This nicely practical guide (2009 Edition) makes a solid companion for budget and other travelers visiting the enchanting land called España (Spain). Lonely Planet (LP) specializes in readable, easy-to-use, information, and this is no exception. Readers get at-your-fingertips information on hotels, travel hostels, restuarants, bars, museums, parks, tourist sights, etc. I particularly like the solid information on airports, train and bus stations, plus how to get to and from them (and other locations) via public transportation. There is also useful information on the language, local customs, flavor, prices, manners, etc. You are never travel blind or alone when you have your LP guide, and this updated version does the job. I took this book along during my recent two-week tour (first time in Spain) and was generally quite pleased. Travelers should do themselves the same favor.
This solid guide isn't perfect. A couple maps are lacking, and when they can't list every lodging in town, they should say about how many exist. Also, I'd rate Madrid's Reina Sofia Art Museum (photos permitted) ahead of also-impressive Del Prado and Thyssen (no photos). Hey, no guide is perfect, but this LP guide is well worth the price - just ask the traveler that tried to buy mine on a train from Toledo to Madrid.
Note: Oddly, Amazon lists up front reviews of the long-defunct 1997 edition. This review is for the current 2009 edition.