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National Geographic
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- National Geographic
How to spend a perfect day in Madrid
For years, Madrid fell in the shadow of its Catalan sister, Barcelona, overlooked by travelers who favored the bohemian city's coastal beaches and laidback vibe. In recent years, amid growing anti-tourism protests in Barcelona, Madrid is stepping into the spotlight and claiming its place as the country's cultural and culinary city. The vibrant capital dazzles with world-class art institutions, including Museo del Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, while also luring food lovers with its gourmet prestige highlighted by 29 Michelin-starred restaurants, including the three-Michelin-starred DiverXO. 'I was fortunate to experience the famous Movida Madrileña, a cultural revolution that transformed the city,' says Lázaro Rosa-Violán, principal in Lázaro Rosa-Violán Studio, who has led several major projects in Madrid including Metropolis, Vega nightclub, and The Library Wine Boutique and Cuisine. The movement began in 1975 after the death of dictator Francisco Franco, when Spain transitioned to a democracy. 'Even though our main studio is based in Barcelona, two years ago my partner Mar and I decided to open a studio in Madrid because we didn't want to miss out on the vibrant energy the city is experiencing right now,' says Rosa-Violán. 'And without a doubt, it was the right decision.' Wandering through Madrid reveals a blend of the past and present with bustling tapas bars and charming neighborhoods at every turn. 'You can discover it in layers: from the Habsburg Madrid to the brutalism of the 60s, from century-old shops to new artisan workshops. It's not a postcard city; it's a city for exploration,' he says. Whether you're looking to explore the flourishing culinary scene or dive into the world of art, here's how to spend the perfect day in Madrid. CaixaForum Madrid—located in Paseo del Prado in a former power station—is a cultural center that hosts temporary art exhibitions, cultural events, and it's also home to Spain's first vertical garden. Photograph By Cathrine Stukhard/laif/Redux For foodies Morning Start your morning with a sampling of Madrid gastronomy. In a city full of food halls, Mercado Antón Martín stands out with three floors of street food vendors that locals love. Look for Caracola, a stall that specializes in Spanish tortillas and rich Basque-style cheesecake with flavors such as pistachio, Oreo, classic, and dulce de leche. For other sweet treats, Chocolatería San Ginés has been a local institution since 1894, serving crispy golden churros with hot chocolate for dipping. Originally from Portugal, Manteigaria Pasties de Nata, is worth a visit for its irresistible custard-filled puff pastries that are nearly impossible to stop at just one. Afternoon With two locations across the city, Formaje is a beautifully curated cheese shop run by a local husband-and-wife duo. Sign up for a two-hour cheese tasting where you can sample regionalvarieties paired with Spanish wine. In the late afternoon, join locals for an aperitif hour at Casa Mortero, a restaurant and bar with a rustic-modern aesthetic in the city center. Snack on traditional tapas such as creamy croquettes, Iberico ham, and Gilda pintxo. Evening During sunset hour, head to Cornamusa Cibeles, a discreet restaurant and bar located above a postal office that serves Spanish fare with panoramic views of the city. If you prefer a buzzing scene, high-profile celebrities and socialites flock to the trendy Ten Con Ten for Spanish dishes with a contemporary twist. For your final pour of the night, Salmon Guru is a playful and inventive cocktail bar, ranked among the World's 50 Best Bars, that crafts cocktails using unexpected ingredients such as pickle juice and fish sauce. (Where to eat in Madrid: discover the city's most authentic markets and local restaurants) A bartender prepares an elaborate cocktail (called the 'Mate') at Salmon Guru, widely considered to be amongst the top cocktail bars in Madrid. Photograph By Ben Roberts/Panos Pictures/Redux The style and wellness explorer Morning Savor a leisurely start to the day at the Four Seasons Hotel Madrid spa. The urban oasis boasts a striking indoor pool and rooftop terrace with postcard-worthy views that will instantly put you at ease. Head to the lobby bar afterward for small breakfast bites with a side of cava or the signature hot chocolate, and enjoy people-watching as stylish locals pass through. Afternoon Stroll along Calle de Claudio Coello and Calle de Serrano in the quaint Salamanca district, where you'll find a mix of high-end designer brands and local boutiques such as Castaner for typical Spanish espadrilles and Paris/64 for stylish, made-in-Spain handbags and accessories. Nearby, Calle de Jorge Juan is another fashionable street home to both international and Spanish labels. Rosa-Violán enjoys walking through El Rastro. '[It's] Madrid's most iconic open-air market, a Sunday ritual where antiques, vintage treasures, and contemporary curiosities meet in a vibrant mix of tradition and trend,' he says. Evening Nightlife options in Madrid are endless. For a high-energy night, global hot spot Amazónico is a jungle-inspired restaurant with live entertainment and a jazz club. With two locations in the city, Bar Manero is an intimate but upscale tapas bar that pairs classic Spanish small plates with a refined ambiance, vintage-inspired décor, and an extensive selection of wines and vermouth. (Nine experiences to do before leaving Madrid) For the culture seeker Morning Start your morning with a walk through Retiro Park, a beloved green space popular with local families, and part of the UNESCO World Heritage site designation shared with Paseo del Prado. Stroll past the sculptures, manicured rose and Japanese gardens, tranquil fountains, and a man-made lake where you can rent a row boat when the weather is pleasant. Afternoon Walk around the pedestrian-friendly Barrio de las Letras, Madrid's historic Literary Quarter, where iconic writers Cervantes and Lope de Vega once lived. The neighborhood is lined with century-old shops, charming boutiques, and taverns. Get your art fix nearby at the Museo Nacional del Prado, often dubbed the 'museum of painters' and home to an extraordinary collection of art from Spain's 16th- and 17th-century monarchy. Evening Watch an authentic flamenco show at Corral de la Morería, a one Michelin-star restaurant paired with an entertaining performance. Request a table near the stage for the best views. In Plaza de Oriente, Teatro Royal is a breathtaking 19th-century opera house known for its opulent architecture, rich history, and world-class acoustics. (The real city that never sleeps: Discovering nightlife in Madrid) Getting around Madrid Madrid offers several direct flights from major U.S. cities. Delta Air Lines operates nonstop flights to Madrid from JFK and ATL and JetBlue runs a seasonal daily nonstop route from Boston to Madrid. Iberia Airlines, Spain's national carrier, has daily direct flights from several cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Miami, Boston, and Orlando. The best way to get around Madrid is on foot or by public transportation. There is a user-friendly metro system, and taxis are also available via the Uber or Cabify app. For U.K. travelers, there are several airlines including British Airways, Ryan Air, Iberia Airlines, easyJet, and Air Europa that offer direct flights to Madrid from London. Nonstop flights operate from major airports including London Heathrow and London Gatwick to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport and the flight is approximately two hours and thirty minutes. (The essential travel guide to visiting Spain) Where to stay in Madrid The Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel underwent a massive two-year restoration that breathed new life into the historic building. Families traveling with kids will appreciate the chic Neptune Suites for its spacious and sun-drenched accommodations. The hotel's prime location in the Golden Triangle of Art, home to the top arts and cultural institutions, also makes it an ideal base for travelers who prefer to explore on foot. Sit under the mesmerizing dome of 1,875 colorful glass panes, carefully restored one piece at a time, and enjoy a complimentary vermouth tasting (for hotel guests) every Thursday at 5 p.m. Overnight guests are also treated to a complimentary signature cocktail every day at 6 p.m. at 27 Club, a speakeasy-style bar that serves drinks named after the luminaries who once stayed there, such as Hemingway. Guests looking for a family-friendly hotel should consider staying at The Palace, a luxury hotel located near popular attractions such as the Royal Palace of Madrid and Retiro Park. Photograph By y Todamo/Shutterstock Brach Madrid is one of the city's newer hotels to open. The design-forward hotel, helmed by Philippe Starck, is located on the lively Gran Vía, adjacent to Chueca, a bohemian and LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhood worth visiting for its cafes and shops. (10 of the best hotel is Madrid for every type of traveler) Leila Najafi is an LA-based luxury travel journalist who covers travel, food, and wellness. Follow her on Instagram.
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Israel invests heavily in hotels amid conflict
Despite ongoing regional tensions, Israel is pressing ahead with a substantial expansion of its tourism infrastructure. The country has opened 13 new hotels in 2024 alone, most of them in Tel Aviv, as part of a broader strategy to boost its hospitality sector and support business, religious, and leisure travel. This expansion, led by Israel's Ministry of Tourism, includes both government-backed and private-sector hotel investments. A total of 27 additional projects are currently supported by a $113 million funding package, $22 million of which comes from direct government grants. Tel Aviv, Israel's commercial and cultural hub, has seen the lion's share of recent hotel openings. New properties include The George, a 130-room hotel designed by Spanish architect Lázaro Rosa-Violán; Albi Florentin, a boutique hotel with digital check-in; and the Mulan Hotel, located near Meir Park and Dizengoff Center. The Gimnasia Hotel, opened in March 2025, features 145 rooms and a rooftop infinity pool, adding to the city's appeal for upscale travellers and event organisers. Other openings include Allenbeach TLV Aparthotel, aimed at adult visitors near Jerusalem Beach, and THE GUTMAN TLV, a boutique hotel located in the historic Neve Tzedek district. These developments reflect rising demand for varied accommodation options in Tel Aviv, where international events, tech conferences, and business travel continue despite regional instability. Beyond Tel Aviv, Israel is expanding hospitality capacity in key destinations across the country. The Almond Hotel in Neve Ilan, just outside Jerusalem, opened in early 2024 as a luxury adults-only spa retreat. Jerusalem also welcomed the launch of the Infinity Museum, an immersive cultural experience funded by the city and local stakeholders. Future hotel developments are set to add approximately 2,700 new rooms nationwide. These include a 260-room resort in Mitzpe Ramon, three hotels with nearly 950 rooms near the Dead Sea, and two new properties near Eilat on the site of the former Ovdat Airport. Major hotel groups are playing a leading role in this growth. Isrotel has announced 10 new properties for 2025, five of which will be in Tel Aviv. The Fattal Group plans to open six hotels in Jerusalem, while Brown Hotels is expanding with two new properties in the Tel Aviv area. Alongside its hospitality efforts, Israel is investing in wider tourism infrastructure. The Ministry of Tourism is supporting 55 projects valued at $65 million. Initiatives include laser light shows at the Eilat Marina, enhanced visitor experiences at religious and archaeological sites, and new riverside attractions in Ginosar. In Beer Sheva, the Nahal River Park is undergoing transformation into an eco-tourism site, with features such as a birdwatching complex aimed at attracting both domestic tourists and international incentive groups. Despite ongoing geopolitical challenges, these investments indicate confidence in the long-term viability of Israel's tourism sector. The strategy reflects a shift towards positioning the country not just as a religious or cultural destination, but also as a competitive player in international business tourism and events. "Israel invests heavily in hotels amid conflict" was originally created and published by Hotel Management Network, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
FACT
28-01-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
The best new bars in Dubai for 2025
Dubai is home to world-class bars, from homegrown concepts to big brands. These are the best new cocktail bars, drinking dens and speakeasies in Dubai. Grab a seat at the bar and start sipping at the best new bars in Dubai. Spanning more than 8,500 square feet, 1920 is a bar that aims to transport you back in time. Inspired by Manhattan skyscrapers from the 1920s, the bar boasts views across the city. Plus, Spanish designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán is behind the stunning skyline interiors. Come for a twilight tipple and stay late into the evening. 1920 will open on 18 December 2024. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Fuoco is ready to light up Dubai's dining scene. It combines fire with a curated wine and cocktail list in Dubai Creek Harbour. In Italian, fuoco means fire, and the menu includes classic cocktails and wines. Cocktails include a Clear Paloma with tequila; Green Spritz with sparkling wine and Bianco vermouth; Porto Negroni with gin; and Shakeratto with Aperol. The smart space includes dim lighting and dark wooden tones. The venue also includes an open-air terrace with waterfront views and showcases sunset views overlooking the Dubai skyline. GO: Follow @myfuoco on Instagram for more information. The new venue on L'Atelier Robuchon's terrace in DIFC hosts a range of live music nights. Lily's by Surf Club is by the same team behind Palm West Beach's Surf Club. The original venue boasts a loyal following, many of whom would visit the live music nights, which included DJs from around the world. Previous performers already include DJs Darlyy, Kaytek. Kurls, Olly Klars and Raffa Guido. The spot mixes classy with cosy, thanks to hanging foliage, chandeliers, and views overlooking the skyline in Dubai. GO: Follow @lilysdubai on Instagram for more information. As the sun sets over District 8 in Dubai Marina, Luxuria transforms into the ultimate nightlife hotspot. This upscale karaoke lounge combines high-energy entertainment with world-class dining. Featuring 30 unique shows, from international performers to stand-up comedians and dazzling champagne shows, Luxuria ensures every evening is unforgettable. Guests can indulge in luxurious dishes like the Golden Maki Sushi and premium caviar while enjoying an electrifying atmosphere of sleek interiors, plush seating, and dynamic lighting. GO: Follow @district8dubai on Instagram for more information. It's time to believe the hype. The new nightclub HYPE has opened in Emirates Financial Towers, DIFC and showcases Afro-house music. The boasts state-of-the-art light features, which include beams, neon and LED lights. Plus, there will be a d&b audiotechnik system, which creates a premium sound experience. The drinks include Mint to Be with a mint flavour, Turn Up the Heat with a fiery flavour, and Negroni on Vacation with a tropical twist on a classic drink. Plus, there are non-alcoholic options, including the Espresso Yourself, which is a coffee-inspired drink that gives you energy. GO: Email reservations@ for reservations and more information. Drawing inspiration from the Aztecs, D'LIRIO is a sultry spot. The venue in The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina oozes class with its shades of red, luxurious materials and dim lighting. On the walls are framed photos of traditional Aztec masks and sparkling light features. A beautiful bar boasts Art Deco features and serves Mexican-inspired food and drink. The drinks will include Mexican classics, and the food will feature ceviche, empanadas and tacos. GO: Visit for more information. The secret speakeasy La Sombra is hidden inside Maison de la Plage on Palm West Beach and has been created by the dining dream team of Chef Izu Ani and Evgeny Kuzin. Inspired by a journey through Africa and the soulful rhythms of Latin culture, La Sombra captures the passion of Tango, the sultry allure of film noir, and the nostalgic revival of vinyl records. At the heart of the venue lies its crafted cocktail menu, featuring drinks like Nostalgia, a fireside blend of whiskey, chestnut, and chocolate bitters. GO: Follow @lasombradubai on Instagram for more information. The French restaurant Josette has made its mark on Dubai. Now, it has expanded with the opening of La Petite Cave in ICD Brookfield Place. The new French wine bar draws inspiration from intimate Parisian bars and aims to be a space for conviviality. The design boasts white tablecloths, soft candlelight, recycled wine bottles, and vintage wooden wine boxes. You can choose from seats at the counter or on the terrace with views of Burj Khalifa. Plus, French music fills the air. The drinks menu ranges from fine wines to accessible glasses starting from 30 AED. Wine is available by the glass, carafe or bottle, and there is a range of Bellinis, Champagnes, and a decanter experience showcasing aged wines. GO: Visit for more information. Delano Dubai has welcomed the Rose Bar and is a theatrical space that includes red-hot curtains, sofas and chairs, and dim, moody lighting. The Rose Bar's cocktail menu brings together fun and finesse. Hanky Panky mixes gin, Fernet Branca and vermouth, New Deal includes Tanqueray, basil, mezcal, passion fruit, coconut milk, and elderflower, while Miami Vice(s) pays homage to the bar's origins. The bar snacks range from salty to sweet and are served with a nod to a nostalgic America. Dishes include Lobster and Crab Brioche with celery, coriander, and tobiko and a Rose Bar Club Sandwich with turkey, duck ham, gruyère, avocado, and mayonnaise. GO: Visit for more information. Dubai, we want to share a secret. The hidden bar Himitsu has opened in Alba restaurant in Downtown Dubai, and it is a sultry speakeasy. Located near Dubai Opera, it offers a fitting theatrical addition to your night out. The design draws inspiration from Japanese art, from the walls with floral murals to the dishes painted with Hokusai's The Great Wave Of Kanagawa . The expert mixologists can make 1,200 different drink combinations. The food offering includes an omakase menu. Dishes include a Beef Tataki, Langoustine Chawanmushi, and Snickers made with miso. GO: Follow @ on Instagram for more information. Cristiano Ronaldo is famous for playing football, but he's also causing a stir off the pitch. He is behind the restaurant concepts TATEL, TOTÓ and the nightlife concept La Camera, by TOTÓ. Located on top of TOTÓ restaurant, it offers Italian and Mediterranean flavours and a bar with top mixologists. The venue features entertainment, jazz and Italian finesse. GO: Follow @lacamerabytoto on Instagram for more information.
