Madrid travel guide

The local currency in Madrid, Spain is the Euro (€). You can exchange your currency for Euros at banks, post offices, and exchange bureaus. It's recommended to have some cash on hand, as smaller establishments may not accept card payments. However, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, including hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted, while American Express is less so. ATMs are abundant and offer a convenient way to withdraw cash. Keep in mind that some foreign banks may charge fees for international transactions. When budgeting for your trip, remember that Madrid is a relatively affordable European capital, though prices can be higher in tourist-heavy areas. A daily budget of €50-€100 is a good estimate for budget travelers, though this can vary depending on your planned activities.

In Madrid, the official language is Spanish, and while English is understood in many areas, it's advisable to learn a few basic Spanish phrases. Greetings such as 'Hola' (Hello), 'Gracias' (Thank you), 'Por favor' (Please), and 'Lo siento' (Sorry) can go a long way.

For navigation, phrases like '¿Dónde está...?' (Where is...?) can come in handy. Also, the Spanish in Spain is different from Latin American Spanish, especially in pronunciation and vocabulary. So, a quick refresh on Castilian Spanish (Spain Spanish) can be beneficial.

Consider using language apps for on-the-go translations. Remember, Spaniards appreciate when foreigners make an effort to speak their language, so don't be shy to practice your Spanish, no matter how basic it is.

Madrid, Spain's capital, features a hot-summer Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild winters. Summer, between June and August, sees average highs of 30-35°C, while nighttime temperatures drop to a more comfortable 15-20°C. The city can occasionally experience heatwaves during this period with temperatures soaring above 40°C. On the other hand, winter, from December to February, is quite mild with daytime temperatures hovering around 10-15°C. Nights can get chilly with temperatures often dropping to around 3-6°C. Snow is infrequent but possible.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most pleasant seasons to visit Madrid, with moderate temperatures and less rainfall. Madrid gets relatively low rainfall throughout the year, but the wettest months are April, May, and November. The city has a high altitude, meaning that the sun can feel stronger than the actual temperature might suggest. Therefore, it's wise for travelers to stay hydrated and use sun protection, regardless of the season.

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Madrid is more than just a wonderful city in Spain. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Spain's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Madrid is the unforgettable El Retiro Park. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Madrid. This remarkable attraction is located at 28009 Madrid, Spain, and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 06:00-22:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Madrid, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Madrid, including the fascinating El Retiro Park, Plaza Mayor, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, San Miguel Market, and Museo Nacional del Prado.

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Madrid.

A visit to Madrid gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the city is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Historical Tours, Walking Tours, Bus Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Madrid, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant city. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Madrid. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Madrid offers and let your adventures begin!

In Madrid, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 25 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. But among this sea of options, one category reigns supreme: Trips & Excursions.

Trips & Excursions offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Madrid. For example, the fantastic Private Tour to the Prado and Reina Sofía Museum.

Madrid also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Madrid Data eSIM 0.5GB daily to 50GB 30 Days, for example, is the cheapest Full-day Tour option in the city. This experience costs around 3 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Madrid adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Madrid right below.

Discover the best things to do in Madrid. Choose from 1647 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Madrid. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Madrid.

When exploring Madrid's vibrant culinary scene, you'll be spoiled for choice with the array of traditional dishes and innovative cuisine. The best places to eat in Madrid range from bustling food markets to Michelin-starred establishments. Start your gastronomic journey in Mercado San Miguel, a food market offering a variety of Spanish tapas, local wines, and fresh produce. In the Barrio de Salamanca district, high-end restaurants such as DiverXO, the only restaurant in Madrid with three Michelin stars, serve avant-garde dishes while maintaining a deep respect for Spanish culinary traditions. For a taste of Madrid's traditional cuisine, be sure to try Cocido Madrileño, a hearty stew made from meat, chickpeas, and vegetables, or Callos a la Madrileña, a spicy tripe dish. Churros con Chocolate, a popular sweet treat, is a must-try, ideally at the famous Chocolatería San Ginés. Dining in Madrid is more than just a meal, it's an immersive experience, so take your time to savor the unique flavors and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Madrid, the stylish capital of Spain, boasts an incredible shopping scene, filled with boutiques, markets, and shopping malls. The Golden Mile, the best place to go shopping in Madrid, is a luxurious neighborhood housing designer boutiques like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. For a more local experience, visit El Rastro, Madrid's largest open-air flea market, held every Sunday. Here, you'll find everything from vintage clothes to handcrafted jewelry. If you're in search of the city's distinct fashion, head to Fuencarral Street, known for its trendy and alternative boutiques.

Madrid's shopping malls, such as ABC Serrano and Moda Shopping, offer a wide range of international and Spanish brands. For traditional Spanish craftsmanship, visit the Royal Tapestry Factory, where you can buy beautifully woven goods. Madrid is also famous for its fan shops, the best of which can be found on Calle de la Paz. Be sure to pick up a traditional Spanish fan as a must-buy souvenir. To enhance your shopping experience, most shops in Madrid are open from 10 am to 8 pm, with a siesta time between 2 pm and 5 pm. Happy shopping in Madrid!

Uncover the magic of Spain's capital without breaking the bank with the best free things to do in Madrid. Begin your exploration in the heart of the city at Puerta del Sol, a bustling square filled with iconic landmarks. Next, wander through the Retiro Park, a 350-acre oasis of lush gardens, striking monuments, and serene lake. Don't miss the Crystal Palace, a breath-taking glass and metal structure that hosts free art exhibitions. On Sundays, join the locals for El Rastro, the largest open-air flea market in Madrid teeming with curiosities and vintage treasures. Immerse yourself in Madrid's rich history with a visit to the Basilica de San Francisco El Grande, a stunning church boasting one of the largest domes in Christendom. Explore the world-class Prado Museum, which offers free entry in the evenings. The museum houses a vast collection of European art from the 12th to the 20th century. Lastly, enjoy Madrid's vibrant street life in the La Latina neighborhood, famous for its lively bars, rustic eateries, and colorful graffiti. Indeed, Madrid offers a rich tapestry of experiences that are not only memorable but also completely free.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Madrid is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Madrid. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Madrid, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search" and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Madrid even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book" and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Madrid both affordable and unforgettable.

Travelers visiting Madrid can easily access the city via Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas, and Adolfo Su?rez Madrid?Barajas, offering direct connection to 1174 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Madrid below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Madrid and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Renting a car in Madrid is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace. A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Madrid, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Madrid for your upcoming adventures in Spain below. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Madrid. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Madrid, Spain, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Spain. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Travelers in Spain can catch flights to domestic airports in Valencia, Seville, Santiago de Compostela, Tenerife, and Palma de Mallorca. Domestic flights in Spain are operated by 6 airlines, including Iberia Airlines, Air Europa, Iberia Express, Vueling, and Volotea. There are around 41 scheduled flight routes operating to Madrid on a weekly basis.

From Madrid, travelers can book scheduled flights to 28 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Madrid depart to many top-rated destinations in Spain and are offered by Iberia Airlines, Air Europa, and Iberia Express.

Traveling to another city or region in Spain? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Madrid to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Spain on the selected dates.