MADRID

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Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a fantastic holiday destination with a rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of attractions to explore

“Madrid, where dreams come alive in the heart of Spain

Top destinations:

Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real)

Visit the official residence of the Spanish royal family, a stunning palace known for its opulent architecture and beautiful gardens.

Prado Museum (Museo del Prado)

Explore one of the world’s most renowned art museums, home to a vast collection of European art, including works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.

Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro)

Stroll through this expansive park, featuring landscaped gardens, a serene lake, and cultural events. You can even rent a rowboat on the lake.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum:

Admire an extensive collection of art, including works from various artistic movements and time periods.

San Miguel Market (Mercado de San Miguel)

Savor a wide variety of Spanish tapas, wine, and other culinary delights in this historic market.

Where to stay

The Ritz by Belmond

This iconic hotel is known for its timeless elegance and a prime location in the heart of Madrid. It offers opulent rooms, gourmet dining, and a beautiful garden terrace.

Vincci Capitol

Located on Gran Vía, Vincci Capitol is known for its central location and iconic rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city. The hotel combines modern design with historical charm.

Hotel Mediodia:

Located near Atocha train station, this charming hotel offers simple and cozy rooms, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers. It’s also within walking distance of the Prado Museum and Retiro Park.

Where to eat

Mercado de San Miguel:

This historic market in the heart of Madrid offers a diverse range of tapas, seafood, gourmet products, and more. It’s a fantastic place to sample Spanish cuisine in a lively atmosphere.

Los Gatos

A beloved tapas bar in the lively La Latina neighborhood, known for its innovative tapas and a wide selection of wine.

Street Food Markets

Madrid has several street food markets, such as the Matadero Madrid and Conde Duque, where you can find a variety of food trucks and stalls serving global cuisine.

Tapas Bars in La Latina

Wander the streets of the La Latina neighborhood, and you’ll find numerous traditional tapas bars, each with its own specialties and local charm.

Top Tips

If you're a couple

Sunset at Templo de Debod: This ancient Egyptian temple offers a stunning backdrop for a romantic evening as the sun sets over the city.

If You’re A Group Of Friends

Tapas Crawl: Embark on a tapas crawl through La Latina or the Mercado de San Miguel, trying a variety of small dishes at different bars.

If you're a family

Warner Bros. Park: Enjoy a day of family fun at Parque Warner Madrid, an amusement park with rides and entertainment for all ages.

Need to know

Currency
Euro

Language
– Spanish, English is widely spoken

Best Time To Travel
– May to October, with hottest months from June to August

Tips
– Tipping 10% is expected, 15% for excellent service

Time Difference
– GMT+01:00

Flights
– Directs from Manchester and London – around 2h 30 minutes

Public Transport
– Excellent infrastructure (buses, trams and trains), including night time

Local Laws

Drinking in public places is strictly prohibited.

While Madrid is generally quite casual, some religious sites and upscale restaurants may have dress codes that require modest attire, so it’s a good idea to check in advance.

Be respectful when taking photos, especially in crowded places and around religious sites. Some areas may have restrictions on photography.

Etiquette

You are supposed to give up the seat to any eldery, pregnant, disabled or injured passengers while commuting on public
transit if they have nowhere to rest.

Keep noise levels to a minimum during nighttime hours, as excessive noise can lead to complaints and fines. Many Spanish cities, including Madrid, have specific “quiet hours” during the night.