The implicit codes of life in the Spanish capital, from ‘dos besos’ to dining and safe (and unsafe) topics of discussion
Tabernas that offer colour and history alongside delicious snacks — and are always reassuringly packed with locals
A grand sweep of gardens, palaces and monuments, this Unesco World Heritage site is also a retreat from the summer heat. But its vast arboreal canopy might be under threat
A zesty, often satirical swirl of dialogue and operetta, zarzuela is back in the spotlight — and once seen, it’s never forgotten . . .
Spain’s capital is home to some of Europe’s most exciting places to stay — from the grand to the groovy
Lose yourself in a maximalist swirl complete with a resort-style rooftop and life-size bronze rhino
All sleek mid-century design and rooftop cool, the European debut of the brand that’s a byword for urban chic is already a scene
A self-styled ‘entertainment hub’ where a theatre dedicated to musicals and concerts takes centre stage
Contemporary meets classic in a boutique hotel that more than lives up to its name
This famously carnivorous city is increasingly exploring its herbivore side — to delicious effect
The woman at the helm of the world-leading contemporary art fair shows us the neighbourhoods brimming with cool galleries – and great eateries
FT Globetrotter’s guide to what to do and see in the Spanish capital this year
As part of a new FT Globetrotter series celebrating the world’s permanent collections, the FT’s arts editor reveals her favourite works to seek out in this great — and at times overwhelming — Spanish institution
Where to sample exciting new labels from the capital region that are making waves across Spain — and beyond
One writer, two months and a feast of Spanish art
Ever dreamt of moving to the Spanish capital? A new law makes it especially appealing — and easy — for non-EU freelancers and remote workers. Here’s what you need to know
Not even biblical downpours could stop our writer from celebrating the local and global flavours of the multicultural Lavapiés district
. . . and where to find the iconic fried-dough pastry at its most delicious — and authentic
The FT columnist reveals the ways in which the Spanish capital enchanted him during his year away from Paris
Many of the Andalucían art form’s most exciting performers and rising stars are based in the Spanish capital — and to be seen on the stages of small, atmospheric venues
The lunchtime menú del día is a Spanish institution, offering classic dishes at great prices. Here are a few of the capital’s best
Sample the capital’s favourite aperitif in four of its most characterful, colourful vermuterías
Madrileños love their mariscos. Here are four places to enjoy the finest in the Spanish capital
Where to find sticky tortilla, sleek chocolates, and a tapas bar that serves rare wines
Your favourite places for everything from paella to a beer — and the food markets you love the most
Help shape a new FT Globetrotter guide to Spain’s capital
The slippery concept of ‘la tarde’, which spans the hours from lunch to late evening, brings a sense of chaos to daily life
For all its simplicity, ‘tortilla de patatas’ is a thing of beauty and the ultimate comfort food
There is a new-found confidence in what Spain, and Spain alone, can offer
Be it New York subway trains, a Frankfurt bakery or a Tokyo karaoke joint, these are the spots that never fail to uplift the FT’s globetrotters
The city endures after being buffeted by terrorism and the pandemic
While many Madrileños flee to the coast in summer, those that remain flock to street parties that blend dancing, religion — and lots of sangria
‘Turismofobia’ and cheaper rival destinations are among factors driving a shift
UK Edition
