Travel guide · Spain
Madrid: what to see and when to go
Madrid is Spain's capital and its most energetic city: grand boulevards, world-class art, long lunches and nights that start after ten. It stands on a high plateau, so summers are hot and dry and winters crisp and bright, and Toledo and Segovia are an easy day trip away.
What to see and do in Madrid
The art triangle
The Prado, the Reina Sofía (home of Picasso's Guernica) and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, all within a short walk of each other.
Retiro Park
Rowing boats on the lake, the glass Crystal Palace and Sunday strolls with the locals.
Plaza Mayor and the old town
The arcaded square, the San Miguel market and tapas bars along Calle Cava Baja.
Royal Palace
One of Europe's largest royal palaces, with the Almudena Cathedral next door and the Templo de Debod for sunset.
Toledo and Segovia
Day trips by fast train: Toledo's medieval old town and Segovia's Roman aqueduct.
Best time to go
The most pleasant months: Feb.
Getting there
| From | Flight time | Return flight |
|---|---|---|
| London | 2 hr, 15 min | ≈ €130 · See flights |
| New York | 8 hr | ≈ €470 · See flights |
| Los Angeles | 12 hr, 30 min | ≈ €590 · See flights |
| Dubai | 7 hr, 45 min | ≈ €460 · See flights |
| Singapore | 15 hr, 15 min | ≈ €650 · See flights |
| Sydney | 23 hr, 15 min | ≈ €840 · See flights |
3 nights from London: ≈ €410 per person, flight and stay included.
Per person. Estimates from distance and local prices; real fares depend on your dates.
Essentials
- Country
- Spain
- Currency
- Euro
- Good for
- city · food · culture · nightlife
- How long to stay
- 3–4 days
- Where to stay
- Sol, Las Letras or La Latina to be near everything; Malasaña and Chueca for nightlife; Salamanca for a quieter, more upmarket base.Find a place to stay in Madrid
Plan your trip
Flights, a place to stay and what else you need for Madrid, one tap each.
- FlightsFrom London · about €130 (opens in a new tab)
- StayHotels and apartments in Madrid (opens in a new tab)
- Things to doTours, tickets and experiences (opens in a new tab)
Links open a sample search (Fri, Feb 5 – Mon, Feb 8, 2 people): change it on each site. If you book through these links we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It helps us keep improving diceando. Legal notice
Frequently asked questions
What's the weather like in Madrid and when should you go?
The most pleasant months: Feb. Average highs range from 10° in January to 35° in July.
How many days do you need in Madrid?
3 to 4 days is enough to see the essentials without rushing.
What does a few days in Madrid cost?
Accommodation runs at around €90 per person per night. 3 nights from London: ≈ €410 per person, flight and stay included. The flight from London takes about 2 hr, 15 min.
Where should you stay in Madrid?
Sol, Las Letras or La Latina to be near everything; Malasaña and Chueca for nightlife; Salamanca for a quieter, more upmarket base.
