Traveling across Europe is a cultural and historical tour, with stunning physical landscapes along the way. Whether it is the imperial palaces of Vienna, the canals of Bruges or the artistic heritage of Florence, a good travel guide book can make all the difference. A good guide offers the expertise, the maps, the must sees and the must not sees to help you navigate and enjoy the destination like a local. From the crowds of London to the old town of Prague, every city has its own atmosphere and tales to tell.
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Some of the best travel guides are Lonely Planet, Rick Steves, DK Eyewitness and Rough Guides, each suited to the kind of traveller — if you like historical detail, practical itineraries, or visual discovery.
This article lists the best travel guidebooks for the most visited cities in every European country, so you know what will be the perfect companion on your journey. Come, let’s see the best suggestions for each place and discover the best guidebook for your next European trip.
Best Travel Guides for Madrid 2025
DK Madrid (Travel Guide)
While walking in beautiful parks and historic squares, or tasting delicious tapas and viewing masterpieces in the galleries of the Spanish capital, one can have a plenty of experiences. Whatever your idea of a perfect trip is, DK Eyewitness Madrid will be your ideal assistant to help you discover the city to the fullest.
Inside DK Eyewitness Madrid, You’ll Find:
📍 Top Sights & Must-Do Experiences – Discover the highlights of Madrid, the most popular places and the local’s recommendations.
📍 Eat, Drink & Shop Like a Local – Discover the local restaurants, traditional taverns, lively bars, and exclusive shops.
📍 Easy Navigation & Walking Routes – Useful maps and itineraries that will help you to navigate through the city without a hassle.
📍 Tailored Itineraries – One day, weekend, or week itineraries to help you plan your trip accordingly.
📍 Essential Travel Tips – Useful information on how to get around, stay safe and how to make the most of your trip.
📍 Color-Coded Chapters – The guide is divided into parts which contain different areas of Madrid, thus aiding your planning process.
📍 Lightweight & Portable Format – This is a compact and easy to carry guide that can easily be used when traveling so that you can use it while on the move.
With beautiful pictures, suggestions, and information on how to plan your trip, the DK Eyewitness Madrid will help you to discover the city and have fun while at it.
Rick Steves Snapshot Madrid & Toledo
With Rick Steves in your hands, Madrid and Toledo are waiting for you! This compact, expertly curated travel companion, excerpted from Rick Steves Spain, will help you find your way around, and enjoy your trip with insider recommendations, practical travel tips and must-see sights, just like a pro.
Inside Rick Steves Snapshot Madrid & Toledo:
- Expert Travel Advice – Up to date, firsthand recommendations from Rick on the best attractions, restaurants and accommodations in Madrid, Toledo and the surrounding area.
- Must-See Landmarks & Local Experiences – See the Prado Museum’s masterpieces, stroll through the Royal Palace and admire Toledo Cathedral’s grandeur.
- Authentic Spanish Culture – Enjoy a vermouth in a lively tapas bar, head to medieval Ávila or take a relaxing rowboat ride through Retiro Park.
- Smart Sightseeing Tips – How to beat the crowds, skip the lines and steer clear of tourist traps, thanks to Rick’s expert recommendations.
- Self-Guided Walking Tours & Maps – Find your way through Madrid and Toledo’s historic streets.
Lonely Planet Madrid
Want to discover the living spirit of Spain? Lonely Planet’s Madrid is your guide to finding your way around the city, learning about its highlights and secret places, and experiencing the local life. From admiring Spanish paintings in Museo del Prado, to sampling tapas in La Latina, to walking in the beautiful gardens of Parque del Buen Retiro, this guide will help you get the most out of your Madrid visit.
Inside Lonely Planet’s Madrid Travel Guide:
📍 Up-to-Date Information – All listings were checked after 2020 to ensure accuracy.
📍 NEW ‘Just Landed’ Card – A pocket-sized pull-out with Wi-Fi, ATM, and transport details for a hassle free arrival from the airport.
📍 Family Friendly Itineraries – Suggestions for things to do with children, how to save money and what you must not miss.
📍 What’s New Feature – Keep up with the latest in culture, new experiences and areas of the city uncovered. With the help of expert recommendations and insider insights, Lonely Planet’s Madrid will lead you through the city and reveal the best of Spain’s engaging capital.
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