Prado Museum
World-renowned collection of European art including Velázquez, Goya, and Rubens
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About Madrid
Madrid sits at the geographic heart of the Iberian Peninsula at an elevation of 667 metres, making it the highest capital city in the European Union. The city is home to the famed 'Golden Triangle of Art' — the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums — alongside the magnificent Royal Palace and countless plazas brimming with café culture. Beyond the city limits, the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range offers skiing in winter and hiking in summer, while historic towns such as Alcalá de Henares and Aranjuez add layers of royal and literary heritage.
- Capital
- Madrid
- Largest city
- Madrid
- Population
- 6.7 million
- Languages
- Spanish (Castilian)
- Currency
- Euro
- Time zone
- Europe/Madrid (CET/CEST, UTC+1/+2)
Explore Madrid by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Madrid
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Royal Palace of Madrid
Official residence of the Spanish royal family with 3,418 lavishly decorated rooms
Retiro Park
Sprawling 125-hectare park with rowing lake, rose garden, and the Crystal Palace
Reina Sofía Museum
Spain's national museum of 20th-century art, home to Picasso's iconic Guernica
Puerta del Sol
Madrid's central landmark and official kilometre zero of Spain's road network
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Madrid Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Madrid, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Madrid
- Days 1-2Madrid city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Madrid
- Days 1-3Madrid comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Madrid, departure
Where to stay in Madrid
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget €50–€60
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range €100–€150
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury €300–€600+
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Only YOU Hotel (Chueca)
The Hat Madrid (La Latina)
Mandarin Oriental Ritz
Where to eat in Madrid
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Getting around Madrid
Transportation options in Madrid include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Check local conditions before planning your travel.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in EUR, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €18–€30 (hostel dorm or budget room) | €70–€120 (3-star hotel or nice guesthouse) | €200–€450 (5-star hotel) |
| Food (per day) | €12–€18 (Menú del Día + 1–2 tapas stops) | €30–€45 (lunch Menú del Día + sit-down dinner) | €80–€150 (fine dining lunch or Michelin dinner) |
| Transportation | €3–€5 (metro/bus Tarjeta Multi card) | €8–€12 (metro + occasional taxi) | €30–€60 (private car, premium taxi) |
| Activities | €5–€10 (mix of free museums + 1 paid entry) | €20–€30 (2–3 museum entries, optional tour) | €40–€80 (private tours, VIP access) |
| Daily total | €50–€60 | €100–€150 | €300–€600+ |
Best time to visit Madrid
Essential travel tips
- Lunch is the main meal — look for the 'Menú del Día' (set lunch €10–€15)
- Dinner is rarely before 9 PM in Madrid; kitchens stay open late
- Buy a 10-trip metro card (Tarjeta Multi) for the best value
- Many museums offer free entry on Sunday afternoons
- Madrid is very walkable between Prado, Retiro, and Sol
Safety information
Madrid is very safe for families — the biggest concern is keeping children close in crowded areas like Puerta del Sol and El Rastro
Emergency number 112 — English-speaking operators available 24/7
Keep children hydrated in summer — Madrid heat can be extreme; carry water at all times
Most playgrounds in Madrid (Retiro, Chamberí parks) are safe and well-maintained
Frequently asked questions
Is Madrid safe to visit in 2026?
Madrid is one of Western Europe's safer capital cities with a low rate of violent crime against tourists. The main risks are petty theft and opportunistic pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas, which are easily mitigated with basic awareness. Emergency services: police at 091 (national police) or 112 (all emergencies), medical at 061 (medical emergencies) or 112 (all emergencies).
What is the best time to visit Madrid?
The best time to visit Madrid is April–June, September–October. Madrid has a semi-arid continental climate (Köppen BSk) characterised by hot, dry summers and cold winters, with very low rainfall year-round. The city sits at 667 metres altitude at the geographic he
Do I need a visa to visit Madrid?
Entry requirements follow Spain/EU Schengen rules. EU citizens enter freely; most Western nationals receive 90-day visa-free access. A European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is expected to be required for non-EU visa-exempt visitors. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Madrid?
The currency in Madrid is the Euro (EUR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Madrid?
The main language(s) spoken in Madrid: Spanish (Castilian). In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Madrid?
The top attractions in Madrid include Prado Museum (Museo del Prado), Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real), Reina Sofía Museum (Museo Reina Sofía), Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro), and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.