Salamanca in Madrid

Salamanca in Madrid is a premier upscale neighbourhood featuring grand pedestrian-friendly boulevards dating to the 19th century and dotted with fine dining and boutique shopping. Here you can visit an elegant covered market, walk the famed Golden Mile, head for an archaeological museum with ancient native artefacts and see famed works of art by iconic creators from throughout history. All of this is tucked within a serene, quiet residential area where the upper crust of Madrid make their homes in classic buildings with stunning historic architecture.

If you're looking to experience what fine living is like in Spain, Salamanca is the place to visit. You'll find everything from prehistoric culture to the very best in haute couture clothing brands and more, feeling like you're in the lap of luxury the whole time. It's a romantic destination, ideal for couples on a holiday looking to make memories for a lifetime.

Salamanca in Madrid - one of the highlights of 10 Most Popular Neighbourhoods in Madrid (Read all about Madrid here)

What are the highlights of Salamanca in Madrid?

Highlights of Salamanca in Madrid range from museums and history to upscale shopping and dining, so there's something for everyone, and all of it is luxurious. Start with a visit to the Museo Arqueológico Nacional, a showpiece destination with thousands of artefacts dating back to the native Iberian people who inhabited the region in prehistoric times. From there, head for the Italianate stone mansion that contains the Museo Lázaro Galdiano, which houses the collection of businessman and collector José Lázaro Galdiano and includes artworks by Goya, Bosch and others.

If you're looking for upscale shopping and dining, it's hard to beat Salamanca. Here you can find luxury boutique stores offering such brands as Versace, Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Hermès. Platea Madrid offers upscale gourmet food in a historic former theatre. The neighbourhood also boasts multiple Michelin-starred restaurants including Ramón Freixa Madrid and Kabuki Wellington.

A brief history of Salamanca in Madrid

The history of Salamanca in Madrid begins in the second half of the 19th century, as Queen Isabella II planned an expansion of Madrid for the wealthy elite. Málaga-born designer José de Salamanca y Mayol, the Marquis de Salamanca, was in charge of its design and envisioned an organized neighbourhood laid out for the exclusive residence of the city's aristocracy. The area was naturally named for the marquis upon completion. While it has remained a destination for the financial and cultural elite, notable figures of art and philosophy such as Salvador Dalí, Luis Bruñel, Manuel de Falla and José Ortega y Gasset have been drawn here as well.

Today, the neighbourhood remains an elite area with high-priced real estate and many historic buildings, many of which date to the 19th century. These buildings with their elaborate ironwork and ornate balconies form a romantic backdrop for stunning photos.

What else is good to know about Salamanca in Madrid?

Salamanca in Madrid is not a party neighbourhood or a place to come for nightlife or entertainment, but rather is a luxurious destination and a quiet and refined area. Whether you're looking for museums or elite shopping and dining, everything here has a sense of finery about it. Here you may find yourself rubbing elbows with diplomats, government officials and celebrities from all over the world. This enclave is home to several international embassies and international schools including the IE Business School.

The neighbourhood is well-serviced by public transportation including buses and the Metro line. The upmarket district is known as the Golden Mile and contains much of the shopping, dining and educational points of interest. Institutes, shops and restaurants in this area are disability accessible and can accommodate special needs, but it's always a good idea to call ahead.

Location: Madrid, Spain

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