madrid tourist board

PHONE: +34 644 570 842

E-MAIL: [email protected]

MADRID TOURISM

Know madrid.

We offer you multiple options to enjoy your stay in Madrid.

THINGS TO DO IN MADRID

Go explore madrid, explore madrid.

Start walking through Madrid, walk through the Plaza Mayor, get lost through the Puerta del Sol, visit the Royal Palace, see the Almudena Cathedral, discover Madrid at night.

Book Activities

Madrid offers you a multitude of leisure and entertainment activities, do not think about it and enjoy them, book them in advance, they sell out.

Madrid Excursions

From Madrid, you can enjoy visits to Toledo, Segovia, Avila, Aranjuez and many other cities to choose from and not to be missed.

Thing to do in Madrid

Segway madrid.

TOUR PRIVADO

We show you Madrid in the most fun way, a guide will accompany you and tell you his story. Choose your segway tour.

Madrid city tour, hop on & hop off. madrid at a glance, two routes to enjoy the best views of madrid., toledo – full day tour from madrid, with cathedral, dive into a fascinating mix of cultures in toledo. walk through the old town part of the city following your local guide., explore the city, flamenco show, excursions out of madrid, tapas & drink route, tourism madrid.

Enjoy a cosmopolitan city like Madrid, large boulevards and with large landscaped spaces, Jardín del Buen Retiro, Jardines del Palacio del Principe de Anglona, Casa de Campo. Highlight the cultural offer of the city of Madrid, its museums; Prado Museum, Reina Sofia Museum, Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. Leisure and training that never ends.

Visita MAdrid

Privacy overview.

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Madrid Region

+34 912 723 400

What to visit

Select from the list or hover over the map to find out about points of interest.

Alcalá de Henares

San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Torrelaguna

Manzanares El Real

Nuevo Baztán

Boadilla del Monte

Villarejo de Salvanés

Places not to be missed

Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial

The Monastery of El Escorial was the first example of the…

University of Alcalá de Henares, or College of San Ildefonso

It was created by Cardinal Cisneros and given the name of College…

Buen Retiro Park

Located in the heart of Madrid, its origins date from the reign…

Royal Palace in Aranjuez

Work on this palace, along with the adjoining monuments, was…

Royal Palace

Madrid's Royal Palace was built in the 18th century by order of…

Plaza Mayor square in Madrid

Madrid’s Plaza Mayor is a symbol of the city and a must-see.…

Sierra de Guadarrama National Park

Mountains more than 2,000 metres high, vast forests and varied…

Reina Sofía National Art Centre

The Reina Sofía National Art Centre opened its doors to the…

Plaza de Cibeles square

This is one of the liveliest, best-known and most beautiful…

Prado Museum

This gallery in Madrid has the most complete collection of…

Other ideas for your trip

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Rediscovering Madrid and Barcelona: themed tours waiting to be discovered

How many versions of Madrid and Barcelona do you know? History, culture, leisure, nature; two of Spain’s most important cities, where you could never be bored.…

Where to go luxury shopping in Madrid

If you are looking for unique stores in Spain, Madrid has just what you need. The Spanish capital boasts streets bursting with luxury, capable of captivating…

From Madrid to other large cities by train in 2.5 hours or less

Wake up in Madrid and eat lunch in Barcelona on the Mediterranean coast. Start the morning with a swim on the beach in Malaga and spend the evening at Gran Vía…

What to see in Madrid... according to Instagram

If you’re planning a visit to Spain and look for the hashtag #Madrid, you’ll find… over 50 million posts!…

Celebrate Pride in Madrid, Ibiza and Sitges

Spain is one of the most LGBTQI+ friendly countries in the world, as demonstrated by the wide range of different LGBTQI+ festivals and activities here.…

Shopping in Madrid Where are the best areas?

During a visit to Madrid, it is always a good idea to leave some time for shopping, as there are so many options for finding something you love.…

The Sierra Norte region in Madrid

Charming corners, nature and mountains welcome you to the little villages in Madrid's Sierra Norte.…

The most famous outlets in Madrid, Barcelona and Malaga

You will love a spot of retail therapy when you visit Madrid, Barcelona or Malaga.…

Madrid’s most famous monuments and their history

Madrid is a city of monuments. A stroll through its streets is rather like wandering along the corridors of an architectural art gallery - Madrid’s on show 24…

How many versions of Madrid and Barcelona do you know?…

If you are looking for unique stores in Spain, Madrid has just…

Wake up in Madrid and eat lunch in Barcelona on the Mediterranean…

If you’re planning a visit to Spain and look for the hashtag…

Spain is one of the most LGBTQI+ friendly countries in the world,…

During a visit to Madrid, it is always a good idea to leave some…

Charming corners, nature and mountains welcome you to the little…

You will love a spot of retail therapy when you visit Madrid,…

Madrid is a city of monuments.…

Finding truly natural autumn landscapes in Spain is easy.…

Choose between thousands of activities to live your best life on holiday.

Are you planning to visit Madrid for a weekend or a few days ? If you are, you are probably wondering what the city’s top attractions are, how to get around Madrid  or the general  prices and daily costs to visit Spain's capital. For up to date information about the city, we recommend reading our Madrid travel guide .

Madrid Travel Guide

• General Information
• 2-Day Itinerary
• Top Attractions
• How to get to Madrid
• Money Saving Tips
• Where to Eat
• Where to Stay

Why visit Madrid?

Madrid is the capital of Spain and the country’s most visited city. With nearly 10 million visitors each year , Madrid is one of the most popular cities in Europe.

The number of foreign tourists who visit Madrid continues to grow due to its rich culture , its numerous landmarks, great nightlife and fun activities . In Madrid, you can feel the true essence of Spain, in its elegant architecture, the life in its plazas and the delicious cuisine .

Madrid has art bursting from the seams: the museums of the capital are packed with true jewels, from the leading painters and sculptors in history. The Prado , the Reina Sofía , and the Thyssen make up the golden triangle, where you can enjoy the finest Spanish and international art.

How to organize your trip?

Once you have chosen the dates, the most important thing is to determine how to get to the city , choose the  right hotel and finally, read about Madrid’s public transport system to know how to get around the city and discover its  top attractions .

Once you have researched these aspects of Madrid, why not read a bit about its history ? Known as Villa y Corte , the historic capital has been witness to the passage of dynasties, conflicts, and wars, which have left their mark on the streets of Madrid.

And the parks are places to enjoy the seasons - Retiro Park , Madrid's green lung is stunning year-round, making it a must-see in the capital .

Need accommodation?

• If you still don't have accommodation in Madrid, we recommend visiting our search engine, where you’ll find all types of hotels, hostels and apartments with the best rates guaranteed (with up to 75% discount) . And, what's more, you'll only have to pay once you get to your destination.

Hotels in Madrid – Find the best deals online

top activities

Torre Bermejas Flamenco: The Best Flamenco Show & Dinner in Madrid Discover the best flamenco show in Madrid at Torres Bermejas flamenco tablao , where the passion of flamenco comes to life in an unforgettable spectacle.

Toledo and Segovia Tour Join us on this Toledo and Segovia Tour from Madrid, two popular Spanish cities. You can even extend the tour to Ávila to check out its iconic walls!

Complete Toledo Day Trip Delve into the fascinating history and culture of the city of Toledo , declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on this full-day tour from Madrid.

Bernabéu Stadium Tour Visit the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium  and learn about Real Madrid's rich history  as you visit the stadium and the museum.

Flamenco Show at Essential Flamenco At this show at Essential Flamenco , you'll witness the passion and the 'duende' of renowned flamenco musicians and dancers. An absolute must!

Avila and Segovia Day Trip See Avila and Segovia, two striking cities packed with beautiful monuments , city walls, Gothic palaces, castles and the world's most famous Roman aqueduct.

Toledo Half-Day Trip Visit one of Spain's most beautiful cities  on this trip to Toledo . We'll learn El Greco's legacy and discover how different cultures coexisted here.

Free Walking Tour of Madrid Join us on our free walking tour of Madrid  for a blend of excitement and culture as we visit iconic sights in the Spanish capital alongside an expert guide !

Toledo Day Trip + Wine Tasting Travel to the ancient city to enjoy the cultural heritage with this Toledo Day Trip + Wine Tasting. Visit its main monuments and learn about the star product.

Private Tour of Madrid Reserve a private tour of Madrid and your guide will organize a tailor-made tour depending on what you and your party want to see and do in Spain’s capital!

Check out this show at Tablao La Quimera for  flamenco in the heart of Madrid . Experience guitars, acapella voices, and the sound of heels on stage.

Madrid Palace Guided Tour Discover Madrid's Palacio Real , one of the largest palaces in Europe, and delve into the history of the Spanish Royal Family on this guided tour.

Madrid Hop On Hop Off Bus Explore Madrid with a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. This open-top double decker bus is the most comfortable and practical way of discovering the city.

Spanish Cooking Class in Madrid Join our Spanish cooking class , where you'll discover the secrets to preparing beloved Spanish recipes right in the heart of a lively market.

Madrid Gourmet Tapas Tour On this route, we'll visit the best tapas bars in Madrid to sample the flavors of Spanish cuisine while discovering the capital's best-kept secrets.

Madrid Private Tuk Tuk Tour Get to know Madrid in a comfortable and unique way aboard a fun tuk-tuk. You'll travel through the most emblematic streets and places of the Spanish capital.

Segovia Day Trip Segovia is one of 15 Spanish cities declared UNESCO world heritage . Get to know its long artistic, historic and gastronomic legacy.

Flamenco Theatre Show The Flamenco Theatre of Madrid offers daily Flamenco live shows in an artform declared a masterpiece of World Heritage by UNESCO. A truly magical experience!

Day Trip to Toledo, Segovia and Ávila Visit three of the most beautiful and historic cities in Spain in one day on this day trip to Toledo, Segovia and Ávila from Madrid. 

Prado Museum & Royal Palace Guided Visit Delve into Spain’s culture & history on a guided visit of the Royal Palace , one of the largest in Europe, followed by the Prado Museum .

Guadarrama National Park Day Trip Enjoy a day away from the hustle and bustle of Madrid with this Guadarrama National Park Day Trip. We'll also visit Manzanares El Real and Rascafría.

Spanish Civil War Tour Discover how Madrid experienced the Spanish Civil War of 1936 to 1939 with this fantastic tour of the city . Learn about this important part of Spain's history .

Flamenco Show and Dinner at Corral de la Morería Enjoy a memorable Flamenco show at one of the world’s most famous tablaos, in the same place as celebrities like George Bush, Richard Gere and Pablo Picasso.

On this wine and culture tour, we'll enjoy the delicious wines of the Ribera del Duero  and see the beautiful landscapes of the province of Burgos.

Madrid Bike Tour Explore Madrid's most iconic sites on this bike tour through the city - the  ideal combination of sports and tourism . Come and join the fun!

Prado Museum Guided Tour Skip the line and step straight inside the Prado Museum accompanied by an expert guide and discover one of the most fascinating art museums in the world .

Madrid Segway Tour Hop on a Segway and discover Madrid in a unique and exciting way . Ride through the city’s most renowned squares and streets on this exciting guided tour!

Visit the Museum of Illusions in Madrid and enjoy  a fun and unique experience with cool 3D paintings and mind-boggling optical effects !

Aquopolis Madrid Ticket Buy your ticket to Aquopolis Madrid and spend a fantastic, refreshing day of fun in the amazing pools and wonderful slides of this water park.

Experience the passion of southern Spain  at this flamenco show at Tablao La Carmela, just a few meters from the Puerta del Sol. A magical evening awaits!

Avila & Salamanca Day Trip Explore Salamanca, Spain’s most famous Renaissance city and Ávila , surrounded by a perfectly well-preserved city wall during a full-day guided trip.

Flamenco Show at Tablao de la Villa Allow yourself to be moved by the universal art of dance in this flamenco show at the Tablao de la Villa, located right in the heart of Madrid.

Combo: Prado Museum & Reina Sofía Museum Discover European and Spanish art and its history during a 3-hour guided tour of the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofía Museum with skip the line admission.

Big Bus Open-Top Night Tour If you'd like to discover the Spanish capital under the moonlight , then this Big Bus open-top night tour of Madrid is for you!

Ham Slicing Class & Iberian Ham Tasting Join our Madrid ham-slicing class to learn traditional Spanish cuisine techniques. Led by an expert, master Iberian ham slicing and taste premium products .

Retiro Park Guided Walking Tour El Retiro in Madrid is home to botanical, architectural and artistic delights. Discover them on this guided tour of one of Spain's most famous parks.

Visit two monuments with this excursion to El Escorial & the Valley of the Fallen. A journey through time from the 16th century to the Spanish Civil War .

Museo Reina Sofía Fast Track Ticket If you are in Madrid and you want to see works by some of Spain's greatest artists, then grab yourself a ticket to the unmissable Museo Reina Sofía.

Big Bus Madrid On board the Madrid tourist bus from the Big Bus company, you'll be able to take in the main attractions around Madrid, such as Gran Vía , or Puerta de Alcalá .

Alcalá de Henares Day Trip Explore the city northeast of Madrid with this Alcalá de Henares Day Trip. Discover Miguel de Cervantes' birthplace, and one of Spain's best-known writers.

Ticket to LEGENDS: The Home of Football With this ticket to LEGENDS: The Home of Football , the #1 football museum in Madrid , you'll be able to dive into the past and present of football!

Madrid Graffiti Tour Enjoy the urban art of Madrid, exploring painted streets of the centre. Discover a whole new way to look at art , through the history of each mural.

Madrid Virtual Reality Glasses Tour Witness the  changes that Spain's capital has experienced over history  on this  virtual reality tour in  Madrid . You'll be amazed by what you see!

Parque de Atracciones Ticket Discover exciting rollercoasters and fun activities for all members of the family at Madrid's amazing Parque de Atracciones Amusement Park!

Flamenco Show in Cardamomo Tablao Visit one of the most legendary tablaos in the world & discover a traditional dance that awakens the soul & speaks to the heart, Flamenco dancing.

El Retiro Park Segway Tour If you want to discover the green lungs of  Madrid in a different way , don't miss this  segway tour around El Retiro Park . You'll love it!

Zoo Aquarium Ticket Travel through the five continents without leaving Madrid at the Zoo Aquarium . Meet the pandas, the American bison and penguins - a wild day out!

The Lion King Show Ticket With your tickets for The Lion King Show , you'll be able to enjoy one of Disney 's most famous works in a unique way. Embark on an adventure alongside Simba!

Dramatised Inquisition Walking Tour Travel through time to one of the darkest eras of Spanish history : discover the spine-chilling secrets of the Inquisition on a dramatised route around Madrid.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum Ticket The Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum houses one of the most important collections in Spain , with 13th-century Gothic paintings & famous pop art pieces.

The old quarter of Madrid is home to great mysteries and  legends ... Let's discover them with this incredible guided tour of the Spanish capital!

Velázquez Tech Museum Ticket With this  ticket to the Velázquez Tech Museum , you'll enjoy   an incredible  immersive experience through the artist and his Meninas .

Liria Palace Ticket Explore one of the most beautiful palaces in Madrid with this admission ticket to the Liria Palace and delve into the history of the House of Alba.

Toledo Day Trip & Winery Visit  Fall in love with the " City of Three Cultures " on this day trip to Toledo  in which we'll visit the  Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca and a renowned winery .

Madrid MAPFRE Foundation Ticket With your ticket to MAPFRE Foundation , you'll see an essential part of Madrid's cultural agenda thanks to its Fine Arts and Photography exhibitions!

The Turron Museum has arrived in Madrid. With this ticket, you'll discover the  secrets of this Spanish delicacy  and try some!

Free Walking Tour of Modern Madrid Discover the fascinating history of the Spanish capital on our  Free Walking Tour of Modern Madrid . You'll explore the city and see its most iconic monuments.

With this ticket to Ikono Madrid , you'll enjoy a fun immersive experience in the Spanish capital for all audiences - you'll have an amazing time!

Explore the City of Three Cultures at your own pace with this bus excursion to Toledo. The best way to see its monumental heritage at your leisure!

Flamenco Show in the Tablao 1911 Attend a Flamenco show at the Tablao 1911 in Madrid and enjoy a unique and captivating evening full of Spanish guitars, singing, and passionate dancing.

Cuenca Full-Day Trip Discover Cuenca and its magnificent hanging houses on this trip from Madrid , followed by the surprising geological site of the Ciudad Encantada .

Parque Warner Ticket Stroll down the fabulous Warner Bros Walk of Fame and discover the fantastic Looney Tunes village when you visit Madrid's Parque Warner (Warner Park).

With the Lebara SIM card , you can stay in touch with your loved ones during your trip to Spain, with internet and international calls!

Las Ventas Bullring Tour Explore Madrid’s most famous bull ring during a one-hour audio-guided tour and learn about a tradition that has existed in Spain since Roman Times.

Private Tour from Madrid Toledo, Segovia, La Granja, Salamanca, Ávilla, El Escorial... Discover the sights waiting for you just outside Madrid with a specialist local guide .

Royal Palace & Almudena Cathedral Tour Discover two iconic landmarks of Madrid and learn about the city's history with this fantastic tour of the Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral !

On this guided tour, we'll visit the most iconic areas of Madrid and visit the best tapas bars in the city to experience the flavors of Spanish cuisine .

Reina Sofía Museum Guided Tour Explore the second most-visited museum in Madrid led by an experienced guide & be awed by 20th-century masterpieces by artists like Dalí, Miró and Picasso.

Excursion to Segovia, el Escorial and The Valley of the Fallen The architecture of El Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen , the historical heritage of Segovia... Don't miss these jewels just outside Madrid.

Segovia Self-Guided Tour by Bus This bus trip to Segovia allows you to explore the World Heritage Site cities at your own pace. It also includes a walking tour of the historic centre!

Go City: Madrid Explorer Pass The Madrid Explorer Pass gives you access to 3, 4, 5, or 7 of the principal attractions around the city. Choose your itinerary and save up to 50%.

Guided Tour of the Gallery of the Royal Collections Join us on a  tour of the Royal Collections Museum in the Royal Palace of Madrid —discover the artistic legacy preserved by generations of Spanish monarchs .

Al Ándalus Hammam Spa Experience a traditional hammam spa in the heart of Madrid and connect with the Moorish history of Spain at the Andalusian Arab Baths.

Cuenca + the Hanging Houses Day Trip Do you want to discover the famous Hanging Houses ? On this day trip to Cuenca , you'll tour the main attractions of its old town and visit its best viewpoints.

Dinner and Zarzuela Opera at La Castafiore Restaurant Experience  a memorable soirée full of Zarzuela opera and excellent food  at Madrid restaurant La Castafiore. Enjoy a delicious meal while listening to opera!

Warner Park Excursion Spend a full day enjoying the  attractions at Warner Park and its shows  based on the Warner Factory's famous characters and films.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum Guided Tour Explore the Thyssen Museum , one of the best museums in Madrid with an expert art history guide and see masterpieces by artists like Rubens, Dalí and Rembrandt.

5-Day Trip to Andalucia and Toledo Discover the artistic, architectural, and cultural legacy left by Arabs, Jews, and Christians throughout the centuries in Cordoba, Seville, Granada and Toledo.

Segovia Hot Air Balloon Ride Discover Segovia from above and enjoy bird’s-eye views of some of the city’s main attractions on a hot-air balloon ride  over the Spanish medeival city!

Madrid Bike Rental and Optional Guided Tour Rent a bike glide through the streets of Madrid and discover the city’s main highlights, stopping as many times as you want throughout the day.

Madrid Wax Museum Ticket Cristiano Ronaldo, Marilyn Monroe, Barack Obama... Take a selfie with famous personalities from every era in the Wax Museum of Madrid.

Mason Tour of Madrid Discover the mysteries of the secret society in Madrid with this intriguing Freemasons tour  and decipher hidden messages around the city!

Flamenco Show at the Las Carboneras Tablao Passion, tradition and incredible performances await at the Flamenco Show at the Las Carboneras Tablao in Madrid. Get ready for lots of Spanish  duende !

Madrid Pub Crawl Experience Madrid’s world-renowned nightlife on a fantastic pub crawl and discover the city’s best bars and night clubs .

On this wineries tour in the Tagus Valley, we'll head to the south of Madrid in search of the best wines . We'll visit three wineries and do tastings in each.

Andalucia, Costa del Sol & Toledo 6 Day Trip Take a 6-day trip to the historic cities of Caceres, Cordoba, Seville, Malaga & Toledo. See the magical community of Andalusia, and the beautiful Costa del Sol.

Madrid 'Landscape of Light' Route Learn about Madrid's Landscape of Light on our Retiro Park & Paseo del Prado Guided Visit. You'll explore the Spanish capital's UNESCO Site.

This olive oil tasting in Madrid will teach you to distinguish the characteristics of all the varieties of this key product in Mediterranean cuisine .

Go City: Madrid All-Inclusive Pass With the Go City: Madrid All-Inclusive Pass , you get admission to over 20 must-see attractions in Madrid , including iconic places like the Prado Museum .

Andalucia, Valencia & Barcelona 7-Day Trip This 7-day trip is the perfect way to discover Spain's most emblematic cities . You'll explore Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona & Zaragoza!

Puy du Fou Show Day Trip Visit the magical theme park to watch one of Spain's most impressive shows with the Puy du Fou Show Day Trip, departing from Madrid.

Escape the Spanish capital and explore three of its most enchanting nearby destinations: discover Aranjuez, Toledo and Chinchón on this tour from Madrid !

Madrid Family Tourist Bus Traveling to Madrid   with children? The Madrid family tourist bus is the perfect option for visiting the city in comfort with the youngest members of the family.

Aladdin The Musical Ticket Dream of flying to a whole new world ? Make your wishes come true with these tickets for Aladdin, the musical  and revisit this Disney story in a different way!

Discover one of the great treasures of Castilla-La Mancha on this day trip   to Consuegra from Madrid . You'll also get to see its  famous windmills !

Andalucia, Toledo & Costa del Sol 5-Day Trip  Join us on this 5-day trip from Madrid to colorful Andalusia , the crown jewel of Spain, and explore the following cities: Cordoba, Seville, Granada and Toledo .

Evening Tapas and Flamenco Tour Enjoy a true  Spanish experience on this tour of Madrid where you'll try different traditional tapas and get to see an authentic flamenco performance !

Retiro Park & Cibeles Palace Observatory Tour Admire the impressive views of Madrid and visit one of the most important corners around the capital with this Retiro Park & Cibeles Palace Observatory Tour.

Toledo, El Escorial & Valley of the Fallen Day Trip Vist three monumental and artistic jewels with this Toledo, El Escorial & Valley of the Fallen Day Trip. Enjoy exploring these must-see impressive locations.

Las Tablas Tablao Flamenco Show Let the  duende  of flamenco overcome you by attending a show at Las Tablas in Madrid. You'll be spellbound by guitar, singing and dance performances!

Parque Warner Beach Madrid Admission Buy a ticket to Parque Warner Beach Madrid and discover a paradise of exciting water attractions for the whole family to enjoy!

Malinche Ticket This ticket to Malinche , the musical spectacle by Nacho Cano , will allow you to enjoy a unique show about the cultural fusion between two sibling towns .

Tour of Madrid + Cathedral and Royal Palace Explore the heart of the Spanish capital  as you uncover two iconic landmarks , the Almudena Cathedral and Royal Palace , on this guided tour through Madrid!

Lisbon, Porto & Fátima 6 Day Tour Join us to discover the history, religion, and culture of Portugal in this 6-day tour of Lisbon, Fatima, Porto, Alcobaça, and Batalha .

Faunia Ticket Leave the hustle and bustle of Madrid behind for a few hours and get lost in Faunia . You'll enjoy a unique natural environment.

Atlantis Aquarium Ticket With this ticket to Atlantis Aquarium , we'll visit the largest aquarium in the Community of Madrid  and see species of marine ecosystems from all over the world!

Portugal, Andalusia, and Morocco 18-Day Trip Take a 18-day trip from Madrid and discover the south of Spain, Portugal and Morocco and their most popular cities. Our most complete tour!

Madrid Plane Ride See El Escorial, the walls of Ávila, the castle of Coca or the Sierra de Guadarrama from a bird's eye view. You can't miss this Madrid Plane Ride.

Puy du Fou Ticket + El Sueño de Toledo During this excursion from Madrid , we'll journey to Castilla-La Mancha to visit Puy du Fou Spain , to see the " El Sueño de Toledo " show.

Flamenco Show at Flamenco de Leones Immerse yourself in Spanish culture  and delectable cuisine as you attend a show at Flamenco de Leones , a Madrid tablao  that is one of the city's finest!

Toledo Tour + Ticket to Puy du Fou + El Sueño de Toledo On this  tour to Toledo , we'll visit the  Manchego Capital and have a  ticket to  Puy du Fou and its  night show  El Sueño de Toledo .

Don Quixote Tour of Toledo, Consuegra & Alcalá de Henares On this Don Quixote route through Toledo , Consuegra and Alcalá de Henares , we'll follow in the footsteps of Miguel de Cervantes' most famous character.

Sweet Space Ticket Our Sweet Space Ticket will grant you admission to a dreamlike space in the heart of Madrid . You'll see how art, technology, and sweets blend together.

Toledo + Ávila Tour If you to see two Spanish cities that have been declared World Heritage Sites on the same day, you can't miss this tour of Toledo  and Ávila from Madrid

Madrid Ghost Tour Ghosts from ages past pass through the capital when night falls: get to know their legends with this nighttime ghost tour of Madrid.

Atletico Madrid Stadium & Museum Tour Discover the secrets of the  Cívitas  Metropolitano , the stadium of Atletico Madrid, and learn all about the club at the Territorio Atleti Museum.

Experience flamenco performed by the most outstanding dancers and musicians  in the heart of the Spanish capital with this show at Tablao La Pacheca .

Madrid Christmas Lights Tuk-Tuk Tour On this tuk-tuk tour of Madrid , you'll feel the spirit of the most magical time of the year with a sightseeing route to see the dazzling  Christmas lights

Segobriga & the Lapis Specularis Mines Excursion On this excursion to Segobriga and the Lapis Specularis mines , we'll follow the traces of the Roman Empire in Cuenca and visit the site of Noheda .

Combo Tour: Reina Sofia & Thyssen Museums Embark on a guided tour of two of Madrid's most important art museums , the Reina Sofía Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum .

Madrid Navibus Tour Board the  Navibus to enjoy a  panoramic route of Madrid and see the  most beautiful   Christmas lights that   decorate the streets of the Spanish capital .

Civitatis Locker—Locker Rental for Luggage Have you just arrived in Madrid and don't know where to keep your luggage? Civitatis Locker is a 24-hour locker rental service to store your luggage . 

The most complete guide to Madrid

We want to be your guide! That's why we have written a traveler’s guide for travelers. Our Madrid travel guide includes our opinion, advice and suggestions on how to make the most of your holidays in Madrid, while saving money and time.

The information provided in this guide was updated in June 2024 . If you find a mistake or would like to make a suggestion, please do not hesitate to contact us .

Our travel guides

• top attractions
• where to stay
• and much more

16 ways to enjoy Madrid on a budget

Jun 13, 2023 • 6 min read

Save money by biking around the city with Bicimad © Westend61 / Getty Images © © Westend61 / Getty Images

Compared to most European capitals, Madrid stands out as an inviting and affordable destination that even budget-conscious travelers can enjoy. From centrally located accommodations to exquisite wine and tapas to world-renowned art museums, you don't need to spend a mint to get a rich cultural experience from the Spanish capital.

If you’re savvy with spending, you can enjoy a full range of Madrid’s diverse attractions without sacrificing quality. Check out our top tips to stretch your travel budget . 

Daily costs in Madrid

• Hostel room: €29 to €40 per night for a bed in a mixed dorm, depending on location and season 
• Basic room for two: €36 to €45 per night for basic room in a budget hotel or boutique hostel
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): €60 to €150 per night 
• Public transport ticket: single one way ticket, €1.50
•  Combined Metrobús ticket for 10 rides: €6.10  
• Coffee ( café con leche , or standard coffee with milk): €1.50 to €2.50 
• Sandwich: €3 to €5
• Dinner for two: average three-course meal per person at a mid-range restaurant, €25 to €35
• Beer: about €2.50 for a caña , or small glass of beer (about 250ml) on tap; €4 for a doble  (about 400ml) 
• Glass of Spanish house wine: €2.50 to €3.50

Average daily cost: €70 to €120 per person, including three meals a day, accommodation and activities .

1. Take the metro or bus from the airport to the city center

Instead of taking a taxi from the airport with a fixed price of €30, you can save a lot by spending €3 on a Suplemento Aeropuerto ticket instead. Hop onto the metro train (Line 8) to go straight to the city’s business center, stopping at the Nuevos Ministerios station that branches out to Madrid's neighborhoods. You can also opt to take an airport bus that runs 24/7 from the airport to the city center for €5. 

2. Take public transport

Madrid is a commuter-friendly city known for its efficient multi-modal public transport infrastructure , including an organized metro-rail system and bus network. You can save a lot by skipping taxis and navigating the city instead with a Metrobús ticket, which gives you 10 metro or bus rides for €6.10.  

3. Take the early morning Avlo train for long-distance travel

Great news for early bird travelers: you can save as much as 70% on long-distance train fares if you take the high-speed, low-cost  Avlo . It's the earliest train departing Madrid, leaving at 6:30am and connecting you to several main Spanish cities, including Barcelona, Valencia, Málaga and Sevilla, for only €7. 

4. Book car-share rides with BlaBlaCar

Popular among locals, this affordable and sustainable car-share service gets you to several points all over Spain without paying a hefty gas bill. Check the  website for a list of ride schedules with drivers’ ratings, pick-up points and prices. This is also a great way to practice your Spanish with locals!  

5. Bike around the city with Bicimad

Bicimad distributes more than 7000 electric bikes to 600-plus charging stations around Madrid, with prices starting from €2 for the first hour of use. You'll need to download the app to register and start using the bikes. 

6. Order the menú del día (daily menu) for lunch

On weekdays, check the chalkboards outside most restaurants for their menú del día , a fixed-price menu ranging from €8 to €17 for a three-course meal with dessert, drinks, bread and coffee . 

7. Enjoy free tapas with every drink order

While getting a free plate of tapas with every drink is standard practice in Madrid's restaurants and bars, some establishments, like El Tigre,  are known for being extra generous with their servings.  The ubiquitous 100 Montaditos is a student favorite that’s open all day and serves a wide assortment of tasty sandwiches at €1 each.

8. Shop in mercados

Skip the supermarket and make a beeline instead for one of Madrid's open-air markets, featuring a colorful selection of stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and fish at significantly cheaper prices than the big grocery chains. You'll also find quaint little restaurants, cafés and wineries interspersed among the stalls, which combine great gastronomic offers with friendly prices. For a more local flavor, check out Mercado Antón Martín and Mercado de Vallehermoso . 

9. Avoid dining in Plazas Mayor and Sol

While these central landmarks are on the must-see list for visitors to Madrid , keep in mind that many of the restaurants in these high-tourist-traffic areas have much higher-priced menus.  

10. Skip dining al fresco on a terraza (outdoor terrace) and eat inside

While a big part of the charming Madrid experience is eating outdoors on one of the many open-air terraces, many establishments charge extra for an outdoor table. You can save a few euros (and use that to get, say, a nice glass of rioja instead) by eating indoors. 

11. Get delivery discounts and reduce food waste with Too Good to Go

Similar to any delivery-service platform, this app shows you nearby restaurants, shops, bars, fruit stands and bakeries that offer food or produce unsold that day, marked down significantly – sometimes up to 70% off the selling price – with a specific time to pick it up. You’ll be saving on euros (and saving the planet).

12. Make sure you're not paying extra for bread

Most restaurants will ask if you'd like some bread to go with your order. Unless this is part of the menu del día, you could get charged for it, so best to ask the servers if this would cost you extra.

13. Visit Madrid's “Golden Triangle” museums for free

You can enjoy  Madrid's world-famous art museums during designated free-entry times. The Museo del Prado is free to the public Monday through Saturday from 6pm to 8pm and on Sundays and public holidays from 5pm to 7pm. Visiting the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza is complimentary on Mondays from 12pm to 4pm, while the Reina Sofia is free on weekdays (except Tuesday) from 7pm to 9pm, and on Sundays and selected public holidays from 12:30pm to 4:30pm.

14. Show your student or senior-citizen ID

Students and persons over 65 years old can enjoy discounted or free services on public transport and several attractions. 

15. Explore more affordable neighborhoods

Some of Madrid's most interesting barrios (neighborhoods) are just off the city center, with a ton of options for eating and drinking at prices that won't break the bank. Lavapiés is a little global village known for its array of multicultural culinary offerings, with streets lined with restaurants and cafés serving economically priced menus from South Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

16. Check out what's on at Matadero

This refurbished slaughterhouse has been reinvented as a dynamic cultural hub  packed with free exhibitions, film showings, dance and musical performances, shows and street-food festivals. It's a wallet-friendly alternative to the tourist traps for experiencing Madrid's avant-garde attractions. 

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