Madrid

As a popular old Spanish song goes: “Madrí, Madrí, Madrí... and from Madrid to heaven.” 

Along with London, Paris and Rome, Madrid is a trump card among the great European capitals. While true that it does not have a great navigable river and it is not close to the sea, Madrid is a city that knows how to live life, and where anyone from any place is warmly welcomed. And this is no cliché: any person from any part of the world who comes to live here is immediately considered a native of the city. You can come from Helsinki, but if you live in Madrid, “you are from Madrid.” 

The blue colour of the sky and the city’s magnificent climate certainly help. It is true that during July and August the heat can be sizzling but dry. Generally however, all four seasons clearly differentiated. 

While a large capital, it’s a relatively simple city, with an acceptable level of traffic, a well-functioning and inexpensive network of public transportation, and countless activities held at prices much more affordable than in other capitals. And on top of that, if you want to go to the opera or take part in activities that would be impossible elsewhere, you can buy tickets at a reasonable price. It is also a city where you will feel very safe walking both day and night, barring very bad luck. 

Madrid obviously has different areas and neighborhoods that have their own character, such as the very aristocratic Retiro district with its large and beautiful park, the barrio de Salamanca where you can find our flagship boutique (you should visit us there!), and residential areas like El Viso. Nevertheless, if it’s your first visit we recommend you get lost in the old town known as the Madrid de los Austrias. Having breakfast or lunch in the Plaza de Oriente across from the Royal Palace and Opera is a true delight. Our showroom is located at one of the corners on the Plaza de Oriente, more specifically in the Plaza de la Encarnación. Don’t hesitate to pass by, we will be happy to welcome you, show you our products, and introduce our team. 

Visiting the Royal Palace is truly interesting, and from there you can walk on to the mythical Puerta del Sol, then following down the carrera de San Jerónimo until reaching Spain’s parliament: the Congreso de los Diputados. You may also want to stop along calle Alcalá to enjoy the view of its lovely buildings, as well as those on the Gran Vía, right next door. Once passed the Congreso de los Diputados, you will have reached the wonderful “museum triangle,” which includes the imposing Prado Museum, the exquisite Thyssen-Bornemisza , and the Reina Sofia National Museum of Modern Art. Don’t leave out the “La Caixa” Foundation, a building with hanging gardens - a work by architects Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron.

RECOMMENDATIONS: 

Because Madrid has so much to offer, we have curated a selection of places you are sure to enjoy. 

MUSEUMS: 

Besides the major museums, the Archaeological and the American ones are also worth a visit. Other gems include the art museums dedicated to Joaquín Sorolla (in the former home of the great Spanish painter), as well as the Lázaro Galdeano and Cerralbo collections. 

HOTELS: 

Most of Madrid’s hotels, no matter the category they belong to, are generally good - with unbeatable quality for the price. Here are just a few:  

ONLY YOU: If you want to be right in the heart of the lively Chueca neighbourhood on Calle Barquillo.   

PALACIO DE SANTO MAURO: Small, very aristocratic and chic (in a very elegant neighbourhood close to Paseo de la Castellana). 

THE PRINCIPAL. Very quaint hotel resembling a sort of club. At the beginning of the Gran Via. 

FOUR SEASONS MADRID. Opened only a few months ago. It is a superb renovation of an old bank and occupies several adjacent historical buildings on calle Alcalá. The terrace is a spectacular place to have lunch or dinner. They provide guests excellent suggestions about local products and restaurants. It is also worth mentioning that the spa is the best in Madrid.  

THE RITZ MANDARIN has just been splendidly restored and once again takes its place among Madrid’s most exclusive hotels. Special mention must be made of the culinary offering in the very elegant main restaurant. 

RESTAURANTS AND TAPAS BARS: 

 A few recommendations are: 

There is so much quality and variety, and they are so good, that we suggest you buy the equivalent of the mythic Fodor’s guides, which here is called METRÓPOLI. It’s the one that provides the most curated information about atmosphere, quality and cuisine. 

 
Enjoy!