LGCT Madrid

Written By Olivia Arias Voss
 
 

What to Expect from Madrid

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What to Expect from Madrid 〰️

Madrid, Madrid, sunny Madrid. The Longines Global Champions Tour of Madrid is definitely one of our favorites on the circuit. The huge grass arena, the lively Spanish atmosphere—it’s just a vibe.

The LGCT in Madrid is the place to be seen on a Sunday if you’re a Madrileño. It’s not just about the incredible 5-star show, but the whole experience. Spanish people are known for their warmth and friendliness, but don’t forget: you’re in Madrid, so bring a touch of chic to the mix!

Make sure you enjoy the team competition of the Longines Global Champions League, which adds a fun, dynamic twist to the show. And on Sunday, it's Grand Prix time and you won’t be disappointed, usually the best riders like to ride on this great grass arena.

 

Where to stay

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Where to stay 〰️

 

Madrid is one of the most beautiful cities in the world—okay, we may be a little biased since we live here, but trust us on this one!

If you're coming for the show, we’d recommend staying in central Madrid. The show itself isn’t right in the heart of the city, but it’s easily accessible by public transport, and just a 25-minute taxi ride away. You don’t need to rent a car in Madrid !

  • Uber, Cabify & Bolt all work very well in Madrid and will be your go to way to get around by car ! You can also opt for taxis but they tend to be pricier.

    The venue (Club de Campo Villa de Madrid) is connected to the city by public transport. Simply take the 161 Bus and it will take you straight to Moncloa. From there you can take the metro/bus/taxi/walk to wherever you want to go in the city.

  • Only YOU Boutique Hotel Madrid - one of our favourite hotels located within walking distance of museums, shopping and restaurant. Locate on C. del Barquillo 21, there are so many lovely restaurants, cafés and shops right next to the hotel.

    Rosewood Villa Magna - A staple, right in the heart of the city and the beautiful Serrano shopping area. If you decide not to stay there, you can visit one of their fabulous restaurants or bar.

    Hotel Aravaca Village - If you prefer to stay closer to the show, this is the place for you. You can take a 5min taxi ride to the show or the 161 Bus which will get you there in 15minutes. You will not be in downtown Madrid but there are a few restaurants, bars & a grocery store right next door,

 

Madrid

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Madrid 〰️

Since you’re already here, why not take full advantage of this vibrant city?

T

he nightlife in Madrid is absolutely electric. The show doesn’t offer after-party events, so we recommend heading downtown for dinner and a fun night out. If you need any recommendations for places to eat, drink, or dance, don’t hesitate to reach out - It would be too long to put it here.

  • Don’t know where to eat? Here are our top picks !

    • La Parra (traditional Spanish restaurant, amazing food and decoration. Would recommend for dinner) 

    • Amos (at the Rosewood Villamagna restaurant, a bit pricey but delicious food if you want a fine dining experience. It’s Spanish food with a twist) 

    • Bar Tomate (has a bit of everything. Great brunch on the weekends too!)

    • Huerta de Tudela (delicious vegetables!) 

    • O’grelo (for some delicious Galician seafood)

    • Casa Salesas (Perfect for a girl dinner and cocktails)

    • Akiro Hand Roll Bar (delicious Japanese, no reservations so get their early to avoid the queue)

    • Hannah Sushi Bar (great sushi, even better interior)

    • Li-Onna (very cool Japanese restaurant)

    • Makoto (the iconic Miami sushi spot has landed in Madrid)

    • Santoku La Barra (Omakase)

    • Los 33 (the place to be, hard to get a reservation but worth every bit)

    • HER (Comfort food. mediterranean with a local twist. Varied menu where everything is delicious and the atmosphere is unmatched)

    • Quispe (amazing peruvian, they’re ceviche is a must). They habe a sister restaurant called Acholao as well :)

    • Fratelli Figurato (best pizza)

    • China Crown (best Cantonese) 

    • If you fancy mexican: Tepic, Bakan, La Lupita (get their margarita pitcher) or Lolo Taco bar (more casual)

    • Casa Benigna (for a deliciously cripsy paella)

    • Casa Dani (the best tortilla in Madrid)

    • Em Sherif (for some lebanese)

    • Bocado (ideal sport for an easy lunch)

  • For when you’re short on time or on the go!

    • Sisi bagels (for a classic NYC bagel)

    • Falaferia 

    • Makan (delicious Lebanese ‘fast’ food where you come for the food and stay the vibes)

    • Honest Greens (Madrid’s famous healthy fast food, trust us, you’ll love it)

    • Grab Sandwich (a new place serving the city’s best sandwiches)

    • La Maruca (a classic tapas spot)

    • Lateral (another classic tapas spor or for a quick bite)

    • Focacciamo (the best focaccias in the city)

    • Apetito

    • Myka (best frozen yogurt you’ll ever have)

    • Lolli (for me, the best ice cream in the city)

    • If you’re a cheesecake fan: Luna y Wanda or Alex Cordobes (be prepared for a line)

    • Casto (Joe & the Juice sandwich dupe)

    • Nude (for healthy options & Erewhon smoothie dupes)

    • Casa Amande (delicious brunch and everything in between)

    • Cuadra (amazing pastries, try the pistachio cookie)

    • El Gordito (cute Spanish spot)

    • Alma Nomad (one of the best pasteries and breakfast cafés in the city, they have one location which is more to takeaway and another one with a proper seating area and the most delicious food)

    • Obrar (new pastry shop, delicious and beautiful)

    • Acid cafe (trust us, you shouldn’t miss this one)

    • Watts Cantina (try their signature pancakes)

    • Clima Cafecito (delicious coffee, brunch & lunch plates)

    • Cappuccino (an iconic madrilenian sport)

    • La Papa (new it brunch spot that just opened)

    • Casa Suecia (great rooftop for sunset) 

    • Ficus Bar

    • Macera (their gin basil is to die for)

    • Snake Bar

    • Gabo’s (NYC meets Madrid. They serve food aswell but we recommend going for the drinks)

    • Bar Trafalgar (a must for a cocktail night our)

    • Harrison 1913

    • The Madrid Edition (gorgeous interior, infamous staircase & a pool table - what else do you need?)

    • Gaston or Gota Wine Bar (for a sexy intimate wine bar)

    • Jack’s Library (secret speakeasy cocktail bar. At the entrance you must find the code to enter. Ask for flowers at the entrance…)

    • Acholao (pisco sour heaven)

    • Expreso martinez (coffee shop by day, cocktail bar by night)

    • Istar

    • Los Amantes

    • Liberty

    • Gunilla

    • Rubicon

 

Tips

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Tips 〰️

One thing to keep in mind is that there are no assigned seats at the Longines Global Champions Tour in Madrid. You simply buy your entrance ticket, and that’s it. So, if you want to secure a seat for the Grand Prix on Sunday, make sure to arrive early! Otherwise, you might end up standing in the sun for the whole event.

Olivia Arias Voss
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