An intro to the sights and tastes of the capital

If you're on a whistle-stop visit to the Spanish capital, then try this one-day itinerary. It starts with a walking tour of the historic core, with a glimpse of some big sights and suggests where to get a taste of local cuisine and where to go for a night on the town – if you've still got the energy.

This route is around 7km/4.5miles: or about 90mins of steady walking.

Morning

To get your bearings, head for the central Puerta del Sol, take a wander around Plaza Mayor and into the maze of ancient streets that lie behind it before heading off for the Palacio Real and the Galería de las Colecciones Reales.

Having sampled the opulent splendour of the royal palace, stop off for a coffee and a spot of people watching at the opulent Café de Oriente.

Wind you way up past Plaza de España and along the bustling Gran Vía, making sure you gaze skywards at the wonderful mishmash of architectural styles as you window shop.

Lunch

Madrid has a fantastic selection of regional cuisine, so why not try a Valencian paella at La Barraca.

Afternoon

Work off your lunch with a leisurely stroll around the Retiro park before making for the Museo del Prado to marvel at this world-class collection of fine art.

Evening

Head for Sol & Huertas and find a tapas bar to sample a selection of mouth-watering tapas. Try Casa Alberto or Casa del Abuelo.

Night

Finish off the day with a visit to one of Madrid's renowned flamenco tablaos: Cardomomo or Las Carboneras.

Or plan a big night out:

Start with an after-dinner drink on Plaza Santa Ana, at Cervecería Santa Ana, then dive into one of the clubs that litter nearby streets until the early hours.

Then, after dawn, cap it all off with the traditional churros con chocolate from the legendary Chocolatería de San Ginés.