Madrid is vibrant, creative, and has a regal vibe with grand architecture befitting an ancient empire that once gripped the Iberian Peninsula
The city has exceptional art collections, bustling shopping areas and intimate cafés serving delicious tapas.
Best time to go
Spring (March to May), particularly May, is a great time to visit Madrid as you will enjoy good weather and a string of festivals, including the city’s biggest celebration, the Festival of San Isidro.
Summer (June to August) can be unbearably hot with temperatures reaching over 35C when heatwaves strike. Pack a swimsuit so you can cool off in one of the city’s public swimming pools.
Autumn (September to November) is another popular season to visit and enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage in Madrid’s many parks.
Winter (December to February) is crisp and cold, but you often get to enjoy sunny days. This is a good time to visit the festive Christmas markets around town and pick up quality homemade gifts. The market in Plaza de España is particularly interesting.
Getting around
Public transport in Madrid is excellent – bus, metro and trains run regularly and the fares are cheap. For visitors, buy a Madrid Tourist Travel Pass and enjoy unlimited travel on all public transport including to and from the airport (if you get a Zone A card). Taxis can be hired at ranks or on the street. For information about driving in Madrid and where to hire an electronic bicycle, visit the getting around Madrid page.
Metro Gran VíaFederica Riva / shutterstock
Must-see attractions
Prado Museum
With thousands of European art works from the Middle Ages through to the 19th century, Prado is the most important museum in Spain. The best-known works on display include the exquisite Las Meninas by Velázquez and The Third of May 1808 by Goya.
Website: www.museodelprado.es/en
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
The sum of several Barons of the name Thyssen, the 1,600-strong collection includes masterpieces by Monet, Picasso and Caravaggio.
Website: www.museothyssen.org/en
Royal Palace
Built in the 18th century by Philip V, this spectacular 3,000-room palace is full of art, tapestries and antiques. The Royal Armoury and Puerta del Moro gardens are notable treats.
Royal Palace of Madrid through the gardensJeniFoto / shutterstock
Retiro Park
Once the private garden of Philip IV, this huge immaculate park in the centre of Madrid is a place for picnics and romantic strolls. Don’t miss the gorgeous Galápagos fountain, and if you’re curious about what lies ahead, seek out a fortune teller here.
Plaza Mayor
This beautiful central square and nearby Puerta del Sol give a taste of what Imperial Spain was like at its height of pomp. The surrounding areas are full of tapas bars and outdoor cafés.
For more ideas on key attractions, check out our things to see in Madrid guide.
Offbeat & quirky
Convent of the Royal Barefoot Nuns
Once a retreat for noblewomen, this convent is a treasure trove of tapestries, paintings, sculptures and artistic treasures. The convent is open or guided tour only.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
If you are a fan of Real Madrid, then make a pilgrimage to this giant stadium and watch the team in action.
Website: www.realmadrid.com/en
For more offbeat tips including walking the Royal Path, visit our things to do in Madrid page.
Travel tips
Must-try specialities
- Cocido: a fragrant and rich chickpea and meat stew popular in Madrid.
- Jamón: one of many cured Spanish meats, Jamón is a type of finely sliced cured ham.
- Tortilla Espanola: a rich, chunky potato omelette.
- Mahou: the most popular beer in Madrid.
- Rioja: the country’s flagship red wine, made from Tempranillo and Garnacha grapes.
Tipping: although Spanish VAT of 10% is included in most menu prices, it is customary to leave a 5% tip.
Tortilla Españolaits_al_dente / shutterstock
Hotels in Madrid
Madrid has no shortage of hotels; from wallet-friendly accommodations to massive palatial properties, you’ll be spoilt for choice here. Near Plaza Santa Ana, Casual Madrid de Teatro is one of the best budget hotels. If you have the cash to spare, then The Principal is a splendid option – nestled on the corner of one of Madrid’s most important streets, Gran Via, guests can enjoy cocktails at its La Terraza and drink in panoramic views of the city at the same time. For other cheap, moderate and luxury options, see our hotels in Madrid guide.
Nightlife in Madrid
Nightlife in Madrid happens late (after 11pm) and centres on three major districts – Chueca, Calle de las Huertas and Malasaña. If you’d like to catch a flamenco show, Casa Patas is frequented by tourists and locals alike. Check out the nightlife in Madrid guide for the best bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Visa requirements to Madrid, Spain
EU nationals don’t need a visa to visit Spain, regardless of the purpose and/or length of stay. Americans, Australians, British and Canadians also don’t need a visa to visit Spain. For more information, check out the Spain visa and passport requirements page.
Visitors to Madrid tend to stick to the central area between the Palacio Real and the Puerta del Sol, but if you would like to venture out and see more during your trip to Madrid, then check out the complete Madrid city guide before your trip.
Santiago Bernabéu StadiumDarios / shutterstock
