the Grand Dauphin Louis, son of Louis XIV and father of Felipe V, Spain's first Bourbon king.

The new wing of the museum houses temporary exhibition spaces, restoration workshops, a sculpture gallery, as well as a restaurant, café, and shops, providing visitors with a comprehensive experience.

***HEMINGWAY'S MADRID***
Although Ernest Hemingway was not a usual lover of museums, Prado was an exception for him. He recognized this cultural site as a treasure, with its exhibited works by Picasso, Velazquez, Goya, El Greco and many other international artists. The writer was especially fascinated by Goya, whom he considered a genius.

Tip:
To enter, tickets can be purchased at the Puerta de Goya, opposite the Hotel Ritz on Calle Felipe IV, while the actual entrance is located at the Puerta de los Jerónimos at the back, leading into the museum's new extension. To avoid the lengthy queues, it is advisable to buy tickets in advance from the museum's website.
You have the option of enjoying a free visit during the last two hours of the day, which is a great way to save on your travel expenses while still being able to experience the museum. However, if you intend to spend an entire day here, you can have your ticket and audio guide stamped, allowing you to temporarily exit the museum for lunch and then return to continue exploring.