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.

La Negra Tomasa

The live salsa music, played Thursdays to Saturdays inclusive, is the main draw of this noisy Cuban restaurant (see La Negra Tomasa).
La Parra

A traditional restaurant serving heart-warming country fare, for example stew made with beans and hare (fabes con liebre ) and roast kid (cabrito asado ).
La Platería

Situated off the Paseo del Prado, there’s a terrace where you can snack on Castilian dishes such as jamón Ibérico and goat’s cheese.
La Posada de la Villa

This attractive inn dates back to 1642. Traditional Castilian cooking is served, especially roasts.
La Quinta del Sordo

The tiled façade here features scenes from Goya’s paintings.
La Residencia de El Viso

A listed building, the Residencia dates from the 1930s and has been refurbished in the style of the period. Another appealing feature is the garden, where guests can relax over a drink or a traditional Spanish meal.
La Riviera

If you’re interested in hearing pop and rock acts such as Massive Attack, Suede or the Rollins Band, this is where they’re most likely to perform while in Madrid. Acoustics and visibility are both good (better than in many similar venues) and fans can cool off in the summer when the roof is drawn back. Also holds discos.
La Soleá

Popular Flamenco haunt where anything can happen (even amateur jamming) as there is no regular programme. Not worth arriving much before 11pm, when things start to heat up. Great fun, but not for purists.
La Taberna la Dolores

This classic taberna has kept its original tiled frontage, dating from 1908. The canapés (pulgas ) are recommended.
La Trainera

Renowned for its fish and seafood. The well thought out Spanish wine selection beautifully complements the fresh daily catches from Galicia.

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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
- €35-€55
- €55-€70
- €over €70
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