As the custodian of Spain’s rich and varied heritage, Madrid is the ideal location for a cultural crawl. Fly to Madrid and immerse yourself in the Spanish capital’s art, architecture, music, and most importantly, cuisine.

You can’t beat Madrid for green open spaces either, and the affordable and clean Metro system will get you to anywhere you need to be in next to no time. In this city, you can enjoy some of Europe’s most impressive museums, galleries, parks and royal palaces.

Book a flight ticket to Madrid with Qatar Airways and immerse yourself in a trove of Spanish cultural treasures.

One of the most important air transport hubs in southern China. Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport occupies a key position in the commercially important Yangtze Delta region, and is located approximately 27km from downtown Hangzhou.

Incredibly efficient and welcoming, the airport prides itself on providing passengers with an exceptional experience from the moment they walk through the doors. Customers flying from Hangzhou with Qatar Airways will find a warm and friendly welcome and a level of quiet efficiency that makes beginning any journey from this location a pleasure.

Transportation and parking

The main form of public transport linking the airport to Hangzhou and other towns and cities within Jiangsu is the dedicated airport bus service, providing fast and regular transport to and from the airport. However, those travelling with large amounts of luggage may find it easier and more convenient to take one of the many taxis.

As most drivers speak very little English or other languages, it is advisable to ask your hotel concierge to book your taxi in advance for you. Drivers can access the airport via the Airport Expressway and car parking is good, although somewhat limited. Short-stay provisions are relatively close to the terminals, while long-term car parking is a little further away, and connected to the airport via shuttle buses.

At the airport

Customers flying from Hangzhou with Qatar Airways depart from Terminal A, the International terminal Departures level. With 48 check-in counters, processing should be relatively quick, although as with all international airports security can be very tight. So allow extra time before your flight is due to board to clear customs and security checks.

Facilities and amenities

The airport has a reasonable selection of facilities for passengers, including some retail outlets selling locally made goods and standard travel accessories. Duty Free is also available, and the airport is opening up more retail outlets to cater for an increasing demand from international travellers. Food and drink ranges from light snacks and drinks to more substantial meals. Wi-Fi may be available in some areas of the airport, but connectivity can be ssporadic.

The Spanish capital is best known for being a major centre of European culture, art, music and dance. It’s also a hugely energetic city full of vibrancy and welcomes business travellers and entrepreneurs as well as tourists.

Book a flight to Madrid with Qatar Airways and you’ll discover a wealth of cultural attractions including some of the finest museums in the country, and art collections of international importance. This city really comes alive in the evening, and has a strong café culture that runs late into the night.

Tourist attractions

At the very heart of the city is Puerta del Sol, a piazza that is the hub of all Madrid’s transport and the venue for the many festivals that bring this city alive all year round. In the centre of the square is the statue of King Charles III on horseback, and the surrounding buildings are superb examples of a range of architecture drawing on Moorish, Renaissance and Gothic influences.

The Palacio Real or Royal Palace is huge, and although it is the official residence of the King of Spain, it is only really used for ceremonial duties. A tour of the palace will take you through hundreds of years of Spanish history in a series of galleries, exhibits and collections of armour, jewellery and ceramics. Be prepared for a long day’s sightseeing, but the effort is certainly worth it and gives you a greater understanding of Spanish culture.

The ‘Museum Triangle’ is Madrid’s museum district, and home to some of the most important galleries and museums in Europe, including Museo del Prado, Reina Sofía National Museum and Art Center, and the Naval Museum. Other museums around the city that are well worth a visit include the American Museum (Museo de América), the Museo de Historia de Madrid and the National Archaeology Museum.

Travel Considerations

Flights to Madrid with Qatar Airways land at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, one of the largest airports in Europe. Visa restrictions for entry into the country will depend on your country of origin, length of stay and whether your trip is for business or pleasure. Before you fly to Madrid please check the visa and passport requirements.