Ep 1. The Majesty of Madrid

In the first episode of the third season of Rick Steves' Europe, Rick takes us through the vibrant and lively city of Madrid. The episode is titled "The Majesty of Madrid" and it truly captures the essence of the Spanish capital city.

Madrid is a city filled with history, culture, art, and good food. And Rick, being the expert traveler that he is, takes us through all of it. The episode starts with Rick touring the massive Royal Palace of Madrid, which is the largest royal palace in all of Europe. The palace is known for its beautiful architecture and grandeur and Rick takes us through all of it. He shows us the intricately designed rooms, the stunning paintings, and the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace.

After the palace, Rick takes us to the Prado Museum, one of the finest art museums in the world. The museum is home to some of the most celebrated paintings from Spanish artists such as Velazquez, El Greco, and Goya. Rick takes us through the maze of galleries, showing us some of the most famous pieces of art in the world.

Next, we get to explore the city center of Madrid. Rick takes us to the lively Plaza Mayor, a central square in the city that has been the heart of Madrid since the 16th century. The plaza is filled with street performers, cafes, and shops, and Rick helps us explore all of it. We get to see the famous statue of King Philip III, which is a popular meeting point for locals, and we get to sample some of the delicious street food that Madrid is famous for.

One of the highlights of the episode is a walk through the Retiro Park, which is the most beautiful park in the city. The park is home to numerous fountains, gardens, and a stunning lake. Rick takes us through the park, showing us some of the best spots for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon.

The episode ends with Rick taking us to a traditional Flamenco show. Flamenco is a dance form that originated in Spain and is a significant part of the country's culture. Rick takes us through the history of Flamenco and shows us an amazing performance.

Overall, "The Majesty of Madrid" is a fantastic start to the third season of Rick Steves' Europe. Rick's vibrant personality and wealth of knowledge make this episode an entertaining and informative watch. If you're planning a trip to Madrid or just want to learn more about this fascinating city, this episode is well worth the watch.