Are you ready to discover an abundance of culture, luxury and exclusivity in a city brimming with grandeur? Step inside Vogue Arabia’s Madrid travel guide now.
The Royal Palace of Aranjuez
Nestled in the heart of Spain, Madrid beckons travelers with a sun- drenched tapestry steeped in culture, history, and modernity. The dynamic metropolis seamlessly blends tradition with a cosmopolitan flair, while greater Madrid gives travelers a chance to let time stand still. From the cobbled, colonnaded wonder of Plaza Mayor and the Baroque façade of the Royal Palace, to the boutiques lining Gran Vía, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Puerta del Sol, admiring masterpieces at the Prado Museum, or savoring a delectable variety of small plates at a tapas bar, in Madrid not a minute goes by without some excitement. One could even spend an entire day meandering through El Retiro Park, where you are just as likely to stumble upon a historic statue as you are to spot fashion-forward locals.
Madrid travel guide: What to explore
The Sabatini Gardens by the Royal Palace
For those who want to take a deeper dive into the city’s vibrant culture, experiences abound, such as the art and opera brunch at the Thyssen- Bornemisza National Museum – part of the Golden Triangle of Art, along with the Prado and the Reina Sofía national galleries. With an impressive collection spanning Italian primitives, the German Renaissance, 19th- century American art, Impressionism, German Expressionism, and Russian Constructivism, the museum is a haven for art lovers. Alternatively, head over to the Corral de la Morería to enjoy the passion of flamenco at the oldest tablao in the capital, and if your craving for the performative arts is still not satisfied, there is always the Royal Theatre, where a projection called Sky by artist Jaume Plensa currently lights up its dome. Then, there is the unmatched enthusiasm of Spanish football, which permeates the winding streets to ultimately focus on the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid since 1947.
Madrid travel guide: Where to shop
El Corte Inglés offers a customized luxury experience with an exclusive personal shopping service
No European holiday can be complete without a bit of shopping, and what better place for retail therapy at its finest than the country’s fashion capital? Nestled within historic buildings featuring art deco, neo-Renaissance, and neo- baroque details, the Galería Canalejas has established itself as an icon of luxury shopping housing some of the most prestigious brands worldwide. Elsewhere, El Corte Inglés brings a more personalized luxury experience with an exclusive shopping service – a team of fashion experts will be on hand to offer tailored style advice and customized recommendations focused on your unique physical characteristics. On the outskirts of Madrid, another unique shopping experience awaits. With high-end brands and renowned designers lining the open boulevard of Las Rozas, the outlet village is the ideal destination for some bargain-hunting.
A peek at the iconic handmade espadrilles
Perhaps the best souvenir one can take home from Madrid is its much-talked-about espadrilles. Cue Antigua Casa Crespo, which was founded by Martín Garbayo in 1863, and was devoted to construction products, such as ropes, thatch and, of course, espadrilles in black and white. Made using traditional techniques, the handmade espadrilles here have earned a cult following — so strong is their allure that back in the seventies, Antigua Casa Crespo even received a visit from Queen Sofía.
Madrid travel guide: Where to eat
The Four Seasons hotel in Madrid
After a day of endless shopping has left you famished, make your way to one of the 28 Michelin-starred restaurants in the city with 36 stars. Among this crème de la crème of gastronomy, Ramón Frexia emerges as a notable choice. Located in one of Madrid’s most affluent neighborhoods, Salamanca, the fine dining establishment is headed by the award-winning Catalan chef whom the restaurant is named after. Complex flavors, avant-garde techniques, and traditional produce dominate the menu, while sophisticated interiors uplift your dining experience.
Just a short distance away from the city more provincial sites such as San Lorenzo de El Escorial or Aranjuez offer a more intimate experience of the Spanish region. Formed by the confluence of the Tagus and Jarama rivers, Aranjuez has been the preferred spring home of Spanish royalty for centuries. The low-lying meadow is home to stunning gardens such as the Jardín de la Isla, which boasts extensive woodlands, grand avenues, and Greek mythology-inspired fountains. Over in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, the royal monastery paints an imposing picture with the Guadarrama mountains rising in the background. Here, another Michelin- starred dining experience awaits those hoping to discover authentic regional cuisine. At Montia, chef Daniel Ochoa draws both inspiration and ingredients from the expansive nature that surrounds him to create what he calls ‘wild cuisine.’ A seasonal, slow-cooked menu allows diners to savor the delicate flavors of local produce.
Madrid travel guide: Where to stay
With both sites constituting a short day trip from the city of Madrid, you can simply return to your hotel at night. An ideal abode can be found at the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, an opulent Belle Époque palace hotel in the city center. Since its foundation in 1910, the property has hosted a long list of distinguished guests, from Ernest Hemingway to the last Maharaja of the princely state of Kapurthala. Another exquisite option is the Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá. Located on the main street of Madrid de los Austrias, between Plaza de Oriente and Gran Vía, the palace-turned-hotel is brimming with art and tradition as it finds inspiration in the work of Velázquez. A fitting gateway from which to unlock the captivating charm of Madrid.
Get to know more about the region and the city of Madrid.
Originally published in the January 2024 issue of Vogue Arabia
