FIPP Congress 2025: Exploring the Comunidad de Madrid
With sites ranging from Aranjuez’s UNESCO-listed palace to the medieval charm of Chinchón, the region offers delegates memorable day trips beyond the capital
For many delegates, the upcoming FIPP Congress will be a chance to experience Madrid itself – a capital that embodies history, energy, and creative momentum. Yet just beyond the city lies the Comunidad de Madrid, a region where Spain’s heritage comes into focus through royal palaces, UNESCO gardens, medieval squares, and dramatic mountain landscapes – all within 30 to 60 minutes of the capital.
Aranjuez: A royal retreat
Aranjuez is one of the highlights of the region. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its royal palace, extensive gardens, and riverside setting, it was once the spring residence of the Spanish court. Today, its Royal Palace remains a centrepiece, with gardens that extend to the banks of the Tagus River. the Tagus. Walking through the Jardín del Príncipe or the Jardín de la Isla, visitors encounter a blend of baroque design, sculpture, and water features that reflect centuries of European influence.
Beyond its architectural and horticultural heritage, Aranjuez also offers lots of opportunities for outdoor exploration. Its riverside setting creates space for gentle strolls, while the Museum of Royal Feluccas preserves the boats once used by monarchs to navigate the waterways.
A region of contrasts
While Aranjuez represents the grandeur of royal Spain, the wider Comunidad de Madrid offers experiences of equal depth and variety, with each town within the region adding a distinct dimension to the region’s story:
- Alcalá de Henares: Birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, this university town combines literary heritage with generous hospitality. Cafés, tapas bars, and historic squares give it a lively but intimate character, and its academic institutions still define much of the town’s activity.
- San Lorenzo de El Escorial: Nestled in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains, El Escorial is both monastery and royal residence. Built in the 16th century, it symbolises Spain’s imperial ambition and remains a major centre of art and architecture.
- Chinchón: Distinguished by its medieval square, Chinchón has long been used as an open-air stage for theatre and festivals. It is also home to traditional gastronomy, including its signature anisette liqueur.
- Manzanares el Real: For those drawn to castles, Manzanares el Real offers one of Spain’s best-preserved examples. Its location also provides access to La Pedriza, a striking landscape of granite peaks and hiking trails.
- Navacerrada & Sierra de Guadarrama: This area may appeal to those seeking a natural reset, with fresh mountain air and outdoor activities that offer a change of atmosphere to central Madrid.
Flavours of the region
Food and drink form an integral part of the regional experience. Rustic restaurants serve cordero asado (roast lamb), a traditional dish of the Castilian countryside. In Alcalá, tapas are often included with drinks, a long-standing feature of local dining. Across the wider region, local specialities include anisette liqueur from Chinchón and the famed seasonal fresas de Aranjuez – strawberries celebrated each spring and enjoyed fresh, with cream, or in desserts.
Practical access
Exploring the Comunidad de Madrid is straightforward and convenient. The Cercanías suburban train network that connects central Madrid with outlying towns is fast, frequent, and inexpensive, and a Madrid travel pass (Abono Turístico) covers many of these regional trips, making it possible for those planning a structured itinerary to visit more than one destination in a single day.
Congress opportunities
For delegates who prefer a guided approach, the Congress programme includes curated tours – both offering round-trip transport – supported by the Comunidad de Madrid. Options include:
- Aranjuez Tour + Wine Tasting: A half-day experience featuring the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, its UNESCO-listed gardens, and a visit to the Real Cortijo winery, complete with tasting and aperitif.
- Aranjuez + Wine Tasting + Lunch in Chinchón: A full-day itinerary that extends the Aranjuez visit with lunch at Mesón Cuevas del Vino in Chinchón, alongside wine tasting and time to explore the town’s distinctive square.
A complement to Congress
As FIPP marks its centenary in Madrid, delegates will come together to connect, share insights, and shape the next century of media. But beyond the city limits, the Comunidad de Madrid offers delegates a chance to step outside the conference hall and encounter the landscapes, traditions, and stories that underpin Spanish culture.
The Comunidad de Madrid at a glance
Highlights
- Aranjuez: UNESCO-listed Royal Palace and gardens, riverside walks, and the town’s famous strawberries.
- Alcalá de Henares: Birthplace of Cervantes, historic university town, and generous tapas culture.
- San Lorenzo de El Escorial: Monumental monastery and royal residence in the Sierra de Guadarrama.
- Chinchón: Striking medieval square, festivals, and traditional anisette liqueur.
- Manzanares el Real: Impressive castle and hiking in La Pedriza.
- Navacerrada & Sierra de Guadarrama: Nature escapes with mountain air and outdoor trails.
Flavours to try
Cordero asado (roast lamb), tapas in Alcalá, and anís de Chinchón.
Getting there
The Cercanías suburban train network makes day trips fast, affordable, and easy to combine.
Congress tours
Delegates can join curated tours of Aranjuez and Chinchón, including wine tasting and local cuisine.
