DK Travel : Madrid

Madrid’s three world-class art museums and two royal palaces alone would set the pulses racing, but there is more to this exciting and diverse capital than its tourist sights. The fashion boutiques of the Salamanca district showcase Europe’s top designers and are just the tip of a shopping iceberg, perfectly complementing the informality of the fascinating El Rastro market, while Madrid’s world-famous tapas bars vie for attention with gourmet restaurants and humble tabernas in a city which never sleeps. To simply watch the world go by, head for the supremely elegant Plaza Mayor.

Cochinillo Asado

The Castilian countryside is famous for its roasts. To be authentic, suckling pig should be cooked slowly in a wood-fired oven until the flesh is tender and the skin golden. Lamb (cordero ) and game such as partridge (perdiz ) and pheasant (faisán ) are equally delicious when roasted in the traditional way.
Cocido Madrileño

This classic Madrid stew goes back to the days when the working-class housewives of (see Lavapiés) and (see La Latina) would keep a cooking pot simmering on the stove, adding whatever ingredients came to hand. Today’s typical cocido might include pigs’ trotters, beef shank, chicken, sausage, chickpeas and vegetables. Served in stages, first the broth, then the vegetables and meats, it can be a meal in itself. For an up-market version, try La Bola (see La Bola).
Cock

This tastefully decorated late-night bar is a good place to round off the evening.
Colegiata de San Isidro

This imposing church was built in 1622 by the Jesuits. In 1768 the remains of Madrid’s patron saint, San Isidro, were interred here.
Conde Duque

A medium-sized hotel in a quiet, residential neighbourhood, with good transport links to the centre. Rooms are comfortable and tasteful and are equipped with satellite TV.
Confortel Madrid

Located north of the centre, 120 suites are equipped with satellite TV. Facilities include a restaurant offering inte
Congreso de los Diputados

Admire the portico and Renaissance-style sculptures of the congress building from the street, then take a guided tour.
Conservas

Canned fish, including boquerones (anchovies) mejillones (mussels) and berberechos (cockles).
Convento De Las Carboneras

The Nuns belong to a closed order. They sell home-made biscuits, a tradition that dates back to the 16th century.The biscuits are sold through a serving hatch, whereby you can hear the nuns speak but not see them.This place is situated at or near Plaza Conde de Miranda 3, then go into Calle del Codo and the door is on the right, difficult to find . Te. 91 548 3901
Cool

Dance until 6am at this fashionable club to the sounds of DJs or live music in a range of different styles (Thu–Sun).

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €25
- €25-€35
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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under €70
- €70-€120
- €120-€180
- €180-€240
- over €240