The Spanish capital's lavish opera house stages a sparkling season of renowned operas, concerts and ballets.

Tickets are available through the website, but more moderate priced ones are snapped up very quickly indeed.

Plaza Isabel II (Metro Ópera)

Information: +34 915 160 660

Box Office: +34 915 160 606

Guided visits (check website for changes to visiting times):

Spanish: daily at 10am, noon & 1.30pm

English: Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat & Sun at 10.15am

French: Tues 10.15am

Entry: €10; Students and pensioners €8; Under-5s free.