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.

Agatha Ruíz de la Prada

The innovative fashion designer showed her collection in Madrid in 1981.
Agatha Ruíz de la Prada

Men and women’s fashions by one of the country’s most original designers, noted for her daring use of colour. Her name can also be found on the accessories, stationery and household goods sold here.
Al Mundhir

According to some historians, Muhammed I’s son was the true founder the city.
Al Natural

Unpretentious restaurant serving vegetarian dishes. House speciality is spinach and mushroom tart (tarta de setas y espinacas ).
Al-Mounia

Well-established restaurant serving up North African specialities.
Alcalá de Henares

This historic town has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its splendid Renaissance and Baroque architecture. It was the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote , and of the ill-fated Queen of England, Catherine of Aragon. The town’s importance dates from the late 15th century when the head of the Spanish church, Cardinal Cisneros, founded a university here. A tour of the buildings, including the main hall with its marvellous mudéjar ceiling, is a must, Also worth seeing is Teatro Cervantes, the oldest public theatre in Europe, founded in the 17th century and restored in the 1990s.
Alcoba

Small outlet selling a lovely range of glitzy evening wear, with sequinned bags, scarves and other accessories. Also candles, picture frames and costume jewellery.
Alhambra

Designed to look like a bar of the early 1900s with Moorish touches, Alhambra is one of the best places to start the evening if you’re about to embark on a tour of the night spots of Sol and Santa Ana. Check out the Andalusian tapas – especially the cured meats and spicy sausage. Drinks are more expensive from around 11pm at weekends (see Alhambra).
Alhambra

Atmospheric tapas bar – from 11pm at weekends you can only eat standing at the bar (see Alhambra).
Alkalde

Quality home cooking from the Basque country is the highlight here.

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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.
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