KNOWN AS LA VILLA Y CORTE, or The Town and Court, Madrid’s transformation began in the 16th century when King Philip II relocated the royal court from Toledo to this burgeoning town in 1561. This pivotal decision marked the dawn of Madrid as the center of Spanish royalty and governance. From its humble beginnings, Madrid has blossomed into a dynamic metropolis seamlessly blending its deep history with a thoroughly modern character all its own. 

One of the best places to begin exploring Madrid is the Royal Palace, one of Europe’s largest and most magnificent royal residences. Though it now serves a ceremonial role, hosting state events and official gatherings, the palace’s stunning architecture and opulent interiors invite you to step back in time and glimpse the luxurious lives of Spanish royalty. Just next door, the Royal Collections Gallery extends this journey through history. Here, a remarkable amassing of artworks and artifacts gathered by the Spanish Monarchy from the Middle Ages to the present day awaits discovery. Highlights include masterpieces by renowned artists, regal treasures, and fascinating objects that weave together the intricate history of Spain.

THE ARTS AND NATURE

To truly grasp the essence of Madrid, you must first immerse yourself in the passionate rhythms of flamenco. This soulful art form lies at the very core of the city’s identity, each performance embodying centuries of tradition and raw emotion. Known as the world capital of flamenco, Madrid seduces you to experience it in its purest form. Step into one of the city’s intimate tablaos, where the spellbinding mix of song, dance, and guitar creates an unforgettable evening. 

These small venues bring the audience so close to the performers that you can feel the vibrations of every step and hear every heartfelt strum. Yet, Madrid’s artistic pulse doesn’t stop with flamenco. For those drawn to visual masterpieces, the city holds a top place on the global art stage. Home to the famed Golden Triangle of Art — the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, and the Reina Sofía Museum — Madrid showcases one of the most extraordinary concentrations of artistic achievements in the world. From the grandeur of Velázquez and Goya to the surreal genius of Dalí and Picasso, the collections here span centuries and styles, making Madrid a pilgrimage site for art enthusiasts.

Even amid the bustle of city life, Madrid offers tranquil escapes that remind you of its harmony between urbanity and nature. El Retiro Park, nestled in the city center, is a beloved retreat for locals and visitors alike. Take a rowboat ride on its serene lake, marvel at the delicate beauty of the Crystal Palace, or simply wander through the shaded pathways and manicured gardens. For those craving a deeper connection with nature, a short drive from the city reveals the magnificent Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. With peaks exceeding 6,500 feet, lush forests, and diverse wildlife, this natural haven showcases Spain’s varied landscapes just an hour away.

A TASTE OF THE GOOD LIFE

Madrid is a paradise for shoppers, foodies, and travelers seeking luxury accommodations, with a collection of experiences that cater to every taste. For those with a penchant for high-end fashion, the Salamanca district stands out as the pinnacle of shopping. This exclusive area features boutiques and flagship stores of designers like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Prada.

Adding to Madrid’s allure is Galería Canalejas, a contemporary haven for high-end retail and gastronomy. Here, you’ll find an impressive blend of international fashion and jewelry brands alongside gourmet dining experiences, making it a must-visit for discerning shoppers. Another iconic landmark in the city’s shopping scene is El Corte Inglés. Established in Madrid in 1940 as a small tailor shop, it has grown into a retail destination that combines history and modern elegance.

For more shopping, Las Rozas Village, located near the stunning Sierra Norte mountains, has year-round savings of up to 60% on Spanish and international fashion and lifestyle brands. This premier outlet shopping destination pairs its stylish boutiques with delightful restaurants and cafés, such as Mentidero Sal y Brasas, where you can enjoy anything from quick bites to a relaxed all-day dining experience.

When it’s time to dine, Madrid’s culinary scene is nothing short of extraordinary. The city boasts 28 Michelin-starred restaurants with a total 36 stars, presenting a mouthwatering range of options from avant-garde molecular gastronomy to reimagined Spanish classics. For a taste of history, visit Casa Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world, established in 1725. It continues to delight diners with signature dishes cooked in the same wood-fired oven that has been in use for centuries.

Madrid’s appeal extends to its world-class accommodations, ensuring a memorable stay for travelers. The city’s premier hotels, such as Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid, InterContinental Madrid, and JW Marriott Hotel Madrid, redefine comfort, making Madrid a destination where indulgence knows no bounds. 

BEYOND THE CITY 

Exploring the wider Madrid region reveals a trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and picturesque towns, each with its own charm. Among these UNESCO sites is El Escorial, a monastery and royal palace that stands as a stunning example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Then there is Aranjuez, famed for its majestic palace and beautifully landscaped gardens that evoke a sense of regal splendor. 

Alcalá de Henares, the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, shines as a gem of the region, boasting impeccably preserved university buildings and a vibrant public center.

Step outside the hustle of Madrid, and you’ll find enchanting villages that feel like stepping into another time. Patones, with its quaint stone houses and narrow, winding streets, offers an idyllic retreat into rustic tranquility. Chinchón, known for its circular plaza and lively festivals, provides an authentic peek into Castilian life. Meanwhile, Buitrago del Lozoya, encircled by medieval walls and the flowing Lozoya River, unfolds as a storybook brimming with centuries of history. For architectural wonders and natural beauty, Manzanares el Real delivers with the imposing Castillo de los Mendoza, set against a breathtaking backdrop.

Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Madrid

Located in Madrid’s most prestigious district, Barrio de Salamanca, Santo Mauro offers a lavish escape into 19th-century elegance. Once the home of the influential Duke of Santo Mauro, this historic 5-star hotel invites guests to step back in time while indulging in modern luxury. With its Frenchinspired design and architecture, the property comprises three exquisite buildings surrounded by a serene private garden, complete with fountains and terraces shaded by ancient chestnut trees.

The Palace of Santo Mauro was crafted by architect Juan Bautista Lázaro between 1889 and 1902 to serve as the Duke’s residence. 

Its French-style design set it apart from the regional architectural norms of that era, adding an air of sophistication. The curvilinear main courtyard, originally accessed by carriages, features a stunning iron and glass marquee that once shielded the Duke and his family from the elements. Inside, the palace retains much of its original charm, including a Modernist staircase in the entrance hall, a small oval courtyard, a chapel, and the Duke’s library, all of which exude timeless character.The rooms and suites at Santo Mauro have been thoughtfully designed. Each night will make you look forward to curling up in bed for a deep, restful sleep. All accommodations are designed with high-quality finishes, marble bathrooms, plush bedding, and high-speed Wi-Fi.

Equally captivating are the hotel’s public rooms, each steeped in history and style. The Red Room epitomizes French Classicism, while the Chinese Lounge reflects the Duke’s passion for collecting oriental treasures during his travels. 

For fine dining and intimate moments, the Duke’s former library now serves as the main restaurant, serving a gastronomic experience as striking as its surroundings. Meanwhile, the Wine Bar pairs an extensive selection of wines with small, delectable plates, great for leisurely indulgence.

Outside, the hotel’s lush garden makes an enchanting backdrop for romantic interludes, group gatherings, and fine dining. The staff here can personalize special moments based on guests’ desires, allowing them to retreat into the greenery while still enjoying every available amenity.

Located in the core of Madrid, Santo Mauro is just steps away from the city’s premium shopping streets, renowned design area, and world-famous museums. 

Intercontinental Madrid
Madrid

In the colorful heart of Madrid, the InterContinental Madrid stands as a symbol of opulence on the Paseo de la Castellana. This illustrious avenue, which rose to prominence in the 1800s, was chosen for the Spanish nobility to craft their urban palaces. Included among these was the Palace of the Dukedom of Aliaga, a masterpiece designed by the esteemed architect Eugenio Jiménez Correa. By the time the 1950s neared, the golden age of the Spanish nobility was waning, and many of their opulent homes were transformed into modern hotels.

In a remarkable transition, the InterContinental Madrid opened its doors on this storied avenue, becoming the first international hotel in Spain. Located at number 49, the hotel ushered in a new era with an extravagant inaugural celebration that lasted three days and nights, marking Madrid’s evolution into a cultural hub akin to a Hollywood enclave. The hotel quickly garnered fame for hosting a plethora of luminaries, including Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, Gary Cooper, and Sophia Loren, who found solace within its confines while working on major film productions in the Spanish capital.

Today, InterContinental Madrid continues to epitomize the essence of luxury with its beautifully appointed rooms and suites that seamlessly blend classic and contemporary styles. The refuge provides award-winning business facilities and a 24-hour gym, catering to both business and leisure travelers. The hotel’s palatial, marble-lined lobby exudes sophistication, yielding a glimpse into Madrid’s honored past while embracing the present day.

As guests step outside, they are greeted by the magnificent Paseo de la Castellana, a dynamic avenue lined with modern skyscrapers and cafés. A short stroll south reveals the Plaza de Cibeles, surrounded by monumental neoclassical buildings, including the iconic Madrid City Hall. Here, visitors are drawn to the Círculo de Bellas Artes, celebrated for its traditional coffee service and rooftop terrace that offers breathtaking vistas of the city.

For those seeking to escape the urban hustle, El Retiro park, Madrid’s cherished green space, lies nearby. With its prime address and history, the InterContinental Madrid serves as an ideal base for exploring this magnificent city.

JW Marriott Hotel Madrid
Madrid

The 5-star JW Marriott Hotel Madrid stands as a beacon of luxury, offering a premier experience among the city’s most sumptuous accommodations and is located near some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Puerta del Sol, the Royal Palace, and Plaza Mayor.

Inside, the hotel’s design exudes a harmonious balance. Thoughtfully curated to cultivate mindfulness, the décor pays homage to the building’s past with its 19th-century wrought iron columns — a proud reminder of its storied heritage. This fusion of timeless elegance and modern sensibility creates a lovely atmosphere that complements the vibrant energy of Madrid.

The 139 rooms and suites, many featuring private balconies, are thoughtfully designed to nurture holistic well-being. Crafted with natural materials and soothing neutral tones, each space serves as a peaceful sanctuary. These calming interiors are the perfect retreat for relaxation and reflection, a welcome contrast the bustle of city life. For an elevated experience, the upper-floor suites have expansive terraces that unveil views of Madrid’s skyline for an awe-inspiring perspective. Discerning guests can choose the Suite Canalejas which can be connected with a Junior Suite. This supreme suite invites all to enjoy the dolce far niente, with a huge terrace and sunbeds, and amazing 180-degree panoramas of the Spanish capital.

The hotel ensures a divine stay with its state-of-the-art facilities, including a comprehensive wellness area and a fully equipped gym open 24/7. At the private spa and tranquil JW Garden you can unwind and engage in mindfulness practices that foster a sense of inner peace and rejuvenation.

Culinary excellence is a hallmark of JW Marriott Hotel Madrid, with QÚ Restaurant led by Michelin-starred chef Mario Sandoval. Here, you can embark on a gastronomic journey that combines quintessential Spanish flavors with contemporary innovation. The welcoming lobby and intimate dining spaces have additional areas for guests to unwind and savor the hotel’s ambiance.

Beyond the hotel grounds, guests can explore the renowned Art Walk, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as The Landscape of Light. This area is home to some of the world’s most prestigious art museums, including El Prado, the ThyssenBornemisza, and the Reina Sofia.