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Madrid, the capital of Spain
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Madrid

Madrid is the capital and most populous city of Spain, serving as the political, economic, and cultural heart of the country. Located on the River Manzanares in central Spain at about 660 metres above sea level, this dynamic metropolis blends historic traditions with contemporary energy.

Photo: Francisco Anzola (CC BY 3.0)

Quick facts

Population
3,477,497 (city, 2025)
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
Spanish
Timezone
CEST (UTC+2)
Local time now
10:08:16

Hotels in Madrid

Madrid offers a range of hotel accommodations to suit different travellers. Options in the city include Hotel Europa, Hotel Moderno, B&B Puerta del Sol, El Mirador, and Apartamentos en Sol, providing visitors with various choices for their stay in Spain's capital. See all hotels →

Airports in Madrid

We're still gathering airports listings for Madrid — check back soon.

Car Hire in Madrid

Madrid offers convenient car hire options through major international providers and local companies. Whether you need a vehicle for exploring the Spanish capital or venturing beyond, services like Europcar, Sixt, Hertz, and Centauro Rent a Car provide flexible rental solutions to suit your travel needs. See all car hire →

Things to Do in Madrid

Madrid offers visitors a wealth of attractions to explore, from the iconic Puerta del Sol and Kilómetro Cero at the heart of the city to cultural landmarks and historic sites. Whether you're interested in architecture, history, or local experiences, Madrid has something for every traveler. See all things to do →

Puerta del Sol
9 m from centre
Kilómetro Cero
31 m from centre
Carlos III
46 m from centre
Presidencia de la Comunidad de Madrid
54 m from centre
Amador Cuesta Barrientos "Amador"
55 m from centre
Tio Pepe
58 m from centre

Restaurants in Madrid

Madrid offers a diverse dining landscape with restaurants ranging from casual eateries to established venues. Whether you're looking for international cuisine at All U Can Eat, traditional fare at La Arepera Resto-bar, or dining at iconic spots like Puerta al sol by Chicote, the city has options to suit different tastes and preferences. See all restaurants →

Puerta al sol by Chicote
75 m from centre
Vips
international · 87 m from centre
De Maria
spanish;chicken;fine_dining;diner;fish;fish_and_chips;french;ice_cream · 88 m from centre

Swimming Pools in Madrid

Madrid offers a variety of swimming facilities for residents and visitors. Options range from indoor heated pools like Piscina Climatizada and Piscina cubierta Complejo deportivo Nuestra Señora de la Almudena to outdoor venues such as Piscina El Lago, alongside university facilities like Piscinas UCM and Olympic natación. See all swimming pools →

Piscina Climatizada
2.6 km from centre
Piscina El Lago
2.7 km from centre
Piscinas UCM
3.3 km from centre

Spas in Madrid

We're still gathering spas listings for Madrid — check back soon.

Nightlife in Madrid

Madrid's nightlife is renowned across Europe, offering an energetic mix of clubs and venues for every taste. From established hotspots like Joy Eslava and Stylo to contemporary dance destinations such as Discoteca El Son, Commo, and Ochoymedio, the capital provides unforgettable nights out in a city that truly comes alive after dark. See all nightlife →

Bars in Madrid

We're still gathering bars listings for Madrid — check back soon.

Cafes in Madrid

Madrid offers a vibrant cafe culture with venues ranging from international chains to local favorites. Whether you're looking for a quick espresso at Starbucks, a traditional Spanish cafeteria experience at Cafetería Armenia, or a cozy spot like Cafe Europa or Rosi La Loca, the city has plenty of options to satisfy any coffee lover. See all cafes →

Cafe Europa
spanish;chicken;fine_dining;diner;fish;fish_and_chips · 65 m from centre
Starbucks
coffee_shop · 104 m from centre
Cafetería Armenia
105 m from centre

Shopping in Madrid

Madrid offers excellent shopping opportunities with a variety of retailers throughout the city. Major stores like El Corte Inglés, FNAC Callao, and HEMA provide everything from fashion and electronics to home goods and books. See all shopping →

El Corte Inglés
80 m from centre
El Corte Inglés
158 m from centre
HEMA
247 m from centre

Nature & Wildlife in Madrid

Madrid offers a variety of natural spaces where visitors can enjoy parks and gardens throughout the city. From the Jardín de Ana Orantes to the Jardines del Thyssen and Parque de las Monjas, these green areas provide peaceful retreats within the urban landscape. See all nature & wildlife →

Jardín de Ana Orantes
721 m from centre
Jardines del Thyssen
727 m from centre
Jardín
727 m from centre
Parque de las Monjas
753 m from centre
Plaza de Oriente
756 m from centre
Jardín del Príncipe de Anglona
762 m from centre

Climate snapshot

Madrid experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cold and dry, while summers are warm and sunny. Spring and autumn offer mild, pleasant weather ideal for exploring the city.

Interesting Facts About Madrid — Weird & Wonderful

  • Madrid is the second-largest city in the European Union by population, after Berlin.
  • The city lies on the River Manzanares in the central Iberian Peninsula at approximately 660 metres above sea level.
  • San Isidro, Madrid's patron saint, was a farmworker born in the city in the late 11th century whose corpse was reportedly found to be incorrupt in 1212.
  • Madrid hosted WorldPride 2017, an event that attracted more than one million people to the central march.
  • LGBT Pride celebrations in Madrid began in 1977 in the Chueca neighbourhood and have grown to become one of the most important Pride celebrations worldwide.

Events & Festivals Not to Miss in Madrid

15 May
San Isidro (Day of Isidore the Laborer)
The local feast celebrating San Isidro, the patron saint of Madrid. Madrilenian people gather around the Hermitage of San Isidro and the Prairie of San Isidro, often dressed in traditional checkered caps and kerchiefs, dancing chotis and pasodobles, and eating rosquillas and barquillos. It is a public holiday.
Madrid LGBT Pride
The Madrilenian LGBT Pride has grown to become the event bringing the most people together in the city each year and is one of the most important Pride celebrations worldwide. The Pride Parade began in 1977 in the Chueca neighbourhood. In 2007, Madrid hosted EuroPride, hailed as 'the best EuroPride in history', and in 2017 hosted WorldPride with more than one million attendees at the central march.

Frequently Asked Questions About Madrid

What currency is used in Madrid?

The Euro (EUR) is the official currency of Madrid, as Spain is a member of the European Union.

What language do people speak in Madrid?

Spanish is the primary language spoken in Madrid, the capital of Spain.

How many people live in Madrid?

Madrid had a population of over 3.4 million in the city proper in 2025, with a metropolitan area population of approximately 6.8 million.

Where is Madrid located?

Madrid is located in the central part of the Iberian Peninsula in Spain, serving as the capital of both Spain and the autonomous community of Madrid.

Is Madrid known for LGBTQ+ culture?

Yes, Madrid has become one of the largest hotspots for LGBT culture in Europe, particularly since Spain legalised same-sex marriage in 2005. The city hosts one of the world's most important Pride celebrations annually.

Map of Madrid

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