A walk from Puerta del Sol to the Royal Palace or Plaza Mayor, through Madrid's historic center—often referred to as the "Madrid of the Habsburgs"—is a must-do for any visitor during their first days in the city. With my background in History and Art, I'll help you uncover the hidden gems of this fascinating area. The Royal Palace of Madrid stands as the largest royal residence in Western Europe and one of the grandest in the world. It boasts an incredible cultural and artistic heritage, including the renowned collection of Stradivarius Palatinos musical instruments, as well as significant holdings in painting, sculpture, and tapestries.