Madrid is an exciting city that shows how to enjoy life. If you are thinking about visiting, check out our Madrid guide. It includes tips on when to visit, where to stay, what to see and do, safety for all travelers, and more. Stay with us for more details.
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Why visit Madrid?
Madrid is the capital of Spain and the country’s most visited city. With over 10 million visitors, it is one of the most popular cities in Europe.
Furthermore, the number of foreign tourists who visit Madrid grows due to its rich culture, landmarks, fantastic nightlife, and fun activities. More importantly, you can feel Spain’s true essence, its elegant architecture, the life in its plazas, and the delicious cuisine.
Madrid has art bursting from the seams: the capital museums are packed with true treasures from history’s leading painters and sculptors. The Prado, the Reina Sofía, and the Thyssen make up the golden triangle, where you can enjoy the most delicate Spanish and international art.
How to get to Madrid
Madrid is a well-connected city nationally and internationally by train, air, and road. It is the center of the Spanish railway network, has an excellent road network, and the main international airport is just 13 km from the city center.
By plane
Whether low-cost or standard carriers, all flights fly into the main international airport in Madrid called Adolfo Suárez Madrid Barajas Airport, which is exceptionally well connected and close to the city center.
Traveling from the U.S.
Several airlines offer inexpensive and direct flights between the U.S. and Madrid, especially from New York City and Chicago’s O’Hare Airport. Direct flights cost approximately $500 in the off-season and $1,000 during peak season.
These are the primary carriers:
Traveling from Canada
Air Canada is the only airline to offer non-stop flights between Toronto and Madrid. Other carriers, such as Iberia and British Airways, offer one or 2-stop flights from Montreal or Toronto.
Traveling from Australia
Currently, no airlines fly directly from Australia to Spain’s capital. Still, the leading airlines like Emirates, British Airways, and Qatar Airways offer several flights with just 1 or 2 stopovers.
Traveling from Europe
Several low-cost carriers fly to Madrid from different cities in the United Kingdom and the EU, usually from 2 to three hours. The prices are often more than just cheap. Please check the following links: the Skyscanner and Google flights should you like to find out more.
How to get to the center from the airport
By car
You can also get to Madrid by car from other parts of the peninsula or other European cities and towns. To plan your itinerary, we recommend Google Maps:
By train
Madrid’s two main railway stations are Chamartin and Atocha. Depending on where you come from, you will get to one or the other.
The AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) is a modern high-speed train in Spain that connects Madrid with Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Cordoba, Alicante, Cuenca, Albacete, Villena, and Malaga, among other Spanish cities. More importantly, AVE trains are generally punctual and comfortable with short travel times. Nevertheless, the tickets can be a little expensive. So, we recommend checking Avant and Alvia tickets or Altaria if you want something cheaper.
To see the schedules and rates, check out AVE’s official website:
Getting around Madrid
On foot
While not flat, walking is an excellent option for the very center of the city. Many side streets are pedestrianized, and some even have many shades to control the intense summer heat. Make sure you take a cap.
By Metro and bus
Madrid’s public transport system is highly efficient; it connects the city’s main interest points and is relatively cheap compared to other European cities. You can use buses, Metro, taxis, or even electric bikes. Ultimately, you can purchase the city’s passes and save some money. For more info, click here.
Things to do and to see in Madrid.
Madrid is a lively city that attracts visitors from all over the world. It offers a mix of nightlife, beautiful buildings, great food, and famous museums. Here are 11 things you should experience.
The “Golden Triangle of Art” includes three important museums: the Museo del Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza. The Prado displays famous works by Spanish painters like Velázquez and Goya. Reina Sofía focuses on 20th-century art, showcasing pieces by Dalí and Picasso, like the notable Guernica. Thyssen-Bornemisza holds nearly 1,000 paintings by well-known European and American artists.
Furthermore, Spain loves tapas, which are small plates served with drinks. You can enjoy hopping from one tapas bar to another to try various foods.
Additionally, a visit Parque del Buen Retiro, a sizeable 118-hectare park with fountains, statues, and different types of gardens. Key sights include the Monument to Alfonso XII and the beautiful Palacio de Cristal.
Soccer fans can tour the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu and Wanda Metropolitano, where Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid play. These tours show the teams’ impressive histories and trophies.
If you’re in Madrid on a Sunday, visit the large open-air market in Embajadores. Here, you can find unique items and enjoy watching the crowds while you shop.
But for more information, please check our article about top Madrid attractions.
The best time to visit
The best times to visit Madrid are in the fall (September to November) and spring (March to May). The weather is pleasant during these seasons, and the city feels lively. Spring is adorable, with almond trees blooming from February to early March, leading to a colorful display of flowers in April and May.
Winter (November to February) is the cheapest time to visit, but it is cold. Wear warm clothes and try the local cocido, a stew with chickpeas and sausage.
Summer is the busiest season for tourists, but many locals go on vacation, especially in August, and the heat can be intense. If you visit in the fall, be ready for possible rain in October and November.
But most importantly, the best time continuously varies. It depends on what you are looking for.
Where to stay in Madrid?
Finding the right place for you in Madrid becomes easier once you straighten out your priorities. You should ask yourself if you are on a budget, a first-timer, etc. That’s why we have prepared some FAQs to help you.
Where should I stay for my first time in Madrid?
The best place for first-time visitors to stay in Madrid is Centro. This area has a lot of history and culture and is close to other parts of the city. If visiting Madrid for the first time, consider staying in Sol or Gran Vía. These areas are in the center and are full of activity. Essential sites like Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Royal Palace will be found. These neighborhoods offer cultural attractions, shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
Where should I stay for the nightlife?
Madrid is one of the liveliest cities in Europe and has excellent nightlife. Its different areas, such as Huertas, Malasaña, Chueca, and Avenida de Brasil, have bars and clubs for various tastes.
Let’s explore our favorite area a bit. Malasaña is north of the city center and near Puerta del Sol. It attracts young people and is quiet during the day. At night, it offers many cafés, nightclubs, and concert halls. It’s a trendy area with art galleries, tapas, bars, theaters, and fashion shops. Don’t miss Dos de Mayo Square, Plaza de España, and the Conde Duque Cultural Center.
Moreover, staying in Malasaña is budget-friendly. It has affordable rooms and is a good option for seeing the city without waiting in the heart of Madrid. Metro line 2 allows you to reach the main attractions in less than 20 minutes.
Where should I stay if I am LGBT+?
Chueca is a trendy neighborhood in Madrid known for its gay-friendly nightlife. Young travelers will enjoy this lively area. It is next to Malasana, another popular spot and the LGBTQ neighborhood of Madrid. Moreover, Chueca features the San Anton Market and many restaurants and shops.
Why stay here? These vibrant neighborhoods feel more local and residential. They have great shops and restaurants and are centrally located, just north of Gran Via. Plus, they offer some of the best nightlife in Madrid; however, our Gay Guide to Madrid covers more.
Where should I stay if I am a foodie?
Madrid’s gastronomy is varied and could be described as a mix of Spanish cuisine from different regions. You will find good places to eat everywhere. However, in these parts, there are genuinely a lot of good restaurants: La Latina, Chueca, Malasaña, and Lavapiés (Asian and South American cuisine).
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What and where to eat in Madrid?
Here, a dining establishment is practically on every corner. It’s no wonder why deciding where to eat in Madrid sometimes feels overwhelming!
So we’ve done the hard work for you and narrowed down the can’t-miss eateries in Spain’s thriving capital. You can eat at food markets, tapas bars, restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and pastry shops. If you’d like to learn more, please read our article about Must try Spanish cuisine in Madrid.
Madrid Travel Advice
I.D. visa or passport to visit Spain? Discover the documentation you’ll need depending on your nationality. Depending on your race, these are the necessary documents you will need to travel to Spain and Madrid:
U.S. Citizens
American citizens traveling to Spain for less than 90 days do not need a visa. However, they will need a valid passport for at least six months beyond their stay. Immigration officers may also ask citizens to show enough funds for their visit and a return airline ticket.
E.U., EEA, and Swiss Citizens
As citizens of the European Union and European Economic Area, you will not need a visa to enter the country.
Ultimately, we recommend visiting your country’s Spanish Embassy or checking the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation’s website for more information: Ministerio de asuntos exteriores y de cooperación.
Money
The currency in Spain is the Euro. Cash dispensers are widely available. Credit and debit cards are generally accepted. However, some shops may require a photo ID if paying by card.
Electricity
They utilize two hundred twenty volts, using standard European 2-round pin plugs.
Madrid Safet Guide
Madrid is often considered a safe city compared to other major urban centers in Europe. Both tourists and residents frequently explore the city without facing significant issues, and the atmosphere is welcoming. Nevertheless, it is crucial to maintain awareness of your surroundings. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in bustling areas like Plaza Mayor and El Rastro, so keeping your belongings secure is advisable. Retiro Park is typically safe during daylight hours; however, it’s best to stick to well-populated areas if visiting after dark.
While Madrid is generally safe, it’s wise to be mindful of common scams. Some examples include menus without prices, which can lead to unexpected charges; the “football trick,” where groups of people playing soccer may distract you while pickpockets operate nearby; taxi scams that can be avoided by using only licensed cabs; and various “free” gifts that may come with hidden costs.
Even after dark, solo female travelers can feel secure in areas like La Latina. For those who may feel uneasy, taxis provide a safe and economical transportation option.
Both Madrid and Barcelona are recognized as friendly destinations for LGBT travelers. The Chueca neighborhood is mainly known for its gay-friendly venues and vibrant streets, making it an enjoyable area to explore.
While incidents of street harassment are not commonplace, exercising caution is always advisable. Walking with confidence can help mitigate unwanted attention.
For accommodations, consider safe and practical neighborhoods like Malasaña, which is trendy and has a lively nightlife but can be pricey; La Latina, known for its authentic atmosphere, excellent tapas, and budget-friendly options; or Barrio de Las Letras, rich in literary history and conveniently close to major art museums.
Be cautious in certain areas at specific times. The popular Centro district, while lively, has a higher risk profile at night. Carabanchel has a notable rate of drug-related arrests but is generally considered non-violent. Although Salamanca is an affluent area, it has reported high burglary rates.
Short Madrid travel guide – final thoughts
We fell for Madrid because the life that runs relentlessly through the streets here still excites us. Here is where Europe’s most vibrant passions are the fabric of daily life. Yet Madrid is also one of the most open cities on earth, and it doesn’t matter where you’re from: ‘If you’re in Madrid, you’re from Madrid.’
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Featured photo: ©piola666
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