Only in Madrid: Must-try dining and fashion hotspots across the Spanish capital city and surrounding region

Since 1894, Chocolatería San Ginés has perfected the art of churros and chocolate to create the ultimate sweet spot of decadence and indulgence. The churros are perfectly crispy on the outside yet fluffy on the inside while the dark chocolate oozes with a velvety richness–making it the de facto paradise for chocolate lovers in the city. 

Come hungry, leave happy: That’s the Mercado de San Miguel way. Located in the heart of Madrid's historic centre, this world-famous century-old market is the city's culinary carnival housed in an iron-framed glass complex. What’s on the menu? Embark on a flavour-fuelled journey through Spain tasting Iberian ham, artisanal cheeses, tapas, the freshest seafood and loads more.

From jamón aficionados to sushi savants, the thriving district of Salamanca has a seat for every taste bud. Latin American cuisine on your mind? Amazónico is one of the barrio’s hottest spots to see, be seen and indulge in the fusion flavours of Brazil, Peru, Argentina, Japan and India. Come for the Insta-worthy ambience (extravagantly conceived to resemble the Amazon rainforest with hanging palm trees, peacocks, exotic fruit and jungle prints) and stay for the inventive menu that will challenge, tantalise and tease your tastebuds. Standout dishes worth trying include the frog legs with mango and habanero sauce, huelva carabinero prawns and picaña rodicio.

Come evening time, make your way to the ground floor of the restaurant and you'll discover the Jungle Jazz Club. This vibrant after-hours spot has all the ingredients for the perfect night out: live tunes ranging from jazz to bossa nova, funk and soul, Latin American-inspired cocktails, and a sophisticated Amazonic menu to accompany you throughout the evening.

Rooftop joints are the best way to wine, dine and enjoy the city skyline. Arguably one of the most beautiful in Madrid can be found at Dani Brasserie at the top of the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel. Named after three-Michelin-starred Chef Dani García, this all-day brasserie-cum-bar offers a serene yet stylish setting to enjoy elevated Andalusian fare, alongside more casual international cuisine. As the sun sets, be sure to snag a seat at the outdoor terrace and indulge in a cocktail (or two) crafted by master mixologist Luca Anastasio.

No culinary jaunt to Madrid would be complete without a pit stop at Coque, the double Michelin-starred establishment that’s revered among epicureans. Helmed by third-generation restaurateurs Mario, Rafael and Diego Sandoval, a meal here transcends a mere dining event. Diners are taken on a sensory journey through the four spaces of Coque–the cocktail bar, wine cellar, kitchen and dining room–as they are served a sublime symphony of avant-garde Spanish flavours in each room. With every meticulously-prepared dish (such as Iberian acorn-fed ham and bull steak tartare), head chef Mario aims present the country’s culinary heritage while pushing the boundaries of taste for a truly once-in-a-lifetime gastronomic experience.

Just 40 minutes away from the city is San Martín de Valdeiglesias, a charming town nestled in the heart of the Spanish countryside. Apart from its scenic natural landscapes, San Martín de Valdeiglesias offers a delightful retreat for vinophiles. The 18 renowned wineries found there, such as Bodega Tierra Calma and Bodega ValleYglesias, produce exceptional vinos that have shaped the area's burgeoning wine culture. Whether it's guided tours through vine-covered landscapes or savouring a glass of locally-produced wine in San Martín de Valdeiglesias' quaint town squares, there's no better way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Craving a slice of the idyllic Spanish countryside? Spend a day in Chinchón. Despite being close to the capital city (just 45km away), this peaceful town has retained a charm of its own—think picturesque ochre landscapes, one of the most unique town squares in Spain, and well-preserved medieval architecture that has appeared as the backdrop in many movies and television series. It is also the place to try authentic Castilian cuisine such as cocido madrileño, migas or suckling pig. One such spot is La Casa del Pregonero. Book a table on the outdoor balcony for scenic views overlooking the Plaza Mayor of Chinchón, and tuck into chef Miriam Hernández's avant-garde offerings that remain faithful to traditional Spanish flavours. Visitors of the town must also try chinchón, the namesake anise-based spirit, which is usually enjoyed as a digestif or incorporated into desserts. 

It comes as no surprise that Madrileños are some of the most stylish folks in Europe. From the upscale flagship stores on the Gran Vía to eclectic vintage shops in Malasaña, bohemian gems in Lavapiés and the stylish enclaves beyond the city centre, its shopping scene caters to every sartorial desire. The cherry on top? Only in Madrid will you realise that style doesn't always come with a hefty price tag.

Just 25 minutes from central Madrid lies Las Rozas Village. Situated at the foot of the nearby Sierra Norte mountains, this chic outlet village beckons fashion lovers and bargain hunters alike. With over 100 outlet stores, it is a retail paradise of designer delights—think Ferragamo, Loewe, Hugo Boss, Montblanc, Sandro and many more. The best part: with discounts of up to 60 per cent all year-round, this is a stylish escape for those seeking a day of retail therapy.

Madrid's fashion scene has become a hub of creativity as up-and-coming local designers continually shape the country's future by melding traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. The result? An innovative and fashion-forward compelling contender in the international fashion arena. To enjoy the best and the brightest of Spanish designer fashion, Madrid is, without a doubt, the right place to be. And there is plenty to discover as you venture through the different barrios of the city—from ready-to-wear to custom-made garments, accessories and even luxury evening wear.

Salamanca is Madrid’s most stylish district and naturally, the best place to start your shopping expedition with its plethora of luxury boutiques. Pay a visit to renowned designer Roberto Verino's atelier, treat yourself to a custom-made gown by Claro Couture or experience the luxury of a bespoke suit handmade by Félix Ramiro, who has more than 35 years of experience in tailoring. 

For a decidedly more bohemian vibe, Chueca will charm and entice visitors of all walks of life. Besides being home to the Museum of Romanticism and Longoria Palace, this barrio is also where you'll find ateliers, boutiques and workshops of Madrid's rising talents such as Juan Vidal and Ana Locking.

The accolade for the oldest chocolate shop in Madrid goes to La Pajarita. This institution, established in 1852, attracts hordes of visitors yearly—and for good reason. With sixteen different varieties of handmade sweets and chocolates, this is the place to indulge your cravings and pick out the sweetest souvenirs to spoil your loved ones.

Barrio de las Letras—or the Literary Quarter—was home to some of the greatest literary figures of the Golden Age of Spanish literature such as Lope de Vega and Miguel de Cervantes. Today, the area is arguably the heart of history and culture in Madrid. Spend the day wandering through the cobbled streets and get lost in its abundant mix shops and cafes. La Integral is one such spot for charming curios, books, vinyl records and art works by independent artists, while bookworms should make a pilgrimage to the neighbourhood’s many hole-in-the-wall bookstores like Crazy Mary and Códice.

El Corte Inglés is a famous name amongst locals. After all, it is the biggest department store group in Europe and one of Spain's most-visited department stores. The Castellana outlet, in particular, is the largest in the country and boasts a mind-boggling array of Spanish and international luxury brands. It is also the world's first department store with a Michelin star, thanks to the acclaimed RavioXo restaurant.