72 Hours in Madrid

By Cassie Gill 

Madrid has been a cultural capital of Europe for decades, with a mix of incredible architecture, history and nightlife. In recent years, the Spanish city has emerged as a hospitality hotspot, as well: award-winning restaurants and hotels along with some of Europe’s best shopping have made this capital city a repeat destination for many. Here’s our guide to 72 hours in Madrid.

Where To Stay

UMusic Hotel Madrid 

Universal Music has their very own five-star hotel in the heart of Madrid, taking over the Teatro Albéniz theatre which dates to 1945. The architectural marvel has been refurbished to house 130 rooms, playing into a retro music theme while playing into a modern aesthetic. Soak in panoramic views of the city from the outdoor pool, and don’t miss a live cabaret show in the theatre. Rooms take on an urban design here, maximizing space while also maintaining a chic, stylish design. We loved the bathrooms appointed with Nutra Bisse products and a deep soak tub. The breakfast buffet here was also a delight, offering a mix of menu features (don’t miss the pancakes), continental fare, and a wonderful pastry selection. Downstairs, music fans can find merch, vinyl and a gourmet coffee bar inside the U Music Shop. 

Where To Shop

El Corte Inglés

Luxury’s address in Madrid. This Spanish department store dates to 1940 and has become synonymous with their immersive retail experience. Clients can experience plenty of in-store amenities including personal shopping and styling, travel booking services, restaurants and a gourmet food hall. Find all the major luxury players here, including Spain’s own Loewe as well as their own private labels like Woman, Emidio Tucci, and Dustin, along with a robust beauty section. After shopping, don’t miss the scenic Roof 47 rooftop bar for a glass of bubbly and for international shoppers, the tax refund desk is a must. 

Gran Via

Gran Via is where you’ll find all the major retailers, like Spain’s own Zara – but there’s plenty of cool and unique retail experiences, too. Spanish sneaker brand HOFF has built a full lifestyle experience at their flagship, welcoming guests with a modern café serving up matcha and espresso-based drinks. Design elements are woven through the two-floor space – also doubling as a creative hub – with a mixture of ceramic, woods and stones for an aesthetic that’s completely funky and unique. Down the street, pop into the WOW Concept – a store that blends physical and digital experiences to display avant-garde fashion, beauty and technology. Attached to the nearby Four Seasons Madrid – a stunning hotel housed in an old bank – the Galería Canalejas is a luxury shoppers paradise with Cartier, Louis Vuitton and more. 

Barrio de Salamanca

The trendiest part of Madrid is right in the heart of Barrio de Salamanca. Cruise Calle de Serrano for the shops, people watching and likely the best Instagram photos in the city. Pop into Loewe’s flagship Casa Loewe for a cappuccino and gallery-like experience which spans 10,760 sq. feet over three massive floors featuring their clothing collections, chic bags and legendary home collections, including their signature tomato leaves candle. Pedro Garcia is another native Spanish brand hailing from Elda, Alicante and renowned for their fashionable footwear – particularly their leather boots. Add MR. AB for menswear, Majorica for pearl necklaces, and Masscob for dresses and outerwear to your shopping list as you explore the neighborhood. VOGUE’s flower market will also return for its 12th year this spring on May 23rd in collaboration with the Asociación de Comerciantes del Barrio de Salamanca, where more than 50 of Madrid’s most esteemed florists curate a scene of natural beauty and artistry.

Where To Eat & Drink 

Casa Dani 

You haven’t had a tortilla until you’ve had the Casa Dani tortilla with caramelized onions – trust us. Inside Madrid’s Mercado de la Paz, Chef Dani Garcia has curated one of the city’s most iconic menus in a lively atmosphere perfect for a night on the town. Other must-tries include the oxtail brioche, the croquetas de jamón ibérico, and the paella to share, followed by the signature churros.

El Paraguas 

Venture through the flavors of northern Spain at the elegant El Paraguas, a delightful lunch or dinner spot on Jorge Juan Street in the Salamanca district. Husband and wife team Sandro Silva and Marta Seco are synonymous with their take on Asturian dishes including the delectable morel mushrooms with foie gras, the fabada asturiana – a rich stew with chorizo and morcilla – and the sea bass with scallops and lime juice. The wine list is extensive too, with plenty of dry Spanish reds to compliment the menu. Sister restaurants Ten Con Ten and Amazonico are also excellent options to add to your list.

SLVJ 

Madrid has more than just excellent Spanish cuisine to offer. SLVJ is easily the best Japanese fusion spot in the city. Expect a party-like atmosphere at this trendy Salamanca hotspot, where the crowd can be a mix of stylish Madrid locals and international travelers. Start off with the truffled mushroom dumplings and the signature SLVJ Roll 2.0 with snow crab, avocado and chives topped with tuna tataki. You can’t go wrong with the main course selection, but the roasted king salmon and glazed lamb shank were particularly memorable. 

Dani Brasserie at Four Seasons Madrid

The Four Seasons Madrid isn’t just one of the most beautiful hotels in the city but offers one of the best views. Head up to the rooftop Dani Brasserie for a sunset cocktail, soaking in both the skyline and rich history of the building – a former bank dating back to 1891. Drinks range from classic to exotic with unique options like the Chisme with vodka and gin mixed with Manzanilla La Pastora – a Spanish dried sherry – and Chartreuse, a French herbal liqueur, with a dash of matcha. Dessert aficionados can indulge in the Del Marques with Belvedere, coffee, pistachio, and coconut.

Gosto Café

Specialty coffee is still a niche in Madrid – and the chic Gosto Café seems to be leading the way. The plant-filled space on Calle de la Palma takes inspiration from Scandinavian café’s, mixing modern and traditional decor for a dreamy Instagram-worthy space. The coffee menu is simple but high quality, with excellent cappuccinos and cortados, as well as espresso. Both locations (the second being on Calle de Leon) also serve a full brunch: we loved the shakshuka, avocado toast and freshly made cinnamon buns.

What To See

Royal Palace of Madrid 

Perhaps one of the most exquisite palaces in Europe. This baroque and neoclassical inspired estate was built between 1738 and 1755 under the direction of King Philip V on the site of a 9th-century Moorish fortress. Today, the palace is only used for hosting state dinners and royal functions, while also doubling as an extensive gallery – but served as the primary royal residence until King Alfonso XIII’s death in 1941. The outdoor gardens are pristine, and worth a casual walk through even if you don’t set foot inside. 

El Retiro Park

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a tree-filled oasis in the middle of the city. Soak in the fresh air as you make your way through this impeccably manicured park and rose garden, home to boating lake the Estanque Grande, the Fountain of the Fallen Angel, and the Crystal Palace. Afterwards, pop over to Cappuccino Grand Café for an espresso and cake. 

Museo Nacional del Prado

No trip to Madrid is complete without a visit to Madrid’s most legendary museum. The Museo Nacional del Prado is the perfect spot to pop in without a plan: wander through rooms of European art, dating from the 12th century right up to the early 20th century. Find the museums most famous – Diego Velázquez's complex Las Meninas from 1656 – in Room 12.