Everything you need before arriving in Madrid.

Arriving in Madrid

Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) is Spain’s largest international airport and is located approximately 15 km from the city centre.

Reaching Madrid is quick, easy and well connected thanks to the city’s excellent public transport network.

Metro

The Metro is one of the most affordable and convenient ways to reach the city.

Take Line 8 from any airport terminal to Nuevos Ministerios, where you can connect with the rest of Madrid’s metro network.

Average journey time:

35–45 minutes

Cercanías Train

If you arrive at Terminal 4, you can also take the Cercanías commuter train.

It offers direct connections to:

• Chamartín
• Nuevos Ministerios
• Sol
• Atocha

One of the fastest options for reaching the city centre.

Airport Express Bus

The 24-hour Airport Express Bus connects the airport with Cibeles and Atocha, making it an excellent choice for late arrivals.

Taxi

Official airport taxis operate with a fixed fare of €33 between the airport and destinations within central Madrid.

Average journey time:

20–35 minutes, depending on traffic.

Where to Stay

If this is your first visit to Madrid, we recommend staying in the city centre. You’ll be close to many of the city’s main attractions while still enjoying easy access to Distrito Telefónica.

📍 Gran Vía, Puerta del Sol & Plaza de España

Perfect for first-time visitors.

These central areas offer excellent hotel options and are within walking distance of Madrid’s main attractions, restaurants, shopping streets and nightlife.

📍 Chamberí

Looking for a quieter, more authentic neighbourhood?

Chamberí is known for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful architecture, charming cafés and excellent local restaurants.

📍 Salamanca

Madrid’s most elegant neighbourhood.

Ideal if you’re looking for luxury hotels, designer boutiques, fine dining and one of the city’s most exclusive shopping districts.

Madrid has one of Europe’s most efficient public transport systems, making it easy to explore the city without a car.

Metro

The Metro network covers almost every part of Madrid and is the fastest way to travel around the city.
Tourist map

Buses & Cercanías

Madrid’s extensive bus network and Cercanías commuter trains complement the Metro, providing excellent connections across the city and surrounding areas.

Taxi, Uber & Cabify

Traditional taxis, Uber and Cabify are widely available throughout Madrid and are ideal for quick journeys or travelling outside Metro operating hours.

Plan Your Journey

Google Maps works exceptionally well in Madrid and provides accurate, real-time information for public transport, walking and driving routes.

Transport Card

If you plan to use public transport several times during your stay, purchasing a rechargeable transport card may be worthwhile.

If your schedule allows, take some time to explore one of Europe’s most vibrant capitals. Madrid is a city best experienced on foot, where grand avenues, historic landmarks and lively neighbourhoods come together to create a unique atmosphere.

Whether you have a couple of hours or an extra day, here are some places we recommend you don’t miss.

Must-See Landmarks

Royal Palace

One of Europe’s largest royal residences, the Royal Palace is one of Madrid’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore its impressive ceremonial rooms, royal collections and beautiful surroundings throughout the year.

Plaza Mayor

Just a short walk from the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor is one of Madrid’s most historic and picturesque squares. Surrounded by elegant arcades, cafés and traditional restaurants, it’s the perfect place to soak up the city’s atmosphere.

Puerta del Sol

Known as the geographical centre of Spain, Puerta del Sol is one of Madrid’s busiest meeting points and home to several of the city’s most famous landmarks.

Gran Vía

Madrid’s most famous avenue offers an exciting mix of theatres, international brands, rooftop bars and stunning architecture. It’s one of the city’s best areas for shopping, entertainment and nightlife.

🎨 Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art

Art lovers shouldn’t miss Madrid’s world-famous museum district, home to three internationally renowned museums located within walking distance of each other:

• Prado Museum
• Reina Sofía Museum
• Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

🌳 El Retiro Park

One of Europe’s most beautiful urban parks, El Retiro is the perfect place to relax after a busy day. Enjoy a peaceful walk, admire its gardens or rent a rowing boat on the lake.

🌅 Temple of Debod

For one of Madrid’s most spectacular sunsets, head to the Temple of Debod, an authentic ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain and carefully reconstructed in Madrid.

Shopping

Whether you’re looking for international brands, luxury boutiques or local designers, Madrid offers excellent shopping opportunities.

Gran Vía and Fuencarral Street are ideal for high-street fashion and international brands.

For luxury shopping, head to Serrano Street, located in the elegant Salamanca district.

If you need anything during your stay, El Corte Inglés department stores can be found throughout the city and offer everything from fashion to electronics and gourmet food.

One of the best ways to experience Madrid is through its food, neighbourhoods and relaxed lifestyle.

Taste Madrid

No visit to Madrid is complete without trying some of Spain’s most traditional dishes.

We recommend tasting:

• Iberian Ham
• Tortilla Española
• Croquetas
• Patatas Bravas
• Bocadillo de Calamares
• Freshly made Churros with Hot Chocolate

Best Areas for Food & Drinks

If you’re looking for authentic tapas, local restaurants and lively bars, these neighbourhoods are excellent choices:

La Latina

Madrid’s most traditional tapas district, full of terraces and local taverns.

Barrio de las Letras

A charming neighbourhood with a fantastic selection of restaurants, wine bars and cafés.

Chueca

Known for its vibrant atmosphere, international cuisine and lively nightlife.

Chamberí

A favourite among locals, offering excellent traditional restaurants and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Experience Madrid Like a Local

Madrid is famous for its outdoor lifestyle and relaxed pace.

Take some time to enjoy a coffee on a sunny terrace, stroll through neighbourhoods like La Latina or Malasaña, or simply wander through the city’s streets without a fixed destination.

Meal times in Spain are generally later than in many other countries.

• Lunch usually starts around 2:00 pm
• Dinner often begins after 8:30 pm

Don’t be surprised if restaurants are still relatively quiet before then!

Everything you need to know during your stay.

October Weather

October is one of the best months to visit Madrid.

Expect sunny days with comfortable temperatures between 20°C and 25°C, while evenings become cooler, typically ranging from 12°C to 16°C.

We recommend bringing a light jacket or blazer for the evenings.

Currency & Payments

Spain uses the Euro (€).

Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, including taxis, cafés, restaurants and small shops.

Drinking Water

Madrid’s tap water is perfectly safe to drink and is known for its excellent quality.

Free Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafés, restaurants and many public spaces across the city.

Emergency Number

The national emergency number in Spain is:

112

Available 24 hours a day.

Useful Apps

Before travelling, we recommend downloading a few apps that will make getting around Madrid even easier.

• Google Maps – Navigation and public transport ANDROID | APPLE 
• Cabify – Ride-hailing ANDROID | APPLE
• Uber – Ride-hailing ANDROID | APPLE
• Metro de Madrid – Metro information ANDROID | APPLE
• EMT Madrid – Bus information ANDROID | APPLE

Travel Tips

Madrid is considered one of Europe’s safest capital cities. As with any large city, we recommend keeping an eye on your belongings in busy tourist areas and on public transport.

Spanish people are generally friendly and welcoming, and a simple “Hola” is always appreciated.

Most shops are open from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, while many museums close one day per week, so it’s worth checking opening hours before your visit.

Above all, don’t rush.

Madrid is a city best enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Take time to explore its neighbourhoods, discover local cafés and experience the unique atmosphere that makes the city such a special place to visit.