MADRID, SPAIN
Madrid is the capital and most populous city of Spain. It had a population of over 3.4 million in the city proper in 2025, and a metropolitan area population of approximately 6.8 million. Madrid is the second-largest city in the European Union (EU), after Berlin, and its metropolitan area is the second largest in the EU, after Paris. The municipality covers an area of 605.77 square kilometres (233.89 sq. mi). Madrid lies on the River Manzanares in the central part of the Iberian Peninsula at about 660 metres (2,170 ft) above mean sea level. The capital city of both Spain and the surrounding autonomous community of Madrid, it is the political, economic and cultural centre of the country.
TRANSPORT INFO
How to get to Madrid
Air
Madrid has one international airport called Madrid-Barajas, located only 12km from the city centre.
There are multiple ways to get to the city from the airport. There is the metro line number 8 operating from 6.00 am to 1.30 am. A single-way costs between €4.50 to €5.00. There are also city buses going from the airport to the centre. The fastest one is the 203 Airport Express that runs 24/7, and the ticket is €5.00.
Getting around in Madrid
Taxi
The Royal Ride Madrid is a taxi company that provides rides within the city, between the airport and the city and intercity rides. The information about the prices can be found on their websites and the airport website.
Car
More than 3 million cars travel on the streets of Madrid every day, meaning that the city has some of the heaviest traffic in Europe. This makes driving in Madrid at certain times a real test of patience and determination. There are multiple parking spaces where you can leave your car, with prices going from €2.00 to €5.00 per hour.
Bus
The EMT (Empresa Municipal de Transportes) is responsible for the bus network within the city. There are multiple bus lines going around the city, with some of them covering neighbourhoods that the subway doesn’t cover. A single-ride ticket costs €1.50 and a pack of 10 tickets costs €7.30.
Metro
Madrid also has a metro with 16 lines covering the whole city. You can find a map of the metro here: Madrid Subway Lines
Depending on your journey, the prices for a single ride can vary between €1.50 and €3.00. The detailed prices can be found here: Tickets
Bicycle
Riding a bike in Madrid is not so popular, as people usually prefer using public transportation. However, the city has created a rental system of electric bikes called BiciMad, where you can book a bicycle through their application.
Practical tips – Need to know
Language: Spanish
Currency: EUR Euro
Time zone: GMT + 1
Country code: + 34
Voltage: 230 V
Electrical socket: Type F (Schuko)
Tourist Contacts:
+34 915 787 810
Internet Resources:
General emergency number: 112
Explore city centre
Plaza Mayor
The Plaza Mayor is the beating heart of Madrid and stands as one of the most stunning squares in all of Spain. This historic porticoed plaza, anchored by the majestic statue of King Philip III and the iconic Casa de la Panadería, is a must-visit landmark for travellers seeking history, culture, and the city’s most authentic atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring its world-famous Christmas Market or stopping to savour a traditional calamari sandwich under its historic arches, Plaza Mayor is the ultimate starting point for your journey through Madrid’s historic city centre.
Royal palace
The Royal Palace of Madrid is one of the city’s most emblematic landmarks and a must-see for those interested in history, architecture, and royal heritage. Built on the site of the former Alcázar, which was destroyed by fire in the 18th century, it is the largest royal palace in Western Europe. Today, it remains an impressive symbol of Spanish history and monarchy. Opening hours: Oct-Mar – Mon-Sat 10.00 am - 6.00 pm, Sun 10.00 am - 4.00 pm, Apr-Sep – Mon-Sat 10.00 am - 7.00 pm, Sun 10.00 am/4.00 pm. Admission: Between €32 and €39 for adults (without or with guided tours). Discounts are available. All information can be found here.
Retiro park
El Retiro Park is much more than Madrid’s main green lung; it is an open-air museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering more than 125 hectares, this former royal garden offers a perfect combination of nature, historic architecture and leisure, making it a key landmark among the essential places to visit in Madrid. From boating on its iconic Great Pond to admiring the light-filled Crystal Palace, strolling through the Rose Garden or relaxing in the Parterre Garden, El Retiro is a unique retreat in the heart of the city.
Prado Museum
The Prado Museum is one of Madrid’s most important cultural landmarks and the most visited museum in Spain. It is especially known for its outstanding collection of Spanish painting, the largest in the world. Its galleries offer a rich journey through Spain’s artistic and historical identity, making it a must-see for visitors interested in art, history, and culture. Opening hours: Mon - Sat 10:00 am. – 8:00 pm. Sundays and holidays from 10:00 am. – 7:00 pm. Tickets and prices can be found here.
The Puerta de Alcalá
The Puerta de Alcalá is one of Madrid’s most photographed monuments and a historic gateway to the city. Designed by Francesco Sabatini in 1778, it was one of the former royal gates and remains an important architectural landmark. Located near El Retiro Park, Cibeles, and Puerta del Sol, it is a great starting point for exploring Madrid’s history, culture, and urban life.
