Book a trip from Brisbane to Madrid with Cathay Pacific , fares from AUD1,780

Madrid's Barajas Airport offers several transportation options for travellers. The easiest way to reach the city centre is by taxi, which typically takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can use the metro, with stations located in Terminal 2 and Terminal 4, where trains depart every few minutes. If you choose the metro, take Line 8 to Nuevos Ministerios station, which takes around 15 minutes. From there, you can transfer to the C3 and C4 lines to continue into the city centre.

The Museo del Prado is one of the most famous art museums in the world and a must-see for art enthusiasts. Situated in the centre of Madrid, it boasts a vast collection of European art, with a strong emphasis on Spanish masterpieces. Visitors can explore works by renowned artists such as Francisco Goya, Diego Velázquez, El Greco, and Hieronymus Bosch. The collection spans several periods, including the Renaissance, Baroque, and Romanticism. Highlights include iconic pieces like Velázquez's "Las Meninas" and Goya's evocative "Black Paintings," providing a fascinating journey through art history. The museum also offers temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and guided tours to deepen visitors' appreciation and understanding of the artwork on display.

The Royal Palace of Madrid, known locally as Palacio Real, is an architectural gem and a must-see attraction in the city. Although it is no longer the official residence of the Spanish royal family, it stands as a significant emblem of Spain's rich history and cultural legacy. Inside, visitors can admire beautifully decorated rooms, grand halls, and an impressive Royal Armory. The opulent State Apartments feature exquisite tapestries, frescoes, and antique furniture, while highlights like the Royal Chapel and Royal Pharmacy add to the palace's allure. Surrounded by lovely gardens that offer stunning city views, the palace is best explored through guided tours, which provide fascinating insights into its history, royal customs, and the stories behind its architectural features and artwork.

Wrap up your visit by exploring Gran Vía, Madrid's iconic shopping street, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning architecture. Often referred to as the Spanish Broadway, this lively thoroughfare is lined with impressive buildings, theatres, shops, and restaurants. You'll discover a wide array of high-end fashion boutiques, international brands, and department stores like El Corte Inglés, making it a shopping haven for every taste and budget. Gran Vía also hosts historic theatres, such as Teatro Lope de Vega and Teatro Coliseum, where you can enjoy a range of musicals, plays, and concerts. As night falls, the street comes alive with illuminated signs and a bustling nightlife, adding to its dynamic charm.

Experience the ease of discovering convenient and luxurious hotels for you with Cathay Holidays. For those wishing to stay in the bustling business district of Las Tablas, Sercotel Convention Plaza Madrid features spacious rooms and studios, some with kitchenettes, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Its prime location offers easy access to popular attractions and the lively atmosphere of Madrid. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a welcoming on-site bar and restaurant, where you can savour the local cuisine. The hotel’s proximity to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport makes arrival and departure hassle-free. With personalised services and long-stay parking facilities, Sercotel Convention Plaza Madrid is designed to enhance your travel experience. On the other hand, if you’re looking for accommodation near the airport, AP Hotel Madrid Airport is an ideal choice for travellers seeking convenience and comfort. Located just five minutes from Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, the hotel offers spacious rooms designed for a restful stay before or after your flight. Guests can enjoy free 24-hour airport transfers, making it easy to get to and from the terminal. In addition to comfortable accommodations, the hotel features a bar, coffee shop, and vending services for quick bites. With personalised service and amenities like free Wi-Fi and shower facilities, AP Hotel ensures a pleasant experience for all guests. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities.

Madrid entices food enthusiasts with its wide selection of restaurants, where culinary traditions from across the world converge to create an exquisite gastronomic experience. If you’re interested in a leisurely meal outside the city, Montia in San Lorenzo de El Escorial celebrates the beauty of nature and local ingredients. Led by chef Dani Ochoa, Montia offers a distinctive "wild cuisine" experience, sourcing fresh produce directly from the surrounding mountains and partnering with local farmers and artisans. The restaurant features seasonal tasting menus that highlight the purity and depth of flavours, carefully crafted into dishes that reflect the region's culinary heritage. Guests can choose from thoughtfully designed menus, including options for wine pairings that enhance each course. Alternatively, DiverXO offers a unique journey through avant-garde cuisine, where traditional boundaries are pushed and imagination takes centre stage. The dining experience at DiverXO is structured around a series of visually striking "canvases," each representing a different aspect of Muñoz's culinary vision. Guests can indulge in multi-course tasting menus, such as the whimsical "Cocina de los Cerdos Voladores," which showcases bold flavours and artistic presentations.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Madrid.

• Currency: Euro (€, EUR). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 230V Types C and F
• Time zone: GMT+1. Daylight saving pushes this forward 1 hour from April to November
• Languages: Spanish and Catalan