nightlife
Lolina Vintage Café
Step back into the 1960s and 70s at this kitschy, colorful café that feels like a living room from a Spanish movie. It’s the perfect spot to escape the modern rush, sip a retro…
Madrid Travel Guide
Madrid is a vibrant, sun-drenched capital that masterfully balances its regal history with a modern, high-energy lifestyle. Known for its world-class art museums, bustling plazas, and a legendary nightlife that stretches until dawn, it is the beating heart of the Iberian Peninsula.
About Madrid
Founded in the 9th century as a Moorish military outpost named 'Magerit'—meaning 'place of water'—the city was later conquered by Christian forces in the 11th century. Its true transformation began in 1561 when King Philip II moved the royal court to Madrid, establishing it as the administrative and political center of the Spanish Empire. Over the centuries, Madrid evolved from a modest town into a grand European metropolis under the Bourbon kings, who commissioned many of its iconic palaces and fountains. Despite enduring the hardships of the Spanish Civil War in the 20th century, the city has emerged as a resilient, cosmopolitan hub that honors its complex past while driving Spain's modern economic and cultural growth.
Madrileño culture is defined by a deep appreciation for social connection, where life is lived largely in the streets, plazas, and bustling tapas bars. The city follows a distinct, late-night rhythm; it is perfectly normal to enjoy a long, leisurely lunch at 2:00 PM and not sit down for dinner until 10:00 PM, often followed by socializing well into the early hours. Art is the city's soul, anchored by the 'Golden Triangle of Art' which houses some of the world's most significant masterpieces. Beyond the galleries, the food scene is a cornerstone of daily life, ranging from traditional, hearty stews like _cocido madrileño_ to the iconic, simple pleasure of a _bocadillo de calamares_ (squid sandwich) enjoyed in the historic Plaza Mayor.
Practical info
Currency
Euro (€)
Language
Spanish
Time zone
Central European Summer Time (CEST), UTC+2
Climate
Continental Mediterranean; characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, crisp winters with significant temperature fluctuations between day and night.
Quick facts
- Madrid is home to the world's oldest continuously operating restaurant, Sobrino de Botín, which has been serving customers since 1725.
- The city's official symbol is a bear reaching up to eat berries from a strawberry tree, a statue of which stands in the Puerta del Sol.
- At an elevation of approximately 660 meters, Madrid is one of the highest capital cities in Europe.
- The city is often referred to as a 'green metropolis' and has been recognized multiple times as a 'Tree City of the World' for its extensive urban forests and parks.
- Residents born in Madrid are affectionately nicknamed 'cats' (gatos), a tradition dating back to a legendary soldier who scaled the city's walls with feline agility during the 11th-century Christian conquest.
Top things to do in Madrid
The 15 attractions, museums, viewpoints, and experiences travelers visit most.
landmarks
Madrid Street Art Tour by Cooltourspain
A guided walking tour through the vibrant Lavapiés neighborhood to discover hidden street art, murals, and the local urban culture.
shopping
Vintage Furniture Hunting at Calle de la Ribera de Curtidores
While everyone knows the El Rastro market, the surrounding side streets are packed with high-end vintage furniture and decor shops that are open throughout the week. It's a…
adventure
Horseback Riding in Guadarrama National Park by Manawa
A beginner-friendly horseback riding experience through the scenic trails of the Sierra de Guadarrama, led by professional guides.
food
Tapas, Taverns & History Tour by Devour Tours
A 4-hour walking tour through Madrid's historic center, visiting four family-run taverns to sample traditional tapas and local wines while learning about the city's culinary…
culture
La Noche de los Libros Pop-up Events
Held annually around April 23rd, this city-wide celebration turns Madrid into a massive open-air library with unique readings, author meet-and-greets, and literary performances…
nightlife
Vermut Tasting at La Hora del Vermut
Skip the standard wine tour and dive deep into Madrid's obsession with artisanal vermouth on tap. This spot offers an incredible variety of regional vermouths paired with gourmet…
wellness
Sunset Yoga at Templo de Debod
While everyone else is fighting for a photo spot, join a local community yoga session on the grass overlooking the temple as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s a serene,…
nightlife
Natural Wine Tasting at La Caníbal
This isn't your typical wine bar; it's a temple for natural, biodynamic, and low-intervention wines from small Spanish producers. The staff are incredibly passionate and will…
culture
Botanical Illustration Workshop at Real Jardín Botánico
Escape the city noise with a niche, hands-on workshop focused on capturing the beauty of the garden's rare flora. These seasonal classes are perfect for creative travelers…
adventure
Bouldering at Sharma Climbing Madrid
If you need to burn off some energy, head to this massive, state-of-the-art climbing facility founded by legend Chris Sharma. It’s a social, high-energy environment where you can…
culture
Traditional Spanish Fan (Abanico) Painting Workshop
Learn the delicate art of painting traditional Spanish fans from a local artisan. This is a deeply cultural experience that leaves you with a beautiful, functional souvenir you…
landmarks
Guided Architecture Tour of Madrid's 'Modernist' Gems
Skip the Hapsburg history and focus on the early 20th-century Art Nouveau and Art Deco buildings that define Madrid's transition into a modern capital. This niche tour takes you…
music
Micro-Theater at Microteatro por Dinero
Experience plays that are only 15 minutes long, performed in tiny rooms for a handful of people. It’s an intense, intimate, and hilarious way to consume theater, and the menu of…
nightlife
La Piscina at Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá
This is one of the most exclusive rooftop pool experiences in the city, offering a sophisticated escape from the summer heat. It feels like a hidden oasis above the bustling…
Where to eat in Madrid
6 restaurants, cafés, and food spots — local picks, not tourist traps.
Traditional Spanish
Casa Lucio
This is a true Madrid institution where you go for the old-school, wood-paneled atmosphere and the legendary broken eggs. It feels like stepping back in time,…
Bakery
La Mallorquina
This historic bakery right on Puerta del Sol is a local institution where you can grab a quick pastry at the bustling downstairs counter or head upstairs for…
Tapas
Mercado de San Miguel
This stunning iron-and-glass structure is less of a grocery market and more of a high-energy food hall where you can sample the best of Spanish cuisine in one…
Deli
Casa Gonzalez
This historic 1931 deli-turned-wine-bar in the heart of Barrio de las Letras is where you go for an authentic, no-fuss glass of wine paired with the best…
Modern Tapas
Sala de Despiece
This place feels like a high-end, industrial butcher shop where the kitchen is a stage and the staff are performers. It is all about creative, seasonal…
Traditional Spanish
Taberna La Carmencita
This is the second oldest tavern in Madrid, dating back to 1854, where you can soak up the history while enjoying high-quality, organic takes on classic…
Plan a trip to Madrid
Pick a length and we'll lay out the days — walkable routing, restaurants, opening hours included.
Nearby destinations
Frequently asked questions
What currency is used in Madrid?
The currency in Madrid, Spain is Euro (€).
What language is spoken in Madrid?
Spanish is the primary language spoken in Madrid.
What's the weather like in Madrid?
Continental Mediterranean; characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, crisp winters with significant temperature fluctuations between day and night.
How many days do you need in Madrid?
Most travelers spend 2–5 days in Madrid. With 52+ attractions and 9+ noteworthy restaurants, three days hits the highlights, while five lets you dig into neighborhoods and day trips. Use the Periplo iPhone app to lay out a day-by-day plan.
What are the must-see things to do in Madrid?
Top picks include Prado Museum, Royal Palace of Madrid, Retiro Park, Plaza Mayor, Reina Sofía Museum.
Plan Madrid in your pocket
Open the Periplo iPhone app for a day-by-day itinerary, offline maps, and live event picks tuned to your taste.
Download on the App Store