Madrid
Madrid is smack in the middle of Spain and is not just the country’s capital but also its largest city. With over 3 million folks calling it home, it’s always buzzing with energy. When it comes to weather, expect an average annual temp of around 15°C—cool, right? But there’s more heating up Madrid than just the sun.
Every year, millions of tourists flock here. Why, you ask? Well, it’s the perfect mix of art, culture, and history—plus the food is to die for. No matter your interests, Madrid has something that’ll catch your eye. Wondering when to visit? Spring or fall are your best bets. The weather is just perfect—not too hot, not too cold—which makes wandering around this awesome city a total breeze. So, if you’re planning a trip, consider hitting up Madrid during these seasons for the best experience!
Arco da Vila - Faro
Church of Santa Maria
Arriving to Madrid
Landing in Madrid is a breeze, whether you’re jetting in internationally or rolling through from another part of Europe.
The city is served by the Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, one of the busiest in Europe, which connects to just about everywhere. Trains? They’ve got those too—Madrid is a central hub for Spain’s high-speed rail network, so you can zoom into the city from Barcelona, Seville, or even further afield without breaking a sweat.
Now, picking a neighborhood to crash in Madrid can feel like choosing your favorite candy in a huge store—there are lots of great choices! For a truly local vibe, Malasaña or La Latina are top picks. These areas are not just central but full of character, offering easy access to the city’s top sights along with heaps of cool bars and cafes. If you’re after something a bit quieter, check out Chamberí or Salamanca, where you can blend in with the locals.
Getting around Madrid is a piece of cake thanks to its awesome public transport system. The metro will be your best friend, whisking you across the city in no time. Buses are plentiful too, and for the scenic route, why not grab a bike? Madrid’s compact city center is surprisingly bike-friendly, and it’s a great way to soak up the sun and the sights at your own pace.
Hungry? You’re in the right place. Madrid’s culinary scene is a deep dive into Spanish flavors, with tapas leading the charge. Be sure to try some patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and of course, the city’s famous calamari sandwiches. And for dessert, you can’t miss churros with chocolate—pure bliss!
As for what to see and do, Madrid is your oyster. Dive into the golden triangle of art museums—the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza—to get your fill of world-class art. Stroll through the Retiro Park, or catch a sunset from the Temple of Debod for some Insta-worthy moments. Looking for something unique? Join a local food tour or hit up a live flamenco show in the evening.
In Madrid, every corner has a story, and every meal is a celebration. So lace up your walking shoes, charge your camera, and get ready to explore all the flavors, sights, and sounds this lively city has to offer.
Accomodation
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Currency: The official currency of Madrid is the Euro (EUR). 1 € is equivalent to 1.09 USD.
Keep in mind before travelling to Madrid
Madrid is not just Spain’s capital; it’s also a city that loves to party. The calendar is peppered with traditional festivals that attract tourists from all corners. First up, there’s the famous San Isidro in May, where Madrid pays homage to its patron saint with music, costumes, and street parties. Then there’s the vibrant Carnaval, filled with parades and masquerades.
Not to be missed is the Fiesta de San Antonio de la Florida in June, where locals perform a quirky ritual of pinning doughnuts on horns of statues. The lively Fiesta de la Paloma in August turns La Latina into a festive hotspot, while the Autumn Festival showcases international theater, dance, and circus acts. As Christmas rolls around, the city twinkles with the festive Mercado de Navidad, and the New Year is welcomed with the famous grape-eating tradition at Puerta del Sol.
If you’re looking to explore beyond the city, Madrid is perfectly placed for some epic day trips. Top spots include the regal city of Toledo, the grand palaces of Aranjuez, the historic walls of Ávila, the university city of Alcalá de Henares, and the mountainous landscapes of Sierra de Guadarrama. Don’t forget Segovia, where you can marvel at a Roman aqueduct and fairy-tale castle. Each of these destinations is just a short train ride away, making them perfect for a quick getaway from the urban hustle.
Tips to visit Madrid
Madrid, a city that’s as laid-back as it is bustling, invites you to dive into its local culture with open arms. The locals, known as Madrileños, are friendly folks who typically greet with a warm “hola” followed by cheek kisses, regardless of the season.
Spanish reigns supreme here, but you’ll catch snippets of English and other languages due to the city’s international vibe. Meal times might throw you off a bit—lunch often doesn’t start until 2 PM and dinner can be as late as 10 PM. As for shopping, most stores open around 10 AM and can close late, especially in tourist areas.
Tipping isn’t a must but is appreciated; about 5-10% at restaurants is pretty standard if you’ve enjoyed the service. Health care is top-notch with a mix of public and private options available to everyone. Dress code is generally casual, but a step above can go a long way at night. And to blend in? Try dropping a “¡Qué guay!” (How cool!) or “me mola” (I like it) when you dig something—a perfect way to charm the locals!
