Madrid, the capital of Spain, is home to several wonderful attractions with a regal theme. The tapestry factory exhibits some of the most beautiful textiles and fabrics in Europe, whilst the palace is home to a stunning collection of armoury and intriguing pharmacy items.
With several boutique hotels offering an excellent location close by to all these attractions and Madrid just a short flight away from the UK, there’s no reason not to plan a trip here.
The Tapestry Factory
Madrid’s Royal Tapestry Factory has been around since the 18th century and is home to a whole host of beautiful textiles and fabrics. Bringing together traditional craftsmanship and contemporary forms of art, the factory tells the story of both the production and restoration of textiles.
Everything from rugs to Coats of Arms are handmade here, all in keeping with the Spanish textile tradition. Ultimately, the factory aims to encourage and foster knowledge and respect for the country’s textile heritage.
Overview of History
- Founded in 1721
- Has produced and resorted tapestries, rugs and coats of arms for over 300 years
- Established by Philip V of Spain, with the Vandergoten family initially overseeing the work
- Was awarded the title of a Cultural Heritage site by the Madrid Autonomous Association in 2006
The Royal Palace
Recognised across Europe as one of the continent’s finest palaces, this building would make for a great day trip during your holiday in Madrid. Despite its grandeur, it is not the official residence of the King. He lives in Zarzuela Palace, which is located just outside of Madrid. The Royal Palace, however, is the venue for many important state business events, including ceremonies, banquets and many other royal functions.
Head into the palace and you’ll find the Royal Armoury, which is one of the finest collections in the world alongside the imperial of Vienna. There are pieces collected dating back to the 15th century, so for any history buffs the armoury is definitely a must-see.
Top Tip: Before you leave, be sure to check out the Pharmacy. This museum is home to several interesting items, including medicine cabinets and a whole range of containers and bottles used for the Royal Family’s prescriptions.
The Theatre
The Royal Theatre is one of the finest attractions in Madrid. You’ll find it between Plaza de Isabel II and Plaza de Oriente, not too far from the Palace. It was Queen Isabel II that ordered the construction of the theatre back in 1818, but the opera house’s first performance didn’t take place until 1850.
The stunning architecture of the theatre has been through a lot since it first opened, and was even used as a gunpowder store during the Spanish Civil War. There’s so much to the story of Madrid’s Royal Theatre, so make your visit worthwhile and spend time exploring.
Where to Stay
Hotel Indigo Madrid – Gran Via – This hotel has a fantastic location, right in the heart of the city centre. It’s just a stone’s throw from the iconic Gran Via and is only a short walk away from the extremely popular Puerta de Sol district, home to plenty of bars and restaurants for you to explore. The Hotel Indigo also has a sun terrace and a shared outdoor pool for guests to use at their leisure.
Hotel Liabeny – Another hotel with a prime location, Hotel Liabeny is just 200 yards from the Puerta de Sol district and has some excellent facilities including a gym and a sauna. The Royal Palace is within walking distance, but the traditional concierge and bellboy service at this hotel will make you feel like royalty yourself, so you might prefer to stay inside!
Preciados – Enjoy a free minibar in your room at Preciados, which is located right in the centre of Madrid. With its laid-back cocktail lounge and classy restaurant, this restored 19th century building will feel make you feel like a real VIP.
How to Get There
There are flights to Madrid from airports all over the UK, and the flight time is generally just over two hours. Before heading off on your trip, it is advised that you pre-book a private shuttle transfer to take you directly to your accommodation from the airport.
Pre-booking a transfer is a cost-effective and convenient way to travel from the airport and will take you from door to door once you land without any hassle. I can personally recommend this as the easiest and most stress-free way of reaching your accommodation, and it’s always a great way to start the trip when you’re met by a friendly and professional driver.
Overview
- UK to MAD Flight Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Transfer Distance: 15 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 30 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct provides airport shuttle transfers to travellers and holidaymakers in hundreds of destinations across Europe and North Africa. Our prices are fixed and low-cost, so you can rest assured that you’re always getting the best value out of your journey.
Our friendly and professional drivers will meet you once you land and will be on hand to help in any way that they can. Pre-booking our convenient and cost-effective service well in advance of your trip will give you the peace of mind to know that your travel arrangements are all sorted in plenty of time.
