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Madrid is a gold mine for golf lovers, boasting more golf courses close to the city center than any other city within a short drive. This guide will provide you with all you need to know about the golf spots in the city, tips for getting around, and some fun cultural activities to see and do.
We've made this guide to give you a comprehensive overview of what Madrid has to offer for golfers. From the golf courses to easy travel, places to stay, great food, and plenty of culture and sports, Madrid is an excellent destination for any golfer considering a visit to Spain's vibrant capital.
Golfing in Madrid
Madrid offers a top-notch golfing experience with several standout courses. La Moraleja is famous for its four Jack Nicklaus-designed courses, while Golf Santander and Club de Campo are known for their excellent facilities. Also noteworthy is Club de Golf La Dehesa, which is recognized for its beautifully maintained course, upscale clubhouse, and interesting pricing structure.
La Moraleja
For a more serene setting, visit La Herreria, located near the historic El Escorial. This site was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on November 2, 1984, adding historical significance to your visit. Another great spot is El Encin Golf, situated near Alcala de Henares, a city celebrated for its cultural heritage. El Encin also boasts a hotel right next to the golf course, where you can relax and enjoy stunning views and excellent golf.
These venues highlight why Madrid is a premier destination for golf lovers who appreciate high-quality courses alongside rich historical and cultural sites. For a more comprehensive look at what Madrid has to offer in golf, make sure to check out the detailed overview in this article: Madrid's Must-Play Golf Courses
Getting to Madrid is Easy
Madrid is super accessible, making it a breeze to reach from just about anywhere. Direct flights are available from a whole bunch of big cities across Europe, like Helsinki, Stockholm, London, Oslo, and Copenhagen. It's not just these cities; almost every major city in Europe has a direct flight to Madrid. And it's not only Europe - you can catch direct flights from major US cities like New York, Miami, Boston and Los Angeles too. If you're coming from further away, no worries! With just one stop, you can connect from almost anywhere in the world to Madrid. This makes traveling to Madrid for some top-notch golfing straightforward and hassle-free.
Lots of Places to Stay
Madrid offers a wide range of accommodation options suited to every preference, whether you're looking for the lively atmosphere of the city center or the tranquility of areas closer to the golf courses.
VP Plaza España Design is a standout choice, located in the heart of Madrid, providing easy access to the city's main attractions. It's also the prize location for the lucky winner of the recently concluded Greater Madrid Golf Challenge on Golf GameBook, who will enjoy a two-night stay at this stunning hotel.
VP Plaza España Design
For those seeking spacious accommodations, Eurostars Suites Mirasierra offers large suites complete with beds and sofa beds, ideal for groups or families. A typical stay includes a fantastic breakfast and is reasonably priced, especially for those sharing a room. Situated just next to Cuatro Torres, it offers a perfect location for quick access to golf courses, while also making visits to downtown Madrid easy as well.
Barcelo Imagine, located on the north side near Cuatro Torres, is perfectly positioned for golf lovers, with several courses like Centro Nacional, Golf Olivar, and La Moraleja just minutes away.
If proximity to green spaces is a priority, Petit Palace Savoy Alfonso XII might be your choice. Situated right next to Retiro Park, it offers comfortable rooms and a delightful breakfast experience.
Hotel El Encin provides a unique stay directly attached to a golf course. It’s an excellent spot for those who want to enjoy beautiful views and golf during their visit, along with tasty dining options and a rooftop pool.
Adding to these options, the upcoming boutique hotel at Centro Nacional, managed by the Spanish Golf Federation, promises an unparalleled experience for golf enthusiasts. Slated to open in autumn 2024, this hotel will offer guests the unique opportunity to stay directly between the 18th green and 1st tee box, integrating seamlessly with the top-tier golf facilities already on offer.
Pro Tip 💡 Consider staying at different hotels if your visit spans several days to experience more of what Madrid has to offer.
Food for Everyone
After a day of golf, Madrid has plenty of restaurants to choose from, offering something for every taste. Whether you're interested in authentic Spanish cuisine or international dishes, you're sure to enjoy a great meal.
You might consider visiting Entre Santos, a trendy spot known for its innovative dishes and vibrant atmosphere, popular among both locals and tourists. Horcher offers a high-end dining experience with exquisite traditional German and Spanish dishes in a refined setting. For a lively dining and entertainment experience, Florida Park, located in the heart of Madrid's Retiro Park, is famous for its performances and scenic views. La Huerta de Tudela specializes in fresh, seasonal vegetables from Tudela in a sophisticated farm-to-table setting. Also, make sure you visit Mercado San Miguel near Plaza Mayor, a historic market that serves an impressive variety of gourmet tapas, seafood, baked goods, and drinks, capturing the true culinary spirit of Madrid.
Additionally, consider exploring Galería Canalejas. Located on the iconic Calle Alcalá, this newly established food hall is quickly becoming a gastronomic hotspot in Madrid. It features a diverse array of dining options across 13 different restaurants, including creations by Michelin-starred chefs, offering a unique blend of local and international flavors in a luxurious setting.
Galería Canalejas
Madrid is Not Just Golf
Madrid is a city that pulses with not only fantastic golfing opportunities but also a rich tapestry of cultural and sporting events. For football enthusiasts, the city is a dream destination, offering the chance to watch legendary teams like Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid in action. But the football fervor doesn't stop there; La Liga teams such as Getafe CF and Rayo Vallecano also showcase thrilling matches that contribute to Madrid's vibrant sports scene.
Getting tickets is fairly easy, although you often need to be attentive when they go on sale. However, if it's not Barcelona or some other huge team visiting, getting tickets isn't that tough. We highly recommend buying the tickets directly from the clubs' websites. This way, you can be sure that you don’t pay any extra, and you will have a valid ticket.
• Atletico de Madrid Tickets
• Real Madrid Tickets
Tennis fans have a special place in Madrid's sporting calendar with the Madrid Masters, an ATP 1000 tournament held in May, attracting tennis stars from around the world. Meanwhile, golf fans can extend their sporting itinerary beyond the city's courses to the Open de España, a DP World Tour event taking place in September or October.
Adding to this rich sports lineup, Madrid is set to welcome Formula 1 in 2026, turning the city into a pivotal destination for motorsport fans. The arrival of Formula 1 will undoubtedly add a high-octane layer to Madrid's diverse sporting landscape, offering something for everyone, from the roar of the engines to the quiet concentration of the golf greens.
Madrid isn't just a destination — it's an experience
Madrid has something for every golfer, combining world-class courses with rich cultural experiences. Whether you're here for the sport or to soak in the city's vibrant life, Madrid promises a memorable stay. Enjoy your game on lush greens, unwind in exceptional accommodations, and savor the exquisite local cuisine. Don't forget to explore the city's historical sites and participate in its lively cultural events. Madrid isn't just a destination—it's an experience. So, pack your clubs and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Spain's lively capital. Happy golfing!
