Madrid - Discovering Spain

Travelling to Madrid

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Madrid, a pretty good destination in Spain (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Madrid and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Madrid, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Spain, here's everything to know about Madrid for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Madrid

Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain, located in the center of the country. With a population of over 3.2 million, it is the third most populous city in the European Union after London and Berlin. Madrid is known for its impressive architecture, world-class museums, and vibrant cultural scene. It is also famous for its gastronomy, with a range of delicious traditional Spanish dishes such as paella and tapas. Some of the popular attractions in Madrid include the Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, Prado Museum, and Retiro Park. Madrid has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making it a great destination to visit year-round.

What to visit in Madrid

1. The Prado Museum - one of the world's most prestigious art museums, with an impressive collection of over 8,000 paintings and masterpieces by major classical artists.
2. The Royal Palace of Madrid - located in the heart of the city, this is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. Visitors can admire the luxurious interiors, beautiful gardens and spectacular architecture.
3. Retiro Park - a vast public park with endless green spaces, pathways, and gardens. It's an ideal place for walking, cycling, jogging, and picnics.
4. Plaza Mayor - one of Madrid's most iconic squares, with beautiful architecture and plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine.
5. Puerta del Sol - the pulsating heart of the city, with many shops, cafes, restaurants, and landmarks such as the clock tower, the statue of the bear and the strawberry tree, and the Casa de Correos.
6. Santiago Bernabeu Stadium - legendary home of Real Madrid football club, where visitors can take a stadium tour and experience its history and greatness.
7. Mercado de San Miguel - a huge indoor market with stalls selling food, drinks, and other gourmet products, with plenty of seating to enjoy fresher than fresh delicacies.
8. Gran Via - Madrid's main commercial and entertainment street, with an extensive range of shops, restaurants, and theaters.
9. Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia - home of contemporary art and surrealist masterpieces, including the iconic "Guernica" by Pablo Picasso.
10. Templo de Debod - an ancient Egyptian temple (relocated to Madrid) where visitors can learn about ancient Egyptian culture and watch beautiful sunsets over the city from its gardens.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Spain, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Madrid.

When to go on holiday to Madrid

The best time to go on holiday to Madrid depends on your preferences. If you prefer a pleasant climate, then Spring and Fall (March to May and September to November) are the best times to visit Madrid. During these months, the temperature is mild with sunny days and cool evenings. If you enjoy warm weather, then the summer months (June to August) are the best time to visit Madrid. However, it can get extremely hot during this time, with temperatures sometimes soaring above 35°C (95°F).
Additionally, if you're looking for a more affordable and less crowded time to visit Madrid, then the winter months (December to February) are ideal. However, be prepared for colder weather and occasional snowfall.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Madrid

There are several ways to get to Madrid, Spain: 1. By plane: Madrid has a large international airport called Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport which is well connected to major cities across the world.
2. By train: Madrid has a high-speed train connection called AVE which connects it to many cities in Spain, such as Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and Malaga.
3. By bus: There are many bus companies that operate in Madrid and it is well connected to other major cities in Spain. 4. By car: Madrid is located in the center of Spain and is connected by major highways and roads. You can rent a car or take a taxi to get to Madrid from nearby cities. Overall, getting to Madrid is very easy and convenient with several transportation options available depending on where you are coming from.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Madrid, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Madrid

Sure, here are some typical foods of Madrid (Spain): 1. Cocido Madrileño - A hearty stew made with chickpeas and various meats like beef, chicken, and pork. It is typically eaten in courses, with the broth served first, followed by the meats and vegetables.
2. Huevos rotos - A dish of fried eggs served over a bed of crispy, fried potatoes and sometimes topped with ham or chorizo.
3. Callos a la madrileña - A stew made with beef tripe, chorizo, and morcilla (blood sausage), along with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. It is often served with bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
4. Bocadillo de Calamares - A sandwich filled with fried calamari rings, served with a squeeze of lemon juice and often enjoyed as a quick snack or lunch item.
5. Churros con chocolate - A sweet treat of fried dough pastries, often eaten for breakfast, dipped in a thick, rich chocolate sauce.
6. Tortilla española - A classic Spanish dish of a thick omelette made with potatoes and eggs, often served as a tapa or light meal.
7. Croquetas - Small, fried balls of creamy bechamel sauce mixed with ham, chicken, or seafood, among other fillings.
8. Sobrasada - A spreadable sausage made from ground pork and paprika, often served on bread or as a dip for veggies.
9. Tostas - Toasted bread topped with various toppings like ham, cheese, tomatoes, or tuna, often served as a light meal or snack. I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Spain here.

Is Madrid an expensive destination for tourists?

Madrid can be considered a bit expensive compared to other cities in Spain, but it actually depends on how you plan your trip and what your budget looks like. The city has plenty of options for different types of travelers, from budget accommodations to luxury hotels, and there are many places where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks without breaking the bank. Additionally, many of the most popular attractions in Madrid are either free or have a very low entrance fee.
In summary, while Madrid may be more expensive than some other cities in Spain, it is definitely still possible to enjoy a great trip on a tight budget.

Where to find accomodation in Madrid

Some of the best areas to find accommodation while visiting Madrid include: 1. Sol and Gran Via: These areas are located in the heart of Madrid and are close to many attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas.
2. Retiro: This area is known for its beautiful park, Parque del Retiro, and is a great spot for those looking for a quieter atmosphere.
3. Malasana: This is a trendy and bohemian neighborhood that attracts younger crowds and is known for its street art, boutiques, and cafes.
4. Chueca: Another trendy neighborhood, Chueca is known for its lively nightlife and is popular among the LGBTQ+ community.
5. Salamanca: This is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in Madrid and is known for its high-end shopping, dining, and architecture.
6. Lavapies: This neighborhood is known for its multicultural vibe, ethnic restaurants, and street art.
You can check hotel prices at Madrid here:
Booking.com

Is Madrid a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Madrid is generally a safe place for tourists. Like any big city, there are some areas to be cautious of, but the overall crime rate is low. Visitors should take normal precautions, such as being aware of their belongings, avoiding dark or deserted streets at night, and not carrying large amounts of cash. It's also a good idea to be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as public transportation and tourist attractions. Overall, tourists should feel safe and comfortable while visiting Madrid.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Spain here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Madrid.

What type of travelers will enjoy Madrid the most?

Madrid is a diverse city that has something to offer for travelers of all types. It's great for couples looking for a romantic getaway filled with art, culture, and scenic walks. Young people looking for fun will also enjoy Madrid as there are plenty of nightlife spots, clubs, and bars. Families with kids can have a great time exploring the city's parks, museums, and interactive attractions. Overall, Madrid caters to all types of travelers and provides a unique experience that can be enjoyed by everyone.

How to get around Madrid

There are several transportation options to move around Madrid, including: 1. Metro: Madrid has an extensive and efficient metro system with 12 lines that connect to most of the city's landmarks and tourist attractions.
2. Bus: Madrid also has an extensive bus network that covers the entire city and its suburbs. The buses run frequently and are a cheap way to get around.
3. Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Madrid and are relatively affordable compared to other European cities.
4. Bicycle: Madrid has a public bike-sharing scheme called BiciMAD, which offers an affordable and healthy way to move around the city.
5. Walking: Walking is a great option if you're staying in central Madrid, as many of the city's key landmarks and attractions are within walking distance of each other.

What to see around Madrid

Sure, below are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Madrid: 1. Toledo: A UNESCO World Heritage city with stunning medieval architecture and a rich cultural heritage.
2. Segovia: Famous for its historic center and impressive Roman-era aqueduct.
3. Avila: Known for its well-preserved city walls, magnificent churches, and numerous museums.
4. Aranjuez: A popular summer retreat for Spanish monarchs, this town boasts impressive gardens and stunning architecture.
5. El Escorial: Home to the impressive Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, considered one of the most significant landmarks of the Spanish Renaissance.
6. Cuenca: A charming medieval city known for its hanging houses and the Cuenca Cathedral.
7. Chinchon: A picturesque town with a historic plaza, bustling market, and traditional Spanish architecture.
8. Manzanares el Real: A beautiful place with a well-preserved castle and surrounded by the stunning Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range.
All these places are accessible for a day trip from Madrid and are definitely worth visiting!
For every travel information about Spain you can click here.

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