See what the experts are saying about Madrid. Get expert advice on how to get there what to see and more.
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The best inns and bed & breakfasts
La Taberna de Antonio Sanchez (tel. 91-539-78-26): You can't get more traditional than this much-copied 200-year-old original, a vintage example of Old Madrid complete with zinc counter, carved wooden bar top, barrels, honest wines, and a gen... Continue reading »
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The best luxury hotels
Hesperia Madrid (tel. 91-210-88-00): It's a member of "The Leading Hotels of the World" -- and you'll see why as soon as you check in to this Catalan-owned gem with its ultra-smart fittings, sophisticated amenities, and hint-of-Far-East decor... Continue reading »
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The best mid-range hotels
Built in 1966 and still going strong, the reasonably priced Fiesta Gran Hotel Colon (tel. 91-573-59-00) lies west of Retiro Park in a relatively safe area of Madrid that's easily connected to the center by subway. It's nicely maintained and k... Continue reading »
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The best museums
El Prado: The spectacular Prado is no mere museum, but a fully formed travel experience. It's worth a journey to Spain just to see it. Museo Lazaro Galdiano: This rare collection demonstrates the evolution of enamel and ivory crafts from t... Continue reading »
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The best things to bring home from your visit
Leather: Leather has long been one of Spain's most highly valued products, and best buys range from stylish belts and handbags to handmade shoes and fine jackets. Check out top shops like Loewe in the Gran Via and Farrutx in Calle Serrano. Or... Continue reading »
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Best free things to do
Enjoy the Weekend Cultural Treats: Saturday afternoons and Sunday mornings are free at the Museos Naval, de America, Arqueologico Nacional, and Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia. The tiny Casa Museo de Lope de Vega is free on Saturdays, and... Continue reading »
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Planning a trip
This section is devoted to the where, when, and how of your trip -- the advance planning required to get it together and take it on the road. Continue reading »
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Visitor information
Tourist Offices You can begin your info search with Spain's tourist offices located in the following places: In Madrid -- The Patronato Municipal de Turismo (Municipal Tourist Board), Plaza Mayor 3 (Metro: Sol; tel. 91-588-16-36; www.muni... Continue reading »
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When to go
Climate Spring and fall are ideal times to visit Madrid. May and October are the best months, in terms of both weather and crowds. In my view, however, the balmy month of May (with an average temperature of 61°F/16°C) is the most glorious... Continue reading »
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Calendar of events
The Madrileño calendar is a colorful kaleidoscope of saint's days, fiestas, and bullfights. Art exhibitions are perennial features and during the hot summers you can enjoy concerts in the Retiro Park as well as other open areas. Check with th... Continue reading »
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Getting there
Getting There by Car If you're touring the rest of Europe in a rented car, you might, for an added cost, be allowed to drop off your vehicle in a Madrid. Highway approaches to Spain are across France on expressways. The most popular bor... Continue reading »
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By plane
Any information about fares or even flights in the highly volatile airline industry is not written in stone; even travel agencies with banks of computers have a hard time keeping abreast of last-minute discounts and schedule changes. Below... Continue reading »
Madrid Travel Experiences
Popular Madrid Hotels
- Hilton Madrid Airport
- Hotel Moderno
- Husa Mercátor
- Sercotel Lusso Infantas
- Confortel Pio Xii
- Vincci Capitol
- Silken Torre Garden
- Aparthotel Quo Galeon
- Hesperia Emperatriz
- Confortel Alcalá Norte





