Known as the city that never sleeps, Madrid seems to run on overdrive 24/7. But, while offering plenty for those with an insatiable appetite for fast living, shopping and good food, the city still eludes plenty of old-world charm with its red brick buildings and flower-filled balconies. Feast on paella and sangria by day, then have an afternoon siesta to get ready to party until the wee hours. For the culturally inclined, there are massive amounts of art, opera and theatre to keep you amused.
bestview: from café Las Vistillas With its garden setting, the café Las Vistillas is the perfect place to relax after a long day out on the streets. Arrive before sunset and order a beer served with a dish of plump, juicy olives before settling down to watch the sun sink over the domes of the Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral. Where >Las Vistillas, Calle Gabriel Miró, Madrid. view map
bestpaella: La Baracca restaurant The kitchen of La Baracca is the best place to savour Spain’s most famous all-in-one rice dish. Choose from a number of mouth-watering varieties, including chicken, rabbit and juicy seafood all served up along with huge jugs of icy sangria. The somewhat kitsch atmosphere of this lively restaurant, which is set up to resemble the interior of a traditional Valencia house, just seems to add to the experience. Where >La Baracca, Calle Reina 29, Madrid, Tel: +34 915 327 154. view map Website > www.labarraca.es
bestshopping: Mercado de Fuencarral shopping centre For those in search of something quirky, head to the Mercado de Fuencarral shopping centre. It’s perfect for those who need a bit of non-conformity in their lives. The small shops and stalls, spread over three levels, offer everything from super-glam clubbing gear to designer trainers and highly original jewellery. Where >Mercado de Fuencarral, Calle Fuencarral 45, Madrid, Tel: +34 915 214 152. view map Website > www.mdf.es
bestunderground scene: Lavapíes In the ethnically diverse area of Lavapíes, just a short walk from the Puerta del Sol, is one of Madrid's most happening venues. The intimate bar, Don Tablon, offers live rock and soul music at the weekends, drinks and a decidedly multi-cultural crowd who know how to party on until late. Where >Don Tablon, Calle Olmo 19, Lavapíes, Madrid. view map
bestlate night scene: ME Melia hotel Live it up on high on the rooftop of the oh-so-chic ME Melia hotel. Chill out with a few friends on the Balinese style canopy sofas while sampling some of the best cocktails and tapas around. This trendsetting bar, with to-die-for views across the city, has become a firm favourite with Spanish famosos (celebrities). Where >Mercado de Fuencarral, Calle Fuencarral 45, Madrid, Tel: +34 915 214 152. view map Website > www.memadrid.travel
besttea room: Bomec Bomec has a decidedly oriental charm. Looking for all the world like an exotic opium den filled with gold Buddhas, silk cushioned divans, and shelves holding more than 100 types of tea, it’s the perfect place to unwind in the late afternoon. Choose from classic blends from around the world or some spicy, exotic mixes such as Arctic Fire. Where >Bomec, Calle San Joaquin 8, Madrid, Tel: +34 915 311 615. view map
bestafternoon relax: Cine Dore cinema Showing only art-house and classic films, the beautifully restored 1920s cinema, Cine Dore is a great way to spend an afternoon while being entertained by the grandeur of the silver screen. Open Tuesday to Sunday, the programme offers tributes to famous directors, and actors. All films are in original version with Spanish subtitles. Where >Cine Dore, Calle Santa Isabel 3, Madrid, Tel: +34 913 691 125. view map Website > www.cultura.mecd.es
bestoddity: Ham Museums! Wandering around the streets you may come across a peculiarity of the city, the Museos del Jamón (or Ham Museums). In no way related to the famous Prado or Reina Sofia Museums, these bars, which are scattered around the city, are decorated with hundreds of cured hams, complete with the hoof, hanging from the walls all ready to be consumed by the hungry hoards. Where >Museos del Jamón are located all over the city. Website > www.museodeljamon.com
Compiled by Scott Adams
besttrivia
Founded in 1725, Casa Botin is – according to The Guinness Book of Records – the oldest restaurant in the world! It's located at Cuchilleros 17 (off Plaza Mayor), Madrid, Tel: +34 913 664 217.
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