Destination Spotlight: Sunsets in Madrid, Spain

The Spanish sunset is blood-red and beautiful. There's no better place to watch the Spanish sun dip below the horizon than from atop one of Madrid's rooftop terrazas. These top floor bars and restaurants boast stunning views, especially at dusk. Madrid has no skyline to speak of, but by rising above its snaking, narrow streets, you'll earn a view of the city's old world, red-tiled rooftops. For the capital's very best twilight views, head to one of these five hot rooftop spots.

1. El Viajero
El Viajero is located on top of a three-story restaurant in Madrid's hip La Latina district. If you can brave the early evening crowds, you'll be rewarded with a stunning view of 17th century Real de Calatravas church, its domed roof set against a pink sky. The food is tasty, if a bit pricey. Locals and foreigners alike congregate on this rooftop to watch the sun set. El Viajero is also a perfect jumping-off point to hit some of the city's best tapas restaurants located along the nearby Cava Baja.
Plaza de la Cebada 11 / Tel: (+34) 91 366 9064 / Metro stop: La Latina

2. La Casa Granada
You'd never find La Casa Granada on your own...so you're welcome. It's one of those unmarked, secret spots that's left out of guidebooks for a reason. To get there, enter the rundown apartment building at number 17 Calle Doctor Cortezo and hop into the very unsound-looking elevator. The light bulb may flicker and the ride may be shaky, but don't fear. Take the elevator to the very top floor of the six-story building and you'll find yourself in a loud, bustling bar. Get there early enough to snag a table outside on the balcony; open air tables are in high demand. La Casa Granada serves traditional dishes from southern Spain, although quantity seems to trump quality at this joint. Savor the fried seafood and sip a cold drink as you watch the sun sink.
Calle de Doctor Cortezo 17 / Tel: (+34) 91 369 3596 / Metro stop: Tirso de Molina


3. The Penthouse Bar and Terrace
The über-trendy Penthouse Terrace sits atop the über-trendy Hotel Reina Victoria. Owned and operated by Cindy Crawford's hotelier husband, the Penthouse offers a truly spectacular setting in which to catch some late evening rays. Whether you're lounging in one of the many rooftop cabanas or enjoying the exorbitantly priced food and drink, this is the best place to be seen at sunset. Visitors to the Penthouse are also awarded a bird's eye view of the bustling Plaza Santa Ana.
Plaza Santa Ana 14 / Tel: (+34) 91 701 6000 / Metro stop: Sol / www.memadrid.com/ThePenthouse.html

4. Gaudeamus Café
Gaudeamus Café is located on the roof of a centuries-old converted church in the working class neighborhood of Lavapies. The building is now used as a school, museum and, of course, rooftop cafe. The beautifully lit cafe serves excellent tapas, offering a contemporary take on traditional Spanish favorites. Try their updated version of the classic Spanish croqueta, a deep-fried--and totally addicting--ball of soft cheese. From the rooftop, you'll also see one of Madrid's oldest apartment blocks, exterior wooden staircases still intact.
Calle Tribulente 14 / Tel: (+34) 91 528 2594 / Metro stop: Lavapies / www.gaudeamuscafe.com

5. Bar SkyNight

Head to the very top of the Hotel Puerta America for one of the loftiest views in the entire city. Each floor of the hotel, including the Bar Skynight, is unique in style and design. Check out this swanky 13th-floor spot on the weekends for live jazz and 180-degree views of Madrid.

Avenida de América 41 / Tel: (+34) 91 744 5400 / Metro stop: Cartagena / www.hoteles-silken.com/HPAM/index.php