Madrid

Experience Madrid with us

Spain’s largest city and capital, Madrid, holds a cultural and artistic heritage like no other. Countless cathedrals, palaces, and medieval architecture decorate this stunning city, dazzling buildings sitting casually alongside the city’s boutiques, bars and eateries. An art-lovers treasure trove, use your time in the capital to brush up on your creative history at the El Prado museum, or pop down to the Reina Sofia and take in the magnificent Guernica, Picasso’s most famous painting. With Madrid tours and tickets, tick all the popular places off your bucket list. After that, take one of the Madrid day tours to the Bernabéu Stadium, home of the Real Madrid Football Club, or try your hand at some authentic flamenco dancing. Famed the world over, Madrid’s nightlife scene is not to be sniffed at either. With an abundance of things to do in Madrid, there’s never a dull moment here.
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Our tips for Madrid

  • Party in the park. One of Madrid’s largest public parks, the Parque El Retiro boasts glorious monuments, sculptures, rose gardens and even a crystal palace! If scenery is not your thing, the park also hosts regular puppet shows, street performances, book fairs, yoga sessions and boat rides.
  • Have a meal deal. Look out for restaurants offering a menu of the day (Menú del Dia). The perfect addition to your day of Madrid sightseeing, this set lunch is great value and usually consists of two tasty courses.
  • Discover Egypt. Built in 200BC, and donated to Spain by Egypt in 1968, the Temple of Debod now calls Madrid home. Visit one of the top Madrid attractions at sunset for an enchanting end to the day.

Good to know

Located in the heart of Spain, Madrid is both the capital and the largest city in the country. The name "Madrid" originates from the Arabic word "Magerit", which translates to "place of many streams". 

The world-renowned Prado Museum is situated in Madrid, showcasing an exceptional collection of European art, including masterpieces by El Greco, Velazquez, and Goya.

Retiro Park, formerly a royal park, is an attraction in Madrid that boasts stunning gardens, fountains, and a vast artificial lake where visitors can rent boats. 

With over 300 stations and 13 lines, Madrid's metro system is the second-largest in Europe, following London's.

The picturesque Plaza Mayor, which dates back to the 17th century, is a popular central square in Madrid, surrounded by magnificent buildings and serving as a gathering spot for various outdoor events.

Madrid annually hosts the Madrid Open, a significant tennis tournament that takes place in May, attracting some of the world's most exceptional players.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: What is the best time to visit Madrid?
    A:

    Peak tourist season in the city occurs during the European summer, so you can guarantee that most Madrid tours will be packed. For a calmer time of year both temperature and tourist-wise, we recommend visiting during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) months. Visiting during off-peak times means you’ll enjoy cheaper travel and accommodation deals too.

  • Q: How do I get around Madrid?
    A:

    Navigating Spain’s largest city can be a challenge. Here’s our travel breakdown of the best ways to navigate the city. Madrid is home to the second largest metro network in Europe and can be tricky to pick up. Grab a free map at any of the service stations or consult a service assistant to get accustomed to the various transport options.

    When considering what to do in Madrid, be sure to take into account the handy and cost-effective travel passes. Granting unlimited access to both subway and bus systems, these passes can be purchased from any station or newsstand for either 1, 2, 3 or 5 days or for an entire week. Depending on Madrid day trips you fancy undertaking, a taxi may be your best bet for getting around.

  • Q: What is the local currency in Madrid?
    A:

    The euro is the official currency used in Madrid.

  • Q: What are some must-see attractions in Madrid?
    A:

    The Prado Museum, Royal Palace, Retiro Park, Plaza Mayor, and Puerta del Sol are among the must-visit attractions in Madrid.

  • Q: What is the language spoken in Madrid?
    A:

    Although the official language in Madrid is Spanish, a considerable number of people in Madrid speak English, particularly in areas frequented by tourists.

  • Q: Any tips for staying safe in Madrid?
    A:

    Courtesy of Madrid’s epic nightlife scene, there are usually many people throughout the city in the evening. Be sure to only walk in well-lit, populated areas late at night. Stay aware of your surroundings and make sure your belongings are safe and secure.

    In any emergency, dial 112. There are plenty of things to do in Madrid for solo tourists and big groups alike. If you’re travelling solo be sure to walk in well-lit, busy areas and be wary of strangers.

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