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Plan Your Madrid Holiday: Best of Madrid

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Explore Madrid

Smack dab in the middle of Spain lies vibrant Madrid—the country's storybook capital. Each of its eclectic neighbourhoods has its own distinct charm: You'll find hipster vibes in Malasaña, where quaint shops make way for club crowds after dark; upscale eats and top-tier boutiques in Salamanca; and steep, maze-like streets lined with authentic restaurants and great people-watching in Lavapies. And don't miss Madrid's popular landmarks. A few favourites: The great bear statue in the central Puerta del Sol, the Reina Sofia and Prado museums, and Plaza Mayor. Finish things off with 10 p.m. tapas (it's how the locals do it), then hit the bars and clubs if that's your thing. Find even more Madrid recs below.
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How to do Madrid in 3 days

From art galleries to tapas to music festivals
Read on

Best tapas in Madrid

As a wine writer who frequently visits Madrid, I've discovered this elegant capital is also one of the world's best food cities. Despite its regal flair, Madrid gets fewer tourists than other major European cities, making dining out much more affordable. Though several regions claim to be the origin of tapas, this starter tradition is firmly ingrained in Madrid culture. Must-eats include ribbons of salty-sweet Jamón Ibérico, crispy patatas bravas, blistered padrón peppers, and cod-stuffed croquetas; all washed down with delicious, affordable wine.
Lauren Mowery, Charleston, SC
  • La Venencia
    321
    No photos, no bookings, and wait service as creaky as the century-old floorboards, the charms of La Venencia are inarguable. It's one of Madrid's best sherry and tapas bars for evoking the vibe of a traditional tabanco (tavern). Sometimes, it's jam-packed; on other occasions, a spindly wooden table, a plate of manchego and chorizo, and a carafe of wine are easy to come by.
  • Bar La Paloma
    105
    I never let the brightly lit utilitarian space dissuade me from entering Bar La Paloma. If anything, these signs point to La Paloma's singular focus—fresh, affordable shellfish and cheap draft beer. When I wander the La Latina neighbourhood, I'll pop in for shrimp on the grill (gambas plancha), a plate of clams (almejas), and a glass of white vermouth. I do as the Spanish do and eat standing at the bar.
  • Mercado De San Antón
    2,509
    I love markets, especially in Madrid, where I can tapas crawl between stalls while sipping a glass of Rioja. This upmarket food hall in the festive Chueca neighbourhood has a traditional market on the ground floor and vendors on the second floor offering a range of snackable classics from salty-sweet jamón, crunchy croquetas, and Spanish cheeses. There's abundant seating for those with families or diners who want to rest their feet.
  • Mercado de San Miguel
    34,520
    First opened in 1916 and then renovated in 2009, this market attracts hordes of tourists, which raises the prices. Yet, the festive ambiance, twenty food stalls, and plentiful seating make up for it. My New York flights often land earlier than hotel check-in, so I'll pass the morning at San Miguel—-when it's least crowded—with a glass of Cava, jamón bocadillo (sandwich), and a fried seafood cone.
  • Bodega de la Ardosa
    1,401
    I don't go here for friendly service, though a little Spanish goes a long way with the brusque, busy staff. Instead, I make a beeline for Madrid's best Tortilla Española, a fluffy succulent sensation of eggs and potatoes served in a pie wedge. When in season, I also order the artichokes. Steeped in olive oil until soft, then crisped on a hot plancha, they changed my mind about this thorny vegetable. The place gets busy, so always check the back room for tables.
  • La Perejila
    503
    Everyone should wander down Cava Baja on an empty stomach at least once. This is the street for tapas, and La Perejila stands out from the crowd. I know I've arrived when I spy the forest green doors trimmed in holiday red. The whimsical ambiance continues inside with twinkling chandeliers and a mural of flamenco dancers. If I'm on a tapas crawl, I'll order lighter dishes like juicy gazpacho and octopus dusted in sweet paprika with a carafe of sangria.
  • Vi Cool
    1,059
    Madrid is chock-full of old-school tapas bars. While fun, sometimes I crave a contemporary twist in a seated restaurant. For that, I head to Vi Cool. The menu changes regularly and weaves international flavours into Spanish dishes like fried prawns with curry and mint or kimchi chicken wings. While the wine list is short, Vi Cool offers an excellent range from Albariño to Tempranillo for an incredible 5-6 dollars a glass.
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Madrid Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Madrid

Erin R

Madrileños eat lunch around 2 p.m. and dinner roughly at 10 p.m. As such, don't expect restaurant kitchens to be open before 1:30 p.m. and 9 p.m., respectively.

onzils

Most museums in Madrid have time slots when you can visit for free. Check it out.

Matilda

The ‘Bocata de Calamares’ (calamari sandwich) is both a Madrid speciality and local favorite.

Inés R

Walking is the best way to enjoy the city centre, but for places outside that area, you can buy a 10-trip pass for the metro.

Matilda

Savvy shoppers know that the best time to hit the stores in Madrid is during "Rebajas". These huge end-of-season sales take place in winter (usually January-February) and summer (July-August).

Inés R

The city is a melting pot for people from different Spanish provinces and all over the world.

Christian S

The Spanish capital has much to offer to the curious traveler.

JannyB12144

Madrid is always on our "let's go there again, I miss it" list.

Inés R

Cozy coffee shops, excellent cuisine, beautiful parks and stunning sunsets make Madrid the perfect place to enjoy a romantic weekend that you and your partner will never forget.

What is the best way to get there?

flying

International flights land at Madrid Barajas Airport (Adolfo Suarez), from where you can hop on the metro or take a shuttle or taxi into the city.

train

Madrid has two main railway stations—Chamartin and Atocha. AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) runs high-speed trains to Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and many other cities around Spain.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Madrid from overseas, use Schengen Visa info to see if you need a visa.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer temperatures can reach more than 86°F (30°C) in the city and many locals head out to the provinces in July and August. Many local bars, restaurants, and shops close down during this period. Spring and fall offer more pleasant weather for sightseeing, as well as festivals such as the San Isidro festival (May), Flamenco Madrid festival (June), and the European White Nights Festival (Sept.).

Get around

bicycle

Bicimad is a bikeshare system with over 100 bicycle stations located across Madrid.

train

Madrid’s metro is the fastest way to get around, with 13 lines linking all corners of the city. Trains run daily from 6 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.

bus

EMT operates Madrid’s local bus system daily from 6 a.m. till 11:30 p.m. (10 a.m. till 11 p.m. on weekends).

taxis

Madrid taxis are white with a red band on the front door. Although it’s possible to hail one on the street in Madrid, it’s generally easier to go to an official taxi stand, located by all the main streets and plazas.

ridesharing

Uber is available in Madrid, but most locals use Cabify.

On the ground

What is the timezone?

Central European Standard Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in Spain is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. The plug has two round pins.

What is the currency?

The Euro

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Yes.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes and are typically preferred.

How much do I tip?

Tipping is not obligatory in Madrid, however, a 10-15% tip for exceptional service is always appreciated.

Are there local customs I should know?

Drinking

The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.

Public transport

Allow others to disembark before boarding, don’t take up more than one seat, and stand to offer seating to pregnant women or someone with a disability.

Try to speak the language

Most locals will speak some English, but mastering a few basic Spanish phrases will be appreciated.

Watch where you sit

Be aware that prices often vary in bars and restaurants depending where you sit—the cheapest seats are at the bar or indoors, while a terrace table is typically about 10% more expensive than dining inside.

Prepare for some late nights

Many locals dine as late as 10 p.m. Nightclubs in Madrid don’t start getting busy until midnight and often stay open until 6 a.m.

Take a siesta

Many shops close from 2-5 p.m., especially during the hottest months of the year.

Don’t expect speedy service

Spanish culture is laid-back, and service is equally leisurely. You will need to ask for the bill when you have finished your meal—it won’t automatically be brought to you.

Madrid travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Day Trip Recommendations

According to forum posts, popular day trip destinations from Madrid include Toledo, Segovia, Avila, Alcala de Henares, Aranjuez, Cuenca, Salamanca, and Cordoba. These cities offer a rich mix of history, architecture, and local cuisine.

Travel Tips

Some travelers recommend visiting Toledo for its stunning cathedral and museums, and Segovia for its easier navigation and excellent local food. Avila is praised for its ancient walls, and Alcala de Henares is noted for its university and historical significance. Aranjuez features a royal palace, while Cuenca offers impressive views from its majestic gorges.

Additional Information

For those interested in attending local festivals, Alcala de Henares hosts the Cervantina Week in October, which includes food, lectures, theater performances, concerts, and a medieval market.

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Museum Recommendations

According to forum posts, the Prado Museum is highly recommended for art lovers, featuring classical masterpieces. The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is noted for its 20th-century art collections, including works by Dalí and Picasso.

Additional Art Venues

Travelers have called out the Thyssen Museum and the Sorolla Museum as must-visit locations. The Thyssen offers a broad array of art styles, while the Sorolla Museum, located in the artist’s former home, provides a personal glimpse into his life and works.

Special Exhibits

Some travelers mentioned temporary exhibitions as a draw, such as those at the Museo Thyssen and the Sala Recoletos Fundación Mapfre, which often feature themed art collections and retrospectives.

Historical and Unique Museums

For those interested in a mix of history and unique artifacts, the National Archaeological Museum and the Cerralbo Museum are highlighted. These museums offer insights into Spain's rich history and personal collections from notable figures.

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Public Transport Options

According to forum posts, Madrid's public transport system offers a variety of options, including metro, buses, and Cercanías (commuter trains). Travelers have called out that the Metro and bus services can be accessed using the TarjetaMulti card, which can be bought and recharged at the airport and other locations throughout the city.

Specific Transport Routes

For many users, specific routes within the city, such as traveling from Sol to Vallecas, can be done via a combination of Cercanías and Metro. However, some travelers recommend using only one mode of transport to avoid paying two separate fares.

Transport Costs and Passes

Some forum posts mention that a flat rate of €30 applies for taxis from the airport to central Madrid. Additionally, there is information about transport tariffs available on the official EMT Madrid website, which might be useful for planning budget-friendly travels within the city.

Alternative Transport Suggestions

For those seeking advice on transport methods, it is suggested to use Google Maps to plan journeys using public transport options, ensuring travelers can find the most efficient routes for their specific travel needs.

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Train Services and Times

According to forum posts, the train service from Madrid to Granada is predominantly provided by AVE trains, which are high-speed services. Travelers mentioned that there are direct routes available, typically running from MADRID-PUERTA DE ATOCHA to GRANADA. Some users noted specific train times such as 7 am and 2:35 pm direct services. However, the availability of train schedules can be irregular, and it's recommended to check the Renfe official website frequently as new times and dates are continuously updated.

Booking and Service Issues

Several travelers have called out issues with booking tickets through the Renfe website, with common problems including the website not functioning correctly or not displaying full schedules. It's advised to book tickets as soon as they become available since train tickets, especially for direct routes, can sell out or increase in price closer to the travel date. Alternative booking platforms were discussed, but the consensus is to attempt booking through Renfe directly first for the most accurate pricing and availability.

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Popular Restaurants

According to forum posts, popular dining options in Madrid include Botin, known for its roast suckling pig and being the oldest restaurant in the world, and Casa Lucio, famous for its huevos rotos. Both are located near Calle Cava Baja, a street recommended for a tapas tour.

Specialty Foods

Some travelers have highlighted specialty dishes and restaurants such as La Posada de la Villa for local cuisine and Lakasa for its wine selection and unique dishes like Idiazabal cheese fritters and baby squid with pig's trotters. For tapas, Platea is frequently mentioned as a vibrant spot offering a variety of tapas and live music.

Unique Dining Experiences

For unique dining experiences, travelers have called out Castafiore, where opera students perform while guests dine, and the rooftop bars like the 360º panoramic sky bar at RIU Plaza España, which offers stunning views alongside cocktails and snacks.

Paella Recommendations

For solo travelers seeking paella, it is suggested to avoid places offering paella for one, as these are typically reheated. Instead, exploring tapas and smaller local dishes is recommended, with the La Latina and Huertas areas being particularly noted for their vibrant dining scenes.

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Layover Activities

During a layover in Madrid, travelers have various options for activities depending on the layover duration. According to forum posts, for a short layover of about 4-6 hours, visitors often explore central Madrid, including attractions like Plaza Mayor, where they can enjoy tapas and shopping. For longer layovers, some travelers suggest visiting major museums such as the Prado, Thyssen, and Reina Sofia, though it's advisable to be selective due to time constraints.

Transport and Logistics

Regarding transportation, forum users recommend taking a taxi or the Aeropuerto Exprés bus for quick transfers to the city center. The taxi service offers a fixed rate of €30, while the express bus costs around €5. Travelers emphasize planning for at least 1-2 hours for travel time to and from the airport.

Relaxation Options

For those preferring a more relaxed layover, some options include staying at airport lounges or nearby accommodations like Air Rooms in Terminal 4. Alternatively, spending time in a café enjoying local pastries and coffee is a favored choice for those who wish to stay low-key.

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Tapas Bars Locations

According to forum posts, some of the best tapas bars in Madrid are concentrated in specific areas. Travelers have called out Calle Cava Baja and La Latina as popular spots for tapas, with Calle Cava Baja frequently mentioned for its range of tapas bars.

Popular Recommendations

For many users, Calle Cava Baja is recommended repeatedly as a prime location for a tapas tour. Additionally, other streets like Calle Victoria, Calle Doctor Castelo, and Calle Ponzano are noted for their high density of tapas bars.

User Tips

Some travelers suggested being adventurous and trying various tapas, as Madrid offers a wide range of flavors and dishes. Forum posts recommended avoiding overly touristy spots like Plaza Mayor for a more authentic experience, and instead exploring neighborhoods like Las Huertas for genuine local eateries.

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Ticket Availability and Purchasing Methods

According to forum posts, it's advisable to purchase tickets for Madrid attractions like the Royal Palace, the Prado Museum, and Reina Sofia in advance due to limited availability, especially during peak times. Some travelers have reported almost no availability on-site close to their visit dates, suggesting high demand for these attractions.

Online Purchasing

Travelers have mentioned that tickets for attractions like the Prado Museum and Reina Sofia can be bought online, which is convenient and can save time. Websites like the official sites of these museums provide options for both purchasing and learning about the new visiting rules and safety measures.

On-Site Purchasing

For those who prefer flexibility, it's still possible to buy tickets at the attractions themselves. However, this might involve waiting in lines, particularly for buying tickets, as noted by some travelers who managed to purchase tickets directly from kiosks at the museum without significant waiting during less busy times.

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