travel centre madrid

Travel Safe

The capital city with a thousand options

Buen Retiro Park

Royal Palace

Puerta de Alcalá Gate

Plaza Mayor square in Madrid

Casa de la Villa City Hall and Casa de Cisneros House

Teatro Real

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Prado Museum

Gallery of the Royal Collections

Reina Sofía National Art Centre

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How to get there - transport information

Select the means of transport to see how to get there or how to get around at your destination.

How to get to aeroplane

Madrid Airport is 12 kilometres from the city centre, which can easily be reached by public transport.

By metro , take line 8. The trip costs an additional 3 euros on top of the cost of any ticket, and the journey is just over 30 minutes.

By train , you can take the C-1 and C-10 Cercanías lines, which take around half an hour to reach the city centre.

By bus, you can get to the centre with the Exprés Aeropuerto , in about half an hour for 5 euros, or take the regular city bus routes 200 or 101.

By taxi , the journey between the airport and the city centre has a fixed price of 30 euros.

If travelling by night, take the airport express bus or a taxi.

By road , the most common route is along the M-40, and it takes just over 20 minutes.

More information

How to get to train

If you are travelling to Madrid by train, you can reach two main stations: Atocha and Chamartín.

Madrid Station - Puerta de Atocha - Almudena Grandes : In the city centre. You can easily leave the station by public transport: you can take the Metro (line 1), the train (all the Cercanías or local trains) and the bus (lines 10, 14, 19, 24, 26, 32, 34, 36, 37, 54, 55, 57, 59, 85, 86, 102, 119, 141, 203, E1, C1, C2, C03, SE766, N9, N10, N11, N12, N13, N15, N25) and taxi . International connections to Paris and Lisbon. High-speed trains to Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, Malaga, and more destinations.

Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor Station : In the north of the city. From the station, you can take the metro (lines 1 and 10), train (lines C-1, C-2, C-3, C3a, C-4, C-7, C-8 and C-10), bus  (lines 5, T62) and taxi . International connections to Paris and Lisbon.

Ticket booking

How to get to bus

If you want to get to Madrid by bus, you have two options in terms of stations: the Méndez Álvaro station, also known as the Estación Sur, and the Avenida de América station.

Sur Station : Located in the southern part of the city of Madrid. Public transport connections: Metro (line 6), train (lines C1, C5, C7, C10), bus (lines 8, 102, 113, 148, 152, 156, N11) and taxi .

Avenida de América Station : In the north of the city. Public transport connections: Metro (lines 4, 6, 7 and 9), bus (1, 12, 52, 72, 73, 114, 115, 122, 200, C1, C2, N2, N4) and taxi .

How to get there by road

The main roads leading to Madrid are the A-1 (from the Basque Country), A-2 (Barcelona), A-3 (Valencia), A-4 (Seville), A-5 (Extremadura) and A-6 (Galicia).

Please note that large parts of the city centre are Low-Emissions Zones, where driving and parking are restricted. If you arrive in Madrid by car or motorcycle, consult the website of the City Council to find out about these areas. These restrictions apply equally to vehicles with foreign registrations. If your vehicle has an environmental rating from France or Portugal, check DGT website the table of equivalences of environmental ratings in European Union countries to know what restrictions might affect you. You can also get information before travelling through your accommodation in Madrid.

Practical information

Most points of interest are concentrated in the centre, which makes it easy to explore them on foot.

Tourist pass : for just one person. Unlimited travel on the metro, bus and train network. There are five types: lasting one, two, three, four, five or seven calendar days and with two different levels of coverage: A (to travel within the city of Madrid) and T (to also travel in the surrounding areas, as this pass includes all the other zones).

How to get around in metro/tram

The Metro network covers the entire city of Madrid and connects it to other nearby towns within the region of Madrid .

It operates from 6:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. every day. 

You can buy single tickets, passes for 10 journeys, or special tickets to the airport.

How to get around in train

The Cercanías train network covers the entire city of Madrid and connects it to other nearby towns within the region of Madrid .

It runs from 5.30 am to 11.30 pm.

You can buy single or return tickets, or a pass for 10 journeys.

How to get around in bus

The city bus lines usually operate between 6:00 am and 11:30 pm.

Night buses, known as “búhos” (owls), run from 11.20 pm or 11.45 pm to 5.30 am or 6 am, and until 7 am on Saturday nights and before public holidays. Most lines start at Plaza de Cibeles. 

There are also intercity lines that connect the city of Madrid with other towns in the region.

Sightseeing bus around the most iconic spots with 1 or 2 day tickets.

How to get around in other means of transport

By taxi : Easily identifiable white vehicles with a red stripe. A green light on the roof shows they are available. You can get a taxi from a taxi rank, stop one in the street (the ones with their green light on) or book one on one of the different apps . Taxis from Madrid-Barajas airport to Madrid city centre have a set price of €30 each way.

A different, quick and ecological way to travel around Madrid is by bike, whether by hiring one from the different companies that provide this service or using the municipal bike hire service, Bicimad .

There is a cable car that crosses over the Casa de Campo park. 

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Madrid

Written by Michael Law , Lana Law , and Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Authors Michael and Lana Law last visited Madrid in the fall of 2022 while on assignment for PlanetWare.

Full of energy and packed with cultural attractions, Madrid is a modern metropolis that offers a taste of the real Spain. Wide avenues are congested with traffic, but beautiful parks break up the urban sprawl.

Madrid is a hub of social life with a happening café culture and bustling nightlife. Constantly buzzing with activity, the city offers so much to see and do that you will be spoiled for choice.

The world-class Prado Museum displays an endless array of masterpieces created during the Golden Age of Spain, and the 18th-century Royal Palace rivals the Château de Versailles in France.

Be sure to experience Madrid in the evening, when the city really comes to life. Madrileños love going out on the town, and the paseo por la noche (evening stroll) is a cherished ritual.

If possible, it's best to avoid visiting during summer when the heat is oppressive. Savvy travelers come to Madrid during the springtime or autumn to take advantage of more mild weather.

Spain's capital city, Madrid boasts an impressive array of historical monuments and art museums, as well as pleasant gardens and public plazas. Learn more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Madrid.

1. Museo Nacional del Prado

2. buen retiro park and the crystal palace, 3. royal palace and gardens, 4. wander through the plaza mayor, 5. puerta del sol: the heart of the city, 6. museo thyssen-bornemisza: fine arts museum, 7. estadio santiago bernabéu: real madrid's stadium, 8. museo nacional centro de arte reina sofía, 9. fuente de cibeles and gran via, 10. mercado de san miguel, 11. temple of debod: an ancient egyptian temple, 12. goya frescoes at ermita de san antonio de la florida, 13. basílica de san francisco el grande, 14. museo sorolla, 15. national archaeological museum, 16. lázaro galdiano museum, 17. puerta de alcalá, 18. national museum of romanticism, where to stay in madrid for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to madrid, map of tourist attractions & things to do in madrid.

A truly world-class museum, the Museo Nacional del Prado has a collection of more than 8,000 paintings and 700 sculptures. Among its extensive assortment of artworks are many masterpieces, including celebrated paintings that rival the most famous works of the Louvre Museum in Paris.

The Prado Museum displays around 2,300 pieces of the collection in more than 100 rooms on three floors. Trying to see it all in one visit can be daunting, but it's possible to focus on a specific itinerary of masterpieces. The Prado suggests "routes" (self-guided tours) of specific works.

Spanish paintings from the 12th century to the early 19th century form the majority of the collection. The assortment of paintings by Francisco de Goya comprises a remarkable 140 works. Also not-to-be-missed is Las Meninas , a depiction of the Spanish royal family of Felipe IV created by Velázquez in 1656.

Other must-see works in the Spanish Painting collection include The Annunciation by El Greco, Jacob's Dream by José de Ribera, The Third of May by Goya, The Virgin and Child by Luis de Morales, Christ Embracing Saint Bernard by Francisco Ribalta, and The Immaculate Conception by Murillo.

Part of the Prado Museum's exhibition space includes a contemporary building and the renovated 16th-century cloister of the San Jerónimo el Real monastery. These galleries display a noteworthy collection of 17th-century Spanish religious paintings.

Get the most out of your time at the Prado by joining a Skip the Line: Prado Museum Tour in Madrid , avoiding the long lines and going directly to the most interesting galleries. On the 90-minute tour, your knowledgeable guide provides an overview of the museum's must-see masterpieces, while providing historical context to help you understand the artworks.

After touring the art collection, tourists can relax at the Real Jardín Botánico (Royal Botanical Garden) located next to the Prado Museum. This lovely green space features shady pathways, benches, sculptures, greenhouses, a Kitchen Garden planted with vegetables, and a Rose Garden that blooms in May and early June. The Real Jardín Botánico is also home to the Museum of Natural History .

About a 10-minute walk from the Real Jardín Botánico is the popular Restaurante TriCiclo (28 Calle Santa María), which serves lunch and dinner in a contemporary-style dining room with a casual ambience. The restaurant specializes in international cuisine, prepared from seasonal market ingredients with gastronomic flair.

Address: Paseo del Prado, Madrid

The Buen Retiro Park ( Parque del Retiro ) is an oasis of peace in the heart of Madrid. This lush and beautifully manicured park offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park encompasses more than 125 hectares and is shaded by over 15,000 trees.

Created for the Count-Duke of Olivares in the 17th century, the historic park has an elegant ambiance with its variety of gardens and tree-lined paths. The Parque del Retiro was owned by the Spanish royal family until the 19th century; since then it has been a public park.

From the main entrance at the Plaza de Independencia, visitors arrive at the pool in the center of the park. From here, paths lead to the enchanting La Rosaleda ( Rose Garden ), the formal French Jardín de Don Cecilio , and the Andalusian-style Jardines de Cecilio Rodríguez .

Built in 1887, the Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace) is a splendid cast-iron and glass pavilion that presents exhibitions of contemporary art. The Crystal Palace looks out onto a graceful fountain and reflecting pool. Visitors will find other interesting fountains at Buen Retiro Park including Los Galápagos ( The Turtles ), El Ángel Caído ( The Fallen Angel ), and La Alcachofa ( The Artichoke ).

Locals and tourists alike enjoy boating on the park's tranquil lake. Other favorite things to do include taking the kids to puppet shows at the Teatro de Títeres, going for walks on the scenic tree-lined paths, and basking in the sun or relaxing in the shade at one of the park's outdoor cafés.

For stargazers, the park has an observatory that was built in 1790.

This grandiose palace is the Spanish version of Versailles, a royal court designed to impress. However, unlike Versailles, which is now just a museum, the Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real de Madrid) is still the official residence of a monarch (the King of Spain) and continues to be used for official State events.

The palace was commissioned by Philip V in the 18th century. The majestic Neoclassical facade is crafted entirely from granite and white Colmenar stone. The facade's Ionic columns and Doric pilasters are based on drawings that the sculptor Bernini originally intended for the Louvre in Paris. The balustrade features statues of Spanish kings.

The most striking aspect of the interior is the imposing staircase at the entrance hallway, with a fresco of The Triumph of Religion and the Church , that leads up to the main floor. Throughout the palace, masterpieces of art decorate the walls: paintings by Velázquez, Goya, Rubens, El Greco, and Caravaggio, and exquisite Flemish and French tapestries.

The King Charles III apartments are among the most beautiful rooms in the Royal Palace. These rooms are adorned with refined decor of the Enlightenment era.

A masterpiece of Rococo style, the Salón del Trono (Throne Room) is adorned with frescoes by Tiepolo including The Greatness of the Spanish Monarchy , one of his finest works. Still used for State ceremonies, the Throne Room is clad in sumptuous red velvet and decorated with valuable tapestries, mirrors, furniture, and chandeliers.

History buffs will want to visit the palace's Royal Armory (La Real Armería), which contains 3,000 exhibits dating back to the Middle Ages. On display are the armor and weapons that have been used by Spain's kings over the centuries.

Visitors should save time to explore the Jardines del Campo del Moro . These delightful historic gardens were created during the reign of Philip II and are landscaped in a formal French style with fountains and avenues. The 20-hectare green space provides a haven of tranquility in the center of Madrid. It's a wonderful place for relaxation and scenic strolls.

Address: Calle Bailén, Madrid

This elegant 17th-century plaza was built during the reign of Philip III and used as a center of commerce and municipal life, as well as the scene of ceremonial events such as the proclamation of a new king and the canonization of saints. The square also served as a venue for bullfights, dramatic performances, and knightly tournaments.

The Plaza Mayor took on its present appearance after a fire in 1790, when the corners were enclosed and the nine entrance arches were constructed, linking it to Calle de Toledo, Calle Mayor, Calle de Postas, and others.

Today, the Plaza Mayor continues to be an important gathering place in Madrid. The expansive cobblestone square is a pedestrian area, surrounded by outdoor cafés and atmospheric restaurants shaded by its arcades. In the evenings, the square is a lively place to visit for both tourists and Madrileños.

A short walk from the Plaza Mayor is the Chocolatería San Ginés (5 Pasadizo San Ginés), famous for its chocolate con churros (hot chocolate with deep-fried pastries), which has been a specialty since 1894. This inviting chocolate boutique and café features marble tables and refined decor. No need to rush, the Chocolatería San Ginés is open 24 hours a day Wednesday through Sunday, and until 11:30 pm Monday and Tuesday.

The Puerta del Sol was named after the sun emblem on the old city gate, which formerly stood here. This spacious town square aligns with the rising sun. Besides being a hub of public transportation (with several bus stops and Metro entrances), the Puerta del Sol is also the "Kilometer Zero" point from which all distances on the Spanish national road network are measured.

The Puerta del Sol has been the scene of many historic events, including the Spanish resistance to Napoleon on May 2nd, 1808, and in 1931, the Second Republic was proclaimed here.

Nowadays the square is a place to hang out and enjoy life. Lined with shops and cafés, the Puerta del Sol is still one of the most happening squares in Madrid.

The area around Puerta del Sol is packed with restaurants and shops. For tourists seeking special gifts to bring back home, La Violeta (6 Plaza de Canalejas) is the place to go. The shop is just steps away from the Puerta del Sol. Founded in 1915, this family-run boutique offers the Madrid specialty of violet candies, as well as chocolate bonbons and other old-fashioned confections.

Note: Puerto del Sol is undergoing major construction in 2023, and barricades and scaffolding dominate the scene.

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum presents an overview of European art from the 17th century to the late 20th century. With nearly 1,000 paintings on display, the collection covers medieval religious art, Renaissance-era portraits and biblical themes, the Baroque period, Rococo, Romanticism, Impressionism, Fauvism, Expressionism, modern art, and Pop Art. The museum also has an excellent collection of 19th-century American paintings.

This prestigious collection includes renowned masterpieces such as Christ and the Samaritan Woman by Duccio di Buoninsegna, V enus and Cupid by Peter Paul Rubens, The Annunciation by El Greco, Young Knight in a Landscape by Vittore Carpaccio, Jesus among the Doctors by Albrecht Dürer, The See-Saw by Jean-Honoré Fragonard, Dancer in Green by Edward Degas, Solitude by Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot, Route de Versailles by Camille Pissarro, Les Vessenots in Auvers by Vincent van Gogh, and The Harvesters by Pablo Picasso.

Since the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is located near the Prado, art lovers could easily combine a visit to both museums in the same day.

Address: 8 Paseo del Prado, Madrid

Not all of Madrid's tourist attractions revolve around art. One of its most-visited museums draws football (soccer) fans to the stadium known as Estadio Santiago Bernabéu , the home of the Real Madrid soccer club. The club boasts unapologetically that their stadium is the "Greatest Stadium in the World."

You can take a tour of the stadium, as well as the museum, which displays trophies, team artifacts, and temporary exhibits. Tours also give fans a chance to enjoy the view of the field from the top of the stadium.

Significant infrastructure improvements are planned over the next few years for the stadium. They include a retractable roof, digitization of the display screens, along with an underground car park.

Address: 1 Avenida de Concha Espina, 28036 Madrid

Opened by Queen Sofía in 1986, the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is Madrid's avant-garde center for contemporary art. The sleek modern building was created by the architect Antonio Fernández Alba and has features that recall the Pompidou Center in Paris, especially the three glass towers that house the elevators on the outside of the building.

Another wonderful surprise to visitors is the charming garden in the inner courtyard filled with imaginative sculptures.

The Museo Reina Sofía contains over 23,000 artworks in its collections. In its thorough representation of Spanish modern and contemporary art, the collection includes remarkable masterpieces such as works by Joan Miró, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Alexander Calder. The artworks are displayed in various rooms spread out in a vast exhibition space of 39,000 square meters.

Visitor amenities include a bookstore, gift shop , and audioguides. The museum also has a trendy café-restaurant, NuBel, which is open for brunch, lunch, afternoon refreshments, tapas, and dinner. Evening meals feature a lively ambience, with DJ music sets every night.

Address: 52 Calle de Santa Isabel, Madrid

Standing in a major traffic intersection, the Fuente de Cibeles (Cybele's Fountain) is one of the most emblematic monuments in Madrid. Lifelike statues depict the Roman Goddess Cybele riding a lion-drawn chariot. The fountain was created in 1782 by Francisco Gutiérrez and Roberto Michel with the original purpose of providing water for public use.

Behind the fountain is the Palacio de Cibeles , which houses the CentroCentro cultural center, which hosts art exhibitions and workshops, conferences, and concerts. The Centro Palacio de Cibeles has the Restaurante Palacio de Cibeles on the sixth floor, an elegant dining establishment with spectacular city views. Visitors can also admire panoramic vistas from the Mirador observation deck on the building's eighth floor.

Nearby (via Calle de Alcala) is one of Madrid's most popular shopping streets, the Gran Vía . Tourists will find many restaurants, hotels, and theaters on this bustling street.

Just off the Gran Vía on Calle de Jovellanos, the famous Teatro de la Zarzuela presents ballet performances and classical music concerts, including renowned performances of zarzuela - a unique type of satirical opera with songs accompanied by classical Spanish guitar music.

Address: Plaza de Cibeles, Madrid

Touring a city like Madrid with all its sights can bring on a fierce hunger. Fortunately, the Mercado de San Miguel has everything you need to recharge your natural batteries. Here, you'll find over 20 different vendors selling the freshest meats, cheeses, fruit, and tempting tapas.

Vendor stalls are piled high with taste-bud tempting items. Figuring out what to eat may be the toughest task you face all day. Pick a few things from each place and then sit at one of the tables and soak up the lively atmosphere.

The Mercado de San Miguel has been operating in the same location for over 100 years. You'll find it just to the west of Plaza Mayor.

Address: Plaza de San Miguel, Madrid

An ancient Egyptian temple in Madrid? Yes, such a thing does exist, and it can be found in La Montaña Park (close to the Plaza de España). A gift from Egypt, in thanks for Spain's help in saving the Abu Simbel temples during the building of the Aswan Dam, the Temple of Debod was brought to Madrid in 1968.

The temple was built for King Adikhalamani in the 2nd century BC and was dedicated to the Egyptian God and Goddess, Amun and Isis. Well-preserved original decorations are found inside the temple, which is rare for an archaeological site.

Originally the peaceful gardens surrounding the monument had reflective pools and a fountain; however, these features are no longer operating. Admission to the temple is limited, and the line moves very slowly. Sights inside are fairly limited, so if you see a long line, give it a pass.

Address: Parque de la Montaña, Calle de Ferraz, Madrid

Perhaps the least visited of Madrid's major art treasures are the stunning frescoes painted by Francesco Goya that decorate the vaults and ceiling of the chapel of the Hermitage of San Antonio de la Florida.

The little 18th-century chapel, along the banks of the Manzanares River behind the Royal Palace, hosts an annual festival in honor of Saint Anthony of Padua on June 13th, but it's the interior that has become a place of pilgrimage for art lovers.

Among Goya's finest works, the frescoes illustrate the theme of the miracle performed by Saint Anthony, while also depicting scenes of everyday life in Madrid. The frescoes reveal Goya's boldness of artistic style and revolutionary painting techniques. These works were painted at a turning point in Goya's career and are considered a precursor of modern painting.

The chapel is designated as a National Monument and is no longer used for religious services to protect the frescoes.

Address: 5 Glorieta de San Antonio de la Florida, Madrid

The Basílica de San Francisco el Grande was built by Carlos III in 1761 for a Franciscan friary. The church was designed by Francisco Cabezas, who modeled the Neoclassical architectural plan on the Church of Santa Maria in Campitelli in Rome. The construction was completed in 1784 by Francisco Sabatini.

The interior features an inspiring 58-meter-high dome that is larger than the dome of Saint Paul's Cathedral in London. Magnificent paintings adorn the chapels of the basilica, including masterpieces by the Spanish Old Masters.

In the first chapel on the left are Goya's Saint Bernardino , and Velázquez's Saint Bonaventure and The Appearance of the Virgin to Saint Anthony. The church also contains a painting of Saint Bonaventure by Zurbarán.

The church museum in the cloister displays a variety of religious art and artifacts.

Address: Plaza de San Francisco el Grande, Madrid

This charming museum is dedicated to the work of Joaquín Sorolla y Bastida, the most famous Spanish Impressionist painter. More than 1,200 paintings and drawings by Sorolla are displayed in the artist's house and studio, which has retained its original decor. The extensive collection includes a broad representation of Sorolla's works.

Visitors should be sure to see the museum's garden patio. Designed by Sorolla, this exquisite tree-shaded outdoor space is adorned with a gurgling fountain and Andalusian-style decorative tile work.

Address: 37 Paseo del General Martínez Campos, Madrid

The National Archaeological Museum (Museo Arqueológico Nacional) was founded by Queen Isabella II in 1867 and has a rich collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to the 19th century. Exhibits feature archaeological finds, ethnography, decorative arts from antiquity, and ancient coins.

Highlights of the permanent collection include Egyptian mummies, Hispano-Roman and Islamic archaeological finds, Visigothic crowns, and Mudéjar ceramics. One of the most prized possessions of the collection is the bust of the Lady of Elche and the ivory Pot from Zamora.

Address: 13 Calle de Serrano, Madrid

The Lázaro Galdiano Museum displays the exceptional private collection of 19th-century financier Lázaro Galdiano, housed in the mansion of Parque Florido , where he resided. The museum has an extensive collection of around 9,000 artworks exhibited in 30 rooms.

From armor, coins, and medals to jewelry, Baroque crystal, and tapestries, the collection is extremely diverse. Be sure to see the 16th- to 17th-century Spanish paintings by famous Old Masters, including El Greco, Goya, Velázquez, Zurbarán, Ribera, Pereda, and Murillo.

Among the masterpieces are El Aquelarre by Goya, San Francisco en éxtasis by El Greco, Meditaciones de San Juan Bautista by Hieronymus Bosch, Cabeza de Muchacha by Velázquez, El Salvador Adolescente by Giovanni Antonio Boltraffio, and La Tienda by Luis Paret y Alcázar.

Address: 122 Calle de Serrano, Madrid

This grand Neoclassical triumphal arch was commissioned by King Charles III to celebrate the arrival of the monarchs to Spain's capital city. The monument was designed by Francesco Sabatini and built between 1769 and 1778.

Nearly 30 meters high, the elegant granite entrance gate makes a grand impression. The facade is adorned with sculptures, capitals, and decorative reliefs.

Just below the monument, at 54 Calle Alcalá, is Madrid's fanciest patisserie shop VAIT Pastelerías , which offers exquisite cakes, cookies, pastries, chocolate candies, and hot chocolate.

Address: Plaza de la Independencia, Madrid

The National Museum of Romanticism (Museo del Romanticismo) presents a unique collection on the theme of Romanticism, the artistic and intellectual movement of the early 19th century. The museum occupies the Palacio del Marqués de Matallana , which dates to 1776 and features wonderful 19th-century decor and furnishings.

The eclectic collection includes jewelry, ceramics, furniture, and porcelain dolls. A highlight of the museum, the assortment of 19th-century paintings stands out for its exceptional quality, thanks to works by masters such as Goya.

The museum also has a splendid Magnolia Garden , landscaped in 18th-century formal French style with avenues, a fountain, and parterres. A café in the garden serves coffee and cakes to museum guests in need of refreshments.

Another cultural attraction nearby is the Museum of Contemporary Art (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo), located at 9 Calledel Conde Duque. This museum showcases avant-garde to present-day paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photography.

Just a 10-minute walk from the Museum of Contemporary Art is Madrid's largest department store, El Corte Inglés , which sells everything from clothes, shoes, and swimsuits to traditional Spanish fans.

Address: 13 Callede San Mateo, Madrid

Anywhere between the Royal Palace and Buen Retiro Park, an area that includes both the Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, is ideal for sightseeing. Most major tourist attractions lie in these neighborhoods, with the greatest concentration of art museums along Paseo del Prado, the famed Mile of Art, paralleling Buen Retiro Park. These highly rated hotels in Madrid are all in this central area:

Luxury Hotels :

• Catalonia Las Cortes is found between the Plaza Mayor and the Prado Museum. This four-star hotel occupies a renovated 18th-century palace with original architectural details. The spacious, elegant guest rooms feature modern amenities such as flat-screen televisions and coffee machines.
• The Hotel Atlantico is located on the Gran Via in the heart of Madrid's shopping district and an easy walk from all the major attractions. This four-star hotel has two cafés, one of which is on the rooftop terrace that affords superb views. Guest rooms feature classic décor and are outfitted with modern amenities.
• An emblematic landmark near Madrid's top museums, The Westin Palace Madrid occupies a Historic Monument dating to 1912 that was commissioned by Alfonso XIII. This opulent five-star hotel is one of the most luxurious places to stay in Spain. Services include three restaurants, a fitness center, spa treatments, and a hair salon.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The NH Madrid Nacional occupies a Historic Monument opposite the Real Jardín Botánico (botanical gardens) on Paseo del Prado, near the Atocha rail station. This modern four-star hotel is located in Madrid's "Art Triangle" just steps away from the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.
• Artrip Hotel gets rave reviews for its thoughtfully designed contemporary-style guest rooms, cozy atmosphere, and concierge service. The hotel is located about a 10-minute walk from the Reina Sofía Museum and a slightly farther walk to the Prado Museum.

Budget Hotels:

• Just a short walk away from the Prado Museum and the Plaza Mayor, the three-star Ibis Styles Madrid Prado offers comfortable guest rooms decorated in a whimsical style. Some rooms feature balconies; many rooms have city views. This modern hotel provides a 24-hour front reception desk.
• Between the Royal Palace and Puerta del Sol, the two-star Hotel Francisco I benefits from a quiet location on a pedestrian street. Tourists will appreciate that the area is brimming with shops and restaurants.
• Near the Plaza Mayor and the Puerta del Sol, the Mayerling Hotel offers comfortable guest rooms decorated in sleek minimalist style. This two-star hotel provides 24-hour front desk and concierge services.
• A stylish and fun addition to the budget scene and in a great location is the SLEEP'N Atocha . The hotel has small rooms, some with large windows that open to the square below. The highlight of the hotel is the sunny enclosed rooftop patio where it's easy to meet and chat with fellow travelers.

See the Highlights of Madrid in a Day:

• Many first-time visitors enjoy seeing the sights on the Hop-on Hop-off Madrid City Tour . This tourist-friendly experience offers 15 or 20 stops on two different routes, which include top attractions such as the Royal Palace, the Puerta del Sol, and the Cibeles Fountain.

Take a Spin around the City :

• For an exhilarating way to see the sights, consider the Madrid Segway Tour . This small-group excursion includes a safety briefing, a helmet, and an English-speaking guide. There is a choice of three different itineraries.

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites :

• The full-day Avila and Segovia Day Trip includes a tour of the two UNESCO World Heritage-listed cities near Madrid. More history and culture awaits on the Toledo Half-Day or Full-Day Trip , where you can admire masterpieces of painting by El Greco, stroll the city's medieval streets, and visit amazing historic monuments.

Experience a Serene Spiritual Site:

• Discover another remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site on the El Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen tour. This five-hour day trip from Madrid includes round-trip transportation, a guided tour of the 15th-century monastery, and a visit to a monument honoring fallen soldiers of the Spanish Civil War.

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Madrid has excellent art museums, phenomenal food, enormous parks and Europe’s largest palace, but its inclusive atmosphere is what really makes the city soar.

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Estadio Santiago Bernabéu

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El Ángel Caído

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La Venencia

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La Rosaleda

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Each of Madrid's vibrant neighborhoods has a distinct character. These are the best barrios to explore.

Visit beautiful villages, Roman ruins and walled cities on these day trips beyond Madrid.

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Commuter-friendly Madrid has a great public transportation network to get travelers around the city and its surrounding towns.

Free Things to Do

The Spanish capital is a city of fine food and rich culture, but costs can mount up quickly. Here's our guide to the best free things to do in Madrid.

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Madrid and beyond

Madrid/Centro

Centro is the central district in Madrid . It contains most of the city's historical centre , as well as the Royal Palace and the Parliament, and many opportunities for shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Fur this travel guide's purposes it is further divided into three neighbourhood articles:

• Puerta del Sol, barrio de las Letras and Lavapiés – the social and commercial centre of the city, the writers' quarter with many restaurants and bars and the city's most multicultural district
• La Latina and barrio de las Austrias – the oldest part of the city with traditional Mediterranean folk life, and the Palace quarter with the royal residence, cathedral and Plaza Mayor
• Malasaña and Chueca – the hip/alternative and the gay district

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• The Best 10 Things to Do in the City Centre of Madrid

Looking to visit the City Centre of Madrid?

We know how overwhelming it can be to dive into this grand city with so much to explore.

We did a month-long Spanish road trip in 2023 and dedicated significant time to exploring Madrid’s city center . Madrid was especially memorable for us as we celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary there!

Whether you’re a solo wanderer, a family on the move, or anyone in between, we’ve got you covered.

Let us guide you through the maze of must-sees and hidden gems, making your visit as thrilling as it is effortless.

So, lace up your walking shoes, and let’s embark on this city centre of Madrid adventure together!

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** Due to upcoming travel, services will be suspended from April 20th to May 24th **

City Centre of Madrid

What is the most central area in madrid.

Puerta del Sol square is the most central square of Madrid.

In fact, this square is designated as the center of all of Spain. You will find a plaque designating the center of Spain, Kilometre Zero, right in front of the Government Building in the Puerta del Sol .

In reality, the center of Spain is actually closer to Toledo , but the square maintains its designation.

Roughly 1 square kilometer around Puerta del Sol square is considered the city centre of Madrid.

From Puerta del Sol, you have less than a 15-minute walk to the major Madrid attractions.

What is Madrid City Centre called?

Puerta del Sol square is commonly referred to as Sol while the entire city centre of Madrid is referred to as centro or the “old town” .

City Centre of Madrid Map

The official tourism website of Madrid, www.esmadrid.com , has a good map of Madrid that is available for download on their website.

The area most commonly referred to as the city centre of Madrid, centro, is in the blue box below.

Centro has the majority of the main attractions but not all of them.

A few famous attractions that are slightly outside of centro are:

• Museo Nacional del Prado (Prado Museum) – If you love art, make sure to visit the Prado Museum. It is the primary national art museum in Spain and is renowned for having one of the best collections of European art in the world. Exploring with a tour guide is the best way to maximize your experience!

• Real Jardín Botánico (Royal Botanical Garden) – The Royal Botanical Garden in Madrid is a beautiful display of flora. In 1942, it was declared an Artistic Garden. The garden consists of a herbarium, a library with almost 10,000 drawings, and 5,500 species of live plants. 🌷
• Puerta de Alcalá – The Puerta de Alcalá is located in Plaza de la Independencia. Interestingly, the two sides of the gate are completely different from each other. This is because the architect, Francisco Sabatini, submitted two different sketches to Charles III, which were both approved. As a result, they used both designs on either side of the gate.
• Parque de El Retiro (El Retiro Park) – El Retiro Park is a massive (125 hectares) park just outside of Centro. In the park, you will find many stunning statues, landmarks, and locals living life with a game or a picnic. We loved taking a segway tour to see all of the park – it is huge!

• Plaza de España – Plaza de España, or “Spain’s Square” is located at the western end of the Gran Vía. The square is a hub for business as well as tourists due to the two iconic skyscrapers and the monument for Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra.
• Santiago Bernabéu Stadium – Home to Real Madrid, arguably the most famous football club in the world. The stadium is 2.5 miles north of the city centre of Madrid. If you want to see the stadium, the second largest in Spain, you can  book a stadium tour  and learn all about the history of the club or purchase tickets to a match! ️⚽️

Madrid City Centre Best Things to Do

There are so many fantastic things to do in Madrid, especially in the city center.

The best things to are:

Take a Walking Tour

Walking around Madrid, there are statues and squares at every corner – but what is their significance?

A walking tour is the perfect way to explore while listening to the epic history of Madrid.

A free walking tour is a great way to get this information in an inexpensive group setting. We always book free walking tours with GuruWalk .

In Madrid, there are several different tour offerings. Some just cover the old town, or centro, while others are in the new part of Madrid.

If you’d prefer to have a more 1:1 experience, booking a private walking tour is another fantastic option.

🚶 Picking a reputable company for a Madrid City Centre walking tour is so important! Below is the company we trust to give you the best experience: Babylon Tours Madrid

Madrid also has a number of tuk-tuk tour offerings if mobility or time is a concern!

Visit the Royal Palace

Typically, palaces are not our thing… The Royal Palace in Madrid is 1,000% the exception – it is stunning!

The detail in each room is truly jaw-dropping.

👉 The Royal Palace Fast-Access Admission Ticket is all you need.

We highly recommend getting the audio guide – it provides the right amount of detail and really helps bring the rooms to life!

By purchasing your ticket in advance, you can avoid the long queue of people who are buying tickets on the same day. The line can be a bit intimidating!

There is the option to get in for free during the last 2 hours of the day – we would NOT recommend doing this unless necessary.

Why? The line is really long and begins forming 2 hours before they let the first people in for free. Additionally, it is really crowded during the free hours and you will not have access to the fantastic audio guide.

Walk Around the Catedral de la Almudena

Right across from the Royal Palace is the Catedral de la Almudena . Construction on this cathedral began in 1883 and was finished in 1993 – it took 110 years to build!

The Cathedral has been the site of two significant events: it was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993 and was the venue for the wedding of Prince Felipe (now the King) and Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano.

It is a relatively modern-looking Cathedral with many interesting details throughout. Our favorite part was looking at the stained glass windows, which are absolutely breathtaking.

Going into the Cathedral is free , though they do ask for a donation. The door to enter is on the same side as the road C. de Bailén.

If you’d like, you can buy a ticket to go to the top as well for a good view of Madrid.

Grab a Picture in Plaza Mayor

Plaza Major is one of the most iconic places in Spain.

It is a large square that was originally the market for Madrid. Nowadays, it is home to restaurants and a hotel.

The architecture is really beautiful – there are nine entrance arches with giant lamps hanging from them, as well as a statue of King Philip III on horseback at the center of the square.

One side of the building has stunning paintings on its facade.

This used to be the location of the Casa de la Panaderia bakery. However, there were three separate fires caused by the bakery, resulting in multiple rebuilds of the building.

We recommend grabbing a local favorite, a bocadillo (calamari sandwich) from Bar La Campana instead of eating in the plaza where the quality of food can be lacking.

Grab a Snack at Mercado de San Miguel

Mercado de San Miguel is a beautiful iron building located just outside of Plaza Mayor.

It originally opened in 1916 as a local market and serviced the area for almost 80 years.

In 2009, the market was completely renovated and turned into a food hall with some of the best chefs from Madrid. Unlike most markets, you will find in Madrid, Mercado de San Miguel has few fresh meat and produce vendors.

Instead, the stalls are small restaurants and tapas locations.

It is the perfect place to jump around and try many different Madrid flavors. You will, however, pay more for the tapas than you would elsewhere in Madrid.

It is the busiest at lunch and dinner times , so try to swing by outside of the rush. It can be very crowded and an easy place to be pick-pocketed!

Eat at the Oldest Continuously Operated Restaurant in the World

Restaurante Botín is the oldest restaurant in the world and is located in the city centre of Madrid.

This place has been serving traditional dishes, such as cocido madrileño (chickpea stew) and roast suckling pig or lamb, since 1725.

The Guinness Book of World Records recognizes Restaurante Botín as the oldest operating restaurant in the world.

You must stop by to try their amazing Castilian cuisine in this historical restaurant!

You can also get your hair cut next door at the El Kinze de Cuchilleros: Cuchilleros, 15 , the oldest barbershop in Spain and second oldest in Europe!

See a Show at Teatro Real

The Teatro Real is the foremost opera house in Spain and one of the most significant cultural institutions in the country.

The teatro is home to three different orchestras and stages more than 100 performances every year. The theater is beautiful and worth seeing, but the real highlight is going to a show.

Teatro Real usually features operas, musicians, dance recitals, and the flamenco. Prices for tickets range from €15 to €200+ depending on what you want to see.

Going to a show at the Teatro Real is truly a magical experience!

Catch the Sunset at Plaza de Cibeles

Plaza de Cibeles is located in the heart of Madrid at the end of Gran Vía.

At the plaza, you can find a fountain that features a statue of Cybele , the Roman goddess of fertility and Great Mother of the gods, riding on a chariot pulled by two lions. ⛲️

The main building at Plaza de Cibeles is the Cybele Palace , also known as the Palace of Communication. It serves as the headquarters of the Madrid City Council.

The Paseo del Arte starts at Plaza de Cibeles and covers a little over a kilometer.

During this stretch, you can find attractions like the Prado Museum , the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum, the Royal Botanical Garden, and other remarkable art institutions that are worth exploring.

Eat Tapas like a Local

Tapas and Madrid go hand and hand – when in Madrid, do as the locals do and eat tapas!

What is a tapa? It is a small bite of food , typically served while enjoying Spanish beverages. Madrid is home to some of the best tapa restaurants in Spain!

They were originally started to help keep people a bit more sober while drinking in the thirteenth century. The tradition continues today!

💡 The streets leading just off of Sol and Gran Vía are home to some of the best tapas places. 😋

To get the best experience, we recommend taking a food tour . With the food tour, you will get to try local tapas and learn more about Madrid’s culinary history from a local.

Learn at Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum

Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum is a superb museum of art from the Middle Ages through to the late 20th century. It is located at the western end of the Gran Vía near Plaza de Cibeles.

The collection includes masterpieces from artists such as Monet, Rembrandt, Van Gogh , and much more. The museum also has a number of special exhibitions throughout the year.

Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum’s collection compliments the more commonly frequented, Prado Museum. It is a great place to explore to see inspired artwork with fewer crowds.

Madrid City Center Best Shopping Spots

In Madrid, the upscale shopping area is in the neighborhood of Salamanca. To reach this area from Centro, it is a 16 minute walk or 1.3 km from Plaza de Cibeles.

Luckily, there is also great shopping in the Madrid City Center. Starting in Puerto del Sol, there is an extra large and nice El Corte Inglés . El Corte Inglés is the equivalent of a Nordstrom in the United States.

On the square, you will also find large brands like Apple, Adidas, and Sephora.

On the 2 pedestrian streets going to the north from Puerto del Sol, C. de Preciados and C. del Carmen, are filled with shopping spots like Nike, Zara, Mango, Sfera, and Calzedonia.

Wandering the pedestrian streets between Puerto del Sol and Gran Vía is the perfect place to shop in Madrid’s city center.

Madrid City Center Best Places to Stay

We always stay in the Madrid city center and would recommend you do as well.

When looking for a place to stay, we would pay attention to any noise complaints in reviews. Madrid can be very crowded and the street noise can be loud .

We like to stay at B&B HOTEL Madrid Centro Puerta del Sol – it is right off of Puerta del Sol square which makes it extremely convenient to pop in and out between activities.

They have excellent noise insulation windows so that you barely hear any noise from the very busy street.

Plus, there is a rooftop restaurant that you have access to with a fantastic view of Madrid!

A few other places we recommend are:

• Room Mate Macarena Gran Vía – Room Mate Macarena is located on Gran Vía in a prime location. The unique and beautiful rooms are outfitted with air conditioning, flat-screen TV, soundproof walls, a mini-bar, a tea and coffee maker as well as a quiet street view.
• Hotel Regina – The Regina is an institution in Madrid and has modern, elegant rooms. It is located right off of Puerta del Sol and close to the art museums. The hotel restaurant, Restaurant Castizo, offers Mediterranean food that is made with locally-sourced ingredients and a fantastic wine list.
• Ocean Drive Madrid – Ocean Drive Madrid has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, private parking, a garden, and a terrace. The location is prime and the rooms are comfortable and clean.

There are plenty of accommodations in the city centre of Madrid. Our interactive map will help you find the best price:

FAQs for the City Centre of Madrid

Is madrid, spain worth visiting.

Absolutely! Madrid, Spain is definitely worth visiting.

Madrid has a rich cultural heritage with plenty of interesting monuments, historical sites, and attractions to explore.

The Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and Prado Museum are just a few of the many amazing places to explore in Madrid.

Additionally, Madrid is the land of Tapas! Trying the local cuisine is absolutely a must when visiting this vibrant city.

If you are deciding between Barcelona and Madrid, it is an easy trek between both cities , so you can enjoy both if you’d like!

What is the main plaza in Madrid called?

The main plaza in Madrid is called Plaza Major. Plaza Major is just a short walk from the main square, Puerto del Sol.

Does Madrid have a downtown?

In Madrid, the downtown is considered the entirety of the metropolitan area. This includes the Centro neighborhood as well as a few others.

What is the city centre of Madrid called?

Centro is the name of the city centre of Madrid that contains many of the city’s historical buildings.

So, is the City Centre of Madrid Worth Visiting?

Yes! The city centre of Madrid is absolutely worth visiting. This vibrant area is full of history and art, which makes it one of the best places to explore in Spain.

With its unique tapas restaurants, amazing shopping spots, and fantastic attractions like the Royal Palace and Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, you can easily spend 2-3 days exploring Madrid’s City Centre.

Be sure to book one of the fabulous hotels close to Sol or Gran Vía .

And, if you have time, take a food tour while in the city centre. There are so many amazing things to do and explore here that you won’t want to miss!

We wish you the best travels and don’t forget to set your “ Out of Office !” 

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Spain Travel Planning Guide

🚙💨  Is it safe to rent a car in Spain?

Yes  —  Renting a car  is a necessity in most of Spain if traveling between cities! If you want to go on day trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you can use public transportation, but we recommend renting a car. Discover Cars is our go-to choice for car rentals in Spain.

📲  Will my phone work in Spain?

Maybe, but it will be expensive — Depending on your provider, plans can charge you $10 per day while in Europe. To use your phone in Spain and save money, we recommend an eSim with Airalo . Airalo simplifies the steps and provides you with all the necessary data for convenient travel. There is not a lot of free WIFI in Spain, so you’ll need your phone for navigating.

🌐 Do I need a VPN when on the internet in Spain?

While abroad, we consistently prioritize our online security by using a VPN to appear as if we’re streaming from the US and protect ourselves from cybercrime. NordVPN serves as an incredibly convenient solution for both mobile phones and laptops, effortlessly ensuring our safety while browsing or streaming.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Spain accommodations?

Our go-to for Spanish hotels is  Booking.com . They offer the widest range of choices, and their filtering system simplifies the process of discovering the perfect accommodation for your needs.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy f lights to Spain?

For finding cheap flights to Spain, we recommend  Kayak . Their awesome multi-city flight search and handy price notifications help us save big, allowing us to splurge on other adventures once we arrive. Vueling is usually our airline of choice while in Spain.

🚐 Should I book tours in Spain? Do the guides speak English?

We LOVE taking tours in Spain. We prefer to book our tours on Viator and GetYourGuide for easy searching, trusted reviews, and transparent pricing. We always filter for the tours that are offered in English. For free walking tours in English, we always book through GuruWalk .

🚑  Should I buy Spain travel insurance?

100% YES!  — Spain has a publicly funded healthcare system known as the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS), which provides universal healthcare coverage to all Spanish citizens and legal residents! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. We recommend  Safety Wing  – they provide general travel coverage as well as medical !

💧 Can you drink the water in Spain?

Sometimes  — In many areas of Spain, the water is safe to drink. However, there can be variations in water quality from one location to another. In some rural or remote areas, or in older buildings with outdated plumbing systems, water quality might not be as high. For an extra layer of protection, we recommend always using a  LifeStraw Go Series to stay safe and hydrated.

🎫  Do I need a visa for Spain?

Likely Not  — US passport holders don’t need Spanish visas for travel less than 3 months . If you plan to stay for more than 3 months, you will be considered a resident and must have an entrance visa .

Meet Kelsea and Nicholas, the dynamic team behind Out of Office Mindset. They're on a thrilling quest to visit all 7 continents in 5 years, traveling non-stop. So far, they've had an epic year-long US road trip and visited 20 countries (and counting!). They're all about diving into different cultures and learning from their experiences. As avid explorers, they know how a well-planned trip can change you. Their mission? Helping every visitor to Out of Office Mindset plan their next awesome adventure with ease.

for Solo Travel Over 50

The Ultimate Guide to Madrid Solo Travel

Start planning your Madrid solo travel right with my ultimate Madrid Solo Travel Guide, complete with getting there, getting around Madrid, where to stay, things to do in Madrid alone, budget and eco-friendly travel tips, and more.

This Madrid Travel Guide is intentionally written for the solo traveler, the first time Madrid traveler, and/or older traveler (I am over 50 and have been solo traveling FOREVER) in mind. Yet, anyone can use this travel guide it to plan and book Madrid travel.

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Ultimate Spain Solo Travel Guide

Madrid solo travel planning resources, what is madrid known for, madrid solo travel packing essentials, best time to visit madrid, how to get to madrid, getting around madrid, is madrid safe to travel alone, where to stay in madrid on solo travel, 5 must dos in madrid, more top things to do alone in madrid, how to spend 3 days in madrid.

If you need more Spain travel tips to supplement your Madrid travel planning, consult my ultimate Spain Solo Travel Guide full of tips on culture, entry requirements, currency, tipping, using electronics, safety, and a lot more to plan solo travel in Spain.

Large, historical, and happening, finding the right things to do alone in Madrid, Spain for your trip could seem overwhelming. I’ve got you covered. Here’s how to see the best of Madrid in 3 days itinerary perfect for the first-time Madrid solo trip.

The Ultimate Guide to Madrid Solo Travel 2023

Cheap Flights to Madrid

Madrid Train Tickets

Madrid Bus Tickets

Spain Travel Guide

Madrid City Center Hotels

Madrid City Center Hostels

My Madrid Hostel Pick

The Madrid Pass

More Europe Solo Travel Guides & Itineraries

• Best of Barcelona in 3 Days Itinerary & Guide
• San Sebastian Solo Travel Guide
• 1 Day in Coimbra Itinerary & Guide
• Ultimate Porto Solo Travel Guide
• Pamplona Solo Travel Guide & 1 Day Itinerary
• Ultimate Copenhagen Solo Travel Guide
• Prague Solo Travel Guide – Know Before You Go!

Madrid is the capital of Spain and Spain’s largest city. Within Madrid, in the Puerto del Sol, is where all of Spain’s six major roads start, within its Puerto del Sol (aka “Kilometer 0”).

Originally named “Mayrit” by the emir Muhammad in the 9 th century, in 1083 King Alfonso, and following rulers, have since replaced traces of the Muslim influence for Christian influences.

Visibly noticeable is Madrid’s dazzling mix of architectural and outdoor design of palaces, churches, governmental buildings, museums, fountains, parks, gardens, and art. In fact, the gorgeous, tree-lined Paseo del Prado was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 2021.

As you wander Madrid’s Grand Via , Plaza Mayor , or anywhere within the city center, you cannot help admire the eclectic mix of Baroque, Neo-Classical, Neo-Romanesque, Expressionist, and Art Deco architectural buildings.

Within the city center, art lovers will find the Museo Nacional del Prado , the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum , and the Reina Sofia Museum , known as the “Golden Triangle” of art.

Art in Madrid cannot only be viewed in museums but also viewed within some of Madrid’s historic Baroque and Neoclassic palaces, such as the Palacio Real (Royal Palace of Madrid), the Palacio de Linares , or the Palacio de Liria .

Madrid also boasts grand churches and gardens, like the famous Cathedral of Almudena and El Retiro Park where you can view Madrileños unwinding within their city’s outdoors.

Madrid is known as a city of educated and cosmopolitan citizens, including the aristocracy. Spanish, also called Castilian, is the language spoken in Madrid.

Modern and progressive, Madrid boasts world class dining and nightlife as well as the oldest restaurant in the world ( El Botin ). Combined with centuries-long culture, history and art, it’s no wonder over 6 million tourists visit Madrid yearly.

Is Madrid Worth Visiting Alone?

Why go to Madrid? Well, over 6 million tourists per year can’t be wrong. Right?

Why should you be going to Madrid alone ? Honestly, for all of the same reasons above. Like other European capitals, Madrid holds many attractions that suit any tourist, from art to history, to food and entertainment, to outdoor activities.

The fact that most of these Madrid attractions are within an easily accessible city center makes solo travel in Madrid even easier.

Throw in some Madrid group tours, like a Madrid by bicycle tour , tapas and wine tour , or 6-person Prado Museum guided tour , then you have more opportunity to meet like-minded people, enhancing your Madrid solo travel .

It is well worth putting a solo trip to Madrid on your solo travel bucket list. The trick is planning your solo travel to Madrid over 50 to get the best Madrid travel experience. Keep reading.

Madrid vs Barcelona Solo Travel

Some people ask which is city in Spain is better for solo travel: Madrid or Barcelona. Honestly, both are such large, stunning and entertaining Spanish cities with their own culture and history, I would not compare the two.

If I were pressed, however, I would pick Madrid. Why? It’s just a personal preference on how it feels. I think Madrid is prettier, simply put.

Still, if you haven’t been to either Madrid or Barcelona, and you have the time, I highly suggest you visit both for solo travel in Spain and see for yourself which city you like better.

If you need some travel itinerary assistance, check out my best of Barcelona in 3 days solo travel itinerary.

The best time to go to Madrid relies on weather, costs, activities and events and offered.

Madrid Weather & Costs

Madrid temperatures average from high 40°s F to low 70° F, with hottest weather (average high 80°s F) in the summer months of July and August, with slightly cooler weather in June and September.

Madrid in summer is also peak tourist season when Madrileños tend to leave but tourist count and prices are highest.

Weather in Madrid November through February is the coldest, and rainiest, but offer the least amount of tourists and may be the cheapest time to visit Madrid alone. Consider bringing an eco-friendly travel umbrella if you are traveling to Madrid during these months.

The shoulder season months of April, May, September and October are cooler than summer but still nice for tourism with lower costs than peak season. These may be the best time of year to visit Madrid.

My latest solo travel in Madrid was in mid-October. The days and nights were still warm, daylight hours were decent, and there weren’t many tourists making lines for attractions minimal.

Madrid Events

When planning a solo trip to Madrid, I suggest checking Madrid’s festivals and holidays to help determine which month is best .

In mid-October, I did content with Spain’s National holiday (aka Hispanic Day, Fiesta Nacional de España, or Día de la Hispanidad). This only accounted for slightly more tourists than normal for October, but still no real crowds and limited attraction closures.

Prices reflected at time of writing.

Is Madrid expensive to visit?

For a European capital city, Madrid is considered less expensive to visit than other capital cities.

As a large city, there are multiple accommodation options to shop for comparison and a good deal, especially if you book in advance. A good deal on a budget hotel in the city center would cost approximately 50€ a night.

Madrid’s extensive public transportation system makes it easy cover longer distances, or a commute to and from the airport, for minimal cost. A single metro ticket runs 1.50€, with options to buy multiple journey tickets for less than 15€. 

An inexpensive lunch could run 8€ to 10€. A beer is 3€ to 3.50€, and a coffee or latte is approximately 2€.

A night out with dinner and drinks could be around 30€ to 40€ or more with tip. This, of course, does not include activities or excursions. Plan your solo budget accordingly.

If budget is a factor, consider traveling alone to Madrid late October to March, staying on the edge (or outside) of the city center, and/or staying at a hostel. Forgo taxis and ridehares and opt for public transportation and walking whenever possible.

Flying into Madrid

The closest airport serving Madrid is the Aeropuerto Internacional de Madrid-Barajas (a.k.a. “Madrid-Barajas Airport” or “Madrid Airport”) (MAD).

Madrid-Barajas Airport is serviced by most major and European airlines and is comprised of four terminals for international and domestic flights. Madrid Airport is the busiest airport in Spain, so build time in your schedule so you’re not rushed in the airport.

The Madrid Airport is approximately 12 km east of Madrid city center. If you do not have access to an airport shuttle from your hotel, there are several other transportation options from the Madrid Airport to city center.

Spain Covid Travel Tip

Check for the latest on entry requirements for Spain .

Madrid Airport Transportation

Madrid airport taxis and rideshares.

Taxis can found outside the main arrivals area by the taxi signs. Look for the official airport taxis (white with red stripe and coat of arms). Taxis will charge by kilometer. Ensure the meter has started before departing. The airport taxi fare to the Madrid centre is a fixed rate of €30.

Uber , Lyft and other rideshares are available at the Madrid Airport and may cost 25€ to 45€. Make sure you have the app downloaded in advance so spotty WiFi is not an issue. To save time, it may be easier to take a taxi.

Madrid Airport Transfers

You do have the option to pre-book a private airport transfer , which may come with a free cancellation.

Airport Rental Cars

You could rent a car , but keep in mind you will be dealing with city parking and costs.

Madrid Airport Metro

The Madrid Metro is the quickest and least expensive way from the Madrid airport to city center. Purchase a single ticket for 4.50€ to 5.00€ (plus 3.00€ airport fee) and catch Line 8 to arrive in approximately 12 to 20 minutes, depending on the airport terminal.

Madrid Airport Bus

Bus numbers 101 (Terminals 1 – 3) and 200 (Terminals 1 – 4) will take you from the Madrid Airport to the centre of Madrid in approximately 40 minutes. Purchase your ticket on the bus.

The Madrid Airport Express bus also runs every 15 minutes during the day, and every 35 minutes during the night, and also takes approximately 40 minutes (depending on traffic).

The Tourist Travel Pass

Buying the Tourist Travel Pass may save you money and time if you are staying in Madrid for an extended period of time or wish to do day trips from Madrid by train.

The pass can be purchased in 1, 2, 3, 5 or 7-day increments and covers both metro zones A (city of Madrid, including the Madrid Airport) and T (outside Madrid), city buses, commuter trains and the light rail.

Budget Travel Tips

On a budget? Take the metro or the Madrid Airport Express bus from the airport. These will get you to the Madrid city center fairly quickly. They are also eco-friendlier. Don’t forget the Tourist Travel Pass option for the metro.

More Budget Travel Tips & Ideas

• How to Create a Solo Travel Budget
• How To Save Money for Solo Travel
• Guide to European Budget Accommodations
• How to Travel Carry-On Only
• 10 Ways to Travel Without Traveling

Buses and Trains to Madrid

Looking for quick, inexpensive and eco-friendly ways to get to Madrid? Take the train or bus .

Spain’s national railway is Renfe , which provides regional train and high-speed AVE train service across the country. Many train lines go through Madrid making it easy to see from the rest of Spain. Trains arrive in Madrid in two main stations: Atocha (in the south) and Chamartín (in the north), which are connected to the Madrid Metro.

There are three types of train fair available through Renfe that allow for all budget types: Básico, Elige and Prémium. To save more money, book well in advance .

Madrid has 3 main bus terminals that serve as departures for other cities: Estación Sur de Madrid, Estación de Avenida de América, and Estación de Conde de Casal. You can catch buses and metro lines from any of these stations.

Multiple bus lines operate within Spain making it easy to book a cheap ride to Madrid .

Eco Travel Tips

If your flight to Madrid is only 2 to 3 hours in duration, take the train or a bus instead. It could also save time and money, and the scenery is much prettier.

When hiring a rideshare, choose the  Bolt Green  or  Uber Green  options, or use  Carpoolworld , to support the use of electric cars and carpooling for cleaner transportation in Spain.

More Eco-Travel Tips & Ideas

• 25 Must-Have & Eco-Friendly Solo Beach Trip Essentials
• 15 Eco Long-haul Flight Essentials for Solo Travel
• Top 10 Eco-Friendly Carry On Luggage
• 10 Best Eco-Friendly Personal Item Bags for Flying
• 10 Amazing Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Swimwear Brands
• 10 Easy Ways to Be an Eco-Friendly Traveler

ECO TRAVEL PICKS

Is Madrid walkable?

The whole of Madrid is not completely walkable, of course, but the city center is, which its attractions are best tackled by in sections self-guided and/or taking a guided walking tour of Madrid . Madrid’s city center is a mixture of flat and slight inclines. A comfortable pair of walking shoes and you’re off.

The more time you have in Madrid, the more ground you can cover by foot. If you want to cover more ground a little quicker, the city center is also enjoyable by a bicycle tour , segway tour or electric scooter tour or rental.

Electric tuk tuk tours are also a popular way to zip around while learning about Madrid.

Madrid is a pretty city, so the more time you spend commuting above ground, the more you’ll be able to enjoy Madrid.

Madrid Buses

Another way to see more of Madrid in a short period of time is the Madrid Hop On Hop Off bus . Tours like these are ideal for large cities like Madrid.

Alternatively, the red, public EMT buses can get you around the city for much less. Buses have their own lanes which saves time commuting. Day buses operate from 6am to 11:30pm and run frequently. Night buses (called “búhos” or “owls”) operate 11:30pm to 5:30am but may take longer to arrive.

All buses route through Plaza de la Cibeles, which is only a 15 minute walk from central Puerta del Sol.

Time tables can be found on the bus. Single tickets cost €1.50, but Metrobús tickets allow for 10 trips and cost only €12.20. Stamp your ticket on the bus before riding.

Madrid Metro

The metro is extensive in Madrid and can cover a lot of ground very quickly. If you are on a very limited schedule, this may be your best bet to crisscross the city. Just look for those classic, red and white diamond-shaped signs for a metro station.

However, I recommend staying above ground as much as possible, especially if it is your first solo visit to Madrid.

Metro tickets can be purchased from ticket machines at Metro and Metro ligero stations and tobacco shops (Estancos).

Metro Zone A and ML1 single tickets cost 1.50€ to 2.00€, but the same 10-trip Metrobús ticket for 12.20€ also covers the Metro Zone A and ML1.

Additionally, you could purchase the 1, 2, 3, 5 or 7-day Tourist Travel Pass .

Avoid renting a car or taking a taxi or rideshare in Madrid, and see the city by foot, public transportation, Hop On Hop Off bus , electric tuk tuk , bike , segway , or electric scooter instead.

Madrid’s crime rate is considered low and considered safe to travel alone, including safe to walk alone during the day and night.

As a solo female traveler in Madrid, I practiced general precautions and stayed within well-lit and populated streets at night. As such, I never felt unsafe in Madrid as solo traveler.

During high tourist season, in crowded areas or on crowded public transportation, ensure to keep your belongings safe and securely on you with no open pockets or carrying cash or valuables in your pockets.

If you normally feel uncomfortable being out solo at night, you may want to visit Madrid when the daylight hours are longest so you have more time to explore Madrid.

Solo Travel Tips

Have WhatsApp on your mobile device(s). Many smaller establishments and activities offices use this as a method of communication making it easier to make inquiries or booking and learn, or notify, of any scheduling changes.

Get the T-Mobile International Plan or something similar in price and features. I no longer work on WiFi only on international travel. I’ll use it when it’s there, but having access to roaming when needed for GPS and Google Maps is a game changer.

Madrid is made up of 21 districts, but Centro is where you want to be on first-time solo travel in Madrid.

If you have an extended stay (a week or longer), Retiro and Salamanca are also nice districts and will add to your tourist walking or commuting time.

Centro is the heart of Madrid. It holds the iconic Madrid historic attractions and sights, shopping, dining and nightlife and is the district in which to reserve your Madrid accommodations.

Staying close to Puerta del Sol will ensure you are centrally located, as indicated on the map below. However, the more central you are, expect more tourists and higher accommodation cost.

Madrid Hotels and More

There are multiple Madrid city centre accommodations across all budget types for Madrid solo travel. Going in the off season, booking well in advance, and/or staying outside the center will get you the best Madrid prices on any type of accommodation.

Consider booking at a property that either is eco-friendly or Travel Sustainable rated , or at least employs these methods into their business.

Madrid Hotels

For location, price, breakfast, amenities (including free-cancellation), eco-friendly and sustainable operations, and customer reviews and ratings, here are my Madrid hotel recommendations for over 50 solo travel (i.e., where I would stay):

• Room Mate Mario
• Eurostars Casa de la Lírica
• Eurostars Plaza Mayor
• Vincci Soho
• Room Mate Alba
• Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid

In addition to Booking.com’s Madrid’s Travel Sustainable properties , Green Globe and Green Key Global also have eco-friendly certified lodging options.

Madrid Hostels

A hostel is an option for solo travel over 50 and where to stay in Madrid on a budget. Using the same conditions above, and the ability to get a private room, my recommendation for best Madrid hostel for solo travel over 50 is Toc Hostel Madrid .

I stayed in a private room at Toc Hostel Madrid on my last visit and thoroughly enjoyed it. Although not a ‘Travel Sustainable’ rated property, it does employ many environmental sustainability initiatives like water efficient plumbing fixtures, sensor lights, no single use plastics, recycling bins, and water dispenser.

Plus, it was had a wonderful staff, amazing breakfast, fingerprint room access, and was just steps from Puerta del Sol. I believe it’s one of the best hostels in Madrid for solo travellers. I would stay there again.

There are Madrid hostels that could start from around €8-10/night, depending on time of year, location, and amenities. Note, these are usually a bed in a dorm room. A private room in a Madrid city center hostel could cost the same, if not more, than a budget hotel.

What would a Madrid Solo Travel Guide be without listing the best things to do in Madrid?

Start with the Madrid must see items in this video. You’ll be booking your Madrid travel in no time.

Here are some of the top things to do in Madrid alone that may interest you. It’s a big list, but certainly not comprehensive. Some of them are free. All you can see by foot or public transportation.

Consider buying The Madrid Pass . It may save you money and time with fast track entry to top Madrid attractions and museums, a panoramic bus tour of Madrid, and additional discounts. You select your visit dates in Madrid.

Churches & Cathedrals

• Catedral de Sta Maria la Real de la Almudena
• Real Basilica de San Francisco el Grande
• Ermita De San Antonio De La Florida
• Iglesia de San Antonio de Los Alemanes
• Los Jerónimos

• Iglesia de San Ginés
• Iglesia Catedral Castrense
• Parroquia Jesus de Medinaceli
• Iglesia de Santa Cruz
• Church of San Isidro

Architectural Buildings & Historic Sites

• Palacio Real de Madrid
• Palacio De Cristal
• Plaza Mayor
• Palacio de Cibeles
• Templo de Debod
• Estacion de Atocha
• Casa de la Panaderia
• Real Casa de Correos

• Palacio de Gaviria
• Edificio Metrópolis
• Teatro Real
• Edificio Telefonica
• Banco de Espana
• Palacio Real de El Pardo
• Palacio de Linares
• Palacio de Liria

Madrid Landmarks, Points of Interest & Fountains

• Puerta del Sol
• El Oso y el Madrono
• Plaza de Cibeles
• Cibeles Fountain
• Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas
• Monumento a Alfonso XII
• Paseo del Prado

• Fuente de Neptuno
• Plaza de Oriente
• Monumento a Filippo IV
• Faro de Moncloa
• Puerta de Alcala
• Fuente del Ángel Caído
• Plaza de Espana
• Plaza de la Villa
• Plaza de Santa Ana

Madrid Museums & Aquariums

• Museo Nacional del Prado
• Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia
• Museo de la Catedral de la Almudena
• Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
• Museo Cerralbo
• Madrid Archaeological Museum
• Cívitas Metropolitano Stadium & Interactive Museum
• Caixa Forum
• Naval Museum
• Museo Del Romanticismo
• Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales

Madrid Parks & Gardens

• Parque del Retiro
• Parque de El Capricho
• Parque Madrid Río
• Jardines de Sabatini
• Casa de Campo
• Real Jardín Botánico
• Parque del Oeste
• Pabellon de los Jardines de Cecilio Rodriguez

Madrid Food

Food in Madrid is a centuries’ long process of Spanish and North African culture and beyond infusion. The mixture of traditional dishes served in taverns, to contemporary cuisine, to the sophisticated dishes that serve the aristocracy and Michelin restaurants , Madrid is bound to serve up something for any over 50 foodie (dietary restrictions and all).

Traditional Spanish cuisine to try in Madrid are:

• Cocido Madrileño – meaty stew with noodles, chickpeas and vegetables (also known as Cocido de Tres Vuelcos)
• Soldaditos de Pavía – fried cod fingers
• Besugo a la Madrileña – oven-baked sea bream
• Oreja a la Plancha – grilled pork ear
• Potaje de Vigilia – spinach and chickpea stew
• Patatas Bravas – peeled, chopped potatoes in spicy paprika sauce
• Calamari roll – deep fried calamari rolls served with mayonnaise ( the traditional ‘fast food’)
• Huevos Estrellados – fried eggs and potatoes
• Huevos Rotos (“broken eggs”) – fried eggs with potatoes and chorizo sausage or jam
• Churros and chocolate – deep fried sweet bread dipped in thick hot chocolate
• Bartolillos – cream turnovers 
• Buñuelos Rellenos – fried dough puffs with powdered sugar
• Flan – traditional Spanish eggs and sugar desert in coffee, chocolate, and caramel flavors

Of course, dining in Madrid would not be complete without sampling tapas made from a variety of seafood, meat and veggies.

Although landlocked, Madrid serves up many dishes of atún (tuna), pulpo (octopus), calamares (squid), almejas (clams) and more. Dishes like Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician-style octopus), Gambas a la Plancha (grilled shrimp), Almejas a la Marinera (baby clams in a succulent sauce), batter-fried codfish, and tuna empanadas.

Of course, a meal would not be complete without a beer or wine in Madrid. Try a Mahou (popular beer of the locals), sample wines from the favored Valdepeñas region, or sip a Vermouth or Cava (sparkling wine). Or two. Oh, and sangria. Don’t forget the sangria.

Madrid Restaurants

When in Madrid, do as the Madrileños do. Breakfasts start later (8am), so no need to get up early to grab a bite in your hotel or in a cafe before seeing the sights. Madrileños also dine four to six times a day, with late lunches around 2pm and dinners sometimes not starting until 9pm.

Now that you’re “localized”, you can feel free to eat as much as you want and as late as you want (without disrupting your sleep, of course).

So, where to sample some of the best Madrid cuisine? Obviously, there are too many choices to list here.

Madrid is full of grab and go stands, street stalls, taverns, outdoor patios and rooftops, and indoor restaurants. You have multiple options (to say the least) to find the right dining experience for you on you solo travel in Madrid.

That said, here are some Madrid notables you may want to build into your Madrid solo travel itinerary:

• Calle Cava Baja – cruise down this street to find some of the best tapas in Madrid .
• Marisquerías – shellfish bars when you’re in the mood for shellfish.
• Rastro flea market – locals in the know come on Sundays for shopping and great seafood. You could even try a tapas crawl .
• Mercado de San Miguel – really want to shop food and wine? This market is a must. Think La Boqueria in Barcelona.
• Plaza Mayor – here’s a good place to stop for that ‘fast food’ Calamari roll and a beer while doing some great people watching. An additional spot for a calamari roll is El Brillante  (across from Atocha station) if you’re on a budget.
• La Cruz Blanca de Vallecas  – grab a table here when you want to try the traditional Cocido Madrileño.
• La Tasquería  – this modern bar and restaurant serves some of the best traditional callos run by a TV chef, Javi Estévez, where you can try some of the best callos in Madrid.
• Taberna Bodegas Ricla – go authentic Madrid in this bar opened in 1867 to sample Vermouth and Callos.
• El Botin – talk about authentic, this is the oldest restaurant in the world (per Guinness World Records) opened in 1725. For the tavern-style Mediterranean dining to remember, make your reservation in advance!
• Chocolatería San Ginés – diet aside, if you don’t try the churros and chocolate from this chocolateria (founded in 1894), you would have truly missed out on a Madrid experience.

Don’t feel like dining alone in Madrid all of the time? Consider mixing it up with some tours, like the Tapas, Taverns & History Tour , Madrid Tapas Night Walking Tour , or Prado Museum Tour with El Botin VIP lunch ?

Madrid Nightlife

Oh, yes, there is a big nightlife scene in Madrid with many things to do in Madrid at night alone. Let your energy level be your guide on what evening activities in Madrid you wish to indulge in.

As a mature solo traveler, you may wish to unwind from a long day lazily with a cocktail on a rooftop bar to soak in the views of Madrid. You can do this at Picos Pardos Sky Lounge or the roof top of the Circulo de Bellas Artes . The latter can be very busy and you may have to pay a small entry fee. Show up early to avoid the lines.

If you’re feeling adventurous, wander the small pedestrian streets around Puerta del Sol, Calle Preciados or Grand Via to see what may catch your eye for have a cocktail or taking a show or live music.

Want to dance late into the night? Explore the Chueca district nightlife with lively gay bars and clubs that have music pumping all through the night.

Madrid Shopping and Entertainment

Without a doubt, the big shopping area in central Madrid is the Grand Via . The Grand via has all of the major chain stores for blocks and blocks, mixed in with theaters and other entertainment venues. This is a happening area day or night. Ensure to keep your belongings securely on you.

Calle Preciados is another top shopping area with great people watching. Wander this pedestrian street northeast from Puerta del Sol towards the Calleo metro station. It can also be lively at night.

Other shopping, music, and entertainment opportunities lie on the smaller pedestrian streets that span off from Puerta del Sol. Wander to your heart’s content.

If you’re seeking more authentic, Spanish entertainment, take in the infamous Flamenco show at the Corral de la Morería .

If you want more a formal music or theater experience, check out the performance schedule of El Teatro , Madrid’s opera house, just minutes on foot from Puerta del Sol.

Avoid using single-use plastics when dining, shopping and on food tours in Madrid to reduce plastic waste and your carbon footprint by bringing your own reusable collapsible shopping bags , collapsible water bottle , recycled plastic water bottle carry sling , and bamboo travel utensils so you’re prepared to travel with the planet in mind.

I always travel with the above items. Light weight and taking up very little space in my carry-on bags , I love the convenience and peace of mind these inexpensive, eco-friendly products provide.

Day Trips from Madrid

Due to its central location, there are many day trips from Madrid that you could do, including to World UNESCO Heritage sites, should you wish to get out of the large city.

Top to consider, and the closest, is visiting Toledo, a half-hour train ride from Madrid. The historic center of Toledo is a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Toledo is easy to access and easy as a solo traveler. Catch any of the daily trains from the Atocha station and wander Toledo self-guided. Alternatively, you could join a day tour of Toledo or join a day group tour from Madrid to Toledo .

Other day trips only an hour or so away from Madrid are:

• San Lorenzo de El Escorial
• Historic Walled Town of Cuenca
• Old Town of Ávila and its Extra-Muros Churches
• Old Town of Segovia and its Aqueduct

Now that you know how to plan for Madrid solo travel and what can be done in a Madrid solo trip, want to know how to see the best of Madrid in 3 days? Check out my 3 Days in Madrid solo travel itinerary to capture some of the best experiences in Madrid on first-time Madrid solo travel over 50.

Let Me Hear From You

I would love to hear if this Madrid solo travel guide was helpful to you. Post me your thoughts or questions in the Comments section below. Thank you!

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2 thoughts on “the ultimate guide to madrid solo travel 2023”.

Hi, Thank you for all the details on Madrid. My question is, I am not Spanish speaking, how difficult will it be for me to interact with wait staff, (at restaurants, shops, etc.) and transportation staff (trains, buses, airport, etc.)?

I’m pleased you’ve found the information on Madrid helpful!

Many locals will speak English, and most travel signs are in both English and Spanish making it easy to travel. Plus, you can always download an app, like Google Translate, to assist with travel.

Still, it is always helpful and most respectful to at least try to lead conversations in Spanish (hello, goodbye, please, thank you, how much is, etc.), so learn the basics before you go. If they speak English back to you, that is a courtesy to you. Again, a translation app always helps if you get stuck.

Don’t fret. You’ll have a great time. By all means do not let the language difference stop you from going to Madrid. 🙂 -Gwen

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The Ultimate 2, 3 or 4 Days in Madrid Itinerary

Last Updated on November 29, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

As one of the most dynamic capitals in Europe, planning a 2, 3 or 4 days in Madrid itinerary is never a bad idea. An ideal destination for those looking to get a lot of Spanish culture in a short period of time, the Spanish capital has so much to offer visitors and an easy-to-navigate city centre that means you over a lot of ground in a short period of time.

So, if you are planning a trip to Madrid, this itinerary should be an excellent starting point. Whether you’re visiting as a stand-alone destination or as part of a longer Spain trip, you’re sure to fall in love with this incredible city.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Madrid?

Madrid is an absolutely massive city and you could easily spend months exploring it and still feel as if you have barely scratched the surface. However, most typical visitors to the Spanish capital don’t have months on end to devote to getting to know the city and want to know how many days to spend in Madrid.

While the Spanish capital is a huge city with a lot to offer, you can see the city centre highlights and top attractions with just 2 days in Madrid. This will be a bit rushed and you won’t have time to dig deeper or spend some time exploring the city’s unique barrios .

If you have 3 days in Madrid, you will have all of the time to see the top historic sites in the city while also being able to step a bit off the beaten path and enjoy the cool, alternative areas of the capital that don’t necessarily see all of the tourist crowds.

Finally, if you happen to have 4 days to spend in Madrid, this is kind of the sweet spot. You can either use this final day to spend more time exploring this dynamic city or you could head out on a day trip from Madrid to a city like Toledo, Segovia, and Ávila.

Getting To & Around Madrid

As the capital of Spain and one of the EU’s largest cities, Madrid is home to a massive international airport with connections across the globe. Madrid Barajas Airport is also well connected to the city centre, using the metro or the Cercanias train to get to whatever station is closest to your accommodation.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to bother with public transit when you’ve arrived into the airport, then you can organise an airport transfer .

The city is also well connected by bus and train from virtually every other major city in Spain and further afield. Basically, Madrid is an easy city to get to no matter where you’re travelling from.

Madrid is a large city, however, the city centre is relatively compact and it’s easy to get around many attractions on foot.

Where the distances are too far to travel, the city also has a vast public transport network that consists of a metro, bus and commuter rail system. It’s easy to navigate and will get you virtually anywhere you need to go.

If you plan to go on a day trip from Madrid, the train is a good option for most of these. Most of the top day trips from Madrid leave from Atocha, Chamartín or Principe Pio stations. These are all well-connected on the city’s transit system. You can pre-book trains here or find organised tours here.

2, 3 or 4 Days in Madrid Itinerary

If you plan to visit many of the paid attractions listed in this article, then consider purchasing a Madrid Go City Pass to save money on entry fees.

Day 1 – City Centre, Markets and Museums

The first day of this itinerary takes you by the highlights of central Madrid. All of these sites can easily be reached on foot, however, the Madrid metro system is also a great option if you´re not keen to walk too much.

Free Walking Tour

The best way to get the lay of the land and to figure out what to see in Madrid in 2 days is to go on a free walking tour. Popular in cities throughout Europe (and gaining traction in cities on other continents), there are numerous free walking tour companies to choose from in Madrid that it can seem overwhelming.

There are many free walking tours that advertise and congregate in the Puerta del Sol or Plaza Mayor, however, we would recommend going on a tour with Free Walking Tours Madrid . They meet every day at 11 AM (also at 3:30 PM on some days of the week!) in the Plaza Callao and the tour lasts about 2.5-3 hours with a short, 15-minute break in the middle.

The walking tour is run by a local guide who takes you by the main sites in Madrid including the Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace of Madrid and also helps you understand the long and fascinating history of Madrid and Spain in general.

While the tour itself is free and you are certainly not obligated to pay a cent for your guided walk through Madrid, the guides do work only for tips and it is definitely good practice to tip your guide what you think the tour was worth. I would recommend about €10 per person.

Mercado de San Miguel

After the free walking tour, it is likely that you’ve worked up quite the appetite and are looking to find the perfect, authentically Spanish lunch. Well, you’re in luck because there are few cities in the world that are more centred around food than Madrid.

If you are very hungry after your walking tour, you could walk around until you find a great menú del día (a daily set lunch menu that usually includes a starter, main dish, dessert or coffee plus a drink for around €10-15), another great option is to head to the Mercado de San Miguel .

Located right next to the Plaza Mayor, the Mercado de San Miguel is probably Madrid’s most famous and busy market with tourists and it is also an excellent place to find all of the delicious tapas I’m sure you’ve read about all in one convenient location.

There are multiple stalls and storefronts offering numerous regional Spanish food and drink and it is well worth popping in here for a bite to eat.

Keep in mind that this market can get quite loud and busy (as in many popular tapas bars in Madrid) and it is a bit more pricey than some more local Spanish restaurants, however, the quality of food available here is fantastic and it is certainly a great activity to experience, especially if you’re only spending 2 days in the city. You can book a guided tour of the market here .

Museo del Prado

After you’ve sufficiently stuffed yourself full of delicious Spanish tapas and wine, it’s time to get back at it and head to one of Madrid’s premier attractions, the Museo del Prado . Considered by many to be one of the greatest art museums in the world, the Prado houses innumerable works by such artists like Goya, Velázquez, and El Grecco and is celebrated its 200th year of operation in 2019.

Because of its size and the amazing collections it holds, you could easily spend a number of hours in the Prado and serious classical art fans are bound to spend even more time. Even if you´re not overly interested in this period of art, it is still worth visiting as you are bound to find works that speak to you.

Entry into the museum for adults is paid, however, there is almost always a long queue to purchase tickets at the door. A far more time-effective solution to this is to purchase your ticket online in advance (which only costs a bit more), which allows you to skip the queue and enjoy the incredible works of art sooner. Click here to book your tickets or alternatively, book a guided tour here.

If the price tag is too steep for you but you would still like to experience the Prado for yourself, then you are in luck. Every day, the last two opening hours of the museum are free of charge for entry. That means on Monday through Saturday from 6PM-8PM and on Sundays from 5PM-7PM.

Keep in mind that it is quite popular to visit the museum at these times and you will almost always have to wait in a long queue. Therefore, it is best to get there about 30 minutes early to ensure you have enough time to see everything this museum has to offer before closing.

However, after spending a couple of hours at the Prado, it’s time to find a cool bar for a drink and some tapas and get ready for day 2 of your itinerary.

La Latina Tapas

The perfect way to round out your first day in the Spanish capital is to indulge in its tapas scene – and there is really area that’s better to do that than in La Latina.

Keep in mind that Spain does have a later eating culture than many other European countries, so bars may not even open to 8:30 or 9pm, but it’s worth it to stay up and enjoy one of the most quintessential Madrileño experiences.

While there are few neighbourhoods in Madrid that are bad for going out for tapas, arguably the most popular and lively is La Latina.

The most notable street that is filled with restaurants and bars that all get to “standing room only” capacity on the weekends and evenings is Calle de la Cava Baja. While this street can be popular amongst tourists, you will find that it’s mostly locals with whom you’re competing for a coveted seat.

Don’t be afraid to push into a crowded bar, however, even if it looks like there isn’t a place to sit! This is rarely a concern in Spain and if you’re comfortable standing and eating (like the locals), then you should not be shy about doing so! It will only make you feel more like a true Madrileño/a!

Day 2 – Classical Madrid Sites

On the second day of your itinerary for Madrid, it is time to dig deeper into the city from what you saw yesterday. Today is the day you should spend visiting some more monuments and enjoying the good vibes and electric energy of the Spanish capital.

Palacio Real

If you’re interested in Madrid’s royal history, then you absolutely cannot miss a visit to Madrid’s royal palace — or Palacio Real in Spanish. Though this building is the official residence of the Spanish royal family, these days it is only used for ceremonies and welcoming foreign leaders. The Palace is located in the heart of Madrid and it is a truly spectacular feat of architecture and interior design.

The current palace was constructed in the 18th century after the Moorish Alcázar that had originally occupied the place was destroyed in a fire. The palace was built to be even more spectacular and larger than the notable Palace of Versailles in France and Buckingham Palace in England.

The Palacio Real is over 135,000 square metres and has over 3,000 rooms and is considered to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Spanish capital and is a must-visit if it’s your first time spending two days in Madrid.

Like most other major attractions in Madrid, you could waste a lot of time standing in the queue if you decide to purchase your entry tickets at the door. A far better option is to buy them online in advance where you have the ability to skip the seemingly endless queue and gain entry quicker.

This will give you more time to explore more of what Madrid has to offer. There is also the option to take a guided tour that allows you to skip the queue and learn about this major attraction.

Parque del Retiro

After spending a couple of hours in the massive Royal Palace, it is time to spend some tranquil time relaxing in one of Madrid’s most chilled-out attractions, El Retiro Park.

A short metro ride or pleasant stroll away from the Palace, the Parque del Retiro was originally built as a royal garden and was only opened to the public in the late 19th century. As the largest park in Madrid, there is a distinct royal feeling to this lovely green space and it is an excellent place to unwind after a busy couple of days of sightseeing.

The Parque del Retiro houses a number of wonderful sites so you could easily spend a couple of hours wandering through this peaceful. Start your time in the park wandering down tree and park bench-lined Paseo de la Argentina until you make it to the Estanque del Retiro, or Retiro Pond.

Here you can hire a rowboat and have a romantic time enjoying the vibes of the park while on the water. If you don’t want to splash the cash for a rowboat rental, it is well worth it to just spend some time watching those who are paddling around the park.

Another site that you cannot miss in Retiro Park is the Crystal Palace, or Palacio Cristal. This structure was originally built as a greenhouse in the 19th century and now is an offshoot of the Museo Reina Sofia and houses some art exhibitions. It is free to enter and the structure itself is pretty spectacular so it is definitely well worth the stop while in the park.

The last major stop on this list of things to do in Madrid in two days is the Gran Via, one of the most iconic streets in the Spanish Capital.

A short walk from Retiro Park, the Gran Via is home to some of the most beautiful architectural gems in Madrid and is also the city’s main shopping drag. Though there aren’t a ton of traditional “sites” to go in and see, the buildings and shops are well worth strolling down, especially if this is your first time in Madrid.

Starting from close to the Puerta de Acalá, you can walk along the Gran Via and end up in the trendy Malasaña neighbourhood. This is a great area to explore on your own and find something great to eat.

As it isn’t as geared toward tourists as many of the restaurants directly on the Gran Via, you are likely to find more affordable and authentic cuisine choices in this neighbourhood if you’re looking for a bite to eat after your busy day of sightseeing.

Day 3 – Lavapiés, Markets & Museums

If you have more than a couple of days in the Spanish capital, then spend your third day venturing a bit away from the tourist centre and into some of the coolest neighbourhoods in the city.

This stop only counts if you’re visiting the Spanish capital on a Sunday. And if you are then a stop at El Rastro is an absolute must.

This busy flea market claims to be the largest in Europe and is an excellent place to browse for a good deal on secondhand clothes or accessories or just to experience the hustle and bustle of this massive market.

Located just off of Calle Embajadores on La Ribera de Curtidores (and off-shooting into many of the side streets), El Rastro is a highlight of the hip and edgy La Latina neighbourhood. The open-air market is open every Sunday and it is an incredibly popular spot with both Madrileños and visitors alike.

It runs from around 9 AM to 3 PM and it is worth pointing out that it does get very busy, even if you happen to be visiting Madrid in winter . Therefore it is good practice to make sure you keep a good eye on your belongings as pickpockets are common here. Nevertheless, El Rastro is an excellent place to visit on a Sunday.

Calle de Embajadores

The main drag in Madrid’s La Latina and Lavapiés neighbourhoods, Calle de Embajadores is a cross street to El Rastro and an excellent street to walk along if you are interested in seeing some of the city’s best street art.

If you´re up for a bit of an uphill walk, it is worth starting your stroll near the Mercado de San Fernando (also an excellent place to grab a drink and a bite to eat after El Rastro) and walking up the street until you end up close to Plaza Tirso de Molina, which hosts a flower market that is interesting to browse.

There are countless works of street art and various murals that make Calle de Embajadores a fantastic street to stroll to get a taste for Madrid’s arts and alternative culture.

Explore Lavapiés

If there is a trendy neighbourhood to visit in Madrid, that barrio would have to be Lavapíes. This cool area is located just a bit south from the city centre (only about ten to fifteen minutes on foot from the Puerta del Sol), Lavapiés can feel like a completely different world compared to the ultra-touristy areas around the Plaza Mayor etc.

The area is filled with interesting bars and cafes and the streets are filled with art and murals. It’s an excellent place to stroll around and get lost, however, if you want to learn more about the area, we recommend taking a street art tour of the neighbourhood to truly appreciate how eclectic and artistic this central barrio is.

Mercado Antón Martín

After exploring a bit of the area, it is certain that you will likely want a bite to eat and a drink afterwards. If you’re after for a truly local experience for something like this, there really is no better place to do this than Mercado Antón Martín.

Located in the trendy Lavapiés neighbourhood and not too far from some of Madrid´s main attractions, there is still no doubt that Mercado Antón Martín is a market for locals and not for tourists. The market is made up of two levels, both with stalls selling fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, jamón, olives, wine, and cheese.

However, along with all of these places where you can pick up a wonderful picnic, there are also a number of bars and restaurants that cook up a lot of tasty food. Lavapiés is known for its multicultural nature, so it should come as no surprise that the market houses excellent and authentic Mexican, Japanese, and Italian eateries.

There are also a couple of places where you can stop and have a speciality coffee, glass of Spanish wine, or familiarise yourself with the Spanish penchant for vermouth at a wonderful vermouth bar. All in all, the Mercado Antón Martín is an excellent local alternative to the Mercado de San Miguel. You can also book a food tour that includes a stop in Anton Martin.

Museo Reina Sofia

If you want to visit an alternative to the Prado Museum, then look no further than the Reina Sofia. Though this museum is by no means an unknown attraction in Madrid, it still sees markedly fewer visitors than the more world-renowned Prado.

A modern and contemporary art museum, the Reina Sofia houses works of art by artists like Wassily Kandinsky, Juan Gris, Joan Miró and, most notably, Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso.

While there are numerous exhibits that are all well worth visiting, the Reina Sofia is most famous for being the home of Guernica , Pablo Picasso’s famous work depicting the horrors of the 1937 air bombing of the Basque town of the same name.

While the painting itself is truly something amazing, the sketches that Picasso did in order to practise for the painting are equally as powerful and moving. Make sure you take the time to look at these as well.

Like the Prado, there are free entry times to visit the museum. On Sundays from 1:30 PM until closing, the museum is free to enter, although there are some exhibits that are closed to the public. You can also purchase your tickets for entry online rather than at the door which will also allow you to skip the queue at busy times!

Day 4 – Toledo, Segovia or Ávila

Those fortunate enough to have four days to dedicate to their trip to Madrid will have the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful, historic cities within easy reach of the capital.

Arguably the most popular Madrid day trip, the historic city of Toledo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located only bout 30 minutes via high-speed train from Madrid’s Atocha station. Whether you choose to take an organised tour or visit independently, you’re sure to fall in love with this gorgeous place.

Once in Toledo, there is enough to do that you could easily occupy an entire day. Walk across the Puente de Alcántara and see the views of the imposing Alcázar. The Catedral Primada is a site to be seen, as well, and there are plenty of interesting ruins and evidence of Muslims, Jews and Christians having made the city home over the centuries.

Toledo is a beautiful city to visit and it’s obvious why it is so popular to visit – there is so much on offer here!

Another super popular day trip option is to the historic city of Segovia . Located about 30 minutes away from Madrid’s Charmartín Station, this is another excellent place to visit. You can easily go independently or hop on an organised tour in order to avoid any logistical planning.

Segovia is most well-known for its Roman Aqueduct, which runs its way across the entire old city and is the first thing you will see. But also, the beautiful Alcázar gives serious Disney princess vibes and the gorgeous Cathedral is really impressive.

Segovia is one of the best places to simply stroll around and get lost in. It’s an excellent place to take a day trip to.

Perhaps the least popular day trip option of these three, historic Ávila is an excellent place to visit. By train from Principe Pio station in Madrid, you can reach the city in about an hour and a half.

Once here, the most interesting thing to do is stroll along the excellently preserved city walls, which encircle virtually the entire old town. You should also make sure to visit the Iglesia-convento de Santa Teresa, the birthplace of St Teresa and a pilgrimage spot.

Ávila is smaller and a little less well-trafficked than Toledo or Segovia , however, it’s worth it for a great day trip option!

Where to Eat in Madrid

Madrid is packed with so many restaurants that it can be incredibly hard to figure out which place is a tourist trap and which place will give you an authentic meal at an affordable price.

Vinoteca Borboleta — This truly local spot located in the Embajadores neighbourhood south of most major attractions, this is a great stop if you’re looking for a true Madrileño experience. They have a menú del día and also an extensive menu offering homemade tapas and raciones.

La Fisna Vinos – A cosy wine bar in the Lavapiés neighbourhood, this is an excellent place to stop by if you want to sample some wines from smaller Spanish winemakers along with some great food. Drink prices are a bit higher here than in other bars, however, the wines are from small-batch wineries and are truly something special. The food is typical Spanish fare and is priced competitively.

La Taberna Sanlúcar – This rustic place in La Latina is an excellent choice if you want some Andalucian fare. They have a range of both tapas and raciones that can transfer to the city of Cádiz even though you’re in the centre of Madrid.

La Paloma – If you love seafood, then you must visit this classic seafood bar in La Latina. It’s a no-frills establishment that has some of the freshest seafood available. You will also get a free tapa with a drink order.

Cutzmala Mex Food — Though this certainly is not Spanish fare, Madrid is home to some of the best Mexican food outside of Mexico and this place located in the Antón Martín market is no exception. They have a small menu serving some fantastic and hearty street tacos and a number of imported Mexican beers at affordable prices. They also have a fantastic happy hour deal.

Chocolotería San Ginés — No visit to Madrid is complete without eating the iconic churros con chocolate and this is the most iconic place to get them. Open twenty-four hours per day and seven days per week, this place is located just a stone’s throw away from the Plaza Mayor and is a must on any Madrid itinerary.

Where to Stay in Madrid

As such a vast city, it can be hard to figure out where to stay in Madrid . We would recommend staying close to the city centre and within easy walking distance or metro ride to everything you might want to see. Otherwise, you will spend a lot of time in transit to the main sites rather than actually seeing them.

Only YOU Boutique Hotel – This charming boutique hotel in the trendy Chueca neighbourhood of central Madrid is perfect if you’re looking for a plush stay in the Spanish capital. They have a range of luxe rooms to choose from, a location within easy walking distance of the top attraction and a swish restaurant/bar on site!

Ii Castillas Madrid – This small hotel is a fantastic mid-range option in Madrid. Located close to the Plaza Callao, an extremely central area, they have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available and an option to include breakfast in the room rate.

Hostal Foster – If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly hotel in central Madrid, then this is the place for you. Located directly off the Gran Via, they have numerous cosy and comfortable and air-conditioned rooms available and are great if you’re trying to cut down on your Madrid travel costs.

The Hat Madrid – This boutique hostel located right next to the Plaza Mayor is an excellent choice for solo and budget travellers alike. They have a range of both dorm and private rooms available and is one of the highest-rated hostels in Madrid.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Madrid!

Madrid is one of the most vibrant and lively cities in all of Europe and is an excellent destination for a short weekend away. This Madrid itinerary is a great starting point to help you plan your weekend away.

Are you planning to visit Madrid? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

The Madrid Free Walking Tour was an excellent suggestion . Thanks so much for the link

Happy you enjoyed it!

Great information thank you

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How to Get from Madrid Airport to the City Center

Don´t waste your time and money on your visit to Madrid. Wondering how to easily get from Madrid Airport to the city center?

The best way to do it depends on where you have booked your stay in the city. Take a look at my simple guide below for getting from Barajas Airport to Madrid city center.

Table of contents

Multi Public Transport Card

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Metro Madrid offers a fast, comfortable, safe, and budget-friendly option for travelers. It is also environmentally friendly, with underground travel being five times less polluting than traveling by car.

How exactly do you get from Madrid Airport to the city center? Well, Metro line number 8 has two stops within the airport: Terminals 1, 2, 3 , and Terminal 4 .

It is very important that you don’t confuse the Barajas metro station located in the town of Barajas, not at the airport.

The total cost of taking the Metro from Madrid Airport to the city center is just under €5 , which includes a supplementary airport charge. In my opinion, this is quite affordable compared to transportation costs in other cities I have visited around the world.

Line 8 will take you to Nuevos Ministerios station, right in the heart of downtown Madrid, in just 15-20 minutes. From there, most travelers opt to transfer to a different line to reach the metro station closest to their accommodation.

Regarding the Metro operating hours , Line 8 operates from 6 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. The train frequency varies depending on the time of day and the day of the week.

As a result, it has become the preferred mode of public transportation for both locals and tourists exploring the capital of Spain.

Traveling via Metro Madrid is a breeze. You can make use of the official “ Metro de Madrid” app or refer to the metro maps available at all stations and on trains.

Moreover, during the summer months, the air conditioning in the metro is a welcome relief from the heat, and visitors will appreciate the more than 2,200 chargers for handheld devices installed in the stations.

To travel on the Madrid Metro, you will need a “Multi” Public Transport Card loaded with a valid ticket type.

Check out my popular post: Getting around Madrid: Your best (and cheapest) options.

Quick Ticket machines are available at both Metro stations, where you can easily purchase the Multi card along with single or 10-Journey Tickets, as well as the necessary airport extra charges (€3 per passenger).

The 3 € airport supplement is a separate payment and cannot be deducted from your 10-trip ticket.

For most tourists, the best option is to load a “Metrobus 10-Journey Ticket” onto a single “Multi” card. This ticket covers Metro Zone A (the municipality of Madrid) and EMT buses. You will likely use up the remaining journeys, and possibly more, during your stay in Madrid.

Additionally, a single “Multi” card is usually sufficient since a group of people can use the same Public Transport Card with the unique condition that passengers must start and end their journey together.

Alternatively, visitors can opt for the Madrid Tourist Travel Pass, also known as the Madrid Tourist Ticket or Madrid City Pass .

This ticket is loaded onto the “Multi” Card and grants unlimited access to all modes of public transport (metro, urban buses, and Cercanias trains) in Madrid within your selected timeframe: 1, 2, 3, 5, or 7 calendar days .

Most tourists should be fine with just Zone A , with prices ranging from €10 for 1 day, €17 for 2 days, €22.5 for 3 days, €27 for 4 days, €32.5 for 5 days, and €42 for 7 days.

With the Madrid Tourist Ticket, you won’t need to pay the cost of the Multi card or the airport surcharge for your journey from Madrid Airport to the city center.

In the end, when deciding between the 10-journey pass and the Tourist Travel Pass, you should take into account the number of journeys you expect to use each day.

When traveling from Madrid Airport to the city center, keep in mind that children under 11 years old receive a 50% discount when purchasing the Madrid City Pass. Additionally, kids under 4 travel for free on the metro.

I know well how appealing it is to just get a taxi straight to your accommodation after a long flight.

And even more in Madrid, where the taxi fares from the Airport to Madrid downtown are not high . The Madrid Barajas Airport is just 8 miles (13 kilometers) from the city center.

Official taxis in Madrid are easily recognizable, white-colored with a red stripe and the coat-of-arms of the city on their doors.

The fare for a taxi ride from the Madrid-Barajas Airport to the city center (interior area of the M-30) is a flat rate of € 30 one way. No supplements can be added to this price, for example for taking several pieces of luggage.

Also, for visitors` convenience, credit card payments are allowed . Remember to ask for a receipt at the end of your journey just in case you need it later.

So, if you are too tired to go to the metro station while carrying heavy luggage, or you share the service with some more people, a taxi is also an excellent choice to go from Madrid Airport to the city center.

Taxi is not only the most comfortable but also (usually) the fastest way of getting to the city center , although it depends on the traffic. Try to avoid rush hours, especially from Monday to Friday when locals go and return from the office.

>> Check out my popular post: Top-rated landmarks and monuments in Madrid.

The trip from the airport to Madrid city center usually takes less than half an hour but it depends very much on the traffic conditions and the location of your accommodation.

Taxi ranks are located outside the arrivals area. You will easily identify the signals of the public taxi ranks in all the Adolfo Suarez Madrid – Barajas Airport terminals.

Bus From Barajas airport to Madrid city center

The Airport connects Madrid city center via urban buses of the Municipal Transport Company ( EMT ). The main lines are Exprés-203 (overnight it is called N27 Exprés), and 200 .

The line Exprés-203 or Exprés Aeropuerto (Airport Express) is the express line connecting the Atocha train station (overnight the last stop is Plaza Cibeles) and the Airport of Madrid-Barajas. The complete route is Terminal 4 – Terminal 2 – Terminal 1 – O´Donnell – Cibeles – Atocha.

The bus runs 24 hours 365 days a year and the rate is € 5. You can pay the driver directly with cash or a bank credit card.

The buses run every 15-20 minutes during the daytime and every 35 minutes at night (23:30-6:00). The complete journey takes approximately 40 minutes.

Many travelers use the buses for getting from Madrid airport to the city center due to the sightseeing opportunities.

Line 200 connects the Adolfo Suarez Madrid – Barajas Airport with Avenida America station. The complete route is Terminal 4 – Terminal 3 – Terminal 2 – Terminal 1 – Canillejas – Puente de la Cea – Avenida de America.

The buses run every 10-20 minutes from 5.00 to 23:30. The price is € 1.50 and you can also use the Metrobus 10-Journey Ticket.

If your accommodation happens to be near any of the bus stops mentioned earlier, taking the bus can also be a practical and budget-friendly way to travel from Madrid Airport to the city center.

There is a train connection between the Madrid Airport and the city center through the Cercanias C1 and C10 lines .

The Madrid Airport boasts a single train station located in terminal T4 (floor -1). Conveniently, there’s a shuttle bus service linking all terminals

The service is pretty fast too. For instance, it takes just 11 minutes to reach Chamartin, 18 minutes to Nuevos Ministerios, and 25 minutes to Atocha. You can access a complete schedule of all trains by downloading the “Renfe Cercanias” App or checking Renfe’s website .

Trains run every 15-20 minutes and a single ticket costs €2.60 . Be sure to keep your train ticket safe, as it’s required to exit the station.

Once again, the train can be a comfortable option for getting from Madrid Airport to the city center, especially if your final destination is along these train routes.

Last but certainly not least, one of my preferred ways to travel from Madrid Airport to the city center is through a private transfer .

With this option, you will experience a hassle-free journey in a comfortable vehicle with a knowledgeable private driver. Prices vary based on the vehicle size, and it’s charged per vehicle rather than per person.

No need to fret about delays or changes in schedule, your driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name, ready to whisk you directly to your hotel.

Car Rental at Madrid airport

Renting a car shouldn’t be your go-to choice for getting from Madrid Airport to the city center, especially if you are just visiting the capital of Spain.

Public transport offers a much more affordable, sustainable, and convenient option, sparing you from the hassles of traffic, navigation, and parking.

If you have decided to rent a car to travel from Madrid Barajas Airport to the city center, know that there are 7 rental companies available at the airport: Europcar, Budget, Avis, SIXT, Hertz, Enterprise, and Goldcar. These companies offer a variety of cars to suit all budgets, along with extras like GPS and baby car seats.

You will find all car rental offices located at the T1 terminal Arrival hall, directly opposite baggage claim hall 2 zone, and at terminal 4, floor -1.

Getting to your accommodation by car rental can be quite tricky in Madrid, so it is highly advisable to rent a GPS or use your smartphone for navigation .

Driving in Madrid is not significantly different from driving in many other European countries, but it is worth checking out these 10 essential things to know about driving in Madrid before you take the wheel.

For added peace of mind, I always opt for insurance when renting a car. You can choose the one offered by the rental company or explore options from third-party insurers , which are often more cost-effective.

It is essential to carefully read the terms and conditions of the contract and address any questions you may have. It is also a good idea to take digital photos of each panel of the car, the wheels, and the odometer.

However, considering the excellent public transport options available in Madrid, I don’t recommend renting a car to get from Madrid Airport to the city center.

Guide to Adolfo Suarez Madrid – Barajas airport

Madrid has just one airport  serving all the routes arriving to and departing from the city. Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport (code IATA: MAD, code ICAO: LEMD) is located in the  northeast of Madrid , Barajas district, only 8 miles (13 kilometers) from Madrid city center.

Madrid Airport has  four terminals and one satellite building, as Terminal (T4) consists of two buildings, T4 and its satellite (T4S), connected through an automatic underground train. The shuttle bus connecting the terminals is free and operates 24/7.

Be aware that even if your flight lands in T4S, you will have to claim your luggage and exit the airport through T4.

Madrid Airport disposes of seven public parking areas, situated in the buildings of terminals T1, T2, T3, and T4. You can save money and make the most of your travel budget if you  book the parking in advance .

Barajas Airport offers a wide range of complementary services to make stopovers as comfortable as possible.  Medical, ATMs, VAT refunds, and police are some of the services offered at the airport.

Also, visitors will enjoy  free internet access  via WIFI for an unlimited time.

The  access points  are located throughout the whole terminals T4 and T4S, as well as the boarding and restaurant areas of the T1, T2, and T3 terminals.

Connect your device to the wireless network “freewifi.aena.es”, open the web browser, and when requesting a page a welcome screen will be displayed with the instructions.

Now that you have learned how to get from Madrid Airport to the City center, continue  planning your next trip to the capital of Spain .

And if you have an overnight stopover or suffered a canceled flight, don´t forget to check the top-rated hotels near Madrid Barajas Airport .

PIN THIS TO YOUR TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARDS ↓

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4 thoughts on “How to Get from Madrid Airport to the City Center”

Thanks for your post , We found it quite useful

Happy to help! thanks for your comment!

Thanks for this great post. I’m wondering if is worth it to get the metro card just to go back and forth from the airport to Atocha. We are spending only one full day in Madrid.

Hi! thanks for your comment! in your case, the most convenient (and cheapest) option is to use the train. There is a direct route from Terminal 4 of the airport to Atocha, the Cercanias trains are excellent

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MADRID WITH KIDS: things to do, itinerary, and top tips

Posted on Last updated: 11 December 2023

Despite being the Spanish capital, Madrid is often overlooked as a family friendly city break in favour of Barcelona or Seville’s architectural charm. But this buzzing and grand city is a fantastic place to explore, and there is more than enough to fill two days in Madrid with kids thanks to fantastic parks, an excellent metro system, and churros for starters.

I visited Madrid with my eldest, Arthur, when he was 6 years old. I had previously done a 1:1 trip with his younger brother to Lanzarote , and I was keen to experience the same with Arthur, albeit on a shorter timescale to fit around school. The reason we picked Madrid? Well, it just came down to a cheap flight offer with Ryanair from Manchester airport, and we’re very pleased we jumped on the deal!

Arthur then returned to Madrid for goalkeeper training when he turned 10, which was a fantastic experience, but also an opportunity to explore Madrid further.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Madrid with kids or wondering if you should book a family holiday to Madrid, read on. Here we provide a two day itinerary, ideas for more things to do in Madrid with kids if you stay longer (including a section for football fans!), getting to and from the airport, as well as some family-friendly accommodation options.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, and I receive a small commission.

Best time to visit Madrid with children

We visited Madrid in January and I’ll be honest, it was cold. Much colder than I had anticipated. We even saw a flurry of snow! Whilst warmer weather would have been appreciated, it was a great time to visit as there were fewer crowds and accommodation prices lower.

I would honestly avoid July and August as the popular sights get extremely crowded and temperatures regularly climb above 35 degrees. That’s a great temperature for a beach holiday, but not at all ideal for a city break with kids .

Late Spring and early Autumn are probably the best times for a family trip to Madrid as temperatures are usually mild. If your kids are in school, you may want to consider either the May or October half-term holidays. In May, you would benefit from the long summer days; alfresco dining in one of Madrid’s many pedestrianised plazas late in the evening is an absolute treat.

But if you are totally flexible or just escaping for a weekend in Madrid like us, June and September are definitely the best months to visit because of the amazing weather and incredibly long days. It’s just a case of finding affordable family accommodation.

Tips for a family trip to Madrid

Madrid is a buzzing, busy city and there are a few things to consider:

• If visiting Madrid with a toddler or baby you may find getting around tricky with a buggy . Whilst there are lots of flat pavements and walkable areas, the public transport isn’t very buggy friendly. The metro is excellent in that it connects lots of different places and is easy to use, but only the very large stations have lift access and many only have stairs. Buses are slow and get very crowded. You may want to consider taking a carrier.
• Madrid is a very walkable city and it’s likely you will do a lot of walking. Consider wearing hiking boots . It may not look as cool, but I’m always grateful for wearing them.
• There are very few public toilets . Make sure your kids go whenever you see a toilet. Don’t wait around for the next one.
• When considering where to stay in Madrid with kids, it’s not necessary being in the city centre as the metro is so good. Consider staying further out, but close to a metro station , to perhaps get a better standard of accommodation for your budget.
• The Spanish operate on very different timings to us Brits. Most people adhere to a siesta between 2pm and 5pm, and people eat very late in the evening, often around 10pm, including families. Thankfully in Madrid there are many eateries open all hours and we never had a problem picking up a snack in the afternoon or grabbing dinner at 6pm. Although it may be worthwhile asking your accommodation for dining recommendations if eating earlier.
• English isn’t as widely spoken in Madrid as you may think it would be. A few Spanish words go a long way and it’s worth having Google Translate handy .
• If you are visiting Madrid with older kids, check out this guide to visiting Madrid with teens .

Our 2 days in Madrid with kids itinerary

We arrived on a Saturday evening to Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport, so we only had time to grab a bite to eat and enjoy a short wander to Puerta del Sol after checking in to our accomodation . But after a good night’s sleep we were ready for a city adventure!

Now there are A LOT of galleries and museums in Madrid including Museo del Prado and Centro de Arte Reina Sofia , all boasting world famous historical artwork, and these are some of the top things to do in Madrid for solo travellers . But when visiting Madrid with children (especially if visiting Madrid with a toddler or pre-schoolers), you perhaps need to be rather selective in where you go, unless you have any serious history buffs in the family. Instead, we decided to head to the markets and plazas to get our flavour of Madrid, found some dinosaur bones, and even took a little trip out of the city to Toledo.

Here is a map of all the places we visited in Madrid in 48 hours, and some extra ideas if you have more time.

Day 1 in Madrid

Start your day at El Rastro markets (take the metro to Puerta de Toledo ), Madrid’s most popular open air flea market, held every Sunday and public holiday during the year. It’s mainly clothes on sale, but you may be able to pick up a bargain. Arthur decided to spend his pocket money on a Real Madrid football shirt.

Then walk the ten minutes to Plaza Mayor , Madrid’s most popular public square that was once the centre of Old Madrid. Just the East of Plaza Mayor are the food markets of Mercado de San Miguel . This is a good snack stop, although this get very busy closer to lunch time.

Consider taking a the Hop on Hop Off Madrid City Tour to rest the legs and admire the city from the top or a bus. The metro is a great way to get around, but to really appreciate the architecture of the city a bus tour is a great idea.

Grab a picnic and spend a long lazy afternoon at the landscaped gardens of El Retiro Park . They are simply stunning and perhaps the best place to visit in Madrid for kids as there is open space to run, lots of playgrounds (see map below) and you can even hire a boat on the lake for a paddle.

However, El Retiro Park was sadly closed for our visit due to high winds. There have been previous fatalities caused by falling trees in high winds, so if the wind picks up to a certain level the authorities close the park. Check this website for notifications of closure.

So we had to find something else to do! Instead we ventured over to Faro de Moncloa , a 92-metre-high transmission tower with an observation deck. The views on a clear day are fantastic and it’s interesting seeing the network of roads across the city. Do note that it is closed on a Monday. There are only fast food restaurants at the metro stop over this way, so try and grab something in the city before hand.

To finish the day (yes, we were still going strong!) we took the metro to Gregorio Marañón to visit the Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales . This Natural Sciences Museum is split in two. Head to the entrance on the far left first. This is the main entrance and where you purchase tickets (adults €7, children €3.50). This half of the museum is devoted heavily to taxidermy. Budding palaeontologists need to head to the entrance on the right hand side of the building to investigate fossils and see dinosaur skeletons.

Faro de Moncloa and the National Museum of Natural Sciences are also good options for things to do in Madrid when it rains .

Day 2 to Toledo

The medieval town of Toldeo is only a 30 minute train journey from Madrid and an absolute must for anyone visiting Madrid. You can get the bus, which is slightly cheaper, but the train is much quicker and more comfortable. Otherwise you can book a day tour from Madrid to Toledo .

We wandered from our hostel to Puerta del Sol , which is where all roads in Spain radiate from. There are always roving characters around tempting your children to take a photo with them (make sure you have change). From Sol take the metro direct to the impressive Atocha Station .

Atocha Station is the largest railway station in Spain and can be difficult to navigate, so allow lots of time to find your way. You will need to purchase and book a specific train time for your journey to Toldeo. Trains depart every hour or half hour in the morning and every hour in the evening. Tickets are about €13. Train times are subject to change, so  check the latest train times at Rail Europe  before you depart for the day. 

Once you arrive at Toledo Station, you may want to do the Toledo City Tour Bus Tour that waits right outside.

However, if you want to explore under your own steam (like us), it’s a 20 minute stroll to the city walls via Puerta de Alcántara , and then we suggest you just wander and get lost, stumbling across palaces and churches along the way. Many of the streets are pedestrianised or have very little traffic, so your little ones are free to run, jump and explore.

Top things to see in Toldeo include:

• Catedral de Toledo – one of the top 10 cathedrals in Spain
• Alcázar – a very large military museum in a 16th century palace
• Sinagoga del Tránsito – a beautiful synagogue built in 1355
• Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes – a 15th-century church with grand cloisters

There are also lots of souvenir shops selling swords and gear for budding knights, and there is an abundance of family friendly eateries. Arthur particularly enjoyed the pizza here .

More ideas for things to do in Madrid for families

If you’re looking for more family things to do in Madrid, you may be interested to learn that there are some fantastic amusement parks in and around the city. Many of these are shut in the winter months, so check the websites for opening times.

• Parque Warner Madrid – a theme park to the south east of the city boasting a total of 42 rides with 6 rollercoasters.
• Parque de Atracciones de Madrid – the official amusement park of Madrid. Located in the Casa de Campo, the 20-hectare park has a total of 36 rides, 7 rollercoasters, and 3 water rides across 5 zones, including Nickelodeon Land.
• Aquópolis Water Parks – there are actually two close to the city of Madrid;  Aquopolis San Fernando de Henares  (west of Madrid) or  Aquopolis Villanueva de la Cañada  (east of Madrid).
• Zipline Adventure Park Madrid – zip lines and tree top adventures for kids aged 13+.

In addition, nature loving kids would enjoy an afternoon exploring the different ecosystems and animals at Faunia , including kangaroos, meerkats, crocodiles and even dinosaurs!

And finally, we should perhaps fit in a museum. Does your little one like robots? Then a visit to the Robot Museum is a must, as it houses one of the largest robot collections in the world. Book on to a guided tour lasting 45 mins. You can only do this on the day of your visit, but you can do this online. At 4pm Monday to Friday there is an English tour. Check the website for opening times and tickets prices, and note that it is closed on a Sunday.

Football fans visiting Madrid

Madrid is known as one of the world’s premier footballing cities with two top division (La Liga) sides (Real and Atletico) based in the city. Both clubs offer stadium tours and you can attend a match if it happens to coincide with your visit.

Real’s stadium (the Santiago Bernabéu ) is located right in the heart of the city, whilst Atletico’s ( Civitas Metropolitan Stadium ) is a few kilometres from the centre. Both are accessible by metro and Atletico’s is also easy to reach by your own vehicle (and has lots of parking spaces on non-match days).

The stadium tours are both very similar, giving you the chance to view the trophy rooms, media centre, dressing rooms and pitch side access. We actually preferred the Atletico version as it was slightly quieter with better access, although both are recommended. You’ll also get to visit the club shops after the tours, prices of the replica kits veer towards the expensive side, although they’re the same price you’d pay online.

Buying tickets for matches can be tricky, depending who they are playing and the stage of the season. Tickets for the big games (Real versus Atletico and either Madrid side versus Barcelona) will be especially hard/expensive to purchase. Another complication is that kick-off times aren’t confirmed until very close to the match day, sometimes only a couple of weeks beforehand, which makes planning harder. Keep in mind that some matches don’t kick-off until 9pm local time, meaning a finish time of close to 11pm!

It’s easiest and most reliable to book tickets via the respective club’s websites, or at the stadium itself. You’ll find a multitude of ticket agencies operating online but approach them with caution as there will be a high price mark-up and there’s always a risk of counterfeit tickets.

Do try and attend a game if you can though, Spanish football fans are rightly considered some of the most passionate in the world and watching a match with 70,000+ fans in attendance is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

There’s another team based near Madrid called Getafe. It’s usually easier to get tickets for their matches but it lacks some of the prestige of the other two clubs.

How to get around Madrid with kids

Madrid is a very walkable city and we did A LOT of walking. But when little legs get tired and when you want to venture further afield, the metro is extremely good and very easy to navigate.

We bought a three day tourist card from the metro station at the airport. This covered all travel on public transport in the city for our stay, including getting to and from the airport to the city centre. Check the website for up to date pricing. Kids under the age of 11 are half price, and children under the age of 4 travel for free.

You may also want to consider doing the Hop on Hop off City Bus Tour . If you are visiting Madrid with kids age 10+, you may want to do a segway tour !

If you’re planning to use the metro, you’ll first need to buy a Metro card (available from ticket machines or some newsagents) for €2.50 which you then load tickets onto. You’re able to use one card for multiple people, so families can just buy one and add everyone’s ticket onto it. Simply tap at the ticket gate when you’re making your journey for each person in your group.

Getting to and from Madrid airport to city centre

If you’re wondering how to get from Madrid Airport to the city centre , it’s actually quite straight forward. There are Metro stations both at Terminal 2 and Terminal 4. You can easily walk to T2 from T1 and T3. Trains leave every 5 minutes between 6.00 am and 2.00 am. Line 8 goes straight to the Nuevos Ministerios Metro station in the centre of Madrid, taking just 12 minutes.

If you are heading to Atocha station, or your accommodation is nearby, consider taking the Renfe commuter train, known as Cercanías . From the airport (terminal 4), the C1 and C10 trains take thirty minutes to reach Atocha station, also passing through a few useful city centre stations (including Chamartín and Nuevos Ministerios ) on the way.

Tickets for the train can be bought on the ground floor of T4 arrivals and cost €2.60. We had some trouble getting our UK credit card to work with the machines so it’s not a bad idea to have some cash handy in case you need it. Check the official Renfe website for timetables, maps and other information.

Read this guide if you are doing a long layover at Madrid Airport.

Where to stay in Madrid with kids

Accommodation in Madrid is on the pricey side, even in low season, and we found budget accommodation got booked up quickly even in mid January!

We stayed at Casa de Huespedes Dolce Vita . This is a good budget choice, in a central location and includes breakfast, although it severely lacks any sound proofing. As it was just my son and I we stayed in a double room with shared bathroom. There is one triple room, but no larger rooms to accommodate larger families.

If you are looking for a good family hotel in Madrid you should check out:

• Petit Palace Plaza Mayor (⋆⋆⋆⋆) – very central, modern and free bike hire.
• Iberostar Las Letras Gran Via (⋆⋆⋆⋆) – very central, full of character, seasonal rooftop pool with spectacular views. 
• SmartRental Collection Centric II (⋆⋆⋆⋆) – self catering apartments, seasonal pool, central.
• Vértice Roomspace (⋆⋆⋆) – 15-minutes train ride from Madrid city centre.
• Ok Hostel Madrid (⋆⋆) – basic family rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

Fancy some luxury with a rooftop pool? Then check out these hotels in Madrid with rooftop pools . They look utterly incredible!

You may also like to read: Lanzarote with kids: off the beaten track The best ALTERNATIVE European city breaks with kids A Northern Spain road trip: Santander to Barcelona and the Pyrenees

2024 solar eclipse map: Where to see the eclipse on April 8

These 2024 solar eclipse maps will help you make the best decision about where and how to watch the total solar eclipse on Monday (April 8).

It's finally here: Today, (April 8) a total solar eclipse will pass across the skies North America, giving more than 33 million people living in 15 U.S. states a rare view of the totally-obstructed sun, and — weather permitting — a taste of some seriously strange eclipse phenomena .

If you’re wondering where the total and partial phases of the eclipse will be visible, the good news is that almost everyone in the contiguous U.S. will be able to see the celestial spectacle to some extent. But for a more detailed view of the eclipse’s path, take a look at these handy eclipse maps, courtesy of GreatAmericanEclipse.com. 

Solar eclipse 2024 path of totality map

Totality is the moment that every eclipse-chaser lives for: The moment when the moon completely covers the sun’s face, resulting in a brief but eerie darkness in the daytime. The path of totality , shown in the map above, is the path of the moon’s shadow across Earth’s surface. 

On Monday (April 8), totality will begin in Sinaloa, Mexico, then move northeast up to Texas, ultimately crossing 15 states before moving on to Canada. The states where totality will be visible are: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine — although Tennessee and Michigan will only be glanced by the moon's shadow.

Related: April 8 solar eclipse: What time does totality start in every state?

Viewers MUST be within the path of totality to witness the total phase of the eclipse; if you are off the path by even a mile, you will only see a partial eclipse, and miss out on the spooky daytime darkness. Furthermore, the closer you are to the center of the path of totality, the longer totality will last for you — up to a maximum duration of 4 minutes, 27 seconds in Torreón, Mexico.

Note: Totality is the ONLY TIME when it is safe to view the sun without protective eyewear like certified solar eclipse glasses . You must protect your eyes during the entire partial phase of the eclipse, no matter where you are.

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Solar eclipse 2024 partial eclipse map

If you live in the U.S. and can’t make it to the path of totality, a partial eclipse still awaits you on April 8. The entire contiguous U.S. will have some view of the partial eclipse, ranging from 99% coverage of the sun just off the path of totality to about 15% coverage far to the northwest of the path.

The map above shows how much of the sun’s disk will be blocked from your location. Watching the partial phases of the eclipse — which last about an hour and 20 minutes before and after totality — means wearing protective eyewear at all times. Failure to do so could result in permanent eye damage, according to NASA .

If you want to experience the celestial spectacle but don’t have a pair of eclipse glasses handy, there are many other ways to safely enjoy the partial eclipse . These include making a homemade pinhole projector , using a pasta strainer to project the shadow of the moon onto the ground or watching one of the various eclipse live streams available.

2024 eclipse travel maps

If you want to see totality but don’t live within the path, driving or taking public transit to a city within the path may be possible. The map above shows how far the drive is to the path of totality, based on where you’re coming from. Meanwhile, the map below shows the most populated cities within the path of totality — many of which are expected to be flooded with millions of eclipse tourists on April 8.

The biggest cities within the path of totality include: San Antonio, Dallas, Austin and Fort Worth in Texas; Indianapolis, Indiana; Hamilton and Montreal in Canada; and Torreón and Mazatlan in Mexico.

Wherever you are on April 8, we wish you clear skies and protected eyes during this rare, wondrous eclipse over North America.

Brandon is the space/physics editor at Live Science. His writing has appeared in The Washington Post, Reader's Digest, CBS.com, the Richard Dawkins Foundation website and other outlets. He holds a bachelor's degree in creative writing from the University of Arizona, with minors in journalism and media arts. He enjoys writing most about space, geoscience and the mysteries of the universe.

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