Throughout my life, I have always loved Visiting Cities - I wouldn't say I was a prolific traveller, but I have got to see some of the great places in Europe over the years.

And of course when I visit these cities I love to capture the things that I see when I am out there.

Recently I took a trip out to Madrid, a city I haven't been to before and I was so glad I did - what a great place!

The following set of images, were shot as I explored the city on foot and by bus, lots of amazing buildings and architecture to admire starting with Gran Via in the heart of the city.

Hot and busy at this time of the year, there was always something to see and appreciate whether that was during the day or at night, the Gran Via looked amazing.

A short stroll through the connecting streets and I reached the Puerto del Sol, one of the most popular places in central Madrid - again lots going on

The square was such a hot place at midday at the end of July so the short shaded walk along the street to Plaza Mayor was most welcomed.

The Plaza Mayor was a visual feast, but also quite a tourist trap with all the restaurants charging high prices and not quite delivering what I wanted - I didn't eat here, but plenty others were. I prefer to try and eat where the locals eat to see the real place. The square itself though was stunning

One thing I always do when visiting cities is to take advantage of the open top buses - always a great way to get around - I also like to visit places that you might not immediately head for - say for example the Botanical Gardens - the entrance guarded by this amazing little square

The buses also take you up small back streets that again you would not normally visit on foot, some of these streets did look quite amazing

And of course, every little street leads on to another little immaculate square, surrounded by grand facades and amazing buildings - always very clean and tidy, and full of history

But for me the city really came alive at night, the heat was still there, but the sun had gone down and had been replaced by the glowing neon signs and huge advertising screens

I was very impressed with Madrid during my short stay there, the cleanliness of it all, the friendly faces, the great food, the lack of major tourist attractions was also a big bonus.

I will return to this wonderful city, there are still so many things to see and explore.