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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.
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Decorated with scenes of old Madrid, this popular local serves standards such as the Madrid stew cocido .
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Founded in 1855, this attractive old-style pastelería caters for the Spanish royal family, no less. Shop here for seasonal Madrid specialities such as tocino de cielo (see Top 10 Celebratory Cakes).
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Venue for concerts by Spanish and international bands that date from the Movida period (see People and Places of La Movida). Reasonable bar and entry prices.
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This ethnic café just off Gran Vía is also a shop, selling African crafts, and a restaurant. Tasteful decor with an African theme.
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This pleasant restaurant serves up basic but tasty home cooking including jamón Ibérico . The terrace is open in summer.
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Delve into this Aladdin’s cave for antique and second-hand furniture – everything from old mirrors and table lamps to painted plates and plastic chairs.
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In 1983 this bar opened on Calle del Olivar and joined Rock Ola and El Sol as an important movida venue.
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Located in Madrid’s most exclusive shopping street, this enormous store specializes in furs. If fur doesn’t appeal, Benarroch also retails Jil Sander fashions and hats by Philip Treacy.
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These are pastries usually with tuna and tomato or meat fillings.
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A great location overlooking Plaza de España. Its luxurious rooms (suites have Jacuzzi and hydromassage showers) make it the first choice of many celebrities. Roof-top swimming pool (see Outdoor Swimming Pools).
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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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Hotel price categories
For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
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