Madrid is a city meant to last a lifetime.

The Spanish capital is home to 21 districts, each with its own distinct way of life worth exploring; to some of Europe’s best art, both classic and modern; to historic plazas and palaces; to quiet respites and noisy nightlife; and—much to the foodie’s delight—to enough tapas to feed its more than three million residents three times over.

You could spend 100 years wandering the streets and never see all Madrid has to offer. Still, there are some places that stand out amongst the rest as embodiments of the city’s rich heritage and culture—and you can find them all here.