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.

El Elefante Blanco

Shades of the Big Top in this small shop, founded by a former circus performer. Sells all the paraphernalia – stilts, jugglers clubs, diabolos, etc. Great for kids.
El Escarpín

This lively Asturian tavern serves regional specialities such as bean soup (fabada ) and sausages in cider (chorizo a la sidra ).
El Escorial

Apart from the famous monastery and the views of the Sierra, the attractions of El Escorial include the magnificent Coliseo, dating from 1771, and the two royal lodges (see El Escorial).
El Escorial

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains, Felipe II’s awe-inspiring palace and monastery was founded as a mausoleum for Spain’s Habsburg rulers (see El Escorial).
El Flamenco Vive

This family business specializes in all things Flamenco, from beautiful dresses to guitars, CDs, music and videos (see El Flamenco Vive).
El Flamenco Vive

If you’ve been won over by Flamenco during your stay, now’s your chance to look the part. This specialist store has everything – colourful costumes and accessories (fans, flowers, ornamental combs), guitars, books, sheet music, videos, records and CDs.
El Gourmet de Cuchilleros

This delicatessen, on the famous street off Plaza Mayor, showcases local produce from Spanish regions – tinned seafood, hams, sausages, wines and cheeses.
El Hipódromo

Races are held here every sunday from 11am onwards. Tickets can be booked in advance by phone or in person at the racetrack on saturdays from 10am–2pm. Visit the stables before the racing begins to pick the favourite.
El Jardín de Serrano

One of Madrid’s most exclusive shopping malls. It has the top names in fashion, accessories and jewellery as well as a branch of the Mallorca cafeteria and delicatessen chain.
El Obrador del Café de Oriente

If you’re planning a picnic in the Sabatini Gardens or further afield, the delicatessen of the Café del Oriente has everything you need, from fresh bread and filled rolls to cheeses, cooked meats and cakes.

Jump to top

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
- €35-€55
- €55-€70
- €over €70