Madrid, Spain’s capital city, is known for its vibrant appeal: historic architecture, exceptional cuisine, and age-old traditions have long attracted a well-heeled traveler. New for this year is a string of new hotel openings and a new coffee table book, Madrid Chic, by Assouline, which celebrates the richness of the metropolis.

The latest addition to Assouline’s Chic Series, Madrid Chic sees writer Cristina Carrillo de Albornoz give the reader unique access to the who’s who of the city, who have opened their doors to offer a peek into their daily lives. Meanwhile, photographer Oliver Pilcher captures the golden light that seems to blanket the city in warmth in his collection of original photography for the book.

A celebration of cultural expression, gastronomy, and architecture, Madrid Chic invites readers to explore the vibrancy of the Spanish way of life. Poetic accounts from Ernest Hemingway, Antonio Machado and Pablo Neruda are intermixed with insights from the prominent locals of today, such as baroness Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza; mayor Elena Foster; mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida, Sheila Loewe, and Pedro Almodóvar. Artworks by Velázquez and Goya are placed in conversation with creations by contemporary artists such as Jaume Plensa, Arturo Berned and Oscar Mariné. From the great aristocracy, such as the Duke of Alba, to the best young artists, such as Sandra Rojo Picón, Madrid Chic takes readers on a journey through the city’s most captivating places, immersing them in its vibrant spirit.

Meanwhile, capturing the same sense of heritage is The Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid which is set to open in March this year. Originally commissioned by King Alfonso XIII in 1912, the hotel is uniquely positioned in one of the city's most historic districts, part of the recently designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Landscape of Light.

Previously known as The Westin Palace, Madrid, the iconic building has undergone a major transformation to embark on the hotel’s next chapter as The Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid. The comprehensive restoration encompasses the entire property, from its 470 guestrooms to its shared spaces, blending its storied heritage with the modern needs of today’s travelers. An architectural landmark, the hotel’s facade has been meticulously restored to its original splendour, recovering the colours, ornamental details and original structures of the hotel as it was originally inaugurated in 1912.

Offering a different experience in the city, meanwhile, are the new Mandarin Oriental Residences. Found in Madrid’s Salamanca neighbourhood—just a short taxi-ride from the Mandarin Oriental, Madrid hotel—the 30 new Mandarin Oriental Residences have been developed by Blasson and Pictet Alternative Advisors (PAA). The eight-floor building will feature two- and three bedroom units, each with its own private balcony. Residents will also have direct access to nearby luxury retail, bars, restaurants and leisure facilities. The project is designed by the highly acclaimed BuesoInchausti & Rein Arquitectos, with interiors by Belen Domecq and landscape design by Jesús Ibáñez. Facilities will include a residents’ library and salon; landscaped garden; indoor and outdoor pools; fitness centre, spa treatment rooms and beauty salon. A team of full-time Mandarin Oriental-trained staff including a 24-hour concierge, valet, maintenance, housekeeping and security will ensure a top-end ‘away from home’ experience.

Finally, opening in winter 2025, Nômade Temple Madrid will mark the revitalization of Las Letras, a historic building dating back to the early 20th century. The hotel will have 85 rooms and suites, including two penthouses. The design promises to fuse the rich history of both the property and its surroundings with a modern sensibility. Culinary spaces will have a bohemian style and will include a gastronomic restaurant, cafe and speakeasy bar and nightclub, as well as a rooftop pool and bar with spectacular views of the city.

The hotel’s spa will offer bespoke, one-of-a-kind experiences. Each area of the hotel, says Nômade, has been conceived to awaken specific emotions, thus creating a truly unique experience for those who pass through it. There will also be a private membership club for the local community to enjoy the amenities, exclusive events, on-site perks, and more. “The goal is that, upon leaving, guests experience a transformation, taking with them memories and feelings that will last far beyond their stay in Madrid.”