Captivating from morning to night with post-industrial cityscapes, vibrant street markets and balmy tapas bars, there is much to see and do on a business trip to Madrid. Home to the headquarters of the World Tourism Organisation, the Spanish capital is a fascinating fusion of tradition and history with a dynamic, contemporary urban twist. From galleries and museums displaying world-renowned exhibitions to plush green spaces that feature a plethora of scenic points, this city is an escape in itself. Join us as we discover the impressive array of things to do in the Spanish capital for your next business trip to Madrid.
Plaza Mayor
The main square of the city, Plaza Mayor holds centuries of history in its cobblestones. Once the epicentre for all Spanish celebrations, this stunning square has seen everything from coronation parties to bullfights and beheadings. Nowadays, the Plaza is the perfect location to watch the world go by; nestle into a bar that skirts the square’s corners and unwind after a busy day of exploring in Madrid.
La Terraza at The Principal Madrid
Situated in Madrid’s main thoroughfare, this five-star hotel in Gran Via boasts an elegant Mediterranean roof-top bar with sweeping views of the city. Classically decorated to be a garden-like oasis, the terrace features wrought-iron armchairs and potted olive trees, encapsulating the ambience of the countryside in the clouds. Known for great service and a warm atmosphere, this rooftop is perfect for a relaxing drink both day and night when visiting Madrid.
Retiro Park
Relax and unwind while exploring Madrid’s green heart. Located in the city centre, El Retiro features plush greenery, timeless monuments and elegant architecture. The glass pavilion – originally built to house the Philippine Exhibition in 1887 – is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and exudes charm and elegance. Just a stone’s throw from the Velázquez Palace, the serene scenery makes Retiro Park the perfect spot to unwind on a business trip to Madrid.
Teatros del Canal
Dedicated solely to performing arts, the Teatros del Canal welcomes plays, cabaret shows, opera, dance performances, and concerts for all tastes and preferences. Inaugurated in 2009, it comprises three venues that feature over 1200 seats, as well as nine integrated rehearsal studios that offer a space for artists to work and create in the city.
Cinco Jotas
A destination so synonymous with quality that the name translates to ‘crème de la crème’ in the local vernacular, Cinco Jotas is an essential stop on any business trip to Madrid. The ritzy Salamanca location and status-symbol specials keep this spot buzzing with locals and tourists alike; not only after a full table of tapas but a taste of the classic Spanish wines that excel here. The restaurant is equally famed for producing the ‘Bentley of hams’; the surgical handiwork of the chef and cutter at work is something to behold when ordering for the table.
Museo Nacional Del Prado
One of the most popular art museums in the world, Museo Nacional Del Prado is an essential destination to explore when visiting Madrid. Lined with work from Spanish Romantic, Goya, as well as must see pieces from Bosch and Caravaggio, there is an overwhelming collection of masterpieces on display. With a collection that comprises 8,600 paintings and over 700 sculptures, we would recommend planning your itinerary before attending on your business trip to Madrid
San Ginés
Serving 24 hours a day since 1894, San Ginés is the most famous place in the city for ‘churros con chocolate’. Located next to the Puerta del Sol, this decadent treat has to be ordered through a ticketed system to keep the locals and tourists on fair ground. Its traditional white marble tables and tiled counters are featured in numerous literary works and has since been named a ’Historic Tourist Site’ by Madrid City Council.
El Rastro
Every Sunday, the city explodes into life with 3,500 stalls that descend onto Madrid’s La Latina neighbourhood. Open and bustling on Ribera de Coritodores and Plaza de Cascorro, this is the largest flea market in Madrid and well worth attending early to beat the crowds. This vibrant, colourful scene features leather goods, vintage books, and home décor, the ideal place to pick up a souvenir when visiting Madrid.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
As we outlined in our Madrid vs Barcelona blog, the city is home to the most successful football team in Europe. The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a gargantuan 85,000-seat stadium that hosts the home games of FC Real Madrid. A tour will grant you panoramic views of the grounds as well as a trip to the dugouts, trophy collection, dressing room, and presidential box.
Mercado San Miguel
Just a minute’s walk from Plaza Mayor and dating back to 1916, Europe’s largest municipal market features over 20 stands that allow visitors to experience every essence of Spanish cuisine. Less of a fresh produce market, this gastronomic destination is the ideal location to purchase fresh tapas, gourmet cheeses, and award-winning wines from all over the country. While a number of internationally renowned chefs have made Mercado San Miguel their permanent home, the market also boasts a number of temporary stands that help to introduce variety and fresh talent to the scene – an essential pit stop while exploring Madrid.
Casa Gonzalez
Founded in 1931, Casa Gonzalez fulfils every charming expectation of European life. Situated on a quaint cobblestoned street, the allure of this hybrid gourmet shop-come-tapas restaurant is the slow pace of life of. Bustling with locals, this well-trusted ‘vinoteca’ is the type of place where you could spend hours grazing and sipping; we recommend going there for nothing more than good food and a good time.
Planning your next business trip with SilverDoor? Explore more of what this diverse city has to offer in our recent blog, Where to Work in Madrid? The Best Hot Desks and Coworking Spaces.
Give us a call or make an enquiry and SilverDoor will find you the ideal accommodation for your business travels to this vibrant city.
