One of the most popular cities to visit in Spain, Madrid offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in world-class art, delicious local foods, or rich history, you won’t get bored here! Madrid is easy to navigate, making it a perfect city for solo travelers, especially first-timers! In this travel guide, I’ll provide you with everything you need to know before you go! 

History & Culture 

Madrid is a city full of rich history and culture! It would be impossible to share everything about its past in one post – but let me give you the highlights. The city of Madrid dates back to the 9th Century when Muhammad I conquered most of Spain. It became a military fortress for the Moors, who ruled Madrid until the late 12th Century. During this time of century-long wars, known as the Reconquista, Madrid fell under Christian control and was governed by Alfonso VI of Leon and Castille. 

It wasn’t until the mid-1500s that Philip II moved the seat of the court, aka the capital, to Madrid. Initially an agriculture-based city, Madrid’s population multiplied. By the mid-1700s, the Palacio Real de Madrid, the Prado, and many other monuments were constructed – mainly by Charles III, one of Madrid’s most beloved Kings. After some tumultuous years of a rough economy, sickness, and famine, Spain entered the 1800s. This is where sh*t gets real. 

In 1807, Charles IV and Napoleon signed the Treaty of Fontainebleau, which allowed French troops to pass through Spain on their way to Portugal. Soon after, Charles’ son, Ferdinand, led a mutiny against him. He was crowned King Ferdinand VII, but it was short-lived, and he soon became a prisoner of Napoleon and his troops in the city. On May 2, 1808, the citizens of Madrid revolted against the French forces. It was a brutal and bloody scene, perfectly captured in Francisco de Goya’s painting, The Second of May 1808.  

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The Day of the Autonomous Community of Madrid is a public holiday in Madrid. They have a festival celebrating the revolt against the French forces. It’s a time to celebrate being Madrileños, citizens of Madrid! 

Spain had a few rough centuries, with the abolishment of the monarchy, multiple uprisings, and the Spanish Civil War, which is way too complex for a blog post about Madrid. In the centuries leading up to the early 2000s, Madrid grew in population and city size. It became the cultural capital of Spain and still retains that title today, with over ten universities, art museums, music festivals and fiestas, and an active nightlife!

When to Visit Madrid

Madrid is enjoyable year-round, with the ideal time to visit in the spring or fall. You’ll find fewer crowds in the fall, and flights and hotels are significantly cheaper. As with any European destination, the summer is hot and crowded; however, the winters in Madrid are relatively mild. December is a great time to visit, with multiple Christmas markets and shops selling handmade ornaments and nativity scenes. 

I visited in May, and the weather was sunny and warm. While there were a few crowds at the tourist attractions, the amount of people wasn’t overwhelming. Maybe it’s just my opinion, having walked through Times Square multiple times a week, but I felt the crowds were reasonable. It wasn’t too hot, with highs reaching the low 70s, and at night, a leather jacket was perfect to keep me warm. 

What to Pack for Madrid

If you don’t want to look like a tourist, I’d advise staying away from athleisure. Otherwise, you’re safe. It’s a misconception that Europeans don’t wear sneakers. Most Europeans live in walkable cities or towns, so comfortable shoes are necessary. The same can be said when visiting Madrid. I will always prioritize comfort over fashion, but that doesn’t mean I don’t want to look cute! 

If you’re visiting in the fall or winter, you’ll want to pack layers. Think leather jackets, tights, skirts, t-shirts, and a few good pairs of jeans. If it’s warm enough, I’d add in some dresses. You want to pack light, breathable fabrics in the summer or springtime. Madrid is a very walkable city with a few hilly neighborhoods that aren’t ideal for jeans. Just trust me on that. I recommend packing a few summer dresses and a light jacket as it can get cool at night. 

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I typically lay out my outfits a few days before my trip and pick a few pieces I can wear more than once, such as jeans.  Planning my outfits helps me avoid overpacking and stressing about what I wear!  

Transportation & Safety

As mentioned above, Madrid is a very walkable city. It’s a great feeling to walk and explore at your own pace and find some hidden gems! Madrid also has an extensive metro line and multiple bus routes. You can buy a Metro ticket at the station, and there are several different types of metro cards for purchase. 

I’d recommend getting the Multi Card and putting a few Euros on it. You can use the Multi Card on the metro, bus, and to and from the airport. There are also taxis and car services such as Uber. If you take a cab, it’s a good idea to have some cash on you; not all drivers accept credit cards. There isn’t a reason to rent a car in Madrid unless you want to drive to a very secluded location. But most day trips from the city can be accessed by train or bus. 

As with any place you visit, you should always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Madrid was a very safe city, and I was very comfortable walking around the city on my own during the day and at night. As a solo female traveler, you do need to be careful at night, no matter what city you’re in. Trust your instincts. I always tell a friend or family member exactly which hotel(s) I’ll be staying at and give a brief overview of my itinerary. 

There are reports of petty theft in the city, especially at tourist attractions. But to be fair, this isn’t different than any other city. It’s a good rule to keep your passport in your hotel safe or in a hidden spot on your person. Another safety measure I recommend is making a copy of your passport. These might seem excessive, but being safe and prepared is always better. The last thing you want is stress on your vacation!

Where to Stay

Madrid is divided into several neighborhoods, each with unique charm and personality. I’ve broken down a few of my favorite neighborhoods below! 

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I tend to stay away from Airbnb when I travel solo because I want a 24-hour front desk. Many of the options below are hotels and hostels. 

Malasana 

In the city center, the Malasana neighborhood is by far one of the coolest neighborhoods in Madrid. This neighborhood has great shopping, coffee shops, restaurants, and bars open until the early morning. It’s also centrally located, making it convenient to visit many tourist attractions. Since it’s a popular area, it can be a little loud when trying to sleep, but it’s an excellent location for those who enjoy Madrid’s nightlife. 

Budget: Hostal Rias Bajas, Madrid – A great option if you want the hostel vibe but your own space. Some of the bathrooms are shared, but you can pay a little extra for your own. 

Mid-Range: Bloom Inn Madrid – Don’t be fooled by the budget-friendly prices; this hotel is cute! It’s clean and centrally located.  

Luxury: Eric Vokel Boutique Apartments – Gorgeous apartments providing city views steps away from the Plaza de Espana. A great option if you’re traveling with multiple persons. 

Sol / Gran Via (Centro)

The central neighborhood of Madrid is known as Sol / Gran Via. This neighborhood includes several must-see locations for visitors, including the Plaza Mayor and the Mercado de San Miguel, as well as museums, theaters, and rooftop bars. What better way to experience the city!? Since it’s a touristy area, expect a lot of activity and higher hotel prices. However, it’s a great location to see the main sights of Madrid. 

Budget: Hostal Lauria – A great location for a great price! The rooms are cute and modern and feature everything you need for your stay! 

Mid-Range: Hotel Atlantico – This is where I stayed and the location could not have been more perfect. It was right on the main road and central to most attractions. The rooms were clean and spacious and the service was incredible! The nicer rooms are a little more expensive, but they do have interior room views, which are perfect for mid-range travelers. 

Luxury: Vincci Capitol – If you’re looking to stay in the center of everything, this is the spot. Breakfast is served daily and the hotel also has a gorgeous rooftop bar. 

Barrio de las Letras

The Barrio de las Letras, or literary quarter, was once home to some of Spain’s most renowned writers. The architecture in this area is beautiful, and you can find literary quotes all along the neighborhood’s sidewalks. Nestled between the Plaza Mayor and Prado Museum, it’s a perfect location for those looking for a quieter stay. 

Budget: Hostal Adria Santa Ana – A little basic, but with a great location! Santa Ana Square could not be better if you enjoy going out and meeting new people! 

Mid-Range: Catalonia Las Courtes – The hotel is in an 18th-century building featuring spacious and modern rooms. About a ten-minute walk from The Prado. 

Luxury: Vincci Soho – The ultimate “treat yourself” hotel. With rooms featuring sleek, modern designs and a gorgeous outdoor patio, it’s the perfect stay if you enjoy the finer things in life! 

Where to Eat 

Spanish cuisine has become one of my favorites in recent years, and the food in Madrid is bursting with flavor. I’ve organized a list below of the foods you must try when visiting this fantastic city!

Churros & Hot Chocolate

Let’s start with something sweet! Churros were my first meal in Madrid, and it did not disappoint! First opened in 1894, Chocolateria San Gines is open almost every hour of the week. Their churros are crunchy and fluffy and have a hint of sweetness, and the hot chocolate is creamy and delicious. They also serve porras, thicker versions of churros, and they are just as good! Willy Wonka could never. 

Tapas, Tapas, & More Tapas

You can’t visit Madrid without experiencing their tapas culture. With 100s of small bars and restaurants to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to go. I recommend booking a tapas tour through Devour Tours. My tour guide was super knowledgeable and friendly and knew a lot about the history of Madrid and its cuisine. We went to several spots that I really enjoyed! 

Tapas are typically small, savory dishes usually enjoyed in the afternoon or just before dinner. Don’t forget, dinner is around 10 p.m. for the folks here in Madrid! It’s a common misconception that you’ll receive tapas for free when you purchase an alcoholic beverage, but unfortunately, it’s not the case. 

Mercado San Miguel 

A popular spot for tourists and locals, the Mercado San Miguel is a can’t-miss eatery. Featuring local dishes, fresh produce, fish, meats, and alcoholic drinks, this is a great spot to try everything! There are multiple stands in the market where you can buy anything from smoothies to croquettes (croquetas). The Mercado San Miguel isn’t the only market in Madrid; I’d recommend visiting the Mercado de la Paz and Mercado de San Fernando as well. 

Rooftop Culture

Rooftops have become a popular hangout spot and highlight of any trip to Madrid. Make sure you visit a rooftop at sunset for some gorgeous views of the city. During the summer months, both locals and tourists enjoy the rooftop pools and restaurants. A lot of the hotels in the Gran Via feature rooftops with bars, but there are a few others I recommend checking out!

• 360 Rooftop Bar at RIU Plaza Espana: A hotel bar newly renovated located right on the Plaza de Espana. The rooftop has glass floors allowing you to see the street below!
• Le Tavernier: This place has the vibes and a great menu. Make sure this is on your list and make a reservation! 
• Ella Sky Bar: Featuring both an outdoor bar and a restaurant, this rooftop is perfect for a fancy night out. I ate dinner here on my last night in Madrid and was treated to spectacular views and food!
• La Terraza del Urban: A lush rooftop close to the Puerta del Sol featuring stylish decor and fancy drinks. The rooftop is a little on the luxury side but still beautiful and worth a stop. 

Restaurant Recommendations 

• Casa de Abuelo: Famous for its gambas al ajillo (shrimp with garlic), this tapas bar has multiple locations in Madrid. It gets a little crowded, but it’s worth it! 
• Mesón del Champiñón: Another tapas bar known for its fried green peppers and mushrooms and a cave-style dining room. It’s very cozy!
• Casa Toni: A rustic tapas bar serving classic Spanish favorites, including pig’s ear! I loved it here and can’t wait to go back!
• Santamaria Cocteleria: Okay, I know this is not a restaurant, but if you’re anything like me and enjoy a fancy cocktail, you have to check this place out. Just trust me on this!
• El Meson del Bouqeron: Right off the Plaza Mayor, this is a great spot for grabbing a few tapas and people-watching. 

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Dinner is typically around 9 PM in Madrid, so don’t be surprised if you go in for dinner at six and the restaurant is empty. Most places will be happy to serve you, but you’ll stick out as a tourist, which honestly, is fine. No judgment here!

What to Do 

There’s no shortage of activities and things to do in Madrid. As one of the most populated cities in Europe, Madrid offers something for every traveler. I’ve narrowed down some of the highlights and my favorite things below! 

Visit the Royal Palace and Sabatini Gardens

Spend a few hours touring the royal palace and gardens and learn more about the history of Madrid. The palace is large, over 135,000 square feet, and has over 2,000 rooms! Tickets are 14 Euros (about 16 USD) per person and a reduced rate for young children, adults over 65 years of age, and students. I recommend purchasing your ticket a few days before your visit on the Royal Palace of Madrid website. When I arrived, the line to buy the tickets was extraordinarily long, and I was very thankful that I bought mine ahead of time! 

Most of the rooms are open to the public; however, you are not allowed to take any photos or videos during your visit, with a few exceptions. Several architects, including Francesco Sabatini and Giovanni Battista Sacchetti, designed the palace, which features predominantly Spanish paintings and sculptures throughout the rooms and halls. Some of my favorite rooms are the Column Hall, the Grand Staircase, and the Royal Armory. 

If you’re not into palaces but still want the royal treatment, check out the Sabatini Gardens right next door. The gardens are named after the architect, Francesco Sabatini, who designed the stables at the palace. Featuring immaculately trimmed trees and hedges and a stunning view of the palace, it’s a perfect place to get lost in your Bridgerton dreams. The Sabatini Gardens are free to view and open from 9 AM – 10 PM. 

Catedral de la Almudena

Across the way from the Royal Palace is the Almundena Cathedral. The seat of the archdiocese in Madrid, it’s one of the only other cathedrals outside of Rome that was consecrated by the pope. Visiting the cathedral is free but if you’d like to visit the crypt or the top of the dome and museum, it’s six Euros. The top of the dome doesn’t give spectacular views of Madrid, but it is a nice view of the royal palace. If you’re not big on churches, you can definitely skip the museum. It’s filled with Catholic artifacts from Madrid, including colorful, embroidered vestments and other relics. 

Puerta del Sol 

The Puerta de Sol is one of the most popular areas in Madrid. Originally the gate of the city, it’s a large square with several side streets with shopping, restaurants, and more. This is also a popular spot for New Year’s Eve celebrations! The enormous timepiece is atop the local government building of Madrid. Make sure to find the statue of a bear nuzzling a strawberry tree, Oso y Madrono, the official mascot of Madrid. 

Retiro Park 

El Retiro is a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city. There is so much to do in this park for locals and tourists alike. You can spend the morning rowing a boat on the great pond and admire the art installation at the Palacio de Crystal (Crystal Palace). You’ll find street vendors sending small souvenirs and food stalls. I’d definitely recommend picking up an ice cream as you stroll through the park. One of my fondest memories of my time in Madrid was spending time listening to the local birds as I walked through the grounds. This is a must-do and perfect for a picnic! 

Madrid’s Museum

I am a museum girlie at heart and I was spoiled in Madrid. With over fifty museums to choose from, there’s something for everyone’s taste! I’ve listed the “big three” below, but if you have more time, I would check out the Museo del Romanticismo and the Museo Sorolla! 

The Prado Museum

If you do one thing in Madrid, it has to be this. The Prado Museum is one of the most important museums in Spain and the world. It features amazing work by Spanish and European artists and is a must-do on any itinerary for Madrid. The museum is over 200 years old and has more than 3 million visitors per year! Tickets start at 15 Euro with discounts for children and adults over 65, but there is a free access time of 6 PM – 8 PM (Sundays 5 PM – 7 PM). This is great for budget-friendly travelers, and most museums offer a few free hours during the week! 

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When you visit The Prado, make sure to spend some time admiring Francisco Goya’s work, specifically the Black Paintings. I would love to hear your thoughts on them! 

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia

If you’re more of a modern art fan The Reina Sofia Museum should be on your list. Featuring contemporary art through the 1980s, the collection includes some of the most popular pieces from Pablo Picasso, Salvatore Dali, and more. My favorite painting in this museum was Guernica by Pablo Picasso. It was loud, not only in its size but in the stark ranges of black and white and the images on the canvas. Tickets start at 12 Euro and they also offer free hours throughout the week. The museum is closed on Tuesdays and closes at 2:30 PM on Sundays. 

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

If you don’t have time to visit The Prado and Reina Sofia but still want a mix of art throughout the ages, I’d recommend visiting the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Once a private collection, this museum features mostly European artists from the 13th through 20th centuries. They have several masterpieces from prominent painters such as Degas, Van Gogh, Rubens, Dali, and more. I believe this museum is a must-visit and it’s on my list for my next trip to Madrid! 

Take a Tapas Tour

Whenever I explore a new city, one of the first things on my agenda is taking a food tour with a local guide. Madrid is the perfect spot to take a tapas tour! I’d recommend booking a tour through a local company to ensure you’re getting a local point of view. I highly recommend Devour Tours. My tour guide was American but had lived in Madrid for the past several years and was very knowledgeable about the history and all of the best spots for Tapas! 

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Taking a Free Walking Tour in Madrid (orany city) is a perfect way to get your bearings and see most of the touristy spots. While these tours are free, a tip is a nice gesture and recommended. I’ve gotten a lot out of free tours, and I try to book them whenever I’m visiting a new city. 

Temple De Debod

Did you know that you can visit an Egyptian temple in Madrid? The Temple De Debod features a small museum and outdoor space. The monument is typically surrounded by water, but unfortunately, when I visited, it was dry. Inside the museum you’ll find hieroglyphics and a model of what the temple would’ve looked like if it were still in Nubia today.

It’s definitely worth a visit! But fair warning, the line can be long, especially in the mid-afternoon. Admission is free. The best time to go is right before closing. You’ll be treated to an amazing view at sunset!

Day Trips from Madrid

If you’re looking to spend some time outside Madrid, there are several options for day trips to nearby cities. Most of these cities are no more than an hour or two by train and easy to get to! 

Toledo

One of the most popular day trips from Madrid, Toledo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features beautiful architecture and art. Check out the art museums while you’re there, specifically the Museo del Greco. This museum is dedicated to, you guessed it – El Greco. Originally from Greece, this artist spent much of his life in Toledo and developed a unique style of painting. 

Segovia 

If you love architecture then Segovia should be on your list. The city hosts one of the most impressive Roman aqueducts built in Spain, El Acueducto. Just beyond is the entrance to the city which features cobblestone streets and beautiful churches. This city gives fairy tale vibes and even inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty! 

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A lot of people try to take a day trip from Madrid to Granada. And while this is certainly something that can be done, it’s not something I personally recommend. 

Madrid is truly one of the most beautiful cities I’ve ever been to and there is so much to be explored. From the food to the art to the people – Madrid is a city that must be on your list when visiting Spain!