Four Days in Madrid: An Art Escape

Stay at Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid

Reopened in 2021 after a meticulous three-year restoration, Mandarin Oriental Ritz remains a legendary symbol of Madrid's elegance. Originally opened by King Alfonso XIII in 1910, the hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities and dignitaries for over a century. Parisian design house Gilles & Boissier reimagined the interiors, blending classic Belle Époque grandeur with contemporary sophistication. The hotel boasts 100 rooms and 53 suites, many interconnecting, perfect for travelers seeking both luxury and flexibility. Nestled in Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art, the hotel sits directly across from the Prado Museum and within walking distance of the Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museums.

Explore the city

Stroll through Madrid’s historic center with your private guide, weaving through charming streets and squares, discovering architectural gems and uncovering the city’s royal and artistic heritage.

Relax & rejuvenate

After a cultural afternoon, retreat to the Mandarin Oriental Ritz spa for a bespoke treatment, designed to soothe and invigorate. The spa, a sanctuary of calm in the heart of the hotel, offers a holistic menu of therapies blending modern techniques with time-honored wellness traditions. From signature massages to revitalizing facials, every treatment is customized to meet your needs. Take a dip in the serene indoor pool or unwind in the relaxation lounge, where natural light floods the space, enhancing your sense of calm and rejuvenation.

Dinner at Deessa

Your day ends at the hotel’s Deessa Restaurant, a two Michelin-starred culinary temple led by Chef Quique Dacosta. Expect an exquisite fusion of innovative Spanish cuisine, immaculate service and a setting that matches the grandeur of the hotel itself.

The Prado Museum

Start your day at the world-renowned Prado Museum, home to one of the finest collections of European art. Its galleries house an extraordinary array of works spanning from the 12th to the early 20th centuries, with particular strength in Spanish masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez and El Greco. The Prado also boasts significant holdings of Italian and Flemish art, featuring the luminous works of Titian, Rubens and Bosch, whose enigmatic "Garden of Earthly Delights" remains a centerpiece of the collection. With your private guide providing expert insights, you will uncover the fascinating stories behind these treasures, exploring how art evolved under royal patronage and reflecting the cultural and political history of Spain and beyond.

Lunch at Sobrino de Botín

Head to Plaza Mayor and dine at Sobrino de Botín, the world’s oldest restaurant, founded in 1725. Enjoy traditional Castilian cuisine in a historic setting where literary legends like Hemingway once dined.

Afternoon options

Visit the Reina Sofia Museum to admire Picasso’s iconic Guernica, a powerful anti-war masterpiece that captures the anguish of the Spanish Civil War. Your private guide will provide insight into the story behind the painting and how it became a symbol of modern art. Alternatively, if you prefer a more culinary-focused afternoon, embark on a private tour of Mercado de San Miguel, Madrid’s most iconic gourmet market. Stroll through its lively stalls, sampling artisanal cheeses, Iberian ham and delicate pintxos, while learning about the market’s history and its role in Madrid’s vibrant food scene. Pair your tastings with carefully selected Spanish wines, making for a delicious and culturally enriching experience.

Evening flamenco show

Experience the passion of flamenco at Tablao de la Villa, one of Madrid’s most iconic tablaos. Enjoy an authentic Spanish dinner paired with a world-class performance showcasing the raw emotion and skill of flamenco’s greatest artists.

Discover Toledo

Embark on a private guided excursion to the historic city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that beautifully reflects the confluence of Christian, Muslim and Jewish cultures. Stroll through its atmospheric medieval streets, where each corner reveals centuries of history. Visit the grand Toledo Cathedral, renowned for its magnificent Gothic architecture and impressive collection of religious art. Explore the Jewish Quarter, where cobbled lanes lead to Santa María la Blanca, a former synagogue with intricate Mudejar design. Finally, admire the stunning Burial of the Count of Orgaz, El Greco's celebrated masterpiece housed in Santo Tomé Church, a painting revered for its emotional depth and extraordinary technique.

Lunch in Toledo

Savor authentic Castilian delicacies at a charming local restaurant, where traditional recipes are brought to life with fresh, regional ingredients. Enjoy specialties like hearty stews, Manchego cheese and succulent roast meats, all paired with excellent local wines. The warm atmosphere and historic surroundings make it the perfect place to relax and reflect on the morning’s discoveries before returning to Madrid.

Traditional shops tour

Upon your return, explore Madrid’s artisanal heritage with a private tour of its traditional shops. Visit family-run boutiques offering handmade fans, espadrilles, ceramics and other unique treasures, each with a story to tell. Discover workshops where artisans still practice centuries-old techniques, preserving craftsmanship passed down through generations. Along the way, hear fascinating anecdotes about how these iconic products became part of Madrid’s cultural fabric, making each purchase not just a souvenir but a piece of history to take home.

Evening spa experience

Conclude the day with a personalized treatment at Sense, A Rosewood Spa at the luxurious Rosewood Villa Magna. This urban oasis blends contemporary design with serene gardens, offering a perfect retreat after a day of discovery.

Dinner at Amós

Dine at Amós, the hotel’s celebrated restaurant, where Chef Jesús Sánchez presents an innovative menu inspired by the cuisine of Northern Spain, served in an elegant and inviting atmosphere.

The Royal Palace of Madrid

Explore the magnificent Royal Palace, official residence of the Spanish Royal Family and one of Europe’s largest and most opulent palaces. With over 3,000 rooms, the palace showcases an extraordinary blend of architectural splendor and artistic treasures. It is home to a vast collection of art, historical furniture and exceptional decorative arts, including intricate clocks, chandeliers and porcelain. Your private guide will lead you through its lavish rooms, adorned with priceless artworks by masters such as Caravaggio, Velázquez and Goya, along with exquisite tapestries, frescoed ceilings and royal artifacts that offer a glimpse into centuries of regal life.

Antique art tour

Step back in time with a private antiques VIP tour, where you’ll delve into Madrid’s fascinating world of fine antiques, rare art pieces and historic treasures. Led by passionate experts, this curated experience takes you through some of the city’s most prestigious antique shops, galleries and private collections. As you explore, you’ll uncover stories behind the artworks and artifacts, from centuries-old furniture to precious ceramics and intricate jewelry, each object carrying its own piece of Madrid’s history and cultural evolution.

Evening at Teatro Real

Conclude your artistic escape with an unforgettable evening at Teatro Real, Madrid’s iconic opera house. Hosting a diverse program of opera and ballet throughout the year, the theater is celebrated for both its world-class productions and its magnificent 19th-century architecture. One of its most beloved performances is "Carmen," Georges Bizet’s timeless opera that tells the passionate and ultimately tragic tale of a seductive gypsy woman whose fiery romance with a soldier leads to his ruin. Whether you opt for a grand classic like "Carmen" or a contemporary masterpiece, an evening at Teatro Real promises an elegant and culturally enriching finale to your Madrid journey.