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.

Orfila

Built in 1886 as a palatial townhouse, the Orfila is located in a leafy part of town near Colón. The 28 rooms and 4 suites are tastefully decorated in soft pinks and yellows to create a relaxed ambience. A small restaurant overlooks a secluded garden.
Ouka-Lele

Madrid-born photographer Ouka-Lele (real name Bárbara Allende) got her big break in 1984 when her work was shown at the Moriarty Gallery. She is now one of Spain’s most famous photographers.
Ouka-Lele

The photographer staged her first show at the Moriarty Gallery in 1984.
Outdoor Swimming Pools

Madrid’s outdoor swimming pools are open from June to mid-September. There are three pools in the Casa de Campo (children’s, intermediate and Olympic), but they are crowded at weekends. An alternative is the Piscina Canal Isabel II.
Paella

Sunny Valencia is the acknowledged home of this most famous Spanish rice dish. While traditionally cooked with fish and shellfish, you’ll also find meat-based paellas (usually rabbit or chicken). The name comes from the two-handled, shallow iron pan in which it is cooked and served.
Palace

This hotel opened in 1913 and has been wowing guests ever since with its opulence. The facilities are equally palatial: 18 banqueting and conference rooms, a business centre, fitness suite and gourmet restaurant.
Palacio de Communicationes

Around the square Plaza de Cibeles rise four magnificent buildings. The most impressive is the main post office, the "Palacio de Communicationes", designed by Joaquin Otamendi during 1905 and 1917. Its appearance is often likened to a wedding cake style with Art Nouveau features. It is worth looking into the building to see the palatial main hall.
Palacio de Comunicaciones

More prosaically known as the General Post Office, this extraordinary building was the first major commission of Galician architect Antonio Palacios and his partner, Joaquín Otamendi. The style of this palace (1905–19) has influences ranging from Spanish Plateresque to Art Deco. The most striking feature of the interior is the stained-glass roof.
Palacio de la Música

Opened in 1928, this cinema has ornate Baroque touches. Reduced-price tickets available on Wednesdays. Three screens.
Palacio de la Prensa

Designed in 1928 by Pedro Muguruza, this Art Deco cinema is a classic. Shows mainstream movies dubbed into Spanish. Three screens.

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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