There is so much to see in Madrid from the Royal Palace, the bustling main square of Puerta del Sol, the lively Lavapiés district with its bohemian cafes and alternative art scene and the unmissable El Rastro market, Madrid's famous open-air flea market, and that's just a teeny flavour of all that's on offer.
A stay at the four-star voco Madrid Retiro is the ideal place to base yourself with its direct access to the metro, making it incredibly easy to get around. The fully refurbished hotel boasts a stylish and contemporary design with cosy rooms which feel warm and colourful. An impressive collection of works of art by Manuel Ortega adorn the walls, a testimony to Spain's rich cultural heritage.
The hotel features a typical lounge bar offering homemade tapas and fantastic cocktails, which you can enjoy on the leafy terrace. Then there is the Ibiza Restaurant, offering the best Spanish cuisine with a modern twist, surrounded by a magnificent garden. There is even a fitness room and private parking. Plus, the friendly, attentive staff are always on hand to help with recommendations or excursion bookings.
Step outside the hotel and wander the peaceful 125-hectare Reitro Park, home to over 15,000 trees. It's a green oasis amidst the city and was recently named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover lakes and magnificent buildings or do some yoga or rollerblading, and keep your eyes peeled for puppet shows, musicians and fortune tellers.
The historic centre and the renowned Prado, Thyssen and Reina Sofía Museums are only a 30-minute stroll across the park - the Prado has one of the largest and most impressive art collections in the entire world. At the voco Madrid Retiro, art, culture, and Madrid's friendliness meld together to offer a welcoming home away from home in this inspirational city.