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.

Salón de Reinos

The Hall of Kingdoms was part of a 17th century palace and was named after the sheilds of the Spanish monarchy’s 24 king-doms that decorated the hall. It has now been acquired by the Museo del Prado.
Samarkanda

Samarkanda overlooks Atocha’s famous tropical garden (see Estación de Atocha). An international menu is served, complemented by Rioja wines.
San Francisco El Grande

Legend has it that this magnificent basílica occupies the site of a monastery founded by St Francis of Assisi in the 13th century. Work on the present building was completed in 1784 under the supervision of Francesco Sabatini. The focal point of the unusual circular design is the stupendous dome, 58 m (190 ft) high and 33 m (110 ft) in diameter. After 30 years of painstaking restoration, the 19th-century ceiling frescos, painted by leading artists of the day, are now revealed in their original glory. Take the guided tour to be shown other artistic treasures, which include paintings by artists Zurbarán and Goya (chapel of San Bernardino) and the Gothic choir.
San Isidro

The feast day of Madrid’s patron saint is celebrated with a procession to the Ermita de San Isidro. Madrileños dress up in traditional costumes and picnic on rosquillas . There is also a fair, brass bands and sports events. San Isidro also marks the beginning of the bull-fighting season.
Santa

If you’re a chocolate lover, look no further than this tiny outlet on Serrano which also sells gift-wrapped sweets. The speciality here is leña vieja (chocolates that are cast to resemble tree trunks).
Santander

A rather quaint hotel, conveniently located near the Prado, with a certain period charm. The high-ceilinged rooms are spotless, but those facing the street are noisy in summer. On the plus side, rooms are larger than usual and the English-speaking staff are very helpful. There’s room service from 8am–7pm.
Santander

Unpretentious corner bar, known for its excellent tapas .
Santería la Milagrosa

Fascinating emporium near Sol, dealing in things spiritual – everything from amulets and birth charts to tarot cards, books on white magic and icons.
Santo Domingo

This modernized hotel, convenient for the Palacio Real and the Gran Vía, is furnished with strategically placed statues and old paintings to give it a touch of elegance. Though small, the rooms are comfortable and stylish – try for one on the fifth floor where there are tiny balconies with views of the city.
Santo Mauro

Small, elegant hotel enjoying a secluded leafy location, yet only five minutes’ walk from the Paseo de la Castellana. The former palace was refurbished in the 1990s in a mixture of classical and modern styles; the ballrooms now serve as conference rooms while the library is a gourmet restaurant with terrace. Indoor swimming pool.

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