With the holidays approaching, it’s time to start planning for your winter getaway, and this time round, Madrid and El Corte Inglés are first on my list. I have already planned my winter getaway, but that’s a story for another day.

Madrid is one of the most celebrated and beautiful places in the world and a magnet for elite international tourism. The city is home to the iconic El Corte Inglés department store in Castellana which is a huge draw for shopping lovers. And as one of the world’s largest stores, there are many amazing activities for the discerning traveler within close proximity (I assume Dubai is in close proximity depending on how you look at it) whilst on their winter getaway.

Top sights to catch in Madrid during your winter getaway

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

Just a nine-minute walk from El Corte Inglés, Madrid’s main football stadium is home to the city’s most popular team: Real Madrid. Opened in 1947, the stadium is as big as they come and has undergone multiple renovations over the years. It now sits up to 81,044 people. There is no better way to enjoy your winter getaway than experiencing an integral part of the Spanish culture. And of course to cheer on Real Madrid at a game.

Puerta de Alcalá

Only a quick 10-minute drive from El Corte Inglés, the Puerta de Alcalá, which means the “Citadel Gate” and is derived from the Arabic word al-qal’a, is a neo-classical monumental city gate. In addition, it is regarded as the first modern, post-roman, triumphal arch in Europe. It was built between 1769 and 1778, using granite and stone from Colmenar and makes a wonderful backdrop for a memorable picture. Spending some time during your Madrid winter getaway here will surely add something to your history knowledge.

El Prado Art Museum

Not falling short on culture, Prado Art Museum in Madrid is one of the world’s first museums to hold a royal collection of art from the 15th to the 17th centuries. The collection includes the works of Velazquez’s ‘Las Meninas’ and El Greco’s ‘The Annunciation’. And if you are an art lover, you can also head to the neighboring Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza which allows them to finish the Golden Triangle of Art. Here you can admire the works of many world-renowned abstract and surrealist artists, all only a short ride from the famous El Corte Inglés.

Plaza de Cibeles square

Adjacent to Paseo del Prado, here you will be able to marvel at marble sculptures at the city’s most famous plaza. Known for its stunning architecture, the fountain features the Roman goddess Cybele who represents Earth, agriculture and fertility. Just to let you know, it was adopted by the city’s football team. After a winning match for Real Madrid during your winter getaway, this is the spot to celebrate the victory.

El Corte Inglés

The seven-storey department store in Madrid is the hotspot for visiting fashion mavens. International visitors receive a 10% reward discount card year round. You can also ask to have your shopping delivered to your hotel or home country, along with assistance with their tax refund (not needed in Dubai). Celebrating its 75th anniversary, this shopping mall is in the heart of Madrid, and a stone’s throw away from many local attractions. The store features over 8,000 Spanish and international brands and is the ideal answer to the most discerning shopper with its comprehensive collection of designers.

Serrano 52MAN and Serrano 47WOMAN

Anyone on a shopping break should not miss stepping into the El Corte Ingles’ concept stores Serrano 52MAN and Serrano 47WOMAN. The impressive men-dedicated store Serrano 52MAN incorporates the latest trends in prestigious men’s fashion. It is spread across seven floors dedicated to showcasing different styles and garments for every occasion.

The recently opened women-focused store, Serrano 47WOMAN, spans 11,000 square meters. It offers everything a woman would need in fashion, accessories, and in beauty, perfumery and cosmetics. The diverse offering of products on each floor from high-end brand names in fashion and beauty is sure to suit every fashionista’s taste and luxury spending sprees.

Why Madrid

People travel the world to find the beautiful and the fantastic, or just to get away. Madrid seems to be one of those perfect places for your winter getaway because it brims with exceptional experiences. The city has the latest collection of a fashion designer at El Corte Inglés, a painting at one of its museums, or historic buildings that defy time. Let your imagination run wild and find inspiration at every corner of this storied city.