OUR HOST – City of Madrid

The ESSA 2025 will take place in the vibrant capital of Spain, Madrid. Known for its rich cultural heritage, forward-thinking social services, and welcoming Mediterranean energy, Madrid offers an exceptional setting for this year’s European Social Services Awards.

Hosted by the City of Madrid, the conference will be held at the iconic COAM, Colegio Oficial de Arquitectos de Madrid, located in the heart of the city’s Chueca, Justicia district, a neighbourhood known for its architecture, diversity, and cultural vibrancy.

ESSA 2025 invites delegates to join a unique experience that combines insightful sessions, dynamic workshops, and inspiring exchanges in a city that lives and breathes creativity and community.

This page provides information on:
•    The City and Region
•    Places to eat around COAM and central Madrid
•    Cultural landmarks and activities in and around the city

 

THE CITY AND REGION

With a population of over 3 million people, Madrid is the political and cultural capital of Spain. It’s a city that balances historic grandeur with vibrant modern life, where royal palaces meet avant-garde design, and where art, gastronomy, and social innovation thrive. Madrid is part of the Autonomous Community of Madrid, which holds broad responsibilities in healthcare, education, and social services. The city itself has become a leader in promoting inclusive policies, citizen participation, and digital transformation in public welfare. The Municipality of Madrid welcomes delegates to explore not only its architecture and heritage, but also its ongoing commitment to social justice, innovation in care, and sustainability.

 

PLACES TO EAT NEAR COAM

COAM is located in one of Madrid’s most dynamic areas, Chueca, just steps from Gran Vía and Malasaña, where traditional Spanish flavours mix with global cuisine and trendy eateries.

Local Restaurants & Tapas Bars (5–10 min walk): Bosco de Lobos – Nestled inside the COAM building itself, this stylish Italian-Mediterranean restaurant offers a tranquil garden setting away from the city noise. A perfect spot for a lunch break or post-conference dinner without leaving the venue. Casa Macareno – Classic vermouth bar with Spanish tapas (Calle Velarde, 45) Bodega de la Ardosa – Historic tavern known for tortilla española and vermouth (Calle Colón, 13) Celso y Manolo – Elegant but relaxed Spanish kitchen (Calle de la Libertad, 1) Diurno – A stylish and versatile space offering international cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, perfect for lunch or dinner in a relaxed yet modern setting. (Calle de San Marcos, 37) La Musa – Creative tapas and fusion cuisine (Calle Manuela Malasaña, 18)

If you’re looking for organic dining options, here are some additional suggestions: Superchulo – A vibrant vegetarian restaurant in Malasaña with an emphasis on organic ingredients, sustainability, and colorful plant-based meals. (Calle de Manuela Malasaña, 11) Vega – A fully vegan restaurant committed to sustainability and local ingredients, offering bold and flavorful. Great atmosphere and artistic presentation. (Calle de la Luna, 9) Mercado de San Antón – Located just around the corner from COAM, this modern food market offers a wide variety of dining options, including vegetarian and organic choices. (Calle de Augusto Figueroa, 24)

Or if you are looking for a good cup of coffee, check out these places Faraday – A cozy record-store café in Chueca offering specialty coffee, flat whites, pour overs, and delightful cakes like their carrot or banana cake. A relaxed vibe with artistic decor and friendly baristas. (Calle de San Lucas, 9) HanSo Café – A stylish specialty coffee spot near COAM offering expertly brewed espresso, cold brews, and creative pastries in a cozy atmosphere. (Calle del Pez, 20) Bianchi Kiosko Caffé – Tiny artisan kiosk in Chueca serving handmade espresso, matcha, and chai to go. Ideal for a quick, quality caffeine fix. (Calle de Barbieri, 4)

 

EXPERIENCE MADRID

Below we have gathered some of the main attractions you can visit during your stay, or when you come back.

Explore Madrid’s rich cultural heritage with Paseo por el Arte Imprescindible, a free mobile app that guides you through some of the city’s most iconic artworks and landmarks. It’s an ideal companion for discovering art and history at your own pace while exploring Madrid’s diverse neighbourhoods.

 

• Museo del Prado

The Prado Museum is one of the most important art museums worldwide, with a collection that spans from the 12th to the early 20th century. You can admire works by Velázquez, Goya, El Bosco, Rubens, and Titian among many others. The museum offers temporary exhibitions and guided tours that deepen your understanding of European art history.
Address: Calle Ruiz de Alarcón, 23, 28014 Madrid
More about Prado Museum here Museo Nacional del Prado

 

• Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

This museum is Spain’s national museum of 20th-century art. It houses iconic works by Picasso, including Guernica, as well as pieces by Dalí, Miró, and other international modern and contemporary artists. The building itself is a renovated 18th-century hospital with modern additions.
Address: Calle de Santa Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid
More about Reina Sofia Museum here Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

 

• Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza

Part of Madrid’s “Golden Triangle of Art,” the Thyssen complements the Prado and Reina Sofía by showcasing a vast private collection, including Italian Renaissance, Baroque, Impressionism, and Modernist works. The museum regularly hosts important temporary exhibitions.
Address: Paseo del Prado, 8, 28014 Madrid
More about the museum here Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza Madrid
 

• Royal Palace of Madrid

The official residence of the Spanish Royal Family for ceremonies and state events, the Royal Palace is a grand architectural masterpiece with lavish interiors, royal collections, and beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the palace’s impressive halls, the Royal Armoury, and the Sabatini Gardens.
Address: Calle de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid
Royal Palace of Madrid | Patrimonio Nacional
 

• Parque del Retiro

Madrid’s most iconic park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, El Retiro offers a tranquil escape right in the heart of the city. Spanning over 125 hectares, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing walk, a boat ride on the large pond, or a break from the city’s buzz.
Inside the park, you’ll find two exceptional exhibition spaces managed by the Reina Sofía Museum:

Palacio de Cristal – A stunning glass pavilion inspired by London’s Crystal Palace, surrounded by a pond and trees. It hosts contemporary art installations and site-specific exhibitions.

Palacio de Velázquez – A neoclassical building also used as a temporary exhibition space, often showcasing renowned international artists.
 

• Templo de Debod

This ancient Egyptian temple, gifted to Spain in the 20th century, was relocated to a park near Plaza de España. It offers one of the best sunset views over Madrid and is a unique cultural site blending history and nature.
Address: Calle Ferraz, 1, 28008 Madrid

 

AROUND MADRID

Toledo
Just 30 minutes from Madrid by train, Toledo is a beautiful medieval city that feels like stepping back in time. It’s known for its mix of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim history, you’ll find ancient synagogues, mosques, and a stunning Gothic cathedral all within walking distance. It’s the kind of place where every street has a story, and the views from the hilltop are worth the trip alone.

 

El Escorial
Located in the mountains just outside Madrid, El Escorial is a quiet town known for its massive 16th-century royal monastery and palace. The building itself is impressive, with grand halls, a beautiful basilica, and even the burial site of many Spanish kings and queens. It’s a peaceful spot with plenty of history and a great excuse to get out of the city for a few hours.

 

Segovia
Segovia is a classic day trip from Madrid, The Roman aqueduct is one of the best-preserved in the world, and the fairy-tale Alcázar castle looks like it’s straight out of a movie. The old town is perfect for a relaxed stroll, and if you’re into food, the local cochinillo (roast pork) is a must-try. Fast trains get you there in just over 30 minutes.