Lobby of the Hotel Ritz, visited by novelists Gabriel García Márquez and Paulo Coelho

If you haven’t noticed already, I’m a complete nerd. I’m obsessed with history and reading, and I often fantasize about living in eras that I think are way more glamorous and artistic than our current one (um, hello 1920s!). Before I moved to Europe, all I could think about was retracing the steps of literary and artistic greats like Ernest Hemingway, Zelda and F. Scott Fitzgerald, Josephine Baker and others. In my opinion, Hemingway is one of the most intriguing literary figures of the 20th century and I knew that when I moved to Madrid, I would spend a lot of time learning about him and his relationship with this city (one of his favorites!).

Restaurante Botin, a favorite of Ernest Hemingway and a bucket list dinner location for me. Photo credit

Of course, I had to turn my literary fascination with this city into a story. Best job ever! I got to use my super nerd skills for Fodors by putting together a Literary Tour of Madrid that highlights neighborhoods, restaurants, bars and sites that have been popular for both American and European writers over the past few centuries.  I’ve personally only been to a few of these spots, but give me some time and I’ll be sure to hit them all. One place that I loved that is not included in the story is the Hotel Ritz, a luxurious grande dame property located near Retiro Park and the Prado and Reina Sofia museums. The historic hotel has hosted writers Gabriel García Márquez and Paulo Coelho (though not Hemingway, unfortunately), as well as artistic greats Salvador Dalí and Paul McCartney. You can practically feel the creative energy as you stroll the halls. One of my favorite places to relax and take in the surroundings is the gorgeous Ritz Garden which will open for the spring season at the end of March. I hope you’ll take the time to check out some of these literary spots the next time you’re in Madrid!

Ritz Gardens, Hotel Ritz Madrid

Have you ever done a literary tour in a different city? Who are some of your favorite authors that have inspired your travels? Have you gone on any other unique tours that you think I should check out? Let me know below!