Madrid: a world-famous capital, but with so many secrets

The Paseo de la Castellana and surrounding neighborhoods

Welcome to the Paseo de la Castellana, the city’s most chic avenue, a perfect starting point to discover the marvels of the Spanish capital. Be amazed by the wonders of the natural world at the Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales,  and take in world-class ballet at the Teatros de Canal. All without leaving this beautiful neighborhood. Of course you’ll need to refuel at some point, and what better place to do so than at the NH Collection Madrid Abascal, with a selection of mouth-watering dishes menu or the fashionable Calle Ponzano, where you'll enjoy an unforgettable tapas experience.

An intmate Museum

Spain’s capital is famed for its outstanding array of museums but there are still some lesser known secrets: the Museo Sorolla is housed in what used to be the home of painter Joaquin Sorolla, most famous for his deft landscapes with incredible representations of the Spanish light. It allows you to contemplate his world-renowned works in a far more intimate setting than you’ll find in the famous Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza or Reina Sofia museums.

Things to do and getting around

For something a bit different, we urge all our guests to visit the ancient Egyptian Temple of Debod at sunset – it’ll take your breath away. The shrine, a gift from Egypt, was shipped here stone by stone! For more incredible views jump on the cable car near the temple and drift over the rose garden of Parque del Oeste, the fascinating architecture of the suburban Príncipe Pío train station, and the Manzanares river before arriving at the former royal hunting estate of Casa de Campo. For more beautiful parks on the other side of the city stroll down to Rubén Dario metro station and a direct 20-minute ride (€1.50 per trip or €12.20 for a 10 trip ticket) will take you to the gates of Quinta de los Molinos, famous for its more than fifteen hundred almond trees (the incredible white blossoms are best seen in February or March). A couple of stops further on is the tranquil Parque del Capricho, former home of the Duque de Osuna, with amazing trees, a lake and fascinating, whimsical, architectural structures. Just try not to get lost in the maze!

Madrid with children

Kids just love the parks and the cable car but the fun in Madrid for younger family members doesn’t stop there. The city zoo (in Casa de Campo) is regarded as one of the best in Europe – especially if you love pandas – and the Museo de Cera near Colón gives you the chance to pose next to your favorite celebrities, well, their wax version anyway! If someone’s recently lost a tooth, or not, pop into the Casa Museo Ratón Pérez which is the enchanting home of the mouse that’s the Spanish equivalent of the Tooth Fairy. A really fun option would be to take an organized tour on a go-cart or a Segway – a really different way to discover the Spanish capital. More information of fun things to do with children can be found here.

Madrid shopping and nightlife

Shopping in Madrid isn’t only about exclusive brands, but what is dubbed “The Golden Mile”, right off the Paseo del la Castellana in the Salamanca district, certainly is. Expansive shop fronts and delightful boutiques allow you to rub shoulders with Chanel, Gucci, Carolina Herrera, Louis Vuitton and the rest. And after treating yourself, or even just a little window shopping, follow up with exquisite food at one of the nearby restaurants that are on everyone’s lips right now: you’ll find unique Andalusian dishes at BIBO Madrid; you can watch oysters being prepared in front of your eyes at Luzi Bombón, or indulge your inner-cheese lover at the classy Poncelet Cheese Bar with a menu based around its more than 150 artisan cheeses.

As afternoon turns to evening, Florida Retiro within the famous Parque del Retiro is worth a visit for a wide selection of gastronomical treats prepared by top chefs. Stay on for drinks and musical entertainment or why not take a short walk to Salmón Gurú, a gastro-bar where their bartender will mix you a personalized cocktail. Finish off the night at Bogui Jazz, on Calle de Barquillo, with some of the best live chill-out sessions in town en route back to the hotel.

Exploring further afield

As you can see, Madrid has plenty to fill any visit, but if you ever feel the need to get out of the city then just ask and we can point you in any one of several exciting directions. A popular choice would be the wonderful city of Segovia with its stunning 2,000-year old Roman aqueduct, also known as the Devil’s Bridge. A ride on the stunning 200mph high-speed AVE train will have you there in less than 30 minutes; once there why not explore with a leisurely vintage car ride through the old streets or if you want to be really amazed, let us arrange for you to see the city’s sights from the sky, in a plane you can fly yourself.