Exclusive Madrid Holidays
Explore Vibrant Madrid, Spain
Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain, located right in the center of the country. The cosmopolitan city is renowned for its world-class museums, superb dining, vibrant nightlife, football culture, and elegant plazas and buildings.
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Weather and Climate
Madrid has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate with hot summers and cool winters. June to August see average highs of 30°C. Winters are chilly with January lows around 4°C. Spring and fall offer mild weather perfect for sightseeing.
Best Time to Visit
Peak tourist season runs from April to June and September/October when the weather is ideal for exploring. Summers can get very hot. Winter offers fewer crowds but chilly weather.
Top Sights and Attractions
- Prado Museum – One of the world’s greatest art museums with works by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and masters from across Europe.
- Retiro Park – Massive iconic park with landscaped gardens, lake with rowboats, palaces, and outdoor cafes.
- Royal Palace – Lavish 18th century palace that is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family.
- Puerta del Sol – Historic public square and center point from which Spain’s road network is measured.
- Gran Vía – Madrid’s grand central boulevard lined with shops, cafes and ornate architecture.
- El Rastro Flea Market – Europe’s largest open air flea market open on Sundays with shopping and entertainment.
- Santiago Bernabéu Stadium – Home stadium of football giants Real Madrid CF. Stadium tour and museum available.
- Plaza Mayor – Beautiful 17th century cobbled square with arched walkways, architectural details and restaurants.
Cuisine and Food
Madrid excels in food from iconic tapas and street food to Michelin-starred dining. Must try local specialties include:
- Tapas – Small plates like patatas bravas, Iberico ham croquetas, pulpo a la gallega (octopus), pimientos padrón, tortilla española.
- Cocido madrileño – Traditional chickpea stew with meat and vegetables.
- Calamari sandwiches – Deep-fried calamari on baguettes is a Madrid specialty.
- Roast suckling pig – Cochinillo asado, a favorite roasted pig dish.
- Churros – Fried dough fritters, dipped in thick hot chocolate.
- Paella – Saffron rice dish, while not origining from Madrid, is served at many restaurants.
How to Get There
- Direct flights from London airports like Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted to Madrid Barajas Airport take 2.5 hours to 3 hours. Popular airlines include British Airways, Iberia, easyJet, Ryanair.
- Other direct flights from Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh and more.
- Trains from Paris and elsewhere in Europe go direct to Madrid’s Atocha and Chamartín railway stations.
Other Local Tips
- Stroll through lavish parks like El Retiro and the Royal Botanical Garden.
- Visit the phenomenal Prado museum mid-week to avoid crowds.
- Take day trips to nearby sights like Segovia, Toledo, El Escorial.
- Eat late – Spaniards don’t dine until 9 pm or later.
