As one of the largest cities in Europe, Madrid is a very good example of a metropolis that has succeeded in keeping its own personality. Cultural heritage from historical events, like the presence of the Moors or the influences of the new world discoveries, can be felt after spending some days in the capital of Spain. Opulent classical buildings and palaces, the beautiful Retiro Park,… Read more »
Local: Madrid
This Only YOU hotel is centrally located in Chueca and within walking distance to many of the city’s attractions. We simply love this hotel, housed in an 18th century building renovated to offer all the comforts and style you may desire. Right at entrance you are greeted by courteous clerks in an impressive cast-iron reception desk unlike any you may have seen. The fashionable ambience,… Read more »
You have probably already heard about the El Rastro flea market that happens on Sundays in the old-fashioned neighborhood of La Latina. It is actually a great traditional Sunday program, especially if extended with tapas and beers at one of the many bars on La Latina’s bygone cobbled sloped streets. They can get extremely crowded, with locals and visitors alike, but we still find flea markets… Read more »
When strolling around the beautiful Retiro Park in Madrid, take the opportunity to visit “Palacio de Cristal”. The iron and glass building used to be a greenhouse, with tropical plants coming from the Spanish colonies, notably the Philippines. Nowadays, it is used mainly for exhibitions curated by the renowned Reina Sofia Museum, so check the program beforehand. Whilst there, take a few moments to admire… Read more »
Located at the Villahermosa Palace, this museum is less famous than the Prado and the Reina Sofia museums, but in no way less fabulous. It is actually a very pleasant visit, since the smaller setting allows a more personal appreciation of the high quality masterpieces by Picasso, Van Gogh, Rubens and Caravaggio, amongst others, that are on display. Curators prepare special thematic exhbitions and you… Read more »
Located in the beautiful old railway station of Delicias, the Railway Museum holds one of the largest collection of locomotives and coaches in Europe. The exhibitions in the central hall take place on old train platforms and the ambience is quite alluring, with iron and glass structures representative of an industrial era, and the vivid green colors of the wagons. Our visit was made even… Read more »
Located just thirty minutes northeast of Madrid by train, Alcalá de Henares is famous for its illustrious son, Miguel de Cervantes, as well as its World Heritage medieval city center and its significance to Spanish history. The city’s wealth derived from its central position as the Catholic Kings’ stopover when heading south and it is said that some of Columbus’ meetings over the expeditions to… Read more »
We are often bemused when we hear travelers return from Madrid and miss a visit to Palacio de Cibeles. Located in front of the well-known Cibeles Fountain, this magnificent historical edifice once housed the Spanish Postal Service and was later renamed Palace of Communication. Its interiors are equally stunning, with a beautiful mix of old and modern architecture. The Palacio de Cibeles is nowadays the… Read more »
The Reina Victoria is just blocks away from Puerta del Sol, one of Madrid’s emblematic spots, as well as interesting attractions like the Thyssen-Bornemisza or the Prado museums. Located in historical Santa Ana Square, this 19th Century property has a distinctive décor, combining contemporary features, design furniture and objects with leather chairs, artsy detailing and graffiti style murals, all complementing the ambiance. A stunning rooftop bar… Read more »
If you have to choose one single restaurant to go to in Madrid, this is the one. Located in the upscale neighborhood of Salamanca, Ten con Ten is considered the trendiest restaurant in town. The moment you enter the front door you will be absorbed by the sophistication of the modern yet classy décor. It so happens that the food is amazing as well, with… Read more »
Everybody agrees that this is probably one of the best churros in town, San Ginés is a Madrid tradition that goes back to the 19th century. But the place has been discovered a while ago and is not Madrid’s local secret anymore. However, if you happen to be in the Plaza Mayor or Puerta del Sol regions, it may be worth a quick stop to… Read more »
So good we could not help going for seconds before leaving town. Taberna Los Angeles is centrally located and close to Puerta del Sol, a surprising kept secret considering the region is full of tourist traps. You will eat and drink with locals in a rustic ambiance with a welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff and incredible tapas. Patatas bravas, pulpo a la gallega, pan con tomate,… Read more »
A perfect venue for a casual day when you are looking for good food and no fuss. Located in the “tapas district” of Madrid, La Latina, this tavern is very traditional and a classic hot spot. The old-fashioned understated facilities and décor as well as the laid-back atmosphere do not give away the excellent quality of Almendro 13’s tapas and food. In the menu you… Read more »
True, it is no longer a hidden gem frequented by locals. Centrally located, the market was discovered by visitors a while ago, yet the madrileños still cherish and often go to Mercado de San Miguel. You will not likely come across tourist groups, but rather travelers visiting town, who have made this market one of their top choices when deciding where to go for good… Read more »
Located in the neighborhood of Chamberi, this converted bank has been renovated into a stunning spacious restaurant that will delight you the moment you enter the premises. Mixing urban and industrial design with charming colonial touches, every decorative detail is thoughtfully orchestrated throughout its stylish ambiances, with hanging lights and tables placed on different levels. The habitués are eclectic, from young couples to business executives… Read more »
Our latest visit to this restaurant was truly amazing, and not simply a matter of savoring exquisite food, a meal at La Terraza is an unforgettable experience. The molecular cuisine and multi-course tasting menu include foams, vapors, intriguing textures, spheres that explode in your mouth and many other multisensory and chemical food transformations. This type of gastronomical experience was top rated years ago, and although… Read more »
The Tótem is located in the elegant Salamanca neighborhood, surrounded by sophisticated shops, smart cafés and restaurants, and within easy reach to Madrid’s main visiting spots. The hotel is refined and contemporary, with fashionable ambiances and a well thought interior design that provides a pleasant stay in Madrid. A convenient and comfortable restaurant is handy for days when you just want to stay in, and… Read more »
The Only YOU Atocha is a few steps away from Retiro Park and across from Atocha train station, an ideal location for those who like to exercise or stroll outdoors, or need to make regular use of the train services. It is also in close proximity to Madrid’s main attractions, like the “museum triangle” and the city center near Puerta del Sol. The Only You… Read more »
The Único is located in the upscale and chic Salamanca neighborhood, a refined residential area offering an array of fancy restaurants, charming cafés and elegant shops. Hotel Único is housed in a restored 19th Century mansion and has been tastefully decorated in a contemporary style. Service is excellent and the staff run an extra mile to accommodate guests’ requests. There is a Michelin starred restaurant… Read more »
The Urban is a one-of-a-kind property. Located in the city center mid-way between Plaza Mayor and Retiro Park, within a few blocks to Prado and Thyssen Bornemisza museums, and ideal for visiting the city’s main attractions. The most striking aspect of Hotel Urban is its unique and surprising decorative style, unlike anything we have come across in Madrid. The creative ultra-modern high standing central atrium, flashy… Read more »
