There's more to Europe's party capital than bars, nightclubs and all-night fun. Madrid's central location makes it the ideal base from which to explore some of Spain's most famous beauty spots. The best thing about hiring a car in Madrid is that it allows you to enjoy the buzz of the city, as well as the natural attractions of the countryside.

Madrid Airport Mini Guide:

Madrid Barajas International Airport is situated to the northeast of Madrid city centre. The airport has four terminals and is a major hub for Iberian Air as well as international carriers such as Aer Lingus, Aerom?xico, Spanair, SAS and budget carriers easyJet and Ryanair.

Things To See/Do in Madrid:

Cultural capital by day and partying playground by night, Madrid is a fascinating city.

Wandering through the city that launched a thousand explorers in the age of discovery, it's possible to feel history all around. Visitors are spoilt for choice in terms of things to see and do in Madrid. Must-sees include the Golden Triangle museum and gallery district, where the Museo del Prado, Reina Sofia National Museum and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum of Art provide a fascinating and thought-provoking insight into Madrid's past and present. The city also boasts an impressive shopping scene. Whether you're penny pinching or going for broke with the credit card, you'll find Madrid offers something for everyone. Then there's the nightlife. Madrid's is legendary. For a truly authentic experience, make an effort to dance ?til dawn with the locals at one of the city's many nightclubs.

Eating Out in Madrid:

The home of Tapas brings a whole new meaning to eating out. Such is the choice of Tapas on offer in Madrid that you can easily feast on local specialities and still have enough money to spend on late night dancing. The seafood is certainly worth a try. Although Madrid is located in the centre of Spain, without a port in sight, it is widely regarded as having the best seafood in the country. Tasty local favourites include Boccadillo de Callamares (fried calamari served with lemon juice in ciabatta) and Sepia con alioli (fried cuttlefish with garlic mayonnaise).

Day Trips/Events in Madrid:

Madrid's status as both a city and a region means that it provides plenty of scope for car hire touring. In Madrid worthy car hire trips include Toledo, which can be reached within an hour's drive of the city. The medieval city's fascinating art and architecture makes it a must-see. Aranjuez makes for another excellent car hire excursion. Here you'll find plenty of visitor attractions including the elegant Palacio Real and the decadent Casa del Labrador, close to the Tagus River.

Madrid is renowned for its non-stop partying and locals will find any excuse for a celebration. Whenever you find yourself in Madrid, you'll always find some coinciding fiesta or other going on. Calendar highlights include June's Day of San Antonio, August's Fiestas de San Lorenzo, San Cayatano and Virgen de la Paloma. May's Fiestas de San Isidro, month long festival of Madrid's patron saint is by far the city's biggest event.