Madrid

Madrid has excellent art museums, phenomenal food, enormous parks and Europe’s largest palace, but its inclusive atmosphere is what really makes the city soar.
Spain, Madrid..A view of La Plaza Mayor square in Madrid where there were a group of tourists riding bicycles. The Plaza Mayor square is one of the most famous squares in the town and located in the city center. People walk and cycle through the streets.The Plaza Mayor (Main Square) was built during Philip III's reign (1598–1621).

Getty Images

Latest Stories
Book
Trip
12 Days in Spain: Barcelona, Madrid, Seville and Granada
12 days / 11 nights

12 Days in Spain: Barcelona, Madrid, Seville and Granada

View Itinerary
App
Lonely Planet App on a phone
Brand New!

Get the Lonely Planet App

Holafly advertisement
Trusted Partner

Stay connected in Madrid

Holafly eSIM provides unlimited mobile data with no hidden fees, giving you peace of mind wherever you travel. Stay connected even after your plan ends with Always On. Use code LONELYPLANET for an exclusive discount.

Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.

Book your Spain trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

See Spain how it's meant to be seen

Planned by local experts and tailored to you, Lonely Planet Journeys handles the logistics so you can just enjoy the trip. Tell us what you want and we'll build your Spain itinerary from scratch, or browse our bookable trips to get inspired.

Start planning Browse itineraries

Top places to visit in Madrid

Discover the best attractions in Madrid from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

Explore all

Travel Guides

Madrid travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Best Things to Do

Madrid's deep mix of cultural attractions, craveable cuisine and hopping nightlife could fill a dozen visits, so shape yours around these 12 experiences.

Read full article

Best Time to Visit

There’s something going all year long in Madrid. Here’s when to visit for the best weather, the top festivals and the fewest crowds.

Read full article

Things to Know

Explore Madrid leaning on the knowledge you'll only get from a trusted local with these excellent tips on safety, ettiquette and more.

Read full article

Transportation

An efficient subway, an organized bus network, high-speed trains and ubiquitous electric bikes make navigating commuter-friendly Madrid a breeze.

Read full article

Best Neighborhoods

Authorities in Madrid are hoping to bring a bumper of greening benefits to the Spanish capital by building Europe's largest metropolitan forest in the…

Read full article

Day Trips

After you've soaked up all Madrid offers, use it as a jumping-off point for some wonderful day trips, from Roman ruins to stunning Spanish villages.

Read full article

Money and Costs

Make the most of your trip to the Spanish capital with these savvy spending tips.

Read full article

Traveling with Kids

With amusement parks, playgrounds and a laid-back dining culture, Madrid is a family-friendly holiday destination.

Read full article

Spending Diaries

How to book accommodation, take in museums and eat very well in the Spanish capital for under €500.

Read full article

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

Explore all books

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Madrid

Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.

Madrid and beyond

View all