Few cities in Europe have the sheer grandeur of Madrid. Luxurious and elegant, yet friendly and laidback, the Spanish capital offers a huge variety of things to do and places to go – all with a unique flavour that sets Madrid apart not only from other cities in Spain but also the rest of Europe.
Fascinating museums, tranquil parks, exceptional tapas, iconic landmarks – and arguably two of the best football teams in the world – Madrid provides a bucket list for tourists that is unmatched in Europe.
Dating back to the 9th century, the city is blessed with regal architecture and impressive plazas that show a rich history of which Madrileños are rightly proud. But Madrid is not a city that lives in the past. With a string of magnificent contemporary hotels opening recently, Madrid is an in-demand destination for a luxury city break.
One of the most sophisticated hotels to open this year is the Brach Madrid on the city’s famous Gran Via, a 1.3km street filled with excellent shopping and historical sights. Designed by the master of understated luxury, Philippe Starck, Brach Madrid is part of Evok Collection and opened in January. This charming hotel has 57 rooms, including four suites, a cutting edge wellness space and excellent eateries. Located in an iconic seven-storey building completed in 1922, a stay at Brach Madrid brings vintage flair to your trip.
Culture lovers, meanwhile, should seek out El Autor Hotel Madrid in the Barrio de las Letras, a bohemian neighbourhood famous for its past literary residents. Part of Marriott’s prestigious Autograph Collection, El Autor Hotel Madrid inhabits a carefully restored 19th-century building on Calle Zorrilla. Combining heritage with modernity, this 50-room hotel is the perfect base from which to explore the city’s renowned Art Triangle of Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, and the Reina Sofia Museum.
Also in the bustling Barrio de las Letras is the Casa de las Artes Meliá Collection, a luxury hotel that pays homage to the seven fine arts: painting, sculpture, music, dance, literature, architecture and film. As well as 137 stunning rooms, the hotel also has a thermal pool, cinema, and library plus a beautiful engraving by Gustave Doré made for the 1869 edition of Don Quixote by the beloved Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes.
Blending history, design, and culture – this trio of hotels, which are just an example of the many more luxury accommodations renovated or opened in the city in the last few years, are an enticing retreat for the discerning traveller who wishes to immerse themselves in the unparalleled luxury of Spain’s glorious capital.