Madrid, Spain

Why Madrid

Madrid doesn’t try to charm you on first impression the way Barcelona or Seville do. It’s a city that reveals itself gradually — through a late-night tapas crawl in La Latina, a Sunday afternoon stroll through Retiro, or the sudden silence of standing in front of Velázquez’s Las Meninas at the Prado. Spain’s capital is the cultural and political heart of the country, and it moves at its own pace: lunch at 2pm, dinner at 10pm, and a nightlife that genuinely doesn’t get going until midnight.

What makes Madrid essential for any Spain trip is its sheer cultural density. Within a one-kilometre stretch you have three of the world’s great art museums (the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza). The food scene is extraordinary — from traditional tavernas serving cocido madrileño to some of the most innovative restaurants in Europe. And because Madrid is landlocked and relatively off the beach-holiday circuit, it feels more authentically Spanish than many coastal cities. This is where Spaniards from every region come to live, work, and eat.

When to Visit

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–October) are ideal. Madrid in summer can be brutally hot — 40°C days are common in July and August, and much of the city empties out as locals flee to the coast. Winter is cold but sunny, with far fewer tourists. Christmas in Madrid is atmospheric, with lights on Gran Vía and markets in Plaza Mayor.

Getting There

Madrid-Barajas airport (MAD) is Spain’s biggest hub, with connections worldwide. The metro runs directly from the airport to the city centre in about 30 minutes. Madrid is also the centre of Spain’s AVE high-speed rail network — you can reach Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, and Málaga in under 3 hours. Atocha and Chamartín are the main stations.

Where to Base Yourself

Malasaña is the best all-round neighbourhood for visitors — walkable to everything, packed with independent restaurants and bars, and full of character without being touristy. La Latina is ideal if food is your priority (Sunday Rastro market + the best tapas streets in the city). Avoid Gran Vía for accommodation — it’s the equivalent of staying on Times Square.