desired. The iconic Puerta del Sol is the giant
crossroads of the city and a must-see attraction at
any time of the day. The nearby Plaza Mayor,
completely enclosed by historic red buildings, is an
ideal place to grab a bite to eat outside, amidst
scores of tables and people out for a stroll. Plaza
Isabel II (also known as “Opera”) is smaller and a
good meeting spot, and the stately Plaza del Oriente
is the front yard of the Royal Palace. Centro can be
touristy (pickpockets are unfortuately not unheard-of
here), crowded, and sometimes gimmicky, but it is also
the place to experience classic Madrid.