Madrid

"I have never been to a city where there are fewer reasons to go to bed"– Ernest Hemingway

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.

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 Tour Itineraries Featuring Madrid

Spend some time in Madrid on a tour that takes in other cities in Spain and neighboring countries. Our vacation packages including Madrid and other destinations throughout Spain and Europe hassle-free. We take care of getting you from place to place, accommodation, excursions and activities.

A Taste of Spanish Urban Life

Barcelona, Madrid, Seville

8 Days

from$2,300 pp^*

Madrid & Andalucia in a Week

Madrid, Granada, Seville

8 Days

from$2,175 pp^*

Romance Language Capitals

Paris, Rome, Madrid

10 Days

from$3,025 pp^*

Masterpieces Revealed: Artistic Gems of Spain

Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Malaga

12 Days

from$3,300 pp^*

Twelve Days of European Splendor

Barcelona, Madrid, San Sebastian, Bordeaux

12 Days

from$3,450 pp^*

Spain from North to South

Barcelona, San Sebastian, Madrid, Seville

13 Days

from$3,425 pp^*

Iberian Impressions – Discover The Soul of Spain & Portugal

Barcelona, Madrid, Porto, Lisbon

13 Days

from$3,925 pp^*

Italy vs Spain

Rome, Florence, Seville, Madrid

13 Days

from$4,575 pp^*

Icons of Spain & Italy

Barcelona, Madrid, Venice, Rome

14 Days

from$4,625 pp^*

Italy & Spain for Foodies

Venice, Bologna, Madrid, San Sebastian

14 Days

from$5,500 pp^*

Tapas Trails & Flamenco Nights

Barcelona, San Sebastian, Madrid, Granada, Malaga

14 Days

from$3,925 pp^*

The Best of the Iberian Peninsula: Highlights of Spain and Portugal

Barcelona, Porto, Lisbon, Seville, Madrid

15 Days

from$4,375 pp^*

The Great Cities of Spain

Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, Granada, Seville

15 Days

from$3,775 pp^*

* Starting price is per person, based on double occupancy in 3 star accommodation, in the most affordable month an itinerary is offered. Airfare to Europe is not included.

Click on your choice of itinerary, select number of travelers in your party, month of travel, and desired star level of accommodation to get an approximate price. Submit the enquiry form with any additional details and we can start planning your customized trip.

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.

Modern Design Hotel

A modern and comfortable hotel in the heart of Madrid.

Luxury Hotel

A high-end hotel housed in one of the historic buildings on Plaza Mayor.

Boutique Hotel

A 5-star hotel that reflects the grandeur of the magnificent Gran Vía.

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.

Glowing Reviews from Our Guests

4.8 / 5

Average of our Guest's Ratings of our trip packages including Madrid, based on 5 reviews

Michael & Barbara

Oklahoma

Having experienced both individual and small group Jayway trips, they are highly recommended for ease of planning a customized itinerary. Jayway can be relied on for high quality accommodations, tours, and transportation, including door to door transfers.

Year : 2024
Visited : Spain
Itinerary : Barcelona, Granada, Seville, Madrid
Rating :

5 / 5

Holly, Mark, Evan & Ryan

California

This is our 4th JayWay trip and we enjoyed the consistency of how you do things along with the staff who guided us along the way. It’s a great way to travel! Melita created an amazing trip and Andrea and Maria were absolutely fantastic guiding us through the process. The care they all put into their clients and their jobs is wonderful to be a part of.

Year : 2024
Visited : Spain, Portugal
Itinerary : Madrid, San Sebastian, Barcelona, Granada, Seville, Lagos, Lisbon, Porto
Rating :

4.5 / 5

Maureen & Rob

California

I would (and have done so already) tell people how very open and helpful JayWay was, from stat to finish, with recommendations, help, communications, details, etc. I highly recommend JayWay for all their organization and help, just as my friend who recommended them said it would be!

Year : 2024
Visited : Spain, Portugal
Itinerary : Seville, Cordoba, Granada, Madrid, Valencia, Cuenca, Madrid, Porto, Lisbon
Rating :

4.75 / 5

Frequently Asked Questions about 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.