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Madrid: Know Before You Go Part of the Places of a Lifetime series from Traveler magazine

Local experts recommend books, music, and films that give you a feel for the city. Also: travel basics, the best websites and local media, cultural tips, recipes, advice on shopping for local handicrafts, and walking tours of the city.

Photo: Madrid's Plaza de Espana
Madrid's Plaza de Espana offers needed open space in a forest of skyscrapers. In the center is a monument to Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote.
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The Basics
Nuts-and-bolts information to plan your trip, plus a checklist of essentials to include when you pack.
Get the Basics

Cultural Tips
Cultural dos and don’ts, plus a handy phrase book that introduces you to the language and local argot.
Learn Madrid Cultural Tips

Books
Great reading that provides a sense of the city, from the Traveler online Ultimate Travel Library.
Get a Reading List

Music
Compilations and classic songs that put you in mind of the city, from our city playlist.
Experience the Sounds of Madrid

Movies
Movies that capture the atmosphere of the city.
Get Movie List

Recipes
A sampling of signature regional dishes, with complete instructions for preparation.

Links and Media
Our favorite Web links and the best local media.
Get Links and Media

Authentic Shopping Guide
The best local handicrafts and artisanal items, from our online worldwide Authentic Shopping Guide.
View Shopping List

Walking Tours
Three select walks that reveal the best of the city.

Madrid Multimedia

Know Before You Go: Madrid

Related Features

Map: Madrid

Madrid Walking Tour: Old Madrid

This Madrid walk includes historical sites and the spot where all Spanish roads are measured. If you have a sweet tooth, order a treat from an order of cloistered nuns.

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Country Profile: Spain

Spain occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula in southwest Europe, and its territory includes the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands in the Atlantic.

Photo: Madrid's Gran Via

Photo Gallery: Perennial Madrid

Come see Madrid, the captivating capital of Spain.

All About Madrid

All Places of a Lifetime

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Sacred Places of A Lifetime

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Visiting 500 of the most sacred destinations, this book answers the call of the spiritual traveler.