Madrid

Madrid, a city where the echoes of centuries-old history resonate alongside the pulsating beat of modern life. Madrid promises visitors an enriching Spanish adventure. Begin your trip at the magnificent Royal Palace. Delve into art at the Prado Museum, wander through the lively Puerta del Sol, savour the flavours of Spanish cuisine at Mercado de San Miguel, and enjoy a walk in the serene Retiro Park, each offering a unique glimpse into Madrid's diverse and vibrant culture.

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Must-Visit Attractions in Madrid

• Prado Museum Tickets: See the masterpieces of Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco in Madrid's premier art gallery.
• Museum of Illusions Tickets: Visit the family friendly Madrid branch of the Museum of Illusions.
• Santiago Bernabéu Stadium Tickets: A Must for sports fans - visit one of the most historic football stadiums.
• Museo Reina Sofía Tickets: Another must for art lovers where you can engage with modern masterpieces, including Picasso's "Guernica", in Madrid.
• Royal Palace of Madrid Tickets: Immerse yourself in the splendour of Spanish royalty in Madrid's grandiose palace.
• Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza Tickets: Another must for art lovers. Enjoy eight centuries of art in one of Madrid's essential art museums.
• Palacio de Liria Tickets: Another of Madrid's most popular attractions, the incredible Palacio de Liria.

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Useful Information for Madrid

• Country Dialling Code: +34
• Local Dialling Code: 91
• Emergency Number: 112
• Official Currency: Euro (€)
• Official Language: Spanish
• Time Zone: GMT +1

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Fun Facts About Madrid

• The Bear and the Strawberry Tree: The official symbol of Madrid is a bear reaching up to a strawberry tree (El Oso y el Madroño). You can see a statue of this emblematic image in Puerta del Sol!
• The Capital's Altitude: Madrid is the highest capital city in Europe, sitting at an altitude of about 650 meters (2,130 feet) above sea level!
• Madrid's Origins: Madrid's name is derived from the Arabic word Majrit, meaning "place of abundant water." The city was established as a fortress in the 9th century by the Moors!
• The Oldest Restaurant in the World: Madrid is home to ‘Sobrino de Botín’, which is the world’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, having opened in 1725! It’s even recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records!
• Largest Royal Palace in Europe: The Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest in Europe by floor area, boasting over 3,400 rooms. It’s an amazing place to visit and rich in history.

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Tips for Visiting Madrid

• Respect Late Dining Culture: Madrileños eat dinner late, typically after 9:00 PM. Adjust your schedule to enjoy the authentic dining experience! Don’t be surprised when you see how busy it gets!
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) offer mild temperatures and smaller crowds, making it ideal for exploring.
• Public Transport is Excellent: Madrid’s Metro system is one of the best in Europe. It’s clean, affordable, and efficient. Consider getting a multi-day tourist pass for unlimited rides.
• Stay in Central Neighbourhoods: Choose accommodations in neighbourhoods like Malasaña, Chueca, or La Latina for easy access to attractions and vibrant nightlife.
• Don’t Skip Tapas Culture: Visit traditional tapas bars to enjoy small plates of Spanish cuisine. Calle de la Cava Baja in La Latina is known for its tapas spots.
• Explore Beyond the City Center: Take day trips to nearby attractions like Toledo, Segovia, or El Escorial for a broader experience of Spain’s history and culture.
• Mind Siesta Hours: Many smaller shops and restaurants close in the afternoon for siesta, typically from 2:00 to 5:00 PM, so plan accordingly!
• Enjoy the Parks: Madrid has gorgeous parks like El Retiro and Casa de Campo. They're perfect for relaxing or renting a boat.
• Try Local Delicacies: Don't miss churros con chocolate at San Ginés, cocido madrileño (a hearty stew), or the variety of fresh seafood dishes.