a large white building with a clock tower

Madrid

Spain

Art & ArchitectureHistoricalCity SquaresCultural CentersShopping Streets

city scale under blue sky

Madrid hits you with a kind of sun-soaked energy that sticks to your skin. In Plaza Mayor, you hear buskers play while scent of grilled squid drifts from café tables. Step into La Latina on a Sunday: market stalls crammed with antiques, chatter flowing from tapas bars. Retiro Park’s tree-lined paths invite slow walks, rowboats gliding on the lake’s green water. Gran Vía hums with theatre lights and late-night cinemas, while Malasaña’s street art pops in neon colours. Chocolate con churros at San Ginés, thick enough to coat the spoon, becomes a ritual. Madrid knows how to be loud, lively, a bit chaotic — but always utterly alive.

Quick Facts

EUR

Spanish

Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport

Large City

Type C, Type F

Central European Time

Safe

Moderate

General Information

Safety indexMadrid has a high safety index and is considered a safe destination for travelers.

Best Time to TravelThe best time to travel to Madrid is during the spring and fall months (April to June and September to October) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds.

Least crowded and still a good time to visitThe least crowded yet still a good time to visit Madrid is during the winter months (November to February) when you can enjoy lower prices on accommodations and attractions.

BudgetMadrid can be a budget-friendly destination if you plan ahead and take advantage of public transportation and free attractions such as museums and parks.

Healthcare and VaccinationsHealthcare in Madrid is of high quality, but it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses in case of emergencies. No specific vaccinations are required for travel to Madrid.

Visa RequirementsVisitors from the European Union, United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries do not require a visa to travel to Spain for stays up to 90 days. However, it is important to check specific visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.

Weather in Madrid

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38100

2882

1864

745

-327

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3020100

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First-time travelers

Madrid, a city of contrasts, where the old world charm meets modern elegance. For first time travelers, the vibrant energy of this Spanish capital is sure to leave a lasting impression. From bustling markets to peaceful parks, there's something for every type of traveler in Madrid.

Local Flavors

Indulge in the delicious local cuisine at Mercado de San Miguel, where you can sample authentic Spanish tapas and sip on refreshing sangria. Don't miss out on the churros con chocolate for a sweet treat.

Cultural Delights

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Madrid by visiting the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Goya, Velazquez, and other Spanish artists. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the Barrio de las Letras neighborhood, where you can admire stunning architecture and discover hidden gems.

Return travelers

Welcome back to Madrid, a city that always has something new to offer even to return travelers. The bustling energy and rich history of this vibrant capital are sure to reignite your sense of wanderlust. From off-the-beaten-path cafes to hidden art galleries, Madrid is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

Local Haunts

Uncover hidden gems in the trendy Malasana neighborhood, where you can find eclectic boutiques, cozy cafes, and vibrant street art. Indulge in the local tradition of enjoying vermouth with tapas at a traditional taberna for a truly authentic experience.

Cultural Immersion

Dive deeper into Madrid's cultural scene by attending a flamenco show at a local tablao, where you can witness the passion and intensity of this traditional Spanish art form up close. Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Lavapies neighborhood, where colorful murals and graffiti showcase the city's creative spirit.

Must-see locations

Stunning view of the iconic Palacio de Cibeles, Madrid, under a clear blue sky.

Photo by antonio filigno

Plaza de Cibeles

Plaza de Cibeles dazzles with grand fountains, the striking Cybele Palace, and lively views along busy Paseo del Prado. People gather for Real Madrid celebrations, stroll beneath statues, or catch a sunset over historic marble.

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View of Puerta del Sol in Madrid showcasing the Bear and Strawberry Tree sculpture on a sunny day.

Photo by Mark Neal

Puerta del Sol

Bustling at Madrid’s heart, Puerta del Sol draws crowds with street performers, iconic statues, and lively cafés. See the Bear and the Strawberry Tree. Join locals for New Year’s, hear chimes from the old clock, or stroll toward Gran Vía.

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View of the monumental statue in Plaza de España, Madrid, surrounded by modern buildings and greenery.

Photo by Luis Quintero

Plaza de España

Plaza de España in Madrid blends shady gardens with grand monuments like Don Quixote’s statue. Families stroll the wide paths. Photographers capture the elegant Torre de Madrid, while locals relax near fountains under leafy plane trees.

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Scenic view of Monument to Alfonso XII, Retiro Park, Madrid, with boating on the lake.

Photo by Nicolas Postiglioni

El Retiro Park

El Retiro Park is Madrid's green oasis, offering a peaceful retreat from city life. Stroll through lush gardens, row on the lake, and admire the Crystal Palace's stunning architecture. Don't miss the impressive monuments or vibrant street performers.

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View of Plaza Mayor in Madrid with historical architecture, cobblestones, and tourists.

Photo by Jorge Samper

Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is Madrid's iconic square, dating back to the 17th century. It features stunning architecture, lively atmosphere, and cultural events like concerts and festivals. Must-visit for its historical significance and vibrant ambiance.

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How to get there

By air

Flying to Madrid is the fastest option from most destinations. There are multiple airlines that operate direct flights to Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD).

Options to get to town:

Type	Price	Duration	Where to buy
Taxi	Approx. 30-40 EUR	Approx. 20-30 minutes	At the airport taxi stands
Airport bus	Approx. 5 EUR	Approx. 40-50 minutes	At the airport bus stations
Train/shuttle	Approx. 3 EUR	Approx. 25 minutes	At the airport train station

By train

Train travel to Madrid is a scenic option, especially if you are within Europe. There are high-speed trains connecting major cities to Madrid's Atocha and Chamartín stations.

Useful websites for train tickets:

By car

Driving to Madrid is convenient if you enjoy road trips. The city is well-connected by highways and roads, making it easy to reach. However, be mindful of tolls and driving regulations in Spain.

Additional charges to be aware of:

Fee	Cost	How to pay
Toll	Varies depending on the route	At toll booths along the way
Other driving costs	Varies (fuel, parking, etc.)	At gas stations and parking lots

How to get around

Public transport

Public transport in Madrid is efficient and convenient, with an extensive metro and bus network covering the city and surrounding areas.

Ticket options:

Ticket Type	Price	Where to buy
Single ticket	€1.50	At metro stations, bus stops, and tobacco shops
Day pass	€8.40	At metro stations and tobacco shops

Taxis & ridesharing

Taxis are readily available in Madrid and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Ridesharing apps like Uber and Cabify are also popular options.

Service providers:

Provider	Price	How to book
Local taxi	Metered fare	On the street or through taxi stands
Ridesharing app	Varies by distance	Through the respective app

Car rental

Renting a car in Madrid is a good option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas or prefer more flexibility in your transportation.

Rental options:

Service	Price	How to book
Daily rental	From €30 per day	At rental agencies in the city or airport
Weekly rental	From €150 per week	Through online platforms or rental agencies

Bike & scooter rental

Exploring Madrid on a bike or scooter is a fun and eco-friendly way to get around the city, especially in the central areas with bike lanes and parks.

Rental options:

Service	Price	How to book
Bike rental	From €10 per day	At bike rental shops or through bike-sharing apps
Scooter rental	From €25 per day	Through scooter rental companies or apps

What to eat

Madrid, the bustling capital of Spain, is a food lover's paradise where rich culinary traditions blend with modern gastronomic innovation. From flavorful tapas to indulgent desserts, this vibrant city offers a feast for the senses.

Signature Dishes

Patatas Bravas: Crispy fried potatoes topped with a spicy tomato sauce, a classic tapas favorite.
Jamon Iberico: Savor the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of this premium cured ham, a Spanish delicacy.
Tortilla Espanola: A comforting egg and potato omelet that can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Street Food & Markets

Exploring Madrid's streets and markets is a culinary adventure not to be missed. Indulge in churros con chocolate for breakfast, snack on bocadillos (sandwiches) from street vendors, and sample fresh produce at Mercado de San Miguel.

Sweet Treats & Drinks

For a sweet finish to your meal, try churros dusted with sugar and cinnamon or creamy flan. Wash it all down with a glass of refreshing sangria or a strong cortado (espresso with a splash of milk).

Why Travelers Eat Here

Tapas culture: Enjoy the social aspect of sharing small plates with friends.
Quality ingredients: Taste the freshness of locally sourced produce and seafood.
Rich culinary history: Experience the influence of centuries-old recipes and techniques.

In Madrid, every meal is a celebration of the city's vibrant spirit and rich culinary heritage. Whether you're savoring traditional dishes in a cozy tavern or tasting innovative creations in a trendy restaurant, the flavors of Madrid will leave you craving more.