Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Madrid sits at the geographic heart of Spain, serving as the nation's capital and largest municipality. Perched on the Meseta Central plateau at an average elevation of 667 meters (2,188 feet), it is one of Europe's highest capital cities. The Manzanares River flows through the city, while the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range rises to the northwest, offering a dramatic backdrop and recreational opportunities.
With a population exceeding 3.2 million within city limits and over 6.7 million in the metropolitan area, Madrid ranks as the third most populous city in the European Union, after London and Berlin. Its central location makes it the political, economic, and cultural hub of Spain, with excellent transport links radiating outward to all regions of the country.