S will be travelling to Spain on business toward the end of February. He’ll be about an hour and a half northwest of Madrid (near Marugan??). Any travelers out there with any suggestions of things to do and see in that area? He’ll be working during the day so limited time during the evenings. He will be there over one weekend so potentially time for a day trip or 2. He’s travelling with one other person who he doesn’t know all that well. I think he’ll have a car…
Ideas? TIA!
It doesn’t matter that he’s busy during the day because restaurants and bars will be open late into the evening (although shops will not). For his weekend, I’d suggest a trip into Madrid and not to miss the Museo National del Prado, which is one of the finest art museums in the world (my favorite). The high-speed train, the AVE, runs between Madrid and Barcelona in just under 3 hours and is a great way to get between the two cities. He could book tickets online or right at Atocha Station in Madrid, spend the day in Barcelona and come back late in the evening. Trains are the way to go in Spain, for sure!
Agree! Use those trains and go to the Museo.
I only had a little bit of time to see everything and couldn’t get to the museo but saw a lot of Madrid! Loved it!
Between the Prado museum, Plaza Mayor and Royal Palace, downtown Madrid is easily walkable and you can spend a day and a very long night there.
If he likes old cities, Toledo is a short distance southwest of Madrid. It is a fortress city that looks like it has not changed in centuries.
When I was a young man (so many years ago), I found Spanish women to be the most fulfilling attraction in Spain.
On February 26, Atletico Madrid will be hosting FC Barcelona for a football (soccer) game at the Vicente Calderón Stadium in Madrid. This game, if he were able to get tickets, would certainly be one of the highlights of his trip.
Looks like we actually agree on something here, marvin. :)) 
Great suggestions so far. Where in NW? Bibao is north of Madrid if that makes it easier travel. Their Guggenheim museum is worth a visit.
I believe he is staying near Segovia.
There is no way I can reply to this thread without totally getting myself in trouble. =))
Segovia is beautiful. There’s a long section of a Roman acqueduct and the Alcazar. Avila is close to Segovia; it’s a walled city. The Escorial is also close to Segovia.
^I agree about Segovia. There’s also a beautiful cathedral in Center Square. Segivia is not far from Madrid or Toledo BTW. There will be more than enough to do in Madrid and Toledo. Toledo is fascinating.
If at all possible, take in a flamenco show. It was sooooo good. The highlight of our very short trip to Spain this summer. Plenty in Madrid, not sure about elsewhere.