High-end shopping guide: Madison Avenue gems

In New York, luxury shopping never sleeps. The Big Apple offers an unparalleled range of high-end stores. And in a city of extravagance, Madison Avenue shines. Guests at The Surrey on the Upper East Side are at the heart of one of the world's great retail neighborhoods. Our location on the corner of 76th Street and Madison Avenue is a short walk from boutiques, jewelers and cosmetics stores (not to mention design studios and art galleries). It's time to start scheduling some retail therapy. Let's introduce some of Madison Avenue's standout attractions and help you plan your itinerary.

1. Visit the flagship stores of legendary brands

Flagship stores are a star attraction on Madison Avenue—where global brands make their New York home. Gucci, Hermès, Prada and Ralph Lauren are all based nearby, offering a seemingly inexhaustible array of exquisite accessories and unmissable designer fashion to browse, try and buy.

We recommend reserving expert assistance from personal shoppers to explore seasonal collections and interpret the most daring creations, and a private styling session at Ralph Lauren is essential. Build elegant menswear ensembles at the French Renaissance-style Ralph Lauren Mansion (867 Madison) or head to the women's flagship at 888 Madison for boutique shopping and coffee in a grand Beaux-Arts setting. Elsewhere on 5th Avenue, you can accessorize at Gucci, or return to Madison, where the Hermès Maison showcases the French brand's sumptuous collection. Then head north to Chanel, Armani and a galaxy of fashion legends. The luxury never ends.

2. Diamonds are a guest's best friend

Turning away from the catwalk, Madison Avenue also hosts a world-class range of jewelry showrooms where you can channel your inner Holly Golightly. But like dazzling diamonds, some boutiques shine brighter than others.

Head to Graff between 63rd and 64th to see some of the most elegantly cut diamonds in the world. Browse stunning earrings, necklaces and regal tiaras to match your style. Fall under the spell of the dazzling jewels in Graff's Signature Collection or make a date to choose an engagement ring that captures the essence of romance and passion. Graff offers private appointments as well, with champagne included to match the occasion. They are a great chance to see some of the house's treasures and meet the artisans who craft them.

Other exceptional highlights include the David Yurman Townhouse (Madison and 57th), where brand ambassadors will curate a look to suit your unique personality. Closer to The Surrey, David Webb experiments with color gems, taking inspiration from ancient motifs to enchant his patrons. We also urge visitors to spend time at Cartier's 5th Avenue Mansion. A New York fixture since 1909, Cartier's diamonds are beloved worldwide. It's the perfect place to order custom-made watches and personally embossed bracelets.

3. Pamper yourself with scents and cosmetics

 Luxury shopping on Madison Avenue isn't just about beautiful clothes or jewels. Upscale brands near The Surrey dazzle visitors with out-of-this-world aromas and cosmetic delights. Allow yourself to be enchanted by elite perfumers at Diptyque (971 Madison), whose festive and seasonal scents will enliven anyone's senses. Fueguia 1833 (948 Madison) takes visitors on a botanical exploration, turning the floral riches of Patagonia into beguiling perfumes.

Further south, Creed Boutique (749 Madison) delivers an artisan "olfactory experience" with its decadent range of shower gels, skincare creams and perfumed oils. After that, take the indulgent makeover experience further at one of Madison Avenue's many heavenly hair-care salons. Favorites near The Surrey include Mahogany Grace and Nunzio Saviano—one of NYC's best places to rejuvenate your hair with Balayage treatments.

4. Enjoy first-class service at leather boutiques

With so many luxury stores to visit, Madison Avenue's leather goods boutiques could fly under the radar. Don't let that happen. You need to take this accessorizing opportunity. Explore outstanding places to buy leather bags, belts and footwear. Santoni (551 Madison) is a great place to find graceful Italian leather shoes or boots, but find time to visit Bottega Veneta (740 Madison) as well. There's no better place to refresh your clutch or crossbody collection. Even closer to the hotel, don't miss Prada (841 Madison). Private appointments and made-to-measure services add a new dimension to the familiar Italian brand, opening your eyes to hidden gems that others miss.

5. Devour gorgeous decor and furnishing creations

Finally, it’s time to move away from clothes and cosmetics and check out the local design scene. Madison Avenue is a magnet for furnishing mavens and artisans who transcend familiar products. For instance, the Rug Company (1228 Madison) offers both wildly inventive and classically styled rugs and wall-to-floor coverings. Worldwide delivery lets you pick your favorites and enjoy them back home. Meanwhile. French label Baccarat (635 Madison) brings its flair for tableware and lighting to New York, providing a wealth of inspiration for furnishing homes. Even if you don’t buy, Madison Avenue’s designer showrooms suggest interior design ideas, sparking your creativity for future projects.

Relax in style with us as you discover Madison Avenue

Madison Avenue offers a cornucopia of purchases, but one thing's for sure—you'll need somewhere to store your goodies and recharge between boutiques. The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel, is conveniently located and perfectly appointed to serve the needs of travelers accustomed to luxury. Spa treatments, fine dining and outstanding service from our attentive staff perfectly complement retail adventures. And comfort is naturally guaranteed. We'd love you to stay with us as you explore New York's premier shopping district.