Books

A Guide to Madrid’s Literary District

This guide takes you on a rollicking ride through Madrid’s literary past, starting in the 16th century when a rural area became the new capital’s literary hub attracting great writers like Cervantes and Lope de Vega. Full of gossip and intrigue, A Guide to Madrid’s Literary District details the rivalries, spats and political upheavals that shaped the history of Barrio de las Letras. From Siglo de Oro authors to modern writers like Dumas, Lorca, and Hemingway, this is an entertaining history of the area told through the lens of Madrid’s literary scene. 

  • Who was Cervantes’ worst frenemy?
  • Why did Galdos’ Electra cause a riot?
  • What was librera (bookseller) code for during the dictatorship?

The answers to these questions and more can be found within the pages of A Guide to Spain’s Literary Quarter. An introduction to the literary history of the neighbourhood, from Cervantes to Laurie Lee, this is a must-read for any visitors to the area.

Lonely Guide to Madrid

Lonely Planet’s local travel experts reveal all you need to know to plan the trip of a lifetime in this latest edition of our guide to Madrid.

Discover Madrid’s most popular experiences and best kept secrets from uncovering artistic riches as you gallery hop along the Paseo del Prado; to bargain-hunting in El Rastro, Madrid’s oldest flea market; and dining on suckling pig in the world’s oldest restaurant: Sobrino de Botín. 

Build a trip to remember with Lonely Planet’s Madrid travel guide:

  • Our classic guidebook format contains the most comprehensive level of information for planning multi-week trips
  • All new structure and design that’s easy to use so you can navigate Madrid effortlessly
  • Exciting Perfect Day itineraries help you create your ideal adventure with suggestions of unmissable attractions and activities
  • Expert local recommendations on eating, drinking, nightlife, shopping, accommodation, festivals, when to go and more
  • Vibrant photography and maps including a pull out map of Madrid
  • Get fresh takes on must-visit sights from Palacio Real to Basílica de San Francisco El Grande, and Museo del Prado
  • Essential information toolkit containing tips on arriving; transport; local etiquette; using money; LGBTIQ+ travel advice; useful words and phrases; accessibility; and responsible travel
  • Connect with Madrid’s culture through stories that delve deep into local life, history and traditions 
  • Covers: Plaza Mayor & Royal Madrid; La Latina & Lavapiés; Sol, Santa Ana & Huertas; El Retiro & the Art Museums; Barrio Salamanca; Malasaña & Conde Duque; Chueca; Chamberí & Northern Madrid plus day trips to San Lorenzo de El Escorial; Chinchón; Toledo; Segovia; Ávila; Aranjuez; Sierra de Guadarrama; Alcalá de Henares; Sierra Pobre

Create a trip that’s uniquely yours and get to the heart of this extraordinary city with Lonely Planet’s Madrid. 

Lonely Pocket Madrid

Lonely Planet’s Pocket Madrid is your guide to the city’s best experiences and local life – neighbourhood by neighbourhood. Explore the art at Museo del Prado, stroll through Parque del Buen Retiro and ponder Picasso’s Guernica at the Reina Sofia; all with your trusted travel companion. Uncover the best of Madrid and make the most of your trip!

Inside Lonely Planet’s Pocket Madrid:

Full-colour maps and travel photography throughout
Highlights and itineraries help you tailor a trip to your personal needs and interests
Insider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots
Honest reviews for all budgets – eating, sightseeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss
Convenient pull-out Madrid map (included in print version), plus over 21 colour neighbourhood maps