When it comes to popular cities in Europe that are brimming with life but still feel down-to-earth, look no further than Madrid. As the capital of Spain, it's steeped in history and home to some of the country's most prestigious museums. Yet, what truly sets Madrid apart is its special charm, embodied by its old-school bodegas, beloved tavernas, and unbeatable Tapas bars, making the city a go-to destination for food lovers. We've handpicked more than fifteen absolute favorite spots that you just can't miss. To wrap up our guide, we listed a selection of exciting activities around the city and the best neighborhoods for authentic shops and luxury boutiques.
Hotels
1/5
The Madrid EDITION
With 177 guest rooms, 21 suites, and 2 penthouses, the Madrid EDITION sets itself apart not only with its generous size but also with its one-of-a-kind design. From the hotel entrance to the all-white bedrooms - the interior envisioned by Ian Schrager exudes a distinct and unmatched ambiance, promising an unforgettable stay. The Madrid Penthouse Suite, occupying an impressive 460 square meters on the top floor, redefines luxury with its expansive private pool, fully equipped kitchen, and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking views. A stay at this exceptional establishment guarantees an experience like no other.
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2/5
Four Seasons Madrid
Beyond this five-star hotels historical exterior awaits an experience of timeless luxury and effortless comfort - Stretching over four floors, the spa at the Four Seasons Madrid is the biggest in town, offering an array of signature treatments to special packages and experiences. On the 7th floor, Dani, a chic rooftop restaurant, serves traditional Andalusian cuisine. After dinner, wind down at the in-house award-winning cocktail bar Isa.
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3/5
Mandarin Oriental Ritz
Located within the "Golden Triangle of Art" near all major museums and parks, the five-star hotel by Mandarin Oriental Hotels has an almost unbeatable location. Opened in 1910, the newly renovated hotels interior reflects the Belle Époque style, featuring a unique blend of elegance and contemporary design. Offering signature tapas and creative cocktails, unwind at El Jardín del Ritz, the hotels chic al fresco terrace open year-round.
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4/5
BLESS Hotel Madrid
BLESS Hotel Madrid, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, is the second property of the BLESS Collection Hotels, following the successful opening of its first hotel in Ibiza. The two largest room types are tastefully furnished and decked with wooden floors, leading to an outdoor seating area with a private jacuzzi. For drinks and tapas, take the elevator up to the hotels rooftop bar Piscos Pardos, where coral loungers and an emerald-green pool add to the lively atmosphere.
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5/5
CoolRooms Palacio de Atocha
Located in the middle of the city, this four-star boutique hotel is simply too good not to mention. Next to its stylish interior, the hotel boasts high ceilings that lend a spacious and grand appearance to each room. On the top floor, the CoolSuite features a private rooftop deck with a jacuzzi overlooking the cities red-brown-tiled roofs. Not to forget, the lavish pool in the hotels inner courtyard is an absolute highlight, offering its guests a relaxing oasis during their stay.
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Restaurants
1/13
Deessa
Cuisine: Mediterranean | Modern
Vegetarian Options, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Known for: Elegant fine dining by chef Quique Dacosta awarded with 2 Michelin stars inside Mandarin Oriental Ritz.
Location | Plaza de la Lealtad, 5, 28014 Madrid Spain
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2/13
Santerra
Cuisine: Mediterranean | Spanish
Vegetarian Options, Gluten Free Options
Known for: Seasonal changing menu featuring contemporary Spanish cuisine.
Must-try: Artisan Iberian ham croquette.
Location | Calle General Pardinas 56, 28001 Madrid Spain
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3/13
Quispe
Cuisine: Peruvian | Fusion | Latin
Vegetarian Options, Gluten Free Options
Known for: Peruvian cuisine and very friendly service. Must-try: The »Ceviche«.
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4/13
Restaurante Casa Benigna
Cuisine: Mediterranean | European
Vegetarian Options, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Known for: Family-style restaurant with unique interior serving a variety authentic rice dishes.
Location | Calle Benigno Soto 9, 28002 Madrid Spain
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5/13
Sacha
Cuisine: Mediterranean | European
Vegetarian Options, Gluten Free Options
Known for: Cozy historic restaurant offering traditional Spanish cuisine behind cobalt blue doors.
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6/13
DSTAgE
Cuisine: International | Mediterranean
Vegetarian Options, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Known for: 2 Michelin-starred creative menu, open kitchen and industrial interior design.
Location | Calle de Regueros, 8, 28004 Madrid Spain
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7/13
Bodega de los Secretos
Cuisine: International | Mediterranean
Vegetarian Options, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Known for: Modern Mediterranean cuisine with unique atmosphere in former wine cellar from the 17th century. Must-try: Grilled octopus.
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8/13
Restaurant Her
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Vegetarian Options
Known for: Wood-fired pizza, fresh daily pasta and timeless, neutral interior design.
Location | Hermosilla 4, 28001. Salamanca, Madrid Spain
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9/13
La Esquina del Real
Cuisine: French | European
Vegetarian Options, Gluten Free Options
Known for: French cuisine inside Parisian-style bistro with central location right next to Teatro Real.
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10/13
CEBO
Cuisine: Contemporary | Mediterranean | Spanish
Known for: Seasonal tasting menu with focus on high quality ingredients, creativity and technique inside 5-star Hotel Urban.
Location | Carrera San Jeronimo 34, 28014 Madrid Spain
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11/13
O'Pazo
Cuisine: Seafood | Mediterranean
Gluten Free Options
Known for: Modern, sophisticated restaurant with open kitchen specialized on fresh fish and seafood dishes.
Location | Calle Reina Mercedes 20, 28020 Madrid Spain
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12/13
Toga
Cuisine: Fusion | Spanish
Vegetarian Options
Known for: The noodles con atún! If you can't get a reservation here, visit their newly opened restaurant Toguita, just five minutes away.
Location | C. de Juanelo 23, 28012 Madrid Spain
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12/13
Charrúa
Cuisine: Argentinian | Steakhouse
Gluten Free Options
Known for: Popular steakhouse with moody lighting, specialized in grilled meat from Argentina. Must-try: For dessert the »Volcán de dulce de leche«.
Location | Calle del Conde de Xiquena 4, 28004 Madrid Spain
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Bars & Drinks
1/4
Macera TallerBar
Known for: Charming Spanish cocktail bar with International atmosphere in the evening.
Location | Calle San Mateo 21, 28004 Madrid Spain
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2/4
La Venencia
Known for: Historic, authentic wine bar with wooden interior serving traditional Spanish snacks (olives, sliced chorizo, cheese and more).
Location | Calle Echegaray 7, 28014 Madrid Spain
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3/4
1862 Dry Bar
Known for: Charming cocktail bar serving signature drinks, located in one of Madrids most vibrant districts »Malasaña«.
Location | Calle Pez 27, 28004 Madrid Spain
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4/4
Salmon Guru
Known for: Unique, sophisticated cocktail bar decorated with neon signs and Art-deco elements.
Location | Calle Echegaray No 21, 28014 Madrid Spain
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Activities
Madrid's rich history vividly reflects itself through its globally acclaimed museums. As already mentioned above, Triángulo del Arte is a must-visit for art lovers. It connects three of the main museums, the Museo del Prado, the Museo Reina Sofía and the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza. Best known for Picasso's 3,50 m × 7,80 m painting "Guernica", Museo Reina Sofía houses the biggest collection of contemporary art in Madrid. If you choose to stay at the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, we recommend requesting the Contemporary Arty Lovers City Tour, where you'll explore Madrids modern art scene in a two-hours long guided tour. Museo del Prado is undoubtedly the most known museum in Spain and showcases European art works dating from the 12th century to the early 20th century.
After your trip to Museo del Prado, enjoy a leisurely walk in Madrid's lush green oasis, Parque del Retiro. During the summer, we recommend renting one of the blue boats at the heart of the park, Estanque Grande del Retiro. Adjacent to the park, take a relaxing stroll through the colorful gardens at Real Jardín Botánico to view thousands of blooming international flowers and plants.
For shopping, visit this charming womenswear boutique, located on Calle Regueros. At Pez you'll find a curated selection of effortlessly chic pieces, all displayed in an open, modern space. Just down the street, stop by at their second boutique, Pez Casa, where distinct furniture, lamps and carpets are offered, all sharing the same aesthetic as the Pez clothing store. For authentic Spanish home decor, tableware and accessories visit COCOL, a small boutique located in the La Latina neighborhood. Each piece is handcrafted by skilled Spanish artisans, spanning from contemporary designs to timeless antiques. It's an ideal souvenir to take home from a truly local shopping experience.
Spain is also known for its churros, mostly paired with warm chocolate sauce (known as chocolate con churros). The most known chocolatería was found in 1894 and is named Chocolateria San Ginés, which is open every day and located in the heart of the city close to Puerta del Sol. Speaking of Puerta del Sol, one of the busiest plazas of the city, make sure to include visits to other historic public squares such as Plaza Mayor and the vibrant Gran Vía into your shopping spree. All of these lively locations are centered in the heart of the city, surrounded by streets dotted with Spanish shops and international brands catering to every taste. Not to forget Madrids fashion hub, the Salamanca neighborhood, renowned for hosting designer brands and luxury boutiques. Particularly, you'll find them along Calle de Serrano and Calle de José Ortega y Gasset.
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