Madrid is Spain's vibrant capital and largest city, a metropolis of world-class art museums, grand boulevards, lively plazas, and an electric nightlife that never sleeps. As the Autonomous Community of Madrid, the region combines the cosmopolitan energy of the city with green sierra mountains, historic royal towns, and charming villages within easy reach.
The Community of Madrid ranks among the safer European city-regions for tourists. Major risks are petty crimes — especially pickpocketing on the Metro and at tourist hotspots — rather than violent crime. Most visitors complete their trip without any safety incident. Standard urban awareness is sufficient.
Current safety advisory
Low-Medium Risk
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- Topic
- Hospitals
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- Major public hospitals: Hospital La Paz (Paseo de la Castellana 261, tel: +34 917 277 000); Hospital 12 de Octubre (Av. de Córdoba s/n, tel: +34 913 908 000). EU citizens should carry the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for free emergency care. Non-EU visitors should have travel health insurance.
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- Pharmacies
- Detail
- Farmacias (green cross sign) are everywhere. A duty pharmacy (farmacia de guardia) is open 24/7 in each area — the address is displayed in all pharmacy windows. Prescription medications require a doctor's prescription; bring enough supply from home.
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- Heat
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- July–August temperatures regularly exceed 38°C (100°F). Stay hydrated, avoid midday outdoor activity, use sunscreen SPF 50+, and seek shade or air-conditioned spaces (museums are cool). Tap water is safe to drink.
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- Water
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- Tap water is safe throughout Madrid. City-run public fountains are throughout the city centre. Bottled water is widely available (€0.50–€1.50 / ~$0.55–$1.65 USD in supermarkets).
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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