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Madrid, the capital of Spain
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Madrid

Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain, and the second-largest city in the European Union. Located on the River Manzanares in the central Iberian Peninsula, it serves as the political, economic, and cultural heart of the country.

Photo: Zarateman (CC0)

Quick facts

Population
3,477,497 (city, 2025)
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
Spanish
Timezone
CET (UTC+1)
Local time now
18:49:55

Hotels in Madrid

Madrid offers a range of hotel accommodations to suit different travellers. Properties like Hotel Europa, Hotel Moderno, and B&B Puerta del Sol provide options for visitors exploring Spain's capital city. See all hotels →

Airports in Madrid

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Aeródromo de Cuatro Vientos (Zona Civil)
8.4 km from centre
Cuatro Vientos
8.5 km from centre
Base Aérea de Getafe
13.4 km from centre

Car Hire in Madrid

Madrid offers several major car hire options to suit different travel needs. Leading providers including Europcar, Sixt, Hertz, and Centauro Rent a Car operate across the city, making it easy to find a vehicle for exploring the Spanish capital and beyond. See all car hire →

Things to Do in Madrid

Madrid offers visitors a diverse range of activities and attractions. Explore iconic landmarks like Puerta del Sol and Kilómetro Cero, or discover cultural venues and historic sites throughout the city. 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 scene with restaurants ranging from upscale establishments to casual eateries. Whether you're looking for traditional Spanish cuisine or international flavors, the city's restaurant options include venues like Puerta al sol by Chicote, Vips, De Maria, All U Can Eat, and La Arepera Resto-bar. See all restaurants →

Puerta al sol by Chicote
75 m from centre
La Adriana
argentinian · 85 m from centre
Vips
international · 87 m from centre

Swimming Pools in Madrid

Madrid offers a variety of swimming pools for residents and visitors, from indoor climate-controlled facilities like Piscina Climatizada and Piscina cubierta Complejo deportivo Nuestra Señora de la Almudena to outdoor options such as Piscina El Lago. Whether you're looking for Olympic-standard facilities or casual swimming venues, the city provides numerous options including 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 legendary across Europe, with venues like Joy Eslava, Commo, Discoteca El Son, Ochoymedio, and Stylo offering everything from electronic music to live performances. Whether you're looking for a late-night dance club or a sophisticated bar experience, Madrid's diverse entertainment scene caters to all tastes and keeps visitors dancing until dawn. See all nightlife →

Bars in Madrid

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Cafes in Madrid

Madrid offers a vibrant cafe culture with options ranging from international chains like Starbucks to local favorites such as Cafe Europa, Cafetería Armenia, Rosi La Loca, and Café & Té. Whether you're looking for a quick coffee or a leisurely afternoon spot, the city's cafes provide welcoming spaces to relax and enjoy Spanish hospitality. 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 across the city, from major department stores like El Corte Inglés to specialist retailers such as FNAC Callao and HEMA. Whether you're looking for fashion, electronics, or everyday items, the capital has something for every shopper. 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 experience green landscapes and outdoor beauty. Notable destinations include the Jardín de Ana Orantes, Jardines del Thyssen, Parque de las Monjas, and the scenic Plaza de Oriente, each providing a peaceful retreat within the city. 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 can be crisp, while summers are warm and generally dry. Spring and autumn offer mild, pleasant conditions ideal for exploring the city.

Interesting Facts About Madrid — Weird & Wonderful

  • Madrid's metropolitan area is the second-largest in the European Union, after Paris, with approximately 6.8 million people.
  • The city lies at about 660 metres (2,170 ft) above sea level on the River Manzanares.
  • San Isidro, the patron saint of Madrid, was a farmworker and well manufacturer born in the city in the late 11th century.
  • Madrid's Pride Parade began in 1977 in the Chueca neighbourhood and has grown to become one of the world's largest, with the 2018 celebration attracting roughly 1.5 million participants.
  • Madrid hosted EuroPride in 2007 and WorldPride in 2017, recognised for its multicultural and tolerant community.

Events & Festivals Not to Miss in Madrid

15 May
San Isidro (Fiestas de San Isidro Labrador)
The feast of Saint Isidore the Laborer, the patron saint of Madrid, is a public holiday celebrated on 15 May. Madrilenians 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.
Madrid Pride
Madrid's Pride Parade began in 1977 in the Chueca neighbourhood and has become one of the world's largest LGBT celebrations. Madrid hosted EuroPride in 2007 and WorldPride in 2017. The city is home to approximately 500 LGBT-oriented businesses and has become one of the largest hotspots for LGBT culture since Spain legalised same-sex marriage in 2005.

Frequently Asked Questions About Madrid

What is the population of 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.

What currency is used in Madrid?

The Euro (EUR) is the currency used in Madrid, as Spain is part of the Eurozone.

What language is spoken in Madrid?

Spanish is the primary language spoken in Madrid.

Where is Madrid located?

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

Is Madrid part of the European Union?

Yes, Madrid is in Spain, which is a member state of the European Union. It is the second-largest city in the EU after Berlin.

Map of Madrid

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