Remember me
Beyond the bustling Gran Vía and the historic plazas lies a world of luxury, where the heritage of the Habsburgs meets a contemporary culinary revolution.
48 hours in the Spanish capital is an exercise in "la buena vida"—the good life.
From private viewings of masterpieces to rooftop sunsets that turn the skyline into a Velázquez canvas, Abode2 has curated the essential two-day itinerary for a sophisticated Madrid escape.
Day one: Roots, royals, and rituals Morning: A palace to yourselfBegin your stay at the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, a Belle Époque masterpiece recently restored to its full glory. After a light breakfast under the crystal canopy of the Palm Court, take a five-minute chauffeured ride to the Royal Palace. To truly appreciate the largest royal residence in Western Europe, arrange for a private, out-of-hours tour. Walking through the Throne Room and the Royal Armory without the crowds allows the grandeur of the Stradivarius Palatinos collection to truly resonate.
Afternoon: Gastronomy in the skyFor lunch, head to the Four Seasons Hotel Madrid. Located in the historic Canalejas Center, its rooftop restaurant, Dani, by Michelin-starred chef Dani García, offers avant-garde Andalusian cuisine with a view that stretches across the terracotta rooftops to the Sierra de Guadarrama.
Post-lunch, retreat to the Barrio de Salamanca. This is Madrid’s "Golden Mile." Skip the flagship stores and head to the bespoke ateliers on Calle Jorge Juan, or visit the Loewe flagship—a temple to Spanish leather craft—where private shopping suites offer a sanctuary for the style-conscious.
Evening: The art of FlamencoThe evening belongs to Corral de la Morería. Known as the "Cathedral of Flamenco," it is the only flamenco tablao in the world with a Michelin star. Request the ‘Chef’s Table’—an intimate space for just four guests—where you can witness the raw power of Spain’s most famous art form while enjoying a tasting menu that is equally expressive.
Day two: Masterpieces and modern luxe
Madrid’s "Golden Triangle of Art" is world-renowned, but for the HNW traveller, the experience should be personal. Secure a private "Art Insider" guide for the Prado Museum. Focus on the Velázquez and Goya rooms before the mid-morning rush, then cross the Paseo del Prado to the Thyssen-Bornemisza, which houses one of the world's most impressive private collections, spanning eight centuries of European painting.
Afternoon: Retiro serenityFind your "fresh eyes" with a stroll through El Retiro Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. To elevate the experience, have your hotel concierge arrange a private rowing boat on the Great Lake or a picnic curated by a gourmet deli, enjoyed near the stunning Crystal Palace.
For a late Spanish lunch, visit Sacha. Tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, this "bistro for those in the know" is a favourite among Madrid’s elite. It’s unpretentious, deeply traditional, and serves what many consider the best tortilla de patatas in Spain.
Evening: A toast to the FutureEnd your 48 hours at DiverXO, David Muñoz’s three-Michelin-star "culinary circus." This is not just a meal; it’s an immersive, hedonistic journey that represents the bold, rebellious spirit of modern Madrid.
As night falls, retreat to the rooftop of The Principal Madrid for a final gin and tonic. Looking down at the iconic Metropolis building, you’ll realise that while 48 hours is enough to fall in love with Madrid, it’s only the beginning of a lifelong affair.
Where to stay- Mandarin Oriental Ritz: For those who demand historic grandeur and proximity to the museums.
- Rosewood Villa Magna: Located in Salamanca, this is the epitome of understated, contemporary elegance.
- The Madrid EDITION: A high-concept design sanctuary for the modern and creative traveller.
Comments (0)