Espacio Fundación Telefónica is one of the places that make me happy to live in Madrid. It has the elements you see in many great public buildings here - forward-thinking architectural design and an imaginative use of the space. Inspired by the skyscrapers of Manhattan with some added Baroque details and completed in 1929, this was Europe's first skyscraper and the tallest building too (for about 5 minutes!).
During the Civil War, Ernest Hemingway, John Dos Passos and Antoine de Saint-Exupéry sent their reports from here -- this building has some real history! Nowadays, it houses the Telefonica flagship store and a telecommunications museum and (my favourite part) the Espacio Fundación Telefónica, created when part of the building was remodelled in 2012, and now features an incredibly photogenic staircase and has very cool exhibitions - check what’s showing on their website. There is also an auditorium which has free concerts and a café.
The Espacio Fundación Telefónica is in what may be the busiest part of central Madrid, on the corner of Gran Vía and Fuencarral streets, but no matter how crazy it is outside, inside I have always found it to be an oasis of calm - it makes a wonderful contrast.
Find your way with 266 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
It’s a TARDIS-like Aladdin’s cave of colour and creativity for anyone, but also a great place to find some peculiarly Spanish items...
by
The Spanish owner, David, honed his knowledge in Japan of this tasty curry, which is served with rice and crunchy panko-covered meat, seafood or veg.
by
Housed in Nuevos Ministerios, this museum has an ambitious aim - to raise awareness of how architecture impacts the quality of our lives.
by
This little Korean place, has a exquisitely concise menu - 6 different dumplings, steamed or fried, plus a couple of specials and sides and that’s it.
by
The largest piece represents the Liberty Gate; three large columns, inscribed with the names of all the deportees, are 'the trees of dreams.'
by
FMCMP in Madrid is a quiet, elegant space that still feels fresh. It is a fantastic museum and I can't think of a better place to spend an hour!
by
It’s really cosy but airy at the same time - there’s room enough between the variety of seating arrangements for one not to feel boxed in.
by
The monument, named “Recuerdo Vivo” (living memory) honours all 1429 victims of terrorism in Madrid and was installed in 2023.
by
This hidden gem, located in the Malasaña neighborhood, is a testament to the art of mixology and offers an experience that transcends the ordinary.
by
Le Secret du Marias in Madrid is a gorgeous perfumery with niche scents, Spanish brands and workshops. Learn about how fragrance are made!
by
This fantastic wine shop, Vino y Compañía is the place to discover the wonderful variety and quality of wine on offer in Spain. Come with an open mind!
by
266 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 266 Insider Tips