Is Madrid Worth Visiting? 21 Reasons to Book Now (2024)

ByNausheen Farishta February 27, 2023November 17, 2023

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Is Madrid worth visiting?

Undecided about whether or not to visit Madrid? With its vibrant culture, lively nightlife and stunning architecture, it’s no wonder why the Spanish capital is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. And, as someone who previously lived in Madrid, I assure you I’m only partially biased.

With centuries-old architecture, dynamic culture and stunning parks, Madrid is full of surprises and attractions for travelers of all tastes. Whether you’re looking to explore its rich cultural heritage or just soak up the atmosphere in its many bars and restaurants, Madrid will not disappoint.

21 Reasons to Visit Madrid

From iconic attractions like the Royal Palace and Retiro Park to hidden gems such as El Rastro flea market and the San Miguel Market, there are plenty of reasons to book your trip to Madrid.

1. Great Base for Side Trips

Madrid is a great city to visit in and of itself, and even better if you plan on taking some side trips.

With its central location in Spain, Madrid provides the perfect base for day trips or weekend getaways. Small towns like Segovia, Toledo and Cuenca as well as larger cities like Barcelona and Valencia are only a few hours away by bus or train.

When I lived in Spain I used to commute to Segovia twice a week to work at the University there!

You can easily head south to Andalucia or north to the Basque country to experience completely different regions of Spain from Madrid. Consider getting a Rail Europe pass to make your train travel more affordable and seamless.

Or, take a guided day trip and let someone else do all the planning:

As you see, are plenty of options available for travelers who want to explore more of Spain. And don’t forget Lisbon – it’s only an hour away by plane!

2. Perfect for Solo Travelers

Another great reason Madrid is worth visiting is that it is the perfect destination for solo travelers. As a solo female traveler myself, I have experienced first-hand how easy it is to meet people while in Madrid – from making new friends at cocktail bars to dining alone without feeling like an outsider.

You can visit La Mallorquina for a comfortable solo breakfast. The counter space with bar stools is designed perfectly for grabbing a solo bite, and the food is delicious. You can also easily explore different restaurants alone for lunch or dinner without feeling weird about it.

Plus, there is no shortage of activities that you can do by yourself such as exploring museums, parks and neighborhoods around the city. Whether you are looking for companions on your solo trip or just want to be alone with your thoughts, Madrid is the place to be.

3. Plenty of Sightseeing Opportunities

The Spanish capital has so much to offer in terms of sightseeing and cultural attractions that you could spend days exploring its many wonders. From the ancient Egyptian Templo de Debod to the modern Crystal Palace in Retiro Park, there are plenty of sights that will captivate your imagination.

And don’t forget about all the street performers at Puerta del Sol or Plaza Mayor! Whether it’s art exhibits, museums, palaces or plazas Madrid’s most iconic landmarks are worth seeing firsthand.

One great way to explore Madrid’s sights and make new friends is by joining a group tour, like this Madrid bike tour or this Madrid walking tour.

🚌 Book a pass for Madrid’s Hop-on-Hop-off Sightseeing Bus!

4. Easy to Get Around

While Madrid has many sights to see from end-to-end, getting around the city to do so is a breeze! It has a great public transportation system with metro and buses, is super walkable and has taxis readily available around the town.

You can explore all that Madrid has to offer without breaking a sweat. In fact, it was after living in Madrid I decided I never wanted to own a car again! I loved being able to get around the whole city without worrying about traffic rules or parking.

5. Safe

Having lived in Madrid for a while and having visited the city as a solo female traveler, I can confidently say that it is one of the safest cities I’ve ever been to. I always feel safe walking alone at night, something I can’t say for every city I’ve explored.

This is because Madrid has an incredibly active nightlife – even at 3am there are plenty of people out and about, making it feel like the middle of the day.

The energy of this city makes me feel safe and secure exploring its streets any time, day or night. Of course, fellow solo travelers should always take the same safety precautions you would anywhere else. But if you’re looking for a secure destination where you can feel safe traveling solo, add Madrid to your list.

6. Vibrant Nightlife

Madrid is known for its lively nightlife and there are plenty of options for an enjoyable evening out. From modern cocktail bars to classic tapas restaurants, you won’t be disappointed with the selection here.

The best part of Madrid’s nightlife is that it doesn’t end at midnight – people typically start their nights around 10pm and it can still be going strong at 4am or 5am. It’s not unusual to end a night out with breakfast the next morning!

Although I tend to maintain a geriatric bedtime myself, back when I was living in Madrid in my 20s I managed this full night out several times. If you’re a solo traveler wanting to experience Madrid’s nightlife, I strongly encourage joining a group tour for more security and fun. Here are some I recommend booking:

7. Beautiful Green Spaces

When you think of Madrid, your mind might immediately jump to its lively bars and clubs or bustling city streets. However, there are also many beautiful green spaces throughout the city.

The Retiro Park is one of the most popular parks in Madrid, with lots of opportunities to explore or simply relax in a calm atmosphere. With its lush gardens, tranquil pond, and iconic Crystal Palace, it’s no wonder why this park is one of the city’s most popular attractions.

Enjoy various art exhibits throughout the year or sit in on special events like open-air concerts and movie screenings during summer months. You can even rent a pedal boat to cruise along the central pond.

Other green spaces, like Parque del Oeste or Casa de Campo, are also amazing places to explore. In Parque del Oeste, you can tour the unique Egyptian Templo de Debod that was gifted to Madrid. You can also take in some beautiful sunset views from here.

Casa de Campo is Madrid’s biggest park. Think Central Park in New York, then multiply it by 5 and you’ve got Casa de Campo! It’s the perfect spot for outdoor activities, boasting a plethora of attractions such as its lakeside amusement park, zoo and sprawling gardens.

All of these parks provide a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Madrid’s inner city.

8. Friendly

One of the best things about Madrid is its people. Spaniards are known for their friendly and laid-back attitude, and it’s no different in this Spanish city. You’re guaranteed to get a warm welcome and plenty of help if you need it.

In my experience, Spanish locals were always willing to go out of their way to help me with directions or recommending places to eat and more. Someone’s also always around to remind you to take it easy, tranquila, if they see you stressing out for any reason.

The slower pace and welcoming vibe of Madrid make it even more worth visiting. The people of Madrid truly make this city the amazing place it is. One way to illustrate the friendliness you’ll find in Madrid and broader Spain is through this specific concept:

In Madrid, the phrase ‘Te Invito’ is a cultural concept that emphasizes hospitality and friendliness. The phrase translates to “I invite you” in English, and it is often used by Spaniards to show someone they are welcome in their home or city.

The concept of Te Invito dates back centuries, when people would open their homes to strangers as a sign of hospitality.

These days, you might hear ‘te invito’ when out with someone and they pay for you. If this happens, graciously accept. The idea is that next time, you will ‘invite’ them.

9. Affordable

Madrid is surprisingly affordable compared to many other major cities in Europe. There are lots of restaurants that offer budget-friendly, 3-course meals. Madrid is home to a unique culinary tradition: the menu del dia. Translating to “menu of the day,” this special lunchtime meal is popular among locals and tourists alike.

The menu del dia generally costs between 10-15 euros and consist of two courses – an appetizer and a main dish – as well as either a drink or dessert item as a third course. Look for signs outside restaurants advertising their menu del dia to determine where you’d like to eat.

Additionally, you can order smaller snacks or tapas at affordable prices or check out the street food stalls at one of Madrid’s markets for a tasty meal on a budget.

Public transportation is also quite inexpensive in Madrid. There are also affordable accommodation options in Madrid. Staying at a hostel in Madrid will not only save you some money, but also give you an opportunity to meet fellow travelers.

If you prefer something more private, you’re also sure to find budget hotels and VRBO options.

All these factors make Madrid one of the most affordable cities to visit in Europe. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience without breaking the bank, Madrid should definitely be on your list.

10. Comfortable Weather Year-Round

Madrid’s climate is one of the major reasons why it’s such a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. It has an ideal climate that is dry, with hot summers and

11. Interesting Neighborhoods

Although it often feels like a cozy small town, Madrid is a big city with plenty of interesting neighborhoods to explore.

The Barrio de las Letras in Madrid is a historic neighborhood that has been the home to some of Spain’s greatest literary minds throughout history. It was here, in this old district of the city, that Miguel de Cervantes, Lope de Vega and other key figures in Spanish literature resided during the Spanish Golden Age.

La Latina is another important neighborhood in Madrid, and one of Madrid’s oldest districts along with Barrio de los Austrias to its north. The most popular streets to visit in La Latina for tapas are Calle Cava Baja and Calle Cava Alta. It’s also worth exploring the Rastro street market that takes place on Sundays in La Latina.

Lavapiés feels like another world, with its vibrant mix of cultures, languages and cuisines. This is one of the city’s most diverse neighborhoods, with a variety of bars and restaurants to choose from.

Plus, visitors can enjoy the colorful street art on display in this area. When I lived in Madrid, I often visited Lavapiés to enjoy menu del dia at Shapla Indian Restaurant.

The Chueca neighborhood in Madrid is an exciting area of the city that appeals to both locals and visitors alike. It has become an important hub for Madrid’s LGBT community.

Nearby Chueca is the Malasaña neighborhood – one of the city’s trendiest and most popular destinations. This neighborhood features plenty of colorful street art, trendy bars, vintage shops and cozy cafes. It also boasts some great nightlife.

Exploring these different sub-cultures within Madrid are another reason this city is worth a visit.

12. Variety of Shopping Experiences

No trip to Madrid is complete without some retail therapy. There are plenty of great stores, both classic and modern, to choose from. For luxury stores and designer boutiques, head over to the Salamanca area where you’ll find some of Madrid’s most exclusive shops.

If you’re looking for something more unique, visit Rastro Market on Calle de la Ribera in La Latina and browse through an array of antiques and vintage items. For Spain souvenirs, check out the shops around Puerta del Sol or head over to Gran Via for some of the city’s most popular stores.

In fact, Gran Via is known as Madrid’s answer to the Champs Elysees in Paris, with a wide variety of shops ranging from high-end stores to more affordable fashion outlets.

13. Impressive Museums

As if all of the above weren’t enough, Madrid is also home to some of the world’s most renowned museums. The Prado Museum is an absolute must-see attraction in Madrid and offers a great selection of artworks from various periods in history.

The Reina Sofia Museum houses the works of famous Spanish artists such as Pablo Picasso, Joan Miro and Salvador Dali. It’s a great destination for art enthusiasts looking to explore Spain’s rich cultural heritage.

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is another popular museum in Madrid with an impressive collection of works from Renaissance masters, pop art icons and more.

Together, these three cultural houses make up the Golden Triangle of Art.

Foodie Reasons to Visit Madrid

Madrid is a foodie paradise that offers an array of culinary experiences, from traditional tapas bars serving up classic dishes like Jamón Ibérico and patatas bravas to modern restaurants featuring innovative tasting menus. Here are some of the top foodie reasons to make your way to Madrid:

14. Churros con Chocolate

The classic churros con chocolate is a must-try in Madrid. These delicious fried dough treats are served up with a cup of thick and creamy hot chocolate for dipping. You can find the best churros in shops like the famous Chocolateria San Gines, located near Puerta del Sol.

San Gines in Madrid churros con chocolate

15. Tinto de Verano

I was honestly surprised by how much I loved Tinto de Verano. It’s a popular summer drink in Madrid, much more so than sangria, but I’d never even heard of it until I moved there.

Tinto de Verano doesn’t sound like it should be good. It’s made by mixing red wine with soda or lemonade, and is served over ice.

Yet somehow, it works.

I’ve even tried to order it back home in Chicago when the craving strikes but of course I’m met with confused looks. This refreshing beverage is perfect for enjoying on hot days in the city, so when you’re in Madrid don’t miss out!

16. Llao Llao

Bar none, my favorite treat in Madrid is a type of frozen yogurt from Llao Llao. It’s usually topped with an array of fruits and syrups, so you can really customize it to your own tastes. I like mine with plenty of chocolate sauce, strawberries and bananas.

It’s so good that I still find myself craving it even years after moving away from Madrid. And on my most recent visit to the city, I literally had Llao Llao twice a day! It’s that good.

17. Restaurante Botín

If you’re looking for a classic dining experience in Madrid, then head over to the iconic Restaurante Botín. This restaurant has been serving up traditional Spanish cuisine since 1725 and is said to be one of the oldest restaurants in the world.

Dishes like cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) are served in a somewhat tight space where you’re surrounded by antiques from the restaurant’s history.

It’s no wonder why this restaurant has been featured in films and literature throughout the years. It’s definitely a must-visit spot for any foodie visiting Madrid. But if you do intend to eat here, definitely make reservations in advance.

18. Cool Cocktail Bars

Madrid is also home to some great cocktail bars serving up creative concoctions and unique flavor combinations.

One that I absolutely loved is called Salmon Guru. I found it on the World’s Best Bars list and decided to check it out on my solo trip. The vibe is part speakeasy and part Tiki. The drinks are both uniquely presented and delicious.

Plus, I had a good time there and was welcomed in even though I was solo. First I was sat at a booth but soon I was moved to the bar, which is the place to be as a solo traveler of course.

I was able to make friends with the solo travel woman next to me and together we explored some additional cocktail bars. So if posh cocktail bars are more your scene than Madrid’s 7-level nightclubs, know that this city has you covered as well.

best cocktail bars in Madrid Salmon Guru

19. Food Markets

Madrid also has plenty of great food markets to explore. My favorite was the Mercado de San Miguel near Plaza Mayor. This market is home to dozens of stalls where you can try a variety of traditional and modern Spanish dishes, like paella or steak tartare.

Nevermind all the deliciousness – this space itself is quite a sight to behold. It’s a stunningly restored and maintained iron-and-glass structure that was built in the early 1900s. So don’t miss out on exploring some of Madrid’s food markets, they’re definitely worth a visit.

If visiting a sprawling market on your own feels intimidating, you can even sign up for a local-led tour like this one.

20. La Mallorquina

No trip to Madrid is complete without a visit to La Mallorquina. My sister recommended this place to me after her first visit in Madrid. This bakery has been on the same corner since 1894, serving up freshly made churros and pastries. It’s open all day long, so you can swing by for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

I found myself at La Mallorquina for both! For breakfast, grab a seat at the counter and order a cream or chocolate-filled croissant to accompany your cafe con leche. For an afternoon snack, grab a savory empanada.

21. Tapas

Last but certainly not least, you have to try some of Madrid’s delicious tapas. There are plenty of restaurants throughout the city where you can find the traditional pintxos (small plates) and raciones (larger plates).

There are so many incredible options, but the standards to try include patatas bravas, croquetas, tortilla española and of course some jamon. Even better than the food itself is the atmosphere of sitting at a bar with a group of friends, sharing small plates and talking over drinks.

This is one of the best ways to experience Madrid’s culture. To make sure you’re hitting the best spots and having the best experience, consider joining one of these locally guided tapas crawls:

Is Madrid Worth Visiting? FAQ

As you plan your trip, here are some FAQ to consider:

How many days in Madrid is enough?

This depends on what type of traveler you are, but generally most people recommend staying in Madrid for at least 3-4 days to get a good feel for the city. It’s enough time to visit some of the major tourist attractions and explore different neighborhoods, while still having time to relax.

If you want more time to really indulge in all that Madrid has to offer (eat amazing food, shop in unique boutiques or take day trips outside of the city), then I recommend week or longer.

Is it better to visit Madrid or Barcelona?

When I lived in Madrid, what I’d hear said most often was that Madrid is where you go to live and Barcelona is where you go as a tourist.

If you’re looking for a more cultural experience with great museums and art galleries, then Madrid is the place to go. Madrid is a bit more laid back and grounded, whereas Barcelona is livelier by comparison.

If you want beach time, Barcelona is definitely the way to go. Whereas Madrid specializes in traditional Spanish food, Barcelona offers Catalanion cuisine and traditions. Barcelona is also known for its iconic architecture, including Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia

Both cities offer something different so it’s up to you to decide which one fits your travel style best!

Which is better to visit, Lisbon or Madrid?

Lisbon is known for its traditional Fado music, stunning architecture (including colorful buildings and ornate tilework) and its Mediterranean climate that offers plenty of sunshine throughout the year. It also offers a beachfront atmosphere and an amazing selection of seafood.

While both cities are pretty walkable, Lisbon is known to have steep cobblestone streets winding through hills. This makes Lisbon a picturesque destination, but also one that requires some endurance to walk through!

Madrid is known for its art galleries, a passionate nightlife, and traditional Spanish cuisine. It’s also a great city to explore on foot due to its compact size and relative flatness.

Whether you decide to visit one or both, each city offers something distinct and special that appeals to different interests. And, you can easily travel between the two cities and visit both as the flight is only about an hour long!

Is Madrid safe?

Yes, Madrid is overall a very safe city. While it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions while travelling, the crime rate in Madrid is low compared to other cities.

The most common type of crime that tourists may experience are pickpocketing and petty theft. To avoid these types of incidents, be sure to stay vigilant and keep an eye on your personal belongings when out exploring the city.

And, consult my safety resources that I never travel without to guard against pickpocketing.

Final Verdict: Is Madrid Worth Visiting?

So, is Madrid worth visiting? The short answer is a resounding YES.

There’s a popular saying: De Madrid, al cielo which means, from Madrid to heaven.

The sentiment behind it is that Madrid is so beautiful, that once you’ve seen it you can might as well go straight off to heaven as only heaven is the next best thing.

From its stunning architecture, to the delicious cuisine and incredible nightlife, Madrid has so much to offer. Whether you’re looking for a cultural, historic or foodie experience Madrid has something unique in store for you. With so much to offer, Madrid is one of the best places to visit in Spain for first-timers.

With low crime rates and plenty of safety resources available, travelers can feel secure while exploring this amazing city. So if you’re considering a trip to Spain – make sure Madrid tops your list. And read up on the best Spain souvenirs to buy while you’re there!

And in case you’re flying solo, consult this guide on how to plan a solo trip to set yourself up for the best trip ever.