Urban getaways with a soul: Rediscovering cities through a new lens
ILUNION Hotels and Woman Madame Figaro propose destinations for tourism with social impact
March 16, 2026
Escaping the routine is much more than changing coordinates; it is an opportunity to collect experiences that reconnect us with the pleasure of living. For ILUNION Hotels, urban getaways have evolved: it is no longer just about visiting museums or trying local cuisine, but about immersing oneself in a more human, accessible, and sustainable tourism approach.
In this search for authenticity, the chain has collaborated with Woman Madame Figaro magazine to highlight four essential destinations where traveler well-being and positive environmental impact go hand in hand.
Mérida: The elegance of a 15th-century palace
In the heart of the Extremaduran capital stands the ILUNION Mérida Palace, an architectural gem that achieves the perfect balance between historical heritage and contemporary luxury. As the city’s only five-star hotel, this restored former palace offers an immersive experience into history.
Its common areas breathe avant-garde design, featuring an outdoor restaurant and an exclusive rooftop pool. From there, guests can enjoy unrivaled views of the monumental city, turning every sunset into a magical moment.
Bilbao: Between tradition and avant-garde pulse
Bilbao is a city that has reinvented itself without losing its essence. From the traditional flavor of the “Siete Calles” to the explosion of contemporary art, the Biscayan capital invites you to explore it on foot. To experience it fully, ILUNION San Mamés offers an unbeatable strategic location, with direct public transport connections and just a step away from the main points of interest.
Beyond its comfort, this hotel is a benchmark for conscious tourism. As a Special Employment Center, its workforce is 80% comprised of people with disabilities and 15% of people in vulnerable situations, proving that excellence in service is the best driver for social inclusion.
Valencia: The horizon where the sea embraces design
Valencia is light, architecture, and the Mediterranean. In this setting lies ILUNION Aqua, a hotel that stands out for its impressive panoramic views of the city. Its location is privileged for those seeking variety: just minutes from the City of Arts and Sciences, the beach, and the main shopping centers. It is the ideal starting point for those wishing to combine a day of shopping with the sea breeze.
Madrid: Innovation and flavor at the flagship hotel
The vibrant energy of Madrid finds its sanctuary at ILUNION Atrium. Ideal for both business and leisure travel, this establishment has established itself as the company’s flagship hotel thanks to its commitment to social technology.
The hotel houses the innovative “Room Labs”: experimental rooms where technological innovations in accessibility are tested to ensure that the future of tourism is for everyone. Furthermore, its gastronomic proposal is a must-visit: the Umániko restaurant focuses on local and seasonal cuisine.
A future designed for all
These proposals demonstrate that traveling is, above all, a way of connecting. Whether through history in Mérida, social commitment in Bilbao, design in Valencia, or innovation in Madrid, ILUNION Hotels continues to redefine tourism. Because in the end, the best getaway is one that not only allows us to discover a new place but also invites us to see the world through different eyes.
