No city on earth is more alive than Madrid, a beguiling place whose sheer energy carries a simple message: this city knows how to live. The city has transformed itself into Spain's premier center and its attractions are many: astonishing art galleries; relentless nightlife; an exceptional live music scene; a feast of fine restaurants and tapas bars; and a population that's mastered the art of good life. It's not that other cities don't have these things, it's just that Madrid has all of them in bucket-loads.