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 Planet Pocket Guide to 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