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Custom tour packagesMadrid
Madrid is the center of Spain - both geographically and culturally. A city where lazy days at the parks and exciting nights out go hand in hand. Officially becoming the capital of Spain in 1561 when Prince Phillip II moved the Royal Court from Toledo, Madrid has been home to the Spanish Royal Family and the government headquarters since then. Madrid houses the largest functioning royal palace in Europe, as well as many museums, cafes, parks, universities, and cultural attractions.
"I have never been to a city where there are fewer reasons to go to bed"
– Ernest Hemingway
You’ll find the famous Plaza Mayor in the center of the city, a remnant of the city’s Habsburg era, but that’s just the beginning of Madrid’s epic past. Explore the Parque del Retiro (on foot or by boat), shop till you drop on Gran Vía street, or get up close to Picasso, Goya, and Velazquez pieces at the Museo del Prado. Madrid is an extremely welcoming city, with a diverse population. Despite the growing tourism, you’ll still find local character and charm in each of the city’s different neighborhoods. Madrid is one of the sunniest capitals in Europe, so you can expect to experience some epic sunsets too!
Popular itineraries featuring Madrid
Spend some time in Madrid on a tour that takes in other cities in Spain and neighboring countries. Our custom tour packages including Madrid and other destinations throughout Spain and Europe make multi-city trips hassle-free. We take care of getting you from place to place, accommodation, excursions and activities.
Things to do in Madrid
In a city like Madrid, you’ll never be bored. From covering as much ground as possible on a segway tour to learning the Spanish classic dishes like paella or tapas in a cooking class, there are activities for all interests. Being in the dead center of the country, Madrid is also a great home base for day trips to places like Toledo or Alcalá de Henares, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can’t leave Madrid without trying the classic “churros con chocolate” - you’ll find many “churrerias” throughout the city, open every day (and night) of the year! When we send you your customized itinerary you will be able to choose additional excursions to include in your vacation package or consider adding later.
Where to stay in Madrid
Our Madrid accommodations have been hand-picked, covering a range of comfort levels and luxury. Madrid is a sprawling city, so we’ll help you pick accommodation close to your interests, which is a key aspect to making the most of your time here. The Salamanca neighborhood is perfect for those wanting to stay near green spaces and luxury shopping. For the cultural fanatics, nothing beats the Gran Vía area, and for a more low-key and romantic stay, the cobblestone streets and cafes of the Barrio de Letras neighborhood are our top choice. Once we start preparing your customized itinerary we will present our recommended options for you to select from.
Classic-Style Hotel
A classic hotel that offers clean rooms, a good breakfast, and a superb location.
Boutique Hotel
A 5-star hotel that reflects the grandeur of the magnificent Gran Vía.
Boutique Hotel
This boutique hotel in Salamanca is ideal for those wishing to experience the high-end side of the Spanish capital.
Where can you go from Madrid?
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JayWay's trip planning service is definitely the way to go if you want to experience the highlights of your destination without stress or hassle. You can totally customize your trip to focus on personal interests as well introduce new experiences all through lens of local experts. With JayWay the fun starts with the planning and just gets better once the trip begins.
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Videos About Madrid
Frequently Asked Questionsabout Travel to Madrid
How many days should I spend in Madrid?
Madrid and its surroundings (like UNESCO listed Toledo) deserve at least three full days. Apart from the capital's main sights, you should plan a day with an off-beaten-track stroll! La Latina, Malasana, Chueca, and Lavapies neighborhoods all have something special for the traveler. Madrid is a multifaceted capital with diverse and refined gastronomy, friendly people, and atmosphere. Don't feel sorry if you had to leave something for your next visit because it is worth returning!
What are some must-sees in Madrid?
One can't leave Madrid without having seen the Prado and the Reina Sofía, but the Spanish capital has another facet, too. The painted murals in Tabacalera, the Literary Quarter, Barrio de las Letras with its flamenco dinner theaters, or the Matadero cultural hub with Spain's only cinema playing documentary films. The list is much longer than this. Come and explore it with us!
How much should I expect to spend person per day in Madrid?
You can expect to spend at least 35-40 EUR/person/day (40-45 USD) for food, beverages, transportation, and random leisure needs (spontaneous visit to a museum). If you plan to take excursions, the average cost may rise to 100-120 EUR/person/day. Day trips usually include transportation, some food, and drink.
Any souvenir and shopping tips for Madrid?
From vintage to second hand, from upcycled to brand new, from affordable to crazily overpriced, you will find everything in Madrid. Shops with clothes, food, gifts, art, accessories are aplenty. El Corte Inglés is more than a department store for Spaniards. Hard-to-find local ingredients and spices are on offer on the top floor at the food court. Malasana neighborhood is the place for vintage buys. Barrio de las Letras is a cultural hub with chic eateries and fancy boutiques.
How do I get around Madrid?
Madrid has a good subway system that will allow you to move around the city very efficiently. They offer a tourist card valid to use the Metro from one to seven consecutive days. This ticket can be purchased at Metro ticket machines and Renfe-Cercanías stations. Prices go from 8,40 euros (use for one day) to 35,40 euros (use for seven days). You can use it as many times as needed.
Where's best, easiest and safest to get some local currency in Madrid?
ATMs are safe to withdraw cash in Spain, but always refuse the conversion offered to you and allow your own bank to apply their rate. You can use your credit card in most restaurants, cafés, and bars. For some hidden or street-based souvenir shops, you might need cash, but it is very seldom. When using your credit card, please always require payment in the local currency, which is EUR in Spain.
What are the options in Madrid for people with dietary restrictions and intolerances?
The Mediterranean diet is on the menu all around the country! Spanish cuisine uses a lot of rice and chickpeas that make the life of a gluten-intolerant easy-peasy. Milk is not a popular ingredient either, which is good news for lactose intolerants. Should you have any specific restrictions, feel free to turn to the waiter, who will helpfully assist you with the right choice of meal.
Is Madrid safe?
Madrid, the Spanish capital, a metropolis home to 3-million residents, is a safe but big city. If you bear in mind some common-sense safety rules, your holiday will be worry-free.