Witness a miracle, clap along to Flamenco, then tap into vermouth
Post-Franco, the heart of Spain throbs to a new rhythm
Quality accommodation whatever your budget, wherever you want it
What’s where in Madrid, from kilómetro cero to the outer limits
A treasure trove for bargain hunters
Shops
The city's most famous market dates back nearly five centuries. The antiques stalls and shops are well worth a trawl.
Madrid's hotspot for local DJ talent
Bars & pubs
Small but perfectly formed, this venue serves as a bar, club and live music centre. The summertime terrace is a big pull.
Get a taste of authentic tapas
Restaurants & cafés
This Andalucían tapas bar is the real deal, with bullfighting memorabilia and incomprehensible waiters.
Art
The great jewel at this art museum is unquestionably Guernica, Picasso’s impassioned denunciation of war and fascism.
Attractions
Spain's largest bullfighting arena also hosts concerts and has a small but interesting museum.
Art
Velázquez, Goya, Titian, Rubens, Bosch, Rafael, Botticelli: the Prado contains gallery after gallery of masterworks.
Festival de Otoño - © Jon Santa Cruz/Time Out
Europe's greatest party town hosts fiestas and fixtures all year round, including Metrorock (local and international bands), Festival de Otoño (theatre, dance, music – pictured), and Festival de Flamenco Caja Madrid.