MADRID IS MAGIC
As the vibrant capital of Spain, Madrid is a destination that seamlessly blends its deep history with a dynamic, modern culture. The founding of Madrid can be traced back to the 9th century, giving visitors plenty to immerse themselves in as they explore some of the destination’s most iconic landmarks.
A great place to start your journey is the Royal Palace, the largest functioning royal palace in Europe. With its stunning architecture and opulent interiors, it provides a glimpse into the regal life of Spanish monarchs.
The Royal Collections Gallery, located next to the Royal Palace, showcases an extensive array of artworks and historical artifacts amassed by the Spanish Monarchy from the Middle Ages to the present day. Highlights include masterpieces by renowned artists, exquisite royal regalia, and fascinating objects that tell the story of Spain’s intricate past.
Art and Flamenco
No visit to Madrid would be complete without experiencing its passionate flamenco performances. As the world capital of flamenco, Madrid’s best flamenco shows come alive in intimate tablaos, where the music, dance, and singing create an unforgettable evening.
Madrid’s nightlife has something to suit every taste, including chic rooftop bars with panoramic views and underground clubs playing the latest electronic beats. Madrid’s nocturnal scene is as vibrant as it is diverse.
Madrid is an arts powerhouse, boasting some of the finest art collections in the world. The Golden Triangle of Art, comprising the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, and the Reina Sofía Museum, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Parks and Recreation
Amidst the urban hustle, Madrid’s green spaces double as peaceful retreats. El Retiro Park is a favorite among both locals and visitors. You can rent a rowboat on the park’s serene lake, visit the beautiful Crystal Palace, or simply stroll through its manicured gardens.
If you prefer to witness Mother Nature at her finest, Sierra de Guadarrama National Park Mountains is only one hour by car from Madrid. The best examples of Iberian nature can be found here, including mountains more than 6,500 feet high, vast forests, and varied wildlife.
Shopping Extravaganza
Madrid is a shopping paradise, offering everything from high-end fashion to century-old and artisanal shops. The Salamanca district is the epitome of luxury shopping in Madrid. This upscale area is home to high-end boutiques and flagship stores of designers such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Prada.
Discerning shoppers can explore Galería Canalejas, representing a modern take on high-end retail and gastronomy, featuring prestigious international fashion and jewelry brands alongside gourmet food options. Another must-visit is El Corte Inglés, an iconic staple of Spanish retail that started as a small tailor shop in the heart of Madrid in 1940 and is now a luxury shopping destination steeped in history and romance.
Rounding out Madrid’s fantastic shopping is Las Rozas Village, situated at the foot of the nearby Sierra Norte mountains. Here, boutiques from renowned Spanish and international fashion and lifestyle brands – offering year-round savings of up to 60% on the recommended retail price – sit alongside restaurants and cafés such as Menidero Sal y Brasas, where you can enjoy all-day dining and on-the-go culinary treats.
The Finer Things
Madrid has seen a surge of luxury accommodations, making it a prime destination for travelers seeking opulence and comfort. Madrid’s top-tier hotels, like the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Rosewood Villa Magna, and The Westin Palace Madrid, are divine.
For gastronomic enthusiasts, Madrid is a culinary paradise with 28 Michelin-starred restaurants collecting a total of 36 stars. From avant-garde molecular gastronomy to traditional Spanish cuisine reinterpreted with modern flair, these establishments cater to an array of palates and preferences. Home to the oldest restaurant in the world, established in 1725, Casa Botín, features signature dishes cooked in the original wood-fired oven from centuries past.
Out and About in Greater Madrid
Exploring beyond Madrid unveils a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, charming towns, and celebrated wineries.
UNESCO sites include El Escorial, a grand monastery and royal palace that exemplifies Spanish Renaissance architecture; Aranjuez, with its beautiful gardens and majestic palace; and Alcalá de Henares, the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes and a cultural gem known for its well-preserved university buildings and historic center.
Beyond the buzz of Madrid, you’ll discover Patones, a quaint village characterized by stone houses and narrow winding streets. Chinchón, known for its circular plaza and traditional festivals, yields an authentic glimpse into Castilian culture. Buitrago del Lozoya, encircled by medieval walls and nestled by the Lozoya River, is a haven showcasing centuries of history. Manzanares el Real blends historical architecture with natural beauty, highlighted by the majestic Castillo de los Mendoza.
This being Madrid, one can’t miss out on sipping and savoring some of the region’s best wines right where they’re created. Bodegas Peral in Colmenar de Oreja is known for its high-quality wines and tours that delve into the region’s viticultural heritage. Valquejigoso combines traditional techniques with modern innovation to develop exquisite wines celebrated locally and internationally. Tierra Calma focuses on organic practices, yielding wines that reflect the character of the region. Las Moradas de San Martín, nestled in the Sierra de Gredos mountains, takes an artisanal approach to wine production.
Valleyglesias’ elegant wines capture the essence of the Madrid wine region, while El Regajal produces exceptional reds and the beautiful landscapes pair together perfectly for wine-tasting experiences.
