Transfered planes in Paris & touched down in Madrid a few minutes behind schedule. Met Andy in the airport, loaded luggage onto the bus and then drove to the hotel wonderfully located right in the historic heart of Madrid. Checked into our rooms, freshened up and immediately set out to begin our exploration of the Spanish capital (and beat our jet-lag) on foot. Ate Spanish subway style sandwich on the Grand Via and strolled through the elegant Bourbon district to the Prado Museum to view its impressive collection of Golden Age royal art. Later strolled through the narrow streets of the Habsburg quarter (built after Felipe II had moved the capital here from Toledo in 1561) full of lively pavement cafes and flower clad wrought iron balconies. Highlight here undoubtedly the majestic Plaza Mayor with its central equesterian statue of Felipe III (and moving human mud statue!!). Passed famous San Gines chocolateria before finally reaching the bustling Gran Via to enjoy a filling buffet dinner. Strolled along the Gran Via to the hotel to shower and enjoy a well earned rest!