There’s no doubt Madrid is at the top of your Spain to-do list. The capital city is one of the most exciting destinations in Europe. While it’s full of rich history and classical art, it’s also a thriving metropolis that never stops evolving. This year our team made a few trips to Madrid so we can continue offering our clients the best accommodations and recommendations in the city, and to expand some of our offerings. Honestly, Madrid never stops impressing us! Read more for a quick guide to Madrid and get a sneak peak into what your Madrid itinerary could look like.
How to Get to Madrid
Madrid is prime international hub in both Spain and Europe. Which makes it an easy destination from the US—you may even be able to arrive to the Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport in just one flight. While we usually leave the flight reservations up to our clients, we’re always available to consult on the best options.
Once you’re at the airport, there are easy train options to the center of town. But after a long journey (and likely some luggage to haul) we usually recommend a quick private transfer from the airport to your hotel.
Looking to travel around Spain? Madrid is smack dab in the middle of the country and is an ideal jumping off point for exploring other destinations. Tons of high speed trains leave Madrid throughout the day to all sorts of desirable cities. You can be in Seville or Barcelona in just 2 1/2 hours, or to Valencia in 2 hours.
Once you’re in town, Madrid is a great place to see on foot. But the city also boasts an excellent subway system for those farther locations, or for when your feet need a break. Otherwise, taxis and ride-shares are readily available.
Where to Stay in Madrid
Madrid has such an exciting hotel scene that it’s tricky to narrow it down to just a few. These are some that are close to our heart. But be sure to ask your travel designer about finding the accommodation that’s perfectly tailored to your needs. There’s no doubt Madrid will have it.
H10 Villa de la Reina
The H10 Villa de la Reina is by far one of our favorite properties in Madrid. This boutique spot sits right on Madrid’s central avenue called Gran Vía, which means you’re never far from the action—Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor are just around the corner. The stately 20th-century building with an elegant and cozy interior provides a peaceful hideaway in the middle of the city. And as always with this particular brand of hotels, the beds are extra comfy and the breakfast spread is exceptional.
Gran Via 22, 28103, Madrid, Spain
Palacio de los Duques
This five-star property is housed in a 19th-century palace and is by far one of the most exceptional luxury hotels in Madrid. Designs are inspired by the Spanish painter, Velásquez, whose influence can be seen throughout the property, from the stylish lobby to the pristine rooms. Service here goes above any beyond and the facilities like the Thai spa are just what you need after a long of trekking through the city. We also especially love this secluded central patio area; a privileged space in bustling Madrid.
Cuesta de Santo Domingo 5, 28013, Madrid, Spain
Room Mate Alba
Centrally-located in the Las Letras neighborhood and just a five minute walk from Plaza Mayor, Room Mate Alba is a fantastic stay in Madrid. We especially love that the hotel is on Calle de las Huertas. Not only is it characterized by emblematic literary quotes engraved along the path, but the street is designated as completely pedestrian, creating a calm neighborhood feel. As you can see, the cozy rooms are uniquely designed with stylish furnishings that combine old and modern touches.
Calle de las Huertas 16, 28012, Madrid, Spain
What to Do in Madrid
Arts, history, and culture abound in Madrid. Here’s a quick snapshot on what to do and see.
Experience the City
To really get the pulse of Madrid, you want to first head to the city’s main plazas, Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol. Both are important meeting places full of life, history, and quintessential madrileño architectural elements. These central areas are the heart of Madrid and just feel perfectly European!
From there, head to the city’s many unique neighborhoods like vibrant Chueca and funky Malasaña, or explore the literary history of Las Letras. One great way to get a feel for a city is to opt for a walking tour, and Madrid is no exception. Private guides offer unique history and insight into the city’s most important marvels you would otherwise miss. We also love neighborhood-specific tours in Madrid where you can discover the history and secrets lurking in every corner. Ask us about private tours in Madrid!
Get the Royal Treatment
The Royal Palace of Madrid is a must in the city. While the Spanish family doesn’t reside there any longer (they only use it for state ceremonies) the impressive 3,418 rooms provide an inside look at what it was like to live as a Spanish king and queen during the height of the Spanish empire. We highly recommend seeing the palace with a guide.
Then, take a little nature break head to Parque Retiro. When it opened in the late 1700s, this park served as a retreat for the Spanish royal family. Today, however, it can be enjoyed by everyone. One of the most iconic buildings in Madrid is actually here in the park, the Crystal Palace. Surrounded by a small lake and lush gardens, it’s made almost entirely of glass and houses a seasonal art exhibition.
Immerse Yourself in Art
For art lovers, a visit to El Prado is a must. The Prado houses Spain’s most storied collection of classical art, with original paintings by famous artists like El Greco and Velásquez. There’s no denying the collection can be overwhelming. Which is why we always suggest a private tour with one of our phenomenal art history experts. We also offer an exclusive early access small group tour before it opens for the day.
If contemporary art is more your style, you won’t want to miss exploring the Reina Sofía. This museum houses works by Dalí and Miró, as well as Picasso’s masterpiece: Guernica. Exhibited by the Republican Government at the International Exhibition in Paris in 1937, this mural depicts the pain suffered by the victims of the bombing of the Spanish city of Guernica on 27 April, 1937.
Where to Eat in Madrid
Madrid’s dining scene is both dynamic and rooted in tradition. These are just a few suggestions to whet your appetite. Be sure to ask your travel designer for even more tasty ideas.
Start with a Food Tour
A great way to get your culinary bearings in any new city is to reserve a food tour. And our partners over at Walk & Eat Spain offer the most exceptional food tours in the city, with insider visits through neighborhood markets and local haunts. Not only will you eat way better than you ever could on your own, you’ll get a unique understanding of the cultural and historical significance of each bite (and sip) in Madrid.
Mercado de San Miguel
The Mercado de San Miguel is a covered market originally built in 1916 that was reopened in 2009 as a gourmet tapas market. Enjoy over 30 different venders selling freshly prepared tapas, hams, cheeses, and baked goods, as well as a good spread of beer and wine. While most restaurants close between lunch and dinner, the market is open all day! Ask your travel designer for tips on how to navigate the market and where to find the best bites.
Botín Restaurant
Since it’s opening in 1725, this dining room has earned the admiration of Spain’s literary greats, along with Ernest Hemingway, who set the final scene of The Sun Also Rises in one of the restaurant’s wood-paneled dining rooms. The kitchen is known for it’s famous roast meats, specializing in spoon-tender cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig).
El Paraguas
This restaurant is a reference in the city for upscale cuisine from the Asturias region, an area on the northern coast. Think legumes made with exceptional care, roast partridge, or morels stuffed with foie gras—all carefully sourced from the best ingredients. The space is also gorgeous, with two floors, warm decor, and outdoor dining spaces.
Taberna La Bola
Taberna Bola’s striking red exterior calls to you from the street. This cozy restaurant with wood paneled walls creates the perfect atmosphere for enjoying cocido, a plentiful Castilian pork and garbanzo bean stew served in courses. You can’t leave the city without trying this classic home cooked dish. And this is the place to get it.
Taberna La Elisa
Taberna La Elisa is a typical tavern with a wooden bar and Castilian cuisine, specializing in the traditional dishes done with a modern touch. Here you’ll find some of Madrid’s best tapas. Stand at the bustling bar and munch on garlicky prawns, ham croquettes, or some crispy fried calamari.
Your Unique Guide to Madrid
This guide to Madrid, of course, is just the beginning. Once we start designing your itinerary, we’ll create the routes and reservations that work best for you, whether you’re a history buff, art fiend, or foodie.
Ready to book your trip to Madrid? Reach out to us and get started on an itinerary including these stops and so much more.